The French Quarter is undoubtedly New Orleans’ most iconic neighborhood—and it also happens to be the most walkable as well. Dozens of bars, restaurants and watering holes exist within the district, making for an easy cocktail crawl. Enjoy classics like the Hurricane, Sazerac and French 75, or try craft cocktail creations at a newer spot. Please remember to drink responsibly–we recommend splitting these cocktails between friends so that you can try more while keeping your composure.

Fives Bar

Name a more iconic starting point than Jackson Square... we'll wait. Fives is the epitome of cool while still being entirely approachable–situated within the Lower Pontalba building, it's equal parts Parisian and New Orleanian and offers some truly primo people-watching. Grab a snack off the raw menu and pair it with one of the best martinis in the city, or opt for a classic (like a Sazerac) or one of their many more modern concoctions. 

Pat O’Brien’s Bar

Next, strut on over to Pat O’Brien’s on St. Peter Street. Anyone visiting New Orleans has to try the hurricane, a tropical cocktail made with rum and grenadine that certainly packs a punch. 

Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop

Turn the corner onto Bourbon for a walk to Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop just down the way. This dimly-lit bar has been serving libations since the 1700s (some regard it as the oldest bar in the U.S.) and is definitely worth a visit. Their frozen slushie concoction–the Voodoo Daiquiri (affectionately known by locals as “purple drink”) is sweet, but delicious. It’s a must-try. 

Carousel Bar

Next up is the Carousel Bar, and it’s just what it sounds like: a (slowly) revolving circular bar designed to look like a carousel. Try a Carousel favorite, like the 20th Century gin and cacao cocktail or the Handshaken Piña Colada.

Justine

Just around the corner you’ll find a new kind on the block in Justine, a French brasserie with craft cocktails galore. Try one of their many rum, gin or whiskey-based drinks. 

Napoleon House

Continuing down Chartres Street is Napoleon House. You might want to plan to take a rest at this spot, and order a Muffuletta sandwich in addition to your Pimm’s Cup, the English gin-based cocktail of choice.

Arnaud’s French 75 Bar

Walk off that sandwich with a stroll to Arnaud’s French 75 Bar, where you can sample all of New Orleans’ classic cocktails. If you’re having trouble choosing just one, try the bar’s namesake, a cocktail made with gin and champagne.

Palm&Pine

Palm&Pine brings us to the edge of the Quarter, where the crowds thin out but the cocktails are just as tasty. Opt for an aromatic, fruity sip, or perhaps a more boozy and robust concoction.

Jewel of the South

Not only a James Beard winner but a mainstay on nearly every major "Best Bar in the world/country/city" list, Jewel of the South is your spot for artisan cocktails on an ever-changing menu. Stop in for Cocktail Hour, a series of limited engagements each offering a unique theme and cocktail menu.

Effervescence

Bubbly, anyone? Stop by Effervescence, located on the northern edge of the Quarter, for flights of champagne and small bites.

Molly’s at the Market

Take a stroll down picturesque Esplanade Avenue to reach Molly’s at the Market for their famous Frozen Irish Coffee.

Manolito

Our final stop is Manolito, bringing us one block from the foot of Jackson Square. Indulge in a tropical daiquiri here, or take your drinks to go and enjoy on the banks of the Mississippi River.