Floats make their way through at the Bacchus parade during Mardi Gras in New Orleans, Louisiana, Feb. 26, 2017. Reuters
Mardi Gras – or Fat Tuesday – is finally here, and it’s the perfect time to eat, drink and be merry.
Christians are often encouraged to give up liquor during the 40-day period of Lent season, so Tuesday is the day for imbibing. Luckily, in New Orleans (the Mardi Gras capital of the country), there is no shortage of prime bars to hit during the holiday’s events and parades.
Whether you’re looking for some live music or a rooftop bar with a view of all of the action, here are five must-visit bars to maximize your Mardi Gras revelry in New Orleans.
Pat O’Brien’s: The bar is known for its signature cocktails, especially the infamously rum-heavy Hurricane. The Hurricane is a popular drink to order for Mardi Gras.
Hot Tin: For those that are looking for rooftop bar experience, this bar and lounge is located atop the Pontchartrain Hotel. The bar boasts views of the Mississippi River, and visitors will be able to see and hear all of the Mardi Gras action down below.
Maple Leaf Bar: Looking for some live music? Maple Leaf Bar is the spot. The bar and event space is known for its Jazz music performances and its history. It’s one of the longest-running music clubs and opened in 1974. For Tuesday evening, visitors can enjoy a drink and a performance by a live brass band.
Monkey Board: Located at The Troubadour hotel in the Central Business District, this bar and restaurant is blocks away from the French Quarter, and is the ideal location for those looking for a good meal – the website says the menu is crafted around “food truck favorites.”
The Saint: This unassuming late-night watering hole is apparently where the locals and service industry members head to for drinks and live music.
