The holiday season is the perfect excuse to plan a long-awaited girls’ weekend—especially when New Orleans is involved. 

From twinkling lights and festive cocktails to charming streets that double as photo backdrops, the city comes alive in a way that feels both magical and effortlessly fun. It’s the ideal time to slow down, reconnect, and soak up quality time with your closest friends—Big Easy style.

A Holiday Stay at The Eliza Jane in New Orleans

For a festive girls’ getaway, The Eliza Jane checks every box. From the moment you step inside, the holiday décor sets the tone—warm, welcoming, and undeniably charming. The lobby alone feels like a seasonal escape, instantly putting you in the holiday spirit.

We stayed in a room with two queen beds, which was perfect for our trio. The space was comfortable without feeling cramped, and our street-facing view offered a glimpse into the lively rhythm of New Orleans below. It felt cozy, stylish, and exactly what you want after a full day of exploring.

Even better? We valet-parked upon arrival and didn’t touch the car again until checkout—making it an easy, walkable home base for the weekend.

The Eliza Jane is the perfect choice if you’re looking for a chic spot for exploring the city. After a full day of wandering, shopping, and sipping your way through New Orleans, the hotel welcomes you back with a stylish lobby bar ideal for unwinding—though slipping into your cozy bed is just as tempting. It effortlessly delivers both aesthetic appeal and everyday convenience, making it an easy favorite for a girls’ weekend stay.

Base rates start around $115-$140.

Festive Things to Do in New Orleans for a Girls’ Weekend

New Orleans offers endless things to do, but during the holidays, a few experiences truly shine. A stop at The Roosevelt is non-negotiable—their iconic, fully decked-out lobby is a holiday must and one of the best photo ops in the city.

Another favorite is City Park, where you can wander through scenic pathways, enjoy the natural beauty, and stop by Café Du Monde for a classic New Orleans treat. Walking tours are also available, making it easy to explore at a relaxed pace.

To get around, hop on the St. Charles streetcar—a quintessential New Orleans experience. Day passes make it simple to explore without the hassle of driving, and it’s a charming way to see the city. 

Be sure to carve out time for Magazine Street, where vintage shops, eclectic boutiques, and casual cafés line the road. One standout stop was Funky Monkey, where we scored some truly unique vintage finds—souvenirs with personality.

Best Restaurants and Holiday Cocktails in New Orleans

We kicked off our first evening at Salon Salon, a moody, intimate spot that feels like a hidden speakeasy (as long as you’re paying attention). Their espresso martini—with a twist of limoncello, cognac, and espresso—is a must-try. Pair it with the burger and truffle fries for the perfect shareable spread after a day of travel.

No girls’ weekend is complete without a great coffee run, and mornings in New Orleans are best started with a walk to French Truck Coffee for a classic New Orleans iced coffee. Conveniently, there are three French Truck locations within a seven-minute walk (or less) from The Eliza Jane. It’s the perfect excuse to get some fresh air, snap a few street-side photos, and ease into the day—coffee in hand, itinerary optional.

For brunch, make room for The Peacock Room, located in the lobby of the Kimpton Hotel Fontenot. With stunning décor, impeccable service, and standout dishes, it’s a dream setting for a girls’ weekend. The truffle deviled eggs, petite quiche lorraine, and the Grits & Grillades  were our personal favorites.
Tip: Opt for the bottomless mimosas for the best value.

Just steps away from the Peacock room, King Brasserie delivers festive cheer with its Home for the Holidays cocktail menu. This isn’t just a place to grab a drink—it’s an experience. Each cocktail comes with a personality-based theme, making it fun to choose drinks for one another based on your group’s vibe.
Tip: Pick each other’s cocktails for a playful, memorable twist.

While strolling Magazine Street, stop by Empanola —a cozy, eye-catching spot known for its fun branding and inviting atmosphere. We grabbed an afternoon snack featuring the pepperoni pizza and chorizo mexicana empanadas and enjoyed their seasonal coffee drinks, perfect for a midday pick-me-up.

To wrap up the weekend, Café Beignet—just a four-minute walk from The Eliza Jane—is the perfect finale. There’s nothing quite like savoring fresh beignets, sipping lattes, and listening to live music as you soak in your last moments in the city. It’s a classic New Orleans send-off that feels both indulgent and unforgettable.

Whether you’re sipping espresso martinis under twinkling lights, hopping on a streetcar with your best friends, or indulging in beignets before heading home, a holiday girls’ weekend in New Orleans feels equal parts festive and freeing. It’s close enough for an easy escape from Texas, yet far enough to feel like a true getaway—filled with laughter, memories, and a little sparkle. Because sometimes the best gift of the season is simply time together, and there’s no better place to celebrate that than in the heart of the Big Easy.

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Cover Photo courtesy The Eliza Jane.

A lover of all things travel, pretty running trails, and good coffee, Analise Flatt is a travel freelancer based in Louisiana. Check out her Instagram to stay updated on her latest travel adventures.