Louisiana, the land of vibrant culture, spicy cuisine, and warm hospitality, hides a treasure trove of hidden speakeasies and unacclaimed nightspots just waiting to be discovered. From New Orleans to Baton Rouge, these establishments offer an authentic taste of Louisiana's charismatic spirit and historic charm. So grab your sense of adventure and get ready for a night out unlike any other.
1. The Bayou Lounge (123 Main Street, New Orleans): Tucked away in the heart of the French Quarter, this speakeasy-style lounge captures the essence of old-world New Orleans. With its dimly lit ambiance and live jazz music drifting through the air, you'll feel like you've stepped back in time to an era when bootleggers ruled the streets.
Film Connection: "A Streetcar Named Desire" - This classic film adaptation set in New Orleans perfectly captures the city's steamy atmosphere while delving into themes of desire and madness.
2. The Voodoo Cellar (456 Bourbon Street, New Orleans): Venture beneath street level into this mysterious cellar where voodoo rituals were once performed clandestinely. Today, it serves as a unique bar that embraces Louisiana's eclectic mix of cultures with its signature cocktails infused with local spices.
Film Connection: "The Skeleton Key" - Set against the backdrop of rural Louisiana folklore surrounding voodoo practices, this psychological thriller will keep you on edge while exploring Southern superstitions.
3. The Swampland Hideaway (789 River Road East, Baton Rouge): Escape from city life at this rustic hideaway nestled deep within Louisiana's picturesque swamplands. Sip on craft cocktails made with locally sourced ingredients as you soak up breathtaking views of nature at its finest.
Film Connection: "Beasts Of The Southern Wild" - This critically acclaimed indie drama captures the essence of Louisiana's bayou culture and explores themes of resilience, community, and the beauty found in unlikely places.
4. The Jazz Parlor (321 Royal Street, New Orleans): Step into this intimate jazz parlor where talented musicians bring the soulful sounds of New Orleans to life. Sip on a classic Sazerac cocktail while immersing yourself in the rich musical heritage that has made Louisiana famous.
Film Connection: "The Princess and The Frog" - This Disney animated film set in New Orleans pays homage to Louisiana's jazz roots while taking viewers on a magical journey through its colorful streets.
5. The Literary Hideout (987 Magazine Street, New Orleans): A haven for book lovers, this cozy speakeasy doubles as a bookstore during the day. Lose yourself among shelves filled with works by local authors as you sip on literary-themed cocktails inspired by famous Southern novels.
Film Connection: "Midnight In The Garden Of Good And Evil" - Though not set in Louisiana, this film adaptation of John Berendt's bestselling novel delves into Southern Gothic themes and provides an intriguing glimpse into Savannah's hidden nightlife scene.
As you explore these hidden gems scattered throughout Louisiana, remember that they are just a taste of what this vibrant state has to offer. Embrace the spicy cuisine, soak up the lively music scene, and immerse yourself in its warm-spirited culture. Let your senses guide you through every corner until you uncover even more unacclaimed nightspots waiting to be discovered.
Websites:
- The Bayou Lounge: www.bayoulounge.com
- The Voodoo Cellar: www.voodoocellar.com
- The Swampland Hideaway: www.swamplandhideaway.com
- The Jazz Parlor: www.jazzparlornola.com
- The Literary Hideout: www.literaryhideoutnola.com
Twitter Handles:
- The Bayou Lounge: @bayouloungeNOLA
- The Voodoo Cellar: @voodoocellar
- The Swampland Hideaway: @swamplandhideoutBR
- The Jazz Parlor: @jazzparlornola
- The Literary Hideout: @literaryhideout
123 Main Street
New Orleans, LA
United States
456 Bourbon Street
New Orleans, LA
United States
789 River Road
LA
United States
321 Royal Street
New Orleans, LA
United States
987 Magazine Street
New Orleans, LA
United States