Staycation Goals: A Summer Vacation Right Here in New Orleans

Quick updates before we dive in:

The June 2025 Homebuyer Webinar is now available to stream on demand! Whether you’re planning to buy soon or just want to better understand today’s market in Louisiana, this video breaks down what you need to know, from financing to the contract process to home maintenance. And as always, there will never be a cost or fee for my educational content or resources. Watch the Webinar Here

Also, I just launched a new social media series highlighting some of my favorite local spots in our area. First up is a speakeasy-style bar tucked away in the Marigny that’s quickly becoming a local favorite: LOTA Bar. You can catch the video here: Watch the LOTA Bar Feature

New featurettes are coming soon, so stay tuned for more hidden gems, neighborhood favorites, and places my clients love on my instagram: instagram.com/richardhebertrealtor

Now let’s talk summer. Not the packed-bags, airport-security, out-of-office-reply kind of summer. I mean the one where you rediscover your own city and treat it like the destination it truly is.

The Power of the Local Reset

There’s something about summer in New Orleans that invites a slower pace (could be the blistering heat). The crowds thin out. Reservations are easier. And locals finally get to enjoy the city in a more relaxed, everyday-luxury kind of way.

This is your guide to making the most of it.

1. Check Into a Hotel for a Night

A local hotel stay gives you all the joy of travel without the hassle. No flights. No packing stress. Just a soft robe and room service (or better yet, a cocktail at the lobby bar).

My top picks for Summer 2025:

• Hotel Saint Vincent (Lower Garden District): Still as stylish as ever, with lush gardens, a glamorous pool, and the kind of ambiance that makes your phone camera work overtime.

• The Blackbird Hotel (Lower Garden District): A beautifully restored 19th-century townhouse turned boutique hotel, offering a quiet and design-forward retreat. Its private courtyard pool is intimate, understated, and perfect for slow mornings or late-afternoon lounging. Ideal for locals who want to stay close to home while still feeling worlds away.

• The Chloe (St. Charles Avenue): A converted mansion with timeless charm, boutique rooms, a gorgeous pool, and a restaurant locals love as much as guests.

2. Play Tourist on Purpose

We all know the classic New Orleans spots, but how often do we experience them like visitors? Create your own custom tour of those "I've been meaning to check that place out" spots.

Ideas to explore:

• Ride the St. Charles Avenue streetcar with no destination for only $1.25 per ride or $3 for a Jazzy Pass (valid all day)

• Visit The Storyville Museum or Vue Orleans for a unique perspective on local history and views

• Book a New Orleans Secrets walking tour (like the Garden District Food & History Tour or French Quarter Drinks & Jazz)

• Try a kayak swamp tour with New Orleans Kayak Swamp Tours — pick-up is available in the city

Whether it’s art, music, food, or folklore, there’s always more to learn here.

3. Pool Days Are Self-Care

Many hotels and other locations offer pool day passes and rooftop experiences. Perfect for a relaxing afternoon with zero obligation.

Best options right now:

• The Country Club (Bywater): Legendary. Includes pool, bar service, and restaurant access. Passes are walk-in only, so go early.

• The Pool House at The Garden District Hotel (St. Charles Avenue): This newly renovated hotel has opened one of the most beautiful hidden pool courtyards in the city. Day passes are available and include access to the bar, loungers, and shaded garden areas. Ideal for locals looking for a fresh summer hangout without the scene.

• Virgin Hotel Pool Club (Warehouse District): Newly popular for locals. Great music, drinks, and shaded cabanas available for reservation.

4. Curate a No-Errand Day

Choose one day this summer to say no to obligations and yes to yourself.

Here’s a perfect sample itinerary:

• Brunch at Ayu Bakehouse or Birdy’s Behind the Bower

• A slow stroll through the New Orleans Botanical Garden or Bayou St. John

• A massage at The Windsor Court (my personal favorite with all-day pool access included) or Woodhouse Day Spa

• Read, nap, or listen to your favorite playlist with your phone on Do Not Disturb

• Dress up for dinner at Vyoone’s, Jewel of the South, or Palm&Pine

Even just one day like this can reframe your whole month.

5. Retreat Without Leaving the House

If staying in is more your speed, that can be just as luxurious.

Build your own retreat with:

• Fresh linens and flowers

• Local snacks from Faubourg Wines or St. James Cheese Company

• A new playlist, an old movie, or a cookbook you’ve never used

• Bath salts, face masks, and absolutely no laundry

• The nicest delivery meal you can justify (shoutout to Saffron NOLA and Saba)

• Indulge yourself by cranking the AC juuuust a bit extra.

No chores allowed until Monday.

Bonus: Fall Back in Love with Where You Live

Staycations aren’t only about taking a break, they're about spending time with yourself and taking stock of the life you're living. If you find yourself thinking about a bigger kitchen, a quieter street, or a guest room for friends who never want to leave, maybe it’s time to explore your next move.

If that idea is quietly growing in the background, the June Homebuyer Webinar is the best place to start. No pressure, just good information and real insight about today’s market. Watch Now

Thank you for letting me be part of your summer plans, whether you’re poolside, browsing homes, or just breathing a little easier this season.

Warmly,

Richard