Monday night is the only thing on LSU Tiger fans’ minds and New Orleans is ready. All over the city clubs, bars and restaurants are determined to bring home the National Championship by tailgating all day and partying all night. Even if you don’t have tickets to the game there are several places downtown that will be just as alive as Tiger Stadium on a Louisiana Saturday night. Whether you’re a NOLA first timer or looking to change up your routine, here’s your bar-hopping guide in order from closest to farthest from the Mercedes-Benz Superdome.
1. Walk-On’s Bistreaux & Bar
Walk-On’s can easily be labeled as tiger fans’ headquarters. Founded by two LSU Alumni, this bar and restaurant serves their drinks with purple and seasons their food with gold. Located only a block away from the Superdome, Walk-On’s is the closest spot for some cajun cuisine and lively energy. It is open to all ages with reasonable prices. Make sure to try their signature drink the Death Valley paired with their infamous waffle cheese fries.
2. The Vintage Rock Club
The Vintage Rock Club is a throwback experience that plays only the best classic rock hits of the decades. It’s the ideal spot to enjoy drinking and dancing before, during and after the game. It is located directly on top of Walk-On’s with a large, long balcony overlooking Poydras. If you decide to add this spot to your game day route don’t forget to catch the view while sipping on their delicious rum punch.
3. Monkey Board
Monkey Board is fun in the sky. This rooftop bar sits on the 17th floor of The Troubadour Hotel. It’s colorful street style art and string lights illuminate the night with a breathtaking view. This unique experience is only available to those 21 years or older. It is located perfectly in the middle of the CBD with just a 12 minute walk from the Superdome and a 10 minute walk to Bourbon St. Monkey Board offers an array of delicious specialty drinks and comfort foods, so make sure you stop by and try their Razz-A-Pazz cocktail.
4. Barcadia
Barcadia combines all the fun of an adult arcade with the upbeat pace of a nightclub. With four bars, four rooms of music, and two massive LED screens, there will be plenty of space and drinks to enjoy the game. The restaurant is open to all ages from but, after 9 p.m. you must be at least 21 years of age to enter. The kitchen is open until 2 a.m. so you can satisfy your alcohol and munchy needs all in the same spot. Barcadia will be hosting an indoor and outdoor block party presented by Joe Maz. Even if you don’t plan on making it your game watching destination, Barcadia is a must stop spot on your list. With a swift 22 minute walk from the Superdome you’ll still be right in the middle of all the action.
5. Lucy’s Retired Surfers Bar & Restaurant
Lucy’s brings the beach vibes to the fast paced streets of downtown New Orleans. Lucy’s is a hidden gem far from the tourist infested streets of Bourbon and the locals like it that way. This bar and restaurant features two floors of beachy fun, two large bars, a balcony overlooking Tchoupitoulas St., and an outdoor block party. Along with the abundant alcohol choices, Lucy’s also has a late night menu for those who want to refuel before continuing the party. The beach is only a mile away from the Superdome. Make sure to stop by the bar and enjoy two of their most popular drinks, the Shark Attack and Da’ Killer Blue Whale.
6. Manning’s Sports Bar and Grill
Manning’s Sports Bar and Grill is a football lover’s paradise. Featuring over 30 flat screen TVs, two thirteen foot mega-screens, a recliner dining section, and a gorgeous outdoor courtyard area, Manning’s is casual fun for people of all ages. This isn’t your average bar, it’s an all around game day experience in one place. Located in the heart of Fulton Alley and only 1.2 miles away from the Superdome, Manning’s is so close yet just far enough from the game day madness. While you’re there you can enjoy the 24 beers on tap and delicious wings.
7. Red Eye Grill
Red Eye Grill is like taking a slice of Tigerland and placing it in New Orleans. If you’re looking for that college rager, this is definitely as close as you’ll get. Red Eye will be hosting a tiger tailgate block party with a free tray of crawfish with the purchase of one drink, free Jager shots when LSU scores, and special guest DJ WIXX. Only a 10 minute drive away from the Superdome, Red Eye is another locals choice.
No matter where you decide to watch the game, you’ll get the New Orleans style experience with a Baton Rouge twist.
