Love is in the air! February 14^th rolls around once a year and whether or not you’re in a romantic relationship, it’s a great time to celebrate love among friends—Galentine’s Day. New Orleans has a plethora of spots that are perfect for a special day with your best gal pals.

Craft the ideal Galentine’s Day in New Orleans with these recommendations for food, fun, and friends.

1. Start the Day With a Blow-Out

Kick off the day with your gal-pal squad enjoying a confidence boost. Get a gorgeous hair blowout at one of these top-rated salons.

Blo Magazine

Located in Uptown New Orleans, this trendy salon stop offers appointments as early as 7:00 a.m. for the early bird looking to start her day out fresh. 

Bleu

Venturing a few minutes beyond the city? This Old Metairie blow dry bar offers a full blowout or a “dry style” in 30 minutes for busy ladies on the go. 

2. Enjoy a Relaxing Brunch or Lunch

Once you’re looking and feeling your best, it’s time for a delicious sit-down meal at one of NOLA’s many amazing restaurants. Here are a few top picks to try.

Commanders Palace

This New Orleans institution is the place to be on Fridays for their popular 25-cent martini lunch. The restaurant tends to get packed, but it’s a lively and fun crowd. Reservations are available through the Tock reservations app. 

Bearcat Café 

Consider this easy and delicious brunch spot if your vibe is a bit more low-key. There are two locations, one uptown and one downtown.

Ruby Slipper

With five locations in the greater New Orleans area, Ruby Slipper has top-notch food and a casual, upbeat atmosphere. It’s a favorite for brunch and can usually accommodate larger groups.

3. Time to Pamper Yourself

Your hair is done, your bellies are full, and now, it’s time to take a break to pamper your hands and feet. The city has many excellent choices for manicures and pedicures. Here are a few to get you started.

Nail Bar Nola

Located downtown, this popular nail salon is a favorite for manicures, pedicures, or nail enhancement services. Reservations are highly recommended.

Eversaint Salon

Manis, pedis, hair and make-up services are available at this conveniently located St. Charles Avenue salon. Plan ahead, and book your appointments online. 

Buff Beauty Bar

This Carondelet spot for a manicure is also a full-service beauty destination. They offer an extensive menu of waxing and tanning services. 

4. Shop Until You Drop

What Galentine’s Day would be complete without clocking some quality shopping time? New Orleans boasts three streets known for their abundant shopping opportunities. It’s a safe bet you’ll find an eclectic mix of unique shops and sights. 

Magazine Street

Cute stores and historic vibes? Yes, please. Magazine Street in Uptown New Orleans and the Garden District offers six miles of predominantly locally-owned shops, restaurants, and galleries.  

Royal Street

No trip to the French Quarter is complete without a stroll down Royal Street. Pedestrian traffic only during the day, this street is lined with cafes, art galleries, and unique shopping experiences, all complete with local street musicians performing for your entertainment.

Metairie Road

Looking for a quieter alternative to the hustle and bustle of the city? Metairie Road is the place to go for one-of-a-kind boutiques, specialty finds, and gifts. It’s in the popular suburb of Metairie, mere minutes from New Orleans.

And if you want to experience classic New Orleans environments with bargain pricing, Riverwalk Outlets has you covered. Located right on the Mississippi River, just steps from the French Quarter, this indoor mall is a good mix of national stores and local flavors. 

5. Wind Down With Happy Hour

By this point, your squad is in definite need of another round of cocktails and a tasty snack. Lucky for you, many NOLA bars and lounges offer some impressive Happy Hours.

The Columns Restaurant & Bar

Located in the Garden District on the historic St Charles Ave streetcar line, The Columns offers an upscale but inviting environment for a French 75 and French fries. As a bonus, if the weather is pretty, you can sit outside on the spacious front porch.

The Chloe New Orleans

Another Garden District favorite, this charming bar area is great for cocktails. Also, don’t miss out on their ice cream sandwiches if you’re able to order one from the restaurant. 

Blue Ruin Speakeasy

The Blue Ruin Speakeasy hosts Happy Hour until 7:00 p.m. every day. This Metairie Road upscale cocktail bar has a rotating menu of specialty and seasonal beverages. 

The Will & The Way

The Will & The Way is a relatively new French Quarter bar. This tucked-away venue has beautiful architecture and is a cozy spot for a quiet glass of wine.

Celebrate in Style This Galentine’s Day at The Eleanor.

The Eleanor is the perfect finishing touch to your day (or a place to stay with all your friends after a NOLA girl’s night).  Of course, the best part of Galentine’s is spending it with your favorite gals.