Come Thursday for the parade. Walk to the Dome on Friday.
If somebody in your group is looking at flights that land Friday afternoon, tell them to move it up a day. The Sugar Bowl kicks off Friday, January 15, at 6:30 p.m. Central, but by then you’ve missed a parade through the French Quarter and a party down by the river.
Where to stay for the weekend
For Sugar Bowl weekend, we’d stay at the Ironworks Building on Girod Street. Book a Warehouse District loft for the whole weekend, walk to the Dome on Friday, and come downstairs to Ironworks Coffee & Crepes on Saturday morning.
Coming with eight people who want to stay under one roof? Another good choice is the four-bedroom at The Mary Beth on South Rampart — or even the 5 bedroom at Bonsoir. Tons of space for the postgame … “debates”.
The Mary Beth on South Rampart Street.
Thursday · Follow the music to the river
Get into town in time for the Thursday afternoon parade on January 14. After the floats pass, head toward the aquarium at the foot of Canal Street. That’s where Sugar Bowl Fest picks up with live music and food trucks. Check the official Sugar Bowl weekend details before you settle on a meeting time.
Friday · Give everyone one place to meet
Our pick is 600 Baronne Street. The early arrivals can grab a slice at Forbidden Pizza while the rest of the group catches up. If everyone makes it at once, order a 20-inch pie for the table. From there, walk up Poydras toward the Dome and swing by Tailgate Town in Champions Square. Pull up your tickets before you leave the table so everyone knows which gate they need.
Saturday · Coffee and crepes on Girod Street
Meet back up at Ironworks Coffee & Crepes at 315 Girod Street. Order the Charisma crepe with eggs, bacon, and mozzarella. You can even start the day with a coffee cocktail. Espresso martini or Irish coffee? When in New Orleans…