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Everything you need to know to get ready for your next Marais NOLA Vacation!

May 21, 2025
We’re thrilled to announce our newest property: CastleDay (castledayretreats.com) - three stunning, purpose‑built villas that re-imagine what a group getaway can be. Whether you’re planning a milestone birthday, a corporate off‑site, or the wedding weekend of your dreams, CastleDay offers the freedom of a private estate with all the perks of a five‑star resort. The best of both worlds Each villa was sketched from the ground up for gatherings—12 bedrooms, 8 bathrooms and expansive indoor‑outdoor living spaces—so everyone in your party has room to breathe, mingle and celebrate. Resort‑style amenities—without the crowds Heated pool & hot tub Outdoor kitchen + covered dining pavilion with an 85" TV Basketball hoop (plus pool basketball hoop!) Chef’s kitchen stocked with top‑of‑the‑line appliances Super‑fast Wi‑Fi, two sets of washers & dryers, and gated on‑site parking Private tropical landscaping that makes you forget you’re minutes from downtown Curated in‑villa experiences We work with the city’s most sought‑after chefs, wellness pros and entertainers so you can keep the party “at home.” Picture a sunset crawfish boil, poolside hibachi, or a private mixology class—all without leaving your villa. Rooted in New Orleans artistry From the hand‑painted murals to the locally crafted furniture, CastleDay is a love letter to New Orleans’ creative soul. Every room features original pieces commissioned from neighborhood artists, so your stay directly supports our city’s cultural ecosystem. A neighborhood that feels like a secret Tucked in the Bywater, CastleDay places you in walking distance of great venues like Bacchanal, Parleaux, and just two miles from the French Quarter’s legendary music and nightlife. Why CastleDay is different Scale & privacy - Enough space for the grandest celebrations, yet never shared with strangers. Design - Purpose‑built in 2024; no awkward retrofits, just seamless flow. Local flavor - Art, music, food and experiences curated by New Orleans’ own. Incredible outdoor - the best private pool and backyard in the city. Ready to reign as you please? CastleDay is open for reservations now. Explore floor plans, gallery tours and availability at castledayretreats.com. We can’t wait to welcome you.
May 18, 2025
New Orleans is a city built for celebration—and when it comes to unforgettable bachelorette weekends, the setting matters as much as the itinerary. At Marais, we offer more than just a place to sleep. We provide immersive, locally rooted spaces where your group can connect, relax, and revel in the spirit of the Crescent City. Whether you’re planning a long weekend with your closest friends or an extended escape for a larger crew, here’s why Marais is the best place to host your bachelorette party in New Orleans. Curated for Connection: Homes That Feel Like Art Installations Every Marais property is a living gallery. Instead of cookie-cutter decor or generic furnishings, our homes feature art and design sourced directly from New Orleans creatives. Local artwork in every room: From hand-painted murals and mixed-media installations to custom lighting and furniture by local makers, your space will be layered with visual storytelling. Each piece was chosen not only to beautify the space, but to honor the culture and character of this city. Instagram-worthy vignettes: Our interiors are designed with both aesthetic and atmosphere in mind—ideal for capturing group photos, getting-ready moments, or just enjoying the view with a glass of bubbles. No two homes are alike: Whether you book a modern Bywater compound or a timeless Creole townhouse, the textures, tones, and ambiance of your space will reflect the unique history and soul of its neighborhood. Lush Outdoor Living, Designed for Celebration New Orleans’ climate invites you outside nearly year-round—and our homes make the most of it. Private courtyards, heated pools and spas, and tropical gardens give your group room to breathe, toast, and unwind between outings. Almost all of our homes include outdoor dining setups and heated pools, offering the perfect backdrop for sunset hangs or post-party chill time. With ample seating and ambient lighting, these spaces feel like your own private oasis in the city—intimate, beautiful, and perfect for celebrating milestones. Spacious Group Stays That Don’t Feel Like Group Stays We know bachelorette parties come in all sizes and styles. That’s why our properties are flexible by design: Sleep up to 30 guests comfortably in thoughtfully configured bedrooms and communal areas. Enjoy full kitchens, large dining tables, and open-plan living rooms ideal for hosting game nights, brunches, or pre-dinner drinks. Want separate spaces for different parts of the group? Ask us about adjacent homes or multi-unit options that offer privacy and togetherness. Planning Tips for Your Marais Bachelorette Weekend Book early, especially for spring and fall dates (festival season!). Explore our recommendations page for hidden gems, dining guides, and experiences tailored to your crew. Ready to Pop the Bubbly? Your bachelorette party deserves more than a basic Airbnb. It deserves a setting as inspired, joyful, and unique as the people you’re celebrating with. Explore our full collection of homes at staymarais.com and let the good times roll—with style, soul, and a whole lot of love from New Orleans.
a group of young men are standing under a tent eating crawfish .
January 4, 2025
With crawfish season around the corner, here are a few tips for hosting an authentic crawfish boil at one of our homes and a list of great crawfish boil companies.
December 14, 2024
Hosting a hibachi meal at one of our properties is a lot of fun. Here's some information on how to do it!
A statue of two children sitting on the porch of a log cabin.
November 13, 2024
Explore the Whitney Plantation, a historical plantation turned museum, to learn about the lives of enslaved people in Louisiana. The Whitney Plantation includes original slave cabins, the Field of Angels memorial, and a museum with artifacts and personal stories. Guided tours offer clear insights into the realities of slavery.
June 24, 2024
Chris Owens is a master carpenter based out of New Orleans. Chris brings furniture dreams to life and has truly elevated Marais spaces with his penchant for high quality wood builds.
A group of people are floating down a river on rafts.
June 24, 2024
Float down the Bogue Chitto River for a relaxing and fun-filled tubing experience. The scenic river winds through Bogue Chitto State Park, offering a peaceful escape surrounded by nature. A tubing trip on the Bogue Chitto River provides a leisurely and enjoyable way to cool off and appreciate the natural beauty of the North Shore.
March 19, 2024
Bayou Boogaloo is a festival like no other with a good fraction of attendee's actually seeing the whole event on the water! Here's why staying with us will make this Bayou Festival even better for the whole family!
March 19, 2024
French Quarter Fest is a locals favorite festival celebrating the music and culture that pulses through this city taking place right on the beautiful Riverwalk in the French Quarter District! Read this article to see our advice on how to take on French Quarter Fest the right way!
March 19, 2024
Staying the week in between Jazz Fests is an understanded and underrated way to fit in the perfect New Orleans Vacation while enjoying everything that Jazz Fest has to offer!
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