Guests of New Orleans’ new Maison de la Luz have a private entrance to Bar Marilou, a cozy craft cocktail spot.
After more than a year of construction, New Orleans Museum of Art debuted a 6 ½-acre expansion of its beloved sculpture garden. Now doubled in size and featuring more than 90 sculptures, the garden showcases contemporary works by Frank Gehry, Yinka Shonibare, Frank Stella and more—all set among picturesque lagoons, live oaks and Louisiana irises. The expanded art space is only one of the city’s recent developments. This fall, travelers will be treated to a new $1 billion, 35-gate terminal at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport. In true NOLA fashion, expect live music and James Beard Award-winning restaurants. A reservation at Maison de la Luz is another must. The 67-room luxury guest house by Atelier Ace blends Southern hospitality with unexpected design details. Silk-tasseled room keys and snake-shaped shower handles are only a couple of the special touches. Rates from $389 per night, @maisondelaluz