Art lovers, follow the whispers: Second Story Gallery is a tucked-away gem in the city’s back alleys. This independent gallery showcases bold photography, experimental installations, and raw local voices—each piece feels like a secret told by New Orleans itself. Wander in, and let the city’s creative pulse speak directly to your soul.






Everything you need to know about Second Story Gallery
The Bourbon Orleans Hotel is a top choice just steps from Second Story Gallery in the French Quarter. This historic boutique hotel features 19th-century European décor, private courtyard gardens, and rooms with antique furnishings and jazz-inspired ambiance. Guests enjoy complimentary guided tours to the gallery, showcasing contemporary works by African American artists. Its prime location offers easy access to the Mississippi Riverfront and St. Louis Cathedral, with a streetcar stop right outside for seamless exploration of downtown New Orleans.
Before visiting Second Story Gallery, savor a classic beignet and café au lait at Café Du Monde, a must-try for authentic New Orleans flavor. Stroll along Royal Street, lined with independent galleries and artisan shops like Sawyer's Art Studio, perfect for finding one-of-a-kind souvenirs. For a cultural immersion, catch live New Orleans jazz performances at venues on Frenchmen Street, where the city’s rich musical heritage comes alive—ideal preparation for the gallery’s dynamic exhibitions.
Take the streetcar from downtown to Canal Street Station, then transfer to the St. Charles Avenue Line and exit at the Bourbon Street Stop, a 8-minute walk from Second Story Gallery. Alternatively, use ride-sharing services or taxis, which take about 10 minutes and offer scenic views of Victorian architecture and colorful porches. For walkers, a 15-minute stroll from Jackson Square passes landmarks like the Cabildo Museum and Preservation Hall, blending history and art into a memorable journey.
Yes, The Bourbon Orleans Hotel features several art-themed suites inspired by contemporary African American artists showcased at Second Story Gallery. The walls display original works from the gallery’s exhibitions, while rooms include interactive digital gallery screens that stream upcoming shows. Some suites also offer private curator-led tours, providing behind-the-scenes insights directly from the curators. These immersive experiences make the stay part of the exhibition itself, highly popular among art enthusiasts seeking deeper cultural engagement.
See what other travelers say about Second Story Gallery

Staying at the Wyndham New Orleans - French Quarter was a solid experience overall. The room was clean, comfortable, and well-maintained, with all the essentials you'd expect from a city-center hotel. Located right in the heart of the French Quarter, it's steps away from local cafes, restaurants, and lively streets—perfect for exploring on foot. Public transportation is nearby, making it easy to get around without a car. That said, I’d advise being cautious when walking around late at night. Some side streets are dimly lit and not as busy, so it’s best to stick to main areas or travel with a group after dark. Despite that small note, the location and vibe make this hotel a great choice for travelers wanting an authentic New Orleans feel without sacrificing comfort.

This hotel offers incredible value for money—just a 5-minute walk to the French Quarter, making it perfect for exploring the vibrant streets, restaurants, and nightlife without needing to rely on transportation. From the moment you step into the lobby, the atmosphere feels clean, modern, and welcoming. The staff are friendly and helpful, adding to the overall pleasant experience. My room was spacious, well-lit, and impeccably clean—everything from the bedding to the bathroom felt fresh and well-maintained. The bed was comfortable, offering a great night’s sleep. I appreciated the thoughtful touches like the coffee maker and mini-fridge, which made my stay more convenient, especially when traveling with limited luggage. The location is unbeatable: close enough to enjoy the energy of the French Quarter, yet quiet enough to rest properly. Public transit access is also excellent if you want to explore further. I’d definitely stay here again and recommend it to anyone visiting New Orleans who wants a great balance of comfort, convenience, and affordability.

The location is absolutely perfect—just a short walk from downtown New Orleans attractions and surrounded by great local eateries and shops. The staff went above and beyond with their friendly and attentive service, even upgrading my room without hesitation. My room was clean, modern, and comfortable, with a cozy bed and excellent air conditioning. The bathroom was well-maintained and functional. It’s rare to find such a great balance of comfort, convenience, and value—all at a fantastic price. I’ll definitely be coming back.

I stayed at the Super 8 by Wyndham New Orleans and had a generally positive experience. The location is convenient, just a short walk from the city center and close to public transit, making it easy to explore the area. The room was clean and comfortable, with a good-quality bed that ensured a restful night’s sleep. The only downside was the Wi-Fi connection—slightly inconsistent at times—but everything else made up for it. It’s a solid choice if you're looking for a budget-friendly stay without sacrificing comfort or convenience. I’d definitely consider returning on my next trip to New Orleans.

Staying at the Days Inn by Wyndham New Orleans Pontchartrain was a fantastic experience. The location is super convenient—just a short ride from downtown and major attractions, making it easy to explore everything New Orleans has to offer. The room was clean, cozy, and well-maintained, with all the essentials you’d expect. The bed was surprisingly comfortable, allowing for a restful night’s sleep. Staff were friendly and efficient throughout check-in and check-out. What really stood out was the great value for money—excellent quality without the high price tag. I’ll definitely be returning next time I’m in town and would highly recommend this hotel to any traveler looking for a reliable, no-frills stay.

Staying at The Lafayette New Orleans by Kasa was an absolute delight. The staff were incredibly friendly—especially the front desk attendant who went out of her way to check us in early when we arrived ahead of schedule. That little touch made a huge difference! The property itself is spotless and well-maintained, with a prime location just steps away from CVS, supermarkets, and a variety of great restaurants. Walking to the French Quarter is effortless and takes less than ten minutes. What really stood out was how much value you get for the price—excellent service, clean rooms, and unbeatable convenience all rolled into one. If you're looking for a comfortable, central, and well-run stay in New Orleans, this place is absolutely worth every penny. Highly recommended!

Staying at the Holiday Inn Express New Orleans Downtown - FR Quarter Area was a fantastic experience. The hotel is perfectly located in the heart of downtown New Orleans, making it super convenient to explore nearby attractions, restaurants, and the French Quarter on foot. The room was clean, spacious, and well-maintained with modern amenities. What stood out most was the included breakfast—offering a great variety of hot and cold options, all freshly prepared and very satisfying. The staff were incredibly friendly and helpful throughout our stay, always ready to assist with recommendations or local tips. The overall value for money was excellent, and the location made everything so easy. I’d definitely recommend this hotel to anyone visiting New Orleans—it’s a smart, comfortable choice for travelers looking for convenience and quality.

Staying at Lamothe House Hotel was an absolute delight. The location is perfect—just steps away from the heart of the French Quarter, where the vibrant culture of New Orleans truly comes alive. From lively street music to authentic Creole cuisine, everything you’d expect from this iconic neighborhood is within easy reach. The hotel itself is cozy and quiet, offering a peaceful retreat after a day exploring. The interior design has such character—warm, inviting, and full of charm. It’s a real gem tucked away in the city, and I couldn’t recommend it more for travelers who want to experience the soul of New Orleans without the noise and hassle. A standout stay!

Absolutely perfect! From the moment I walked in, the staff made me feel right at home with their warm smiles and genuine hospitality. The Eliza Jane truly captures the soul of New Orleans—elegant yet effortlessly cool, with a vibe that’s both sophisticated and inviting. Located just steps from the heart of the city, I was able to explore vibrant neighborhoods, incredible local eateries, and live music scenes without needing to travel far. My room was spacious, beautifully designed, and incredibly comfortable—great bed, excellent lighting, and thoughtful touches like premium toiletries. Every detail felt intentional, from the curated artwork to the ambient music in the lobby. It’s not just a hotel; it’s an experience. If you’re visiting New Orleans, this is the place to stay. Unforgettable, and well worth every penny.

Staying at Moxy New Orleans Downtown/French Quarter Area was an absolute highlight of my trip! The room was modern, clean, and incredibly comfortable—especially the bed, which made for a restful night's sleep. Located just steps away from the French Quarter, I could easily walk to restaurants, live music venues, and local shops without needing transport. The staff were friendly and efficient during check-in and check-out, making the whole experience smooth. What really stood out was the vibrant, youthful atmosphere—the perfect vibe for a fun, relaxed getaway. With great value for money and unbeatable location, this hotel is definitely worth considering if you're visiting New Orleans. I’d happily come back again!

Arriving at the hotel, we were immediately disappointed by the unfriendly front desk staff. The room was directly facing the street, with windows so dirty that it was nearly impossible to see outside. Despite being advertised as a non-smoking property, the room smelled strongly of cigarette smoke—so intense that we checked out after just five minutes and paid extra for a new hotel. The location is far from downtown New Orleans, making it inconvenient for tourists. As a young couple, we found this stay extremely unsatisfying and not worth the price. It would be completely impractical for families too. Overall, a very disappointing experience with no redeeming qualities.

The room was immaculately clean and beautifully appointed, with a comfortable bed and a well-designed bathroom that made the stay truly relaxing. Located just a short walk from major attractions, it's super convenient for exploring downtown New Orleans—plus, there are plenty of great dining options nearby. The staff were friendly and efficient throughout our visit, making check-in and check-out seamless. Every detail felt thoughtfully curated, and the overall experience exceeded expectations. I’d definitely book again on my next trip to New Orleans and highly recommend this hotel to anyone looking for a perfect blend of luxury and convenience.
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