After surviving my first winter living at 9000 feet, spring called for a change of scenery other than snow! As my husband had always wanted to visit New Orleans, we ventured south for a long weekend. Spring is a great time to visit this beautiful city – the crowds of Mardi Gras have passed, hotel prices are reasonable, and the heat and humidity of summer haven’t made an appearance yet. 🙂
1. Walk the Neighborhoods
New Orleans is a beautiful city to explore on foot! Don’t miss the Garden District with the historical old Mansions. It’s also a nice area to escape the crowds, as we felt like the only tourists walking there. We stayed near the Warehouse/Arts District, an up and coming area with many new restaurants and great museums to visit. Of course a visit to NOLA wouldn’t be complete without a stroll through the famous French Quarter. Nothing quite lives up to the sights, sounds (hmm and smells 😉 ) of Bourbon Street! Be sure to wander a few blocks away to take a look at the unique houses and architecture. Also, Cemetery 1 (the oldest cemetery in the city) is within walking distance of the French Quarter as well. Lastly, don’t forget to walk along the river and take in the sights of the Mighty Mississippi! If you are traveling to New Orleans, I don’t recommend renting a car unless you plan on doing a few days trips outside the city. Most of the main sites are within walking distance and parking is limited.
2. Taste the Local FoodÂ
New Orleans is a foodie paradise! Since I love breakfast, I highly recommend the Ruby Slipper! It’s a popular spot with locals and tourists so expect to wait a bit before being seated. With the lively atmosphere and southern comfort breakfast food – it’s a great place to fuel up before a day in New Orleans! For another breakfast or snack, don’t miss the scrumptious beignets at Cafe du Monde (near Jackson Square and the French Quarter). These powdered sugar covered French pastries live up to all the hype! And let’s not forget the beer… my husband and I like to taste the local brews when traveling! We discovered the Abita Amber our first evening and it became the favorite beer of this trip.
3. Listen to Local MusicÂ
One doesn’t have to go far in New Orleans to listen to terrific music! As music is intertwined in the culture of New Orleans, there are numerous spots on the street to hear great bands. If you’re lucky, you may even come upon an impromptu musical parade! Â For an evening out, head to Frenchmen Street for live music. We discovered a great group (Luke Winslow-King) playing blues and jazz in a small venue there.
4. Venture Outside the CityÂ
I suggest you explore an area outside of New Orleans, as there’s many things to see and do in the area! If you only have a couple extra hours – book a cruise on the Steamboat Natchez. You’ll enjoy terrific views of the city while listening to live jazz music. Relax and enjoy the atmosphere while steaming on the Mississippi River! My husband and I also took a day tour to visit two Plantation Houses (Laura – a Creole Plantation and the famous Oak Alley Plantation) and go on a swamp boat ride. You’ll experience beautiful architecture and landscaping while learning so much history! On the boat tour be prepared for numerous alligator sightings and learn about life in the swamp.
Until the next adventure – bon voyage!
Kris
