Roundup: New Orleans
We spent three wonderful weeks in New Orleans, and there are STILL a bunch of things we didn’t have enough time to do. But we’re not complaining - we’ll just have to return someday.
Here are our “musts” and pro tips for anyone contemplating a(nother) visit to New Orleans:
Treme series - Before you go (or while you’re there), watch the first season, if not all four, of Treme. We binged it, and loved it, and found it greatly enhanced our visit. Pro tip: The soundtrack is a lot of fun!
French Quarter walking tour - There are many good tours out there; Steve’s done a ghost tour, and I’ve done a historical tour. Pro tip: Do the tour at/near the start of your visit; you’ll notice more when wandering the Quarter on your own.
National World War II Museum - We were awed and inspired by this amazing museum. Be sure to allow plenty of time. Pro tip: If, after this profound experience, you want to do something different, the nearby Sazerac House will give your brain a rest.
The Presbytère - The Katrina and Beyond and Mardi Gras exhibits are very different, but both offer fascinating insights into New Orleans culture. Pro tip: Admission is free with membership in a NARM institution.
Garden District walking tour - We did this on our first day because we were staying in this area. Pro tip: If you’re not staying nearby, consider making reservations for a late lunch at Commander’s Palace, and do a tour beforehand.
Palm Court Jazz Cafe - This was our favorite musical experience in a city filled with music. Pro tip: For the price of dinner and a $10 cover charge, you can enjoy an evening of great music by (so we hear) the same musicians who perform at Preservation Hall. (Note, reservations are by telephone only.)
And for those who have already done that list and/or have more time:
Oak Alley Plantation (note, we’ve heard good things about Whitney Plantation and hope to see that another time)
No visit to New Orleans is complete without some good food and music. You can read about our favorite foods HERE and our music experiences HERE. Pro tip: Rental properties are less expensive outside the French Quarter. If your top priority is good restaurants, consider the Lower Garden District. If it’s live music you want, consider Marigny or Bywater.
Well, there you have it. Do let us know if you found this helpful, or if you think we’ve missed anything. Laissez les bons temps rouler!
