New Orleans is one of the most unique cities I have ever traveled to. The mixture between French, Spanish, Creole and African American influences make this city a gem. The food, people, music, art and it's lively environment are the reasons everyone loves New Orleans.
Here is a list of things to do if you are planning to visit New Orleans.
Jackson Square & St. Louis Cathedral
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| Jackson Square |
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| The Mississippi River and "Crescent Connection" Bridge |
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| French Architecture |
French Market
If you like art, music, and great deals make sure to visit the French Market. In the market you will find a vast array of items such as alligator meat, those famous Venice masks, food, and, of course, beads used during Mardi Gras.
Make sure to stop at Gazebo Cafe and get a Ice Cream Daiquiri, you won't regret it.
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| Ice Cream Daiquiri |
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| Latrobe Park |
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| Live band from the French Market |
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| Cafe Du Monde famous for its beignets |
Bourbon Street
The famous crazy Bourbon Street definitely lives up to it's reputation. If you like to party hard, this is the street you are looking for.
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| Dancing on the street |
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| Drink one of the famous Hand Grenade! |
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| People watching from a balcony |
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| Beads all year round! |
Musical Legend Park
New Orleans is the birthplace of Jazz, so if you are cruising Bourbon street make sure to stop by the Music Legends Park and listen to some of the bands play this legendary genre.
Royal Street
If you are artsy and antique lover then Royal is your street.
Since Cafe Du Monde's waiting list was more than two hours, I decided to tryout Cafe Beignet. This cozy & cute coffee shop is located in Royal street next to the New Orleans Police Department (Cops love beignets). The beignets were delicious, just take a look at my face. These little pieces of heaven are a MUST!
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| Cafe Beignet on Royal |
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| People from New Orleans, performing arts. |
You can find them behind St. Louis Cathedral on Royal street or visit their website www.wlgriffinart.com
This statue of Jesus Christ, or "Touch Down Jesus" as one of the guys in the picture said, is located off Royal street in St. Louis Cathedral's back courtyard. News reported that trees around the statue were ripped from their roots by Hurricane Katrina and fell all around it. The statue remains completely intact, except for his thumb.
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| Jesus Christ Statue |
Frenchman Street
This hip street, also full of local artists happens to be one of my favorites.
Garden District and St. Charles Avenue
This neighborhood is famous for its historical houses that date as far back as 1832. The Oak trees in this district are well know for their vibrant green trunks, an effect given to them by the Spanish moss that clings to their bark.
On Charles Ave. you will see the Eiffel Society, which is a versatile special events venue and lounge. This historic building was constructed from 11,062 pieces of a restaurant that was originally on top of the Eiffel Tower in Paris, France.
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| Eiffel Society |
If you end up in this neighborhood and happen to be hungry, I recommend Parasol's. This hole in the wall restaurant has the best Po' Boys I've ever had. Try the Fire Cracker Shrimp or the Pork Belly Po' Boys, they are finger liking good!
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| Parasol's Est. 1952 |
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| Trying the Pork Belly Po' Boy |
Festival & Events
New Orleans is a vibrant city, full of fun! There is always something going on, so make sure to research or ask your hotel concierge about any festival/events. During my stay the Satchmo Summer Fest was taking place! This summer fest is a FREE event that is dedicated to the life, legacy, and music of New Orleans’s native son, Satchmo, (Louis Armstrong).
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| Enjoying one of the Satchmo concerts at Louisiana State Museum’s Old U.S. Mint |
New Orleans captivated my heart, I am definitely going back!
Helpful Links:
Follow your NOLA - neworleansonline.com
French Quarter Festivals - fqfi.org
Tour Bus - citysightseeingneworleans.com
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