We stayed in the Iberville Suites in the French Quarter (I heartily back this hotel - pristine, great service, great staff). The Suites allow convenient access to everywhere, including Bourbon Street, without being in the middle of the chaos.
Here are 10 things you must do if heading to New Orleans, Louisiana:
- Go to the other side of the French Quarter, away from Canal Street and visit the jazz clubs and restaurants on Frenchmen Street.
- Visit the city's many cemeteries; take a guided tour, or just go on your own. The Canal Street streetcar will take you to the Irish cemeteries at the end of the line.
- Get away from Bourbon Street; this is a crowded place for those without a life.
- Ride the streetcars, everywhere. Buy a 3-day pass in the Jax Brewery (in the ice cream shop on the main floor). Get a window seat, and enjoy the breeze.
- Eat at Mother's restaurant in the Central Business District on the other side of Canal Street.
- Eat seafood gumbo from a tiny street deli on Royal Street.
- Walk Royal Street.
- Take a goofy ghost tour; see Nicholas Cage's haunted house.
- Eat lunch on the doorstep of Brad and Angelina's place on Gov. Nicholls Street.
- Take a Gray Line bus Katrina tour -- it's an eye-opener.
For more in-depth information on visiting New Orleans, try these articles:
- A visit to a New Orleans cemetery
- The real way to vacation in New Orleans
- New Orleans: Nearly three years after Katrina
Cheers and happy travels,
Sheree
