Adventure Woman Loves New Orleans!

Seven “Must See” Attractions in New Orleans
New Orleans (La Nouvelle-Orléans), Louisiana, was founded in 1718, and is named after the French Regent, Duke of Orleans. Nicknamed the “Big Easy” and referred to as the “most unique city” in the United States; New Orleans is known for its delicious Creole cuisine, charming French Creole Architecture, and for being the birthplace of jazz and home to many colorful festivals; most notably, Mardi Gras.

1 Visit a Louisiana Swamp: Submit yourself to the magical lore and adventure of bayou country. Take a boat tour of the Louisiana wetlands and learn the legends of the wetlands'. You’re experience a relaxing (yet thrilling) ride watching out for beautiful New Orleans wildlife, such as, Egrets, hawks and herons. But beware; you will also possibly see snakes and alligators. But after all, what is a trip to the bayou swamplands without a genuine alligator sighting? For more information visit: http://www.zerve.com/TourNOrleans/Swamp

2. Attend the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival: The festival was founded in 1970 and continues to get bigger and better. It was been called, “The country’s very best music festival” by Life Magazine and has been called the best festival period. The festival features international artists and beyond jazz showcases, gospel, blues, R&B, Cajun, Afro-Caribbean, folk, Latin, rock, rap, country, and bluegrass music. The annual festival is approximately two weeks long. For more information: http://www.nojazzfest.com

3. Bask in the beauty of a Plantation Home: The glory and beauty of the Plantation home is synonymous with the grand old south. Oak Alley is one of America’s grandest historical structures and is a must see for every romantic spirit. Oak Alley, built is 1837, is named after the double row of great oak trees which form an impressive canopy. The trees were planted in the 18th Century (before the mansion was built) and leads to the Mississippi River. Oak Alley was originally an antebellum sugar cane plantation, but was ravaged during the Civil War. The mansion was later restored. The mansion has appeared in many movies, including Primary Colors and Interview with a Vampire. For more information: http://www.zerve.com/TourNOrleans/OakAlley

4. Eat an authentic Creole meal: Classic Cajun/Creole dishes such as gumbo and jambalaya are “must tastes” for any visit to New Orleans. Bananas Foster and Bread Pudding desserts are absolutely not to be missed (this isn’t the time to cut calories). Go to Antoine’s (established in 1840 and the oldest family run restaurant in the USA) for their Oysters Rockefeller (named after the wealthy John D. Rockefeller for the richness of the sauce). Also, visit the legendary Commander’s Palace. It was founded in 1880 and has served New Orleans dignitaries from river boat captains to Jefferson Davis and Mark Twain. For more information: www.antoines.com and www.commanderspalace.com.

5. Take a Riverboat Ride: Enter the famous history of the great Mississippi River by taking a cruise on a steamboat. Enjoy the ambiance of a bygone era while eating a delicious Creole dinner and listening to jazz music. Paradise! Vibe Mark Twain and read a copy of Life on the Mississippi before you board. For more information: http://www.steamboatnatchez.com

6. Carriage rides in the French Quarter: Enjoy the charm of the French Quarter from a mule-drawn carriage. This is an ideal way to absorb the landmarks and heritage of New Orleans. This makes for a romantic hand-holding experience for couples or a really fun excursion for kids (they’ll get an education without realizing it). You’ll tour famous sights such as, Bourbon Street, and take in the local character. The drivers will typically stop for a photo or two. For more information: www.neworleanscarriages.com

7. Mari Gras: Mardi Gras is French for Fat Tuesday and is the final feasting day before the start of lent (beginning on Ash Wednesday). The Mardi Gras season culminates on Fat Tuesday but is marked with many proceeding celebrations. Mardi Gras is known for its food (King Cakes), beads, parades, masquerade balls and outrageous costumes. It is a festive time for fun and unrestrained merriment. For more information on Mardi Gras see our Adventure of the Moment.

For more on New Orleans see our Adventure of the Moment (Mardi Gras) and our Retreat to Relaxation (hotel review)