Things To Do
Visit the historic French Quarter
Stroll down Bourbon Street, stop in at a jazz club on Frenchman St. Get a coffee and a beignet at Cafe Du Monde or just admire some of the iconic art and architecture. The French Quarter is always a must-do, any time of year. As the city’s oldest neighborhood, the Vieux Carre is packed with gorgeous architecture, loads of history, a wealth of food and music, and a cast of characters including long-time residents, chatty tour guides, and talented street performers. Don’t skip out on historic attractions like the Historic New Orleans Collection, and be sure to take in the views of the Mississippi from the edge of the Quarter.
Shop and eat on Magazine Street
This six-mile stretch has it all: shopping, dining, art galleries, unique architecture, an award-winning zoo, and friendly local business owners. Get your steps in as you shop local boutiques, then reward yourself with a meal at one of the many restaurants that offer sidewalk dining or patios overlooking the hustle and bustle of the street.
Hogs for the Cause
Head to the UNO Lakefront Arena Festival Grounds for a barbecue, beer, and music - all for a great cause! The event is a great way to spend the day Friday and/or Saturday prior to the wedding festivities, just make sure you order your ticket in advance!
Take the street cars down Saint Charles Avenue
New Orleans’ streetcar system has been rolling since 1835. While you can no longer ride the Desire line made famous by Tennessee Williams, the existing lines offer a great way to see the city. The newer red streetcars run out to Mid-City, while the older, original green cars take you down historic St. Charles Avenue, past beautiful houses in the famed Garden District and Audubon Park.
Enjoy City Park
City Park is a beautifully-landscaped, 1,300-acre green space filled with moss-drenched oaks, peaceful walking paths, and native birds. Head to the Big Lake and rent a swan boat, embrace your inner child at Storyland and the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park. Don’t miss the Couturie Forest, a diverse nature trail that features New Orleans’ highest point: Laborde Mountain, at a whopping 43 feet above sea level. Or keep it simple and take advantage of New Orleans' open container law with lunch and a six-pack at the park! The neighboring Fairgrounds offers a variety of activities as well.
Recommended Restaurants
-Jacques-Imos -La Petite Grocery -Shaya -Compere Lapin -Bevi's Seafood -Parkway Bakery (Po-Boys) -Vessel -Stein's Deli -Dat Dog -Atchafalaya -The Ruby Slippers -Katies
Recommended Bars/Cafes
-Bayou Beer/Wine Garden -The Bulldog (either location) -Bacchanal Wine -The Tchoup Yard -NOLA Brewery -Pat O'Brien's -The Country Club -Wrong Iron on the Greenway -Second Line Brewing -Cafe Du Monde -The Station Coffee Shop -Church Alley Coffee Shop -Cherry Coffee Roasters -Maple Leaf Bar