This unique city offers a rich tapestry of cultures that blend together to give you some iconic originals. Famous for its Mardi Gras celebration, the rich music, food, and history can be enjoyed year round. Many of the buildings in the French Quarter date back to the early 1800's along with several of the business that they have housed since they were built. There are even some that date back even further. Sitting in a building and eating in a restaurant that dated back to the Revolutionary War was a humbling experience.
Most of the restaurants offer live music and colorful surroundings to create the ambiance for the very unique food options. Food in New Orleans is all about the combination of flavors. Even parts of a meal combination that is disgusting by itself will enhance the meal when eaten in combination with everything else. If you are wondering whether that is even possible, try the Redfish Vieux Carré with mustard greens. When I tried mustard greens for the first time with this dish, it was disgusting, but when combined with the redfish, crabcake, and sauce, the combination was excellent. I had to try it several times to really believe what I was tasting.
In order to truly enjoy New Orleans, you have to look past the surface. Superficially, New Orleans is like a favorite dive bar. It is dirty, dingy, and crowded with unsavory characters harassing you for money or whatever else they want from you. While there are some fun activities for families, much like Las Vegas, it is not the best family destination. Looking beyond this unappealing surface, you will find an amazing richness that you may just fall in love with. Many of the people who live in New Orleans originally went there for a vacation and decided to stay!
There are many things to do outside of the traditional French Quarter. Many know about the cemetery tours that are very popular, but there is also a must-see World War II museum that is somewhat out of place, but certainly worth visiting while you are in town. Other neighborhoods, such as the Garden District also offer historical homes and restaurants with less of the downside of the touristy French Quarter. The excursions out of the city to various allegator tours are worthwhile, especially for families. The gator tours in Louisiana are far superior to those of the Florida Everglades and far more interactive!
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