All Around Town

Our Local Expert Says:

Not to be confused with its high-rise W counterpart on Poydras Street, the boutique-sized W French Quarter feels more like a family—a hip, jet set, entertainment industry family, that is. From the ruby-hued, velvet-walled entry Living Room to its in-crowd lantern-lit courtyard lounge, the W French Quarter mixes sleek with sparkle and forward-thinking design with a certain New Orleanian character and mystique. If you favor progressive design but still want to experience the old-world atmosphere of the French Quarter, this W is an ideal compromise.

Description:

Located in the downtown, the W New Orleans French Quarter is just two blocks from the French Quarter. Built in 1906, W New Orleans combines sleek style with historic grandeur. As New Orleans' first boutique hotel, the exceptional contemporary style is of the highest quality.

Description:

This French-market coffee stand, established in 1862, offers a menu of dark coffee and chicory, beignets, white or chocolate milk and freshly-squeezed orange juice. The cafe is open seven days a week, 24 hours a day (except Christmas Day) and is one of the most popular places in New Orleans for singles, couples and families. You may have to wait for a table during the busiest morning hours. While the coffee is certainly good, most people come for the famous, fresh-from-the-fryer beignets. They are brought to your table in such a hurry that they are still hot when you take that first melt-in-your-mouth bite.

Description:

Made up of just under 20 acres of newly repaired green space, Woldenberg Riverfront Park has historically been the city's promenade; now it's an oasis of greenery in the heart of the city with numerous works by popular local artists scattered throughout. The park includes a large lawn with a brick promenade leading to the Mississippi, and it's home to hundreds of trees -- oaks, magnolias, willows, and crape myrtles -- and thousands of shrubs. That greenery got beat up, but nothing like a rainy tropical climate to help foliage thrive again.

The Moonwalk is a paved pedestrian thoroughfare along the river, a wonderful walk on a pretty New Orleans day but really a must-do for any weather other than pouring rain. It has steps that allow you to get right down to Old Muddy -- on foggy nights, you feel as if you are floating above the water. There are many benches from which to view the city's main industry: its busy port (second in the world only to Amsterdam in annual tonnage). To your right you'll see the Greater New Orleans Bridge and the World Trade Center of New Orleans (formerly the International Trade Mart) skyscraper as well as the Toulouse Street wharf, the departure point for excursion steamboats. This is also an excellent spot to watch full moons rise over the river.

Our Local Expert Says:

The t-shirts and other New Orleans souvenirs are cheaper at the French Market than at the other stores in the Quarter.

Description:

Running between Decatur Street and the Mississippi River, the French Market in New Orleans is the oldest city market in the U.S. Located on the same spot since 1791, the market now houses restaurants, shops, bars, and free live music (don't miss the praline samples at Aunt Sally's Praline Shop!). Near the end of the stretch is the farmer's market where visitors will find local produce as well as local delicacies such as alligator jerky, kettle corn, and an enormous collection of hot sauces. The final leg of the French Market is the open-air community flea market where merchants from all over the world sell art, crafts, jewelry, luggage, and much, much more. This is a great place to buy souvenirs, and don't be afraid to bargain!

Description:

Best known for its Muffuletta (which has been featured on the PBS special, "Sandwiches You Will Like"), this Italian deli-grocer has been owned by the same family since it opened in 1906. For the uninitiated, this is the place to acquaint yourself with the classic Muffuletta, a massive round loaf stuffed with Italian meats, cheeses, olives, and more. Central Grocery has become more of a grocer than a deli over the years (the Muffuletta is the only sandwich you can order prepared) and offers towering shelves of imported goodies from Italy, Syria, Greece and Sicily.

Description:

The St. Louis Cathedral prides itself on being the oldest continuously active cathedral in the United States. What usually doesn't get mentioned is that it is also one of the ugliest. The outside is all right, but the rather grim interior wouldn't give even a minor European church a run for its money.

Still, its history is impressive and somewhat dramatic. The cathedral formed the center of the original settlement, and it is still the major landmark of the French Quarter. This is the third building to stand on this spot. A hurricane destroyed the first in 1722. On Good Friday 1788, the bells of its replacement were kept silent for religious reasons rather than ringing out the alarm for a fire -- which eventually went out of control and burned down more than 850 buildings, including the cathedral itself.

Rebuilt in 1794, the structure was remodeled and enlarged between 1845 and 1851 by J. N. B. de Pouilly. The brick used in its construction was taken from the original town cemetery and was covered with stucco to protect the mortar from dampness. And just when you think that's all, along comes Katrina. The roof leaked, ruining the $1-million organ, currently off getting rebuilt in Ohio and due to return sometime in 2008. Outside, two magnificent ancient live oaks fell down, narrowly missing the statue of Jesus that stood between them. Jesus's thumbs were amputated, and Archbishop Hughes, in his first post-Katrina sermon in the cathedral, vowed not to replace them until the rest of New Orleans is healed. The stately oaks were a painful loss, but plans are in the works to restore the garden to the design of the late 1800s. It's worth going inside to catch one of the free docent tours; the knowledgeable guides are full of fun facts about all of the above, plus the windows and murals and how the building nearly collapsed once from water table sinkage. Be sure to look at the slope of the floor: Clever architectural design somehow keeps the building upright even as it continues to sink. Outside is a plaque marking the visit by Pope John Paul II in 1987, plus an additional large commemorative marker set into the flagstones of Jackson Square, renaming that area for the late Pontiff.

Description:

Constructed from 1795 to 1799 as the Spanish government seat in New Orleans, the Cabildo was the site of the signing of the Louisiana Purchase transfer. It was severely damaged by fire in 1988 (it only lost some roof shingles and a couple of shutters in Katrina) and closed for 5 years for reconstruction, which included total restoration of the roof by French artisans using 600-year-old timber-framing techniques. It is now the center of the Louisiana State Museum's facilities in the French Quarter.

The Cabildo is conveniently located right on Jackson Square and is quite worth your time. A multiroom exhibition informatively, entertainingly, and exhaustively traces the history of Louisiana from exploration through Reconstruction from a multicultural perspective. It covers all aspects of life, not just the obvious discussions of slavery and the battle for statehood. Topics include antebellum music, mourning and burial customs (a big deal when much of your population is succumbing to yellow fever), immigrants and how they fared here, and the changing roles of women in the South (which occupies a large space). As you wander through, each room seems more interesting than the last. Throughout are portraits of nearly all the prominent figures from Louisiana history plus other fabulous artifacts, including Napoleon's death mask.

Description:

This historic establishment has enchanted New Orleans patrons for over 200 years. The combination of classical music and local flavor incorporates Cajun with French creating an atmosphere of living history. A Parisian style cafe-bar features the French Quarter's most charming courtyard. Boasting the "Best Muffulettas in Town" this restaurant is recognized by Gourmet Magazine as "Tops when it comes to a drink".

Description:

This Bourbon Street landmark is arguably the most famous restaurant in New Orleans. The grand dame of French/Creole dining, it has packed them in since its doors opened in 1905. A multi-million dollar expansion opened up a second floor, making it just a tad easier to get a table at this popular bistro. The French bistro setting is complete with wall-to-wall mirrors and ceiling fans that stir the rich aromas of fine French/Creole dining. Appetizer choices include Shrimp in Remoulade Sauce, Gulf Oysters en Brochette, turtle soup and green salad with garlic. Your entree selection may include Poisson Meuniere Amandine or Filet of Lamb chops. Jackets are required after 5p and all day Sunday.

Our Local Expert Says:

Audubon Park is alive with nature – ducks, geese, egrets, and squirrels. And if you walk from Audubon Park to Riverview Park on the side of the stables, you will be able to see the giraffes inside Audubon Zoo!

Description:

Audubon Park is really several parks in one, spanning St. Charles Avenue all the way to the Mississippi River. A fitness trail circles the Audubon Golf Course and runs alongside live oak trees and lush lagoons that are home to ducks, geese, egrets, and turtles. Cross over Magazine Street, and you'll come to the Audubon Zoo and Cascade Stables. Keep walking alongside the zoo, past the Audubon Labyrinth and across the train tracks, until you get to Riverview Park. Known to locals as "the fly," this is a great spot for playing soccer, or just laying in the sun with a daiquiri, admiring the waters of the Mississippi. The park is a great place to play or picnic, and if you don't want to drive there, you can get to the park from the French Quarter on the St. Charles Streetcar or by the John James Audubon ferry boat.

Description:

From the critter-filled swamps of Louisiana to the grasslands of Africa, you can explore some of the Earth's most intriguing habitats and the creatures that dwell within them at this world-class zoo. Rated one of the top zoos in the United States, it features two rare white tigers, as well as Komodo dragons. One of the newest exhibits, Jaguar Jungle, focuses on the people and animals of Central America, including the mysterious Mayan culture.

Description:

This tour takes passengers aboard the Sternwheeler on a tour of the Audubon Zoo and the Aquarium of the Americas. Four daily trips depart from the Riverwalk (in front of the Aquarium) at 10a, noon, 2p and 4p. Return trips leave from the zoo at 11a, 1p, 3p and 5p. Tickets can be purchased for one-way. Or round trip tickets can be purchased with or without aquarium and zoo admission. Combination tickets will save you the most money.

Description:

Still a relative newbie on the competitive restaurant scene, this little cafe is conveniently located next to the popular Maple Leaf Bar. The cafe is under the direction of Jacques Leonardi and his right hand man, Austin Leslie. Plastic flap walls and tables with floral, plastic tablecloths give it a casual feel. Despite the decor, crowds flock to this café. The food is delicious and the prices are even better. Entrees of Chicken-Fried Venison in Wild Mushroom Gravy, and Grilled Duck Breast in Orange Soy Glaze come specially recommended. All entrees include a house salad and two side dishes.

Description:

This is what a New Orleans club is all about, and its reputation was only furthered when it became the very first live music venue to reopen, just weeks after Katrina, with an emotional, generator-powered performance by Walter "Wolfman" Washington. It's medium-size but feels smaller when a crowd is packed in, and by 11pm on most nights, it is, with personal space at times becoming something you can only wistfully remember. But that's no problem. The stage is against the window facing the street, so more often than not, the crowd spills onto the sidewalk and into the street to dance and drink (and escape the heat and sweat, which are prodigious despite a high ceiling). You can hear the music just as well, watch the musicians' rear ends, and then dance some more. With a party atmosphere like this, outside is almost more fun than in. But inside is mighty fine. A good bar and a rather pretty patio out back (the other place to escape the crush) make the Maple Leaf worth hanging out at even if you don't care about the music on a particular night. But if the ReBirth Brass Band is playing, do not miss it; go and dance until you drop.

Our Local Expert Says:

Not to be confused with its high-rise W counterpart on Poydras Street, the boutique-sized W French Quarter feels more like a family—a hip, jet set, entertainment industry family, that is. From the ruby-hued, velvet-walled entry Living Room to its in-crowd lantern-lit courtyard lounge, the W French Quarter mixes sleek with sparkle and forward-thinking design with a certain New Orleanian character and mystique. If you favor progressive design but still want to experience the old-world atmosphere of the French Quarter, this W is an ideal compromise.

Description:

Located in the downtown, the W New Orleans French Quarter is just two blocks from the French Quarter. Built in 1906, W New Orleans combines sleek style with historic grandeur. As New Orleans' first boutique hotel, the exceptional contemporary style is of the highest quality.

Description:

The National D-Day Museum is made up of four sections, each containing a different exhibit. A variety of artifacts, testimonies and documents, particularly those chronicling the World War II period, are on display. There is a permanent exhibit, as well as temporary exhibits and electronic exhibits, all of which transport visitors back to that time in history. In addition, two movies are screened several times daily in the museum's Malcolm S. Forbes Theatre - these are "Price For Peace" and "D-Day Remembered".

Description:

Redesigned in the early 1990s to much critical applause, the Contemporary Arts Center (CAC) is a main anchor of the city's young arts district (once the city's old Warehouse District, it's now home to a handful of leading local galleries). Over the past 2 decades, the center has consistently exhibited influential and groundbreaking work by regional, national, and international artists in various mediums. The CAC staggers its shows, so there should always be something worth seeing hanging on the walls; it also presents theater, performance art, and music concerts. Individual exhibitions hang for 6 to 8 weeks, and performances are weekly. The basement here flooded, a bunch of windows broke, and the roof peeled back, with all the water going into the basement, destroying the electrical system and elevator. But the only exhibit was on the second floor, which had no damage, which was one bit of good luck. That they reopened as soon as January 2006 is remarkable.

Description:

The premier collection of Southern art in the United States. Though the building is dazzling, it is built around an atrium that takes up a great deal of space that could be devoted to still more displays. It does make for a dramatic interior, but given such a marvelous collection, one is greedy for more art rather than more architecture. But the facility is wonderful, the artists are impressive, and the graphics are well designed, informative, and often humorous. Just the permanent exhibit of self-taught/outsider art alone makes this worth a visit. Special exhibits are thoughtfully constructed, often containing enriching details -- for example a blues soundtrack for a display of Delta musicians, a video documentary on the late Benny Andrews. The new annex, the splendid Patrick F. Taylor library, originally designed by native Southerner Henry Hobson Richardson in the late 1800s, is an incredible salvation and use of an existing structure -- don't miss whatever temporary exhibit is currently on display. It bodes well for the institute's planned upcoming expansions. Though the hours (at press time) are still limited, they have resumed their delightful Ogden After Hours, which includes a live band (anything from 1930s country to old Delta blues guys to the New Orleans Klezmer All-Stars) playing in the atrium, adding a soundtrack to your visit. These evenings are one of the special delights of New Orleans.

Description:

Cochon captures the true essence of Cajun and Southern cooking. Chef Donald Link brings his love for southern Louisiana foods to every plate at Cochon. His lifetime of experience cooking with his family at their homes in Crowley and Rayne, allow guests to share in his passion for real country and home cooking. The food is focused and simple, featuring roasted meats with natural sauces, homemade sausages, and fresh local seafood. The menu compliments the rustic, yet contemporary setting of the dining room. The Bar at Cochon features signature cocktails as well as the classic libations of New Orleans. A diverse beer selection with an emphasis on local micro-brews offers a cool contrast with the sometimes spicy cuisine. Happy Hour daily from 4-6PM.

Description:

Richard Benz, formerly of Gautreau's, has mastered the "new" New Orleans cuisine making this a dining hotspot. This casual spot with comfortable seating is a collaboration of home and contemporary styles. They complement each other nicely inside pumpkin colored walls adorned with hand-painted plates and vases of fresh flowers. The atmosphere is upscale casual. Start with the Pain Perdu or the fried oysters. For dinner opt for one of its many choices of Smoked Whole Fish, or go for the Pecan Crusted Gulf Fish. Decadent delights for the sweet tooth include Coconut Mango Creme Brulee, and the Tchoupitoulas Tcheesecake. A wine list of whites and reds are sold by the glass or by the bottle.

Description:

Dedicated to the late piano master Professor Longhair and featured in the movie The Big Easy, Tip's was long the New Orleans club. But due to circumstances both external (increased competition from House of Blues and others as well as the club's capacity being cut in half by city authorities) and internal (some gripes about pre-Katrina booking quality) its star has faded some. It remains a reliable place for top local bands, though, and if you can catch Troy Andrews or especially Dr. John on one of his excursions back to his city, it's a must.

The place is nothing fancy -- just four walls, a wraparound balcony, and a stage, all of it overseen by a giant drawing of 'Fess his own self. Oh, and a couple of bars, of course, including one that serves the people milling outside the club, which as at other top locales is as much a part of the atmosphere as what's inside. Bookings range from top indigenous acts (a brass-bands blowout and a jazz piano night are the perennial highlights of Jazz Fest week) to touring alt-rock and roots acts, both U.S.-based and international. It's uptown and a bit out-of-the-way, but it's definitely worth the cab ride on the right night. A stop can make for a memorable experience.

Our Local Expert Says:

Not to be confused with its high-rise W counterpart on Poydras Street, the boutique-sized W French Quarter feels more like a family—a hip, jet set, entertainment industry family, that is. From the ruby-hued, velvet-walled entry Living Room to its in-crowd lantern-lit courtyard lounge, the W French Quarter mixes sleek with sparkle and forward-thinking design with a certain New Orleanian character and mystique. If you favor progressive design but still want to experience the old-world atmosphere of the French Quarter, this W is an ideal compromise.

Description:

Located in the downtown, the W New Orleans French Quarter is just two blocks from the French Quarter. Built in 1906, W New Orleans combines sleek style with historic grandeur. As New Orleans' first boutique hotel, the exceptional contemporary style is of the highest quality.

Description:

Among a long list of funky local joints, this is a classic New Orleans neighborhood restaurant. Owned and operated by the Mandina family since the late 1800s, the menu has not changed much over the last 50 years. And you'll be thankful, because everything they make is quite tasty. Appetizers include fried onion rings, shrimp remoulade and crawfish cakes. Specials range from trout meuniere to red beans and rice with Italian sausage. If you're craving seafood you can't go wrong with the shrimp or oyster loaf (available in season). For the finishing touch, try the Creole bread pudding.

Description:

This typical West Indies-style plantation home, restored and furnished with early 19th century Louisiana and American antiques, dates back to 1799, when it became the home of James Pitot, the first mayor of incorporated New Orleans. It is near city park and is a short cab ride from The French Quarter. You may tour this historic New Orleans landmark.

Our Local Expert Says:

A top-notch museum just a short ride down the Canal Street streetcar line from the French Quarter, NOMA features renowned traveling and permanent exhibits and the new Besthoff Sculpture Garden and is adjacent to beautiful, sprawling City Park. Make a day trip of a visit to all three.

Description:

Located in beautiful City Park, this breathtaking museum houses nearly 40,000 paintings, sculptures and prints, plus the Courtyard Cafe and the Museum Shop. The art comes from across the globe and represents everything from Southwestern Native American art to 19th century French Impressionists.

Open Tuesday through Sunday from 10am to 5pm; Fridays until 9pm.

Description:

Located in Mid-City, near Lake Ponchatrain, is beautiful 1300-acre City Park. City Park is the home of the Botanical Garden and the New Orleans Museum of Art, as well as the Besthof Sculpture Garden, through which visitors can wander for free. Kids can meet life-size replicas of fairy tale characters in Storyland, enjoy rides at the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park, or take a train ride around the entire park. City Park also has tennis courts, walking trails, a golf course and driving range, stables, and paddle boats. If you're looking for something simpler, take a walk around the duck pond or just stroll through the grounds, admiring the bald cypress trees and live oaks. City Park has more live oak trees than anywhere else in the world, some of which are several hundred years old. Although there is a playground, kids might rather explore the low, sweeping branches of these beautiful trees.

Description:

This 10 acre garden is a tropical conservatory including a water lily pond, formal rose garden, azalea, camellia gardens and a horticultural garden. Scattered throughout are fountains and sculptures by world renowned artist Enrique Alfreez (a New Orleans local). Take a guided tour or browse through the library and gift shop, The Pavillion of the Two Sisters.

Description:

This 19th-century landmark allows visitors to experience the thrill of live thoroughbred racing for the entire winter season (Thanksgiving to late March). The races can be viewed via real-time simulcast television or, for you die-hards, live at the finish line. Visitors can also enjoy buffet-style dining, snack concessions and bars. Do not forget to stop by the Mane Attractions Gift Shop to pick up a trinket for the horse lovers you left at home. Jazz fest is held here too.

Description:

The 19th-century French Impressionist, Edgar Degas, once lived in the fashionable Creole district. This is a charming place to eat outdoors, but with all the comforts of indoor dining. Located on Esplanande Avenue, this chic neighborhood restaurant provides a pleasant atmosphere whether you dine on a cool evening or a sunny afternoon. This casual but classy experience offers a variety of French fare. Try the Chicken Bouchee or the Coquelet Aux Herbs et Aioli, which are excellent. If you have vegatarian tastes, try the Melange De Legumes. Reservations for parties of three or more are required.

Our Local Expert Says:

Not to be confused with its high-rise W counterpart on Poydras Street, the boutique-sized W French Quarter feels more like a family—a hip, jet set, entertainment industry family, that is. From the ruby-hued, velvet-walled entry Living Room to its in-crowd lantern-lit courtyard lounge, the W French Quarter mixes sleek with sparkle and forward-thinking design with a certain New Orleanian character and mystique. If you favor progressive design but still want to experience the old-world atmosphere of the French Quarter, this W is an ideal compromise.

Description:

Located in the downtown, the W New Orleans French Quarter is just two blocks from the French Quarter. Built in 1906, W New Orleans combines sleek style with historic grandeur. As New Orleans' first boutique hotel, the exceptional contemporary style is of the highest quality.

Our Local Expert Says:

Magazine Street is where the Uptown locals go to shop and hang out. There are so many fun things to see and do on Magazine Street!

Description:

Magazine Street is a six mile stretch of shops and eateries, beginning at the edge of the French Quarter and ending at Audubon Park. The fun, trendy street is loaded with specialty stores, galleries, restaurants, and bars. Between Canal Boulevard and Jackson Avenue visitors will find many antique stores and art galleries, including the Glassworks and Printmaking Studio. Closer to Jackson Avenue are funky stores, along with great, cheap restaurants such as Juan's Flying Burrito for Mexican fare and J'anita's for breakfast and BBQ. Between Washington and Louisiana are no less than twelve restaurants, three bars and two coffee shops, as well as tons of clothing boutiques, including retro and "recycled" fashions at Funky Monkey and Buffalo Exchange. Past Louisiana, the shopping continues down Magazine Street – antiques, art, books, apparel, and plenty of restaurants and bars along the way for when you need a break. Have a roast beef po-boy at Ignatius, near Napoleon Avenue, or sip a blueberry mojito on the back patio at St. Joe's, near Jefferson Avenue.

Description:

Audubon Park Golf Course is located just minutes from downtown New Orleans on the St. Charles Avenue streetcar line, across from Tulane University. It sits within Audubon Park and next to the world famous Audubon Zoo. Audubon Park opened in 1898 and was the site of the 1884 World's Fair. The golf course was redesgined in 2001 and reopened in October 2002 as one of Southeast Louisiana's most prestigious golfing destinations. Audubon Golf Course is the only public golf course to reopen in New Orleans since Hurricane Katrina devastated the Gulf Coast. The city's newest golf course combines over one hundred years of history with the latest in golf course design. The Denis Griffiths design features contoured fairways, manicured Tif Eagle greens, four lagoons and exquisite landscaping on a par 62, 4,220-yard layout set among hundred year-old oak trees.

Description:

One of many remarkable things about New Orleans is all the little pockets of the unexpected. Here it is, a relatively big city, with some typical big-city landscape, but also the Garden District and the Marigny. And also the Longue Vue mansion. Just about at the point when you cross over into the good (which is to say, the interesting) part of the suburb of Metairie, no more than 20 minutes from the center city (depending on traffic, of course) is a unique expression of Greek Revival architecture set on an 8-acre estate. It's like stumbling across a British country-house estate. You expect plantations (it never was one, but you will be forgiven for having brief Tara flashbacks) in these here parts, but not just a few minutes from a Home Depot. Add it to your list of "nice places to ramble on a pretty day."

Constructed from 1939 to 1942, Longue Vue House & Gardens is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and is accredited by the American Association of Museums. The mansion was designed to foster a close rapport between indoors and outdoors, with vistas of formal terraces and pastoral woods. We think that if you've seen one big fancy house you've seen them all, so you may not want to bother timing your visit with one of the house tours. Leaks caused some (though not as much as initially feared) damage to the collections, while flooding destroyed the electrical system, now repaired. The charming gardens, some inspired by the Generalife, the former summerhouse of the sultans in Granada, Spain, naturally, got pounded by the storm and flooding, requiring extensive restoration. From a garden standpoint, this is both depressing and exciting; years and years of hard work are gone, but then again, the possibilities for the future are many. And the future is now; replanting is ongoing (salt content in the soil has made some of this process drag on), but it's already looking pretty good. Look also for fountains and a colonnaded loggia. It goes without saying that this is a must for garden enthusiasts, but you might be surprised what a nice time you could have regardless. We are completely smitten with the delightful Discovery Garden, fully back up and running. Once again, kids can play (and maybe even learn) from various clever and amusing exhibits. It costs more than a park, and there is nothing that goes beep (though there might be exhibits on insects, which will buzz!), but it's something to keep in mind for an alternate kid-friendly activity.

Description:

Few cities can boast a thriving float-making industry. New Orleans can, and no float maker thrives more than Blaine Kern, who makes more than three-quarters of the floats used by the various krewes every Carnival season. Blaine Kern's Mardi Gras World offers tours of its collection of float sculptures and its studios, where you can see floats being made year-round. Yes, they were back at work on the 2006 Mardi Gras, despite losing many already-completed floats, shortly after Katrina. (Nothing can stop the party!) Visitors see sculptors at work, doing everything from making small "sketches" of the figures to creating and painting the enormous sculptures that adorn Mardi Gras floats each year. You can even try on some heavily bejeweled and dazzling costumes (definitely bring your camera!). Although they could do more with this tour, the entire package does add up to a most enjoyable experience, and it is rather nifty to see the floats up close. All tours include King Cake and coffee.

Our Local Expert Says:

Not to be confused with its high-rise W counterpart on Poydras Street, the boutique-sized W French Quarter feels more like a family—a hip, jet set, entertainment industry family, that is. From the ruby-hued, velvet-walled entry Living Room to its in-crowd lantern-lit courtyard lounge, the W French Quarter mixes sleek with sparkle and forward-thinking design with a certain New Orleanian character and mystique. If you favor progressive design but still want to experience the old-world atmosphere of the French Quarter, this W is an ideal compromise.

Description:

Located in the downtown, the W New Orleans French Quarter is just two blocks from the French Quarter. Built in 1906, W New Orleans combines sleek style with historic grandeur. As New Orleans' first boutique hotel, the exceptional contemporary style is of the highest quality.