Many people dream of visiting the Big Easy during parade season. Living there is a whole different experience; walking through the streets that Mardi Gras beads are strewn about and eating Cajun food on a regular basis. When I asked a New Orleans resident, Ashley Weil, to describe the city in a few words she confidently answered, "Celebrate anything. Enjoy everything."
When I visited New Orleans last weekend I definitely could feel that vibe. With St. Patrick's Day festivities underway, crawfish boils on every block and parents, children, and friends all celebrating life and the love of all things good New Orleans came alive.
I just want to give you all some suggestions if are going to be headed to New Orleans, everyone needs guidance in quirky city like Nola and help to avoid tourist traps. It is very easy to go to New Orleans and just stay around the famous French Quarter, go to restaurants like Bubba Gump and get Beignets at Café du Monde. Though the French quarter is a beautiful historic district there are way too many places to see throughout the city that offer more of a local feel.
Everyone gets hungry and New Orleans is the perfect city to indulge your palate. I have never had a fried shrimp po’ boy better than the one that I stuffed in my mouth at Parkway Bakery and Tavern. Parkway is a restaurant that was severely damaged after Katrina, but the neighborhood vibe has not been altered since its re opening and the fried shrimp and catfish is mouthwatering.
Felipe's Taqueria is a great Mexican joint with delicious margaritas that just so happen to be half on Wednesdays, so I suggest you plan your trip around that!
"Real New Orleans food", as stated on their website, can be found at Jacques-Imos. Deep South Cajun comfort food, if that doesn't sound good to you, we can't be friends. If you're more into southern BBQ, hit up The Joint in the Bywater.
Now that your mouth is watering, you're going to have to know some places to hangout, listen to music, and experience the Big Easy.
Take a stroll down Frenchmen street and visit some of the most famous New Orleans live music venues. Dance out all the calories you just consumed at the Blue Nile or Maison for a unique NoLa music experience. If you had more of a plan of relaxation hit up The Bulldog on Magazine Street for some craft beers and outdoor seating so you can soak in some sunshine. Throw a Frisbee around and casually crash a crawfish boil at The Fly in the Audubon, a local park by the river perfect for drinking daiquiris (a New Orleans staple) and get out of the rush of NoLa.
Last tip: Try and plan your trip around parade season (January to around March).
New Orleans, NoLa, the Big Easy, whatever you want to call it, is an amazing city. Despite its hardships, the people of New Orleans welcome newcomers with open arms and plenty of Mardi Gras beads.
