Planes and helicopters used in the war are suspended from the ceiling, and guests can walk alongside Jeeps and other vehicles integral to the war. Located in the Arts District, the multi-building campus is home to an impressive collection of nearly 250,000 items, presented in an immersive and often-interactive setting. To escape the temps, duck into the World War II Museum. Families with youngsters (or those young at heart!) can hit up the amusement park, mini-golf and playgrounds.ĭepending on the time of year, outdoor activities in New Orleans come with their fair share of heat and humidity, so pack the sunscreen and water bottles. The massive, 1,300-acre green space features walking, running and biking paths galore, as well as a botanical garden, sculpture garden and the New Orleans Museum of Art. They’re also well-versed in the unique environmental issues New Orleans faces, and their insight provides a bird’s-eye view of the city you could only get from locals.Īcross from the launch spot is City Park. As you glide through the water, the pair will guide you through the bayou’s evolution and role in New Orleans history, as well as point out everything from architectural marvels to unique wildlife that you’re bound to spot (you may even coast over an alligator or two!).
Operators (and married couple) Sonny and Sara are fountains of information on all-things New Orleans. John are available, with the former being a perfect fit for first-time or inexperienced kayakers. Two- or four-hour tours down the Bayou St. From iconic jazz bars to new reggae hot spots, live music emanates from just about every bar and restaurant (we’ll get to the dizzying dining opportunities shortly!).Ī night out in New Orleans may turn into an early morning, so make sure to plan accordingly.Įarly risers can get in some cardio and fantastic views of the city with a kayak tour by Kayak-iti-Yat. Music is a backbone of the city, and Frenchmen Street is the place to find it. The French Quarter is exceptionally walkable so venture off Bourbon for a more laidback, and perhaps even more genuine, taste of New Orleans. If it’s LGBT nightlife you’re after, schedule your trip for Labor Day Weekend, when New Orleans hosts Southern Decadence - think an even-gayer Mardi Gras - which draws upwards of 100,000 people. Ann and Dumain streets, including longtime corner-bar joint Café Lafitte in Exile and dance clubs Bourbon Pub/Parade and Oz. LGBT clubs are dotted throughout the 13-block corridor, with several anchored around St. Competition is rife among clubs, so many offer deep discounts and unique cocktail creations. You can grab a drink and go just about anywhere on the strip, leading to a congenial street-party-type atmosphere. Home to dozens of bars, Bourbon is truly a sight to behold, with its flashing neon lights, jazz music floating out of open doors and street performers. A trip to NOLA would be incomplete without a jaunt over to the famed Bourbon Street. New Orleans has a reputation as a party town - and for good reason.
An anything-goes culture permeates New Orleans, whose rich history is intertwined with its embrace of diversity, making for a trip that’s both exciting and energizing. Like Philly’s own Gayborhood, rainbow flags wave high and proud throughout the city - from its famed French Quarter to the quirky Bywater neighborhood and the revitalized Arts District. LGBT tourists, in particular, will feel right at home in the city.
The universal appeal of New Orleans lies within its versatility as a vacation spot: From nightlife to nature, and music to meals, the Crescent City offers a robust to-do list for travelers of all interests. It’s almost too easy to fall in love with the Big Easy.