A Perfect Home Base In The Heart Of New Orleans
Everyone should experience New Orleans at least once. This was our turn to see what all the excitement was about. We spent three nights at The Marquee on Elk Place. Located just one block off Canal Street, it was within walking distance of the French Quarter and many other attractions, making it the perfect home base for our adventure.
Checking In To The Marquee
The Marquee was full of character. When you step off the elevator, theater curtains line the hallways, and a moving image of someone peeking around a curtain adds a playful touch. Our 2-Bedroom Suite was spacious and comfortable. We especially enjoyed sitting on the balcony and taking in the city views below. At night, the lights created an impressive skyline. The Suite featured a full kitchen and an in-room washer and dryer, making our stay even more convenient
Rooftop Views Above New Orleans
One of the resort’s standout features is the rooftop area. From the 17th floor, a flight of stairs leads to a rooftop deck complete with a pool, tables, chairs and a pergola. Unfortunately, major storms moved through during most of our stay, so we only had the opportunity to visit on our final day. Even then, the views were spectacular.
Getting Around New Orleans
There is no shortage of things to see and do in New Orleans. If you don't mind walking, you really don't need a car because many attractions are easily accessible on foot. The city also has a streetcar system, with fares starting at just $1.25 per ride. Day passes are available as well.
Tasting New Orleans On A Food Tour
Of course, no trip to New Orleans would be complete without sampling the local cuisine. One of our favorite ways to explore a new destination is through a food tour, and this visit was no exception.
We joined the New Orleans Food Walking Tour of the French Quarter through Destination Kitchen and spent a fun afternoon eating our way through the neighborhood. Along the way, we sampled alligator sausage on a stick, muffaletta, gumbo, charbroiled oysters, a shrimp po'boy and pralines. Our guide shared the history behind many of the dishes, along with stories about the neighborhood itself. The tour lasted about two and a half hours and was well worth it.
A Must-Visit: The National WWII Museum
Another highlight of our trip was the National WWII Museum. What an experience! The museum recommends allowing two to three hours for a visit, but we spent five hours there and could have easily stayed another hour or two.
I'm not usually a museum person, but this one was exceptional. Short films and interactive exhibits throughout the museum help bring history to life while providing a deeper understanding of what people experienced during the war. The museum spans several buildings, and additional movie experiences are available, though unfortunately we didn't have time to see them.
French Quarter Finds And Local Favorites
While exploring the French Quarter, we discovered a great grocery store called Rouses Market. It was the perfect place to pick up some Zapp's New Orleans-style chips and a few delicious desserts at reasonable prices.
Beignets At Café du Monde
Another New Orleans classic is Café du Monde, located at the corner of Decatur Street and St. Ann Street. Through a window at the back of the building, you can watch the famous beignets being made fresh. The result is a plate of three warm, pillowy pastries generously covered in powdered sugar. They were absolutely delicious.
Sweet Stops And Local Flavors
We also made sure to visit Aunt Sally's for pralines. While there, we purchased a jar of Holy Trinity seasoning — a blend of onion, celery and green bell pepper that serves as the foundation for many local recipes.
The Music That Defines New Orleans
Music is an essential part of the New Orleans experience. From jazz and country to rock and everything in between, there truly is something for everyone. Music spills out of bars, restaurants and street corners, creating an atmosphere unlike anywhere else. You may even stumble upon an impromptu parade.
One evening on Bourbon Street, we watched an entertaining breakdance performance. Rick was even pulled from the crowd to help with the grand finale, where one of the performers jumped over four volunteers. It's definitely not something I would ever attempt!
Dining Above Bourbon Street
One afternoon, we enjoyed a late lunch at Cornet Restaurant on Bourbon Street. The food was excellent. I ordered the Shrimp Creole, while Rick chose the Cajun Chicken and Sausage Jambalaya. What made the experience even better was our outdoor table on the upper level, where we could enjoy both our meal and the music drifting up from the street below. It was the perfect way to spend the afternoon.
St. Louis Cathedral And Jackson Square
A visit to St. Louis Cathedral in Jackson Square was also on our itinerary. The cathedral was absolutely beautiful and well worth the stop.
Planning Our Next Visit To New Orleans
Those were the highlights of this trip, but we know we'll be back. Next time, we'd like to experience some of the attractions we didn't have time for, such as a cemetery tour, a garden walk, a visit to The Carousel Bar & Lounge or perhaps a jazz sunset cruise. There is simply too much to see and do in New Orleans to fit into one trip.
Helpful Tips For Visiting New Orleans
One helpful tip: When we arrived, I asked if there were any areas we should avoid. The advice we received was simple: Stay aware of your surroundings and don't be afraid to say no. Throughout the city, you'll frequently be approached to sample products, visit shops or try services. A polite "No, thank you," followed by continuing on your way, works just fine.
There is so much to see, with so many souvenirs to shop for, so much incredible food to try and endless music to enjoy. Come hungry, stay hydrated and enjoy everything New Orleans has to offer.
Key Takeaways
A Walkable City Filled with Discovery: Staying near Canal Street made it easy to explore neighborhoods, attractions and local culture at a relaxed pace.
Local Experiences Make the Trip: Food tours, live music performances and chance encounters throughout the city provided some of the most memorable moments.
History and Culture are Everywhere: From historic landmarks and museums to iconic architecture and traditions, New Orleans offers a rich sense of place.
The City Comes Alive After Dark: Rooftop views, illuminated streets and music-filled evenings showcase a different side of New Orleans once the sun goes down.
Leave Room for a Return Visit: With countless attractions, dining options and tours, even a multi-day stay only scratches the surface of what the city has to offer.
FAQs
Q: Do you need a car to visit New Orleans?
A: Many popular attractions are within walking distance, and the streetcar system offers an affordable way to get around.
Q: What are some foods first-time visitors should try in New Orleans?
A: Popular choices include beignets, gumbo, muffaletta, po'boys, charbroiled oysters and pralines.
Q: Which attractions should visitors prioritize?
A: The French Quarter, Jackson Square, St. Louis Cathedral and the National WWII Museum are among the city's most popular attractions.
Q: What should visitors know before exploring the city?
A: Stay aware of your surroundings, confidently decline unwanted solicitations, and stay hydrated, especially during warmer months.
