First Timers Guide to The Big Easy – New Orleans

Known worldwide for its annual Mardi Gras every February, New Orleans takes the party to the max all year long. The birthplace of jazz, a city wrapped in history and French tradition with an international cruise port, there are lots of reasons to spend a few days in this town. As a first-time visitor to this amazing destination, here are 10 things you must see and do. Plus, reason enough to come back.

1. See history come to life at The National World War II Museum

Opening in 2000 as the as the “National D-Day Museum,” this expansive museum was designated as America’s official National WWII Museum in 2004. Currently, the museum campus encompasses six multi-level buildings with a seventh re-opening soon.

Like the massive structure of the complex, it’s hard to wrap your head around the “war that changed the world.” Millions of innocent civilians and military personnel lost their lives between 1941-1945. More than 16.4 million Americans fought in the war across the globe, resulting in over 414,000 deaths. To fully grasp the experience, plan to spend two full days at the museum. Take a guided tour or two to enrich your understanding.

Why was the museum built in New Orleans? The city was selected as the location for this museum because it was here that boatbuilder Andrew Higgins built the landing craft used in the amphibious invasions. President Eisenhower believed this key invention was crucial in helping U.S. military operations and the Allies win the war.

Recently opened is the Liberation Pavilion, which explores the war’s impact in the post-war period. Exhibits feature the rebuilding of Europe, war crimes trials, and the future of American foreign policy.

The museum is highly interactive. You’ll board the Train Car experience like the soldiers did on their way to basic training as well as a get a dog tag to follow the soldier through the war. You can continue to learn more after your visit via their website.

Don’t miss the movie, “Beyond All Boundaries” in the Solomon Victory Theatre, which is a 4D journey through the war with dazzling light and sound effects, animation, and testimonials from those who lived it.

2. Go Wild on the Swamp Tour

Another must-do is an iconic Swamp Tour from Cajun Encounters. Head deep into the trenches of the Pearl River on a 2-hour journey on the lookout for alligators, snakes, birds, and wildlife. Float down the river, then slowly navigate the shallow bayous for a ride that is quiet, peaceful, and relaxing. Local pick-ups throughout New Orleans. Cajun Encounters also offers Ghost Bus Tours, City/Cemetery Tours, and Plantation Tours.

3. Walk through the French Quarter
Of course, no visit to NOLA is complete without a walk through the famous French Quarter. Opened in 1718, this historic district remains one of the oldest neighborhoods in the U.S. Filled with fascinating architecture, bustling nightlife along Bourbon Street, and tantalizing cuisine, the French Quarter paints an authentic portrait of New Orleans’ magic and mystery. Listen to the music that blares day and night. Stroll through Jackson Square, dominated by the statue of Andrew Jackson and the stately St. Louis Cathedral (the oldest in America.)

4. Dine at Brennan’s
Brennan’s is a must-do for any visitor to NOLA offering authentic cuisine, impeccable service, and a fabulous seasonal menu. Go with their three course, prixe fixe menu which features a starter, an entrée, and a dessert. Watch their famous signature flambe desserts being made – bananas foster and crepes Fitzgerald. It promises a perfectly sweet ending to an exquisite meal.

5. Eat Authentic at Ruby Slipper
Chow down at the Ruby Slipper with its full menu of Southern specialties. You can’t go wrong with one of their breakfast sandwiches, French Toast Bites or White Chocolate Bread Pudding Pancakes.

6. Learn More about Civil Rights
The Louisiana Civil Rights Museum has been a project 30 years in the making, finally opening just last year. Now located at the Ernest Morial Convention Center, it’s focus is on the people’s rights for education, the right to assemble and a right to vote. They marched to the state capitol in 1967 to petition for their rights. The museum’s theme, “Making Rights Real” tells the stories of those who stood tall to make a difference.

Shopaholics can fill their bags right next door at the Riverwalk Outlets. Shop at 75 luxury brand stores with casual dining, all overlooking the Mississippi River.

7. Get in the spirit at Mardi Gras World

8. Explore the Museum of the Southern Jewish Experience
Re-opening in New Orleans in 2021, the museum explores the Jewish experience across 13 Southern states with exhibits, collections, and educational programs. Tracing the 300-year history from the Colonial era to today of Jews across the South, you’ll learn more about their contributions to civil rights, culture, and their communities. I found it to be an impressive journey.

9. Taste Southern Cuisine at Herbsaint Restaurant
Herbsaint is consistently listed on New Orleans 10 Best Restaurants, offering a blend of French-Southern cuisine direct from local farms and fishermen. Under the leadership of James Beard Award Winner Chef Donald Link, menu highlights include starters Chicken Gumbo and Summer Squash. Small plates like Beef Short Ribs and Baked Lamb Meatballs are great for sharing. For a real indulgence, try the 26 oz. Ribeye with Balsamic Onion for the table.

10. Head to City Park
This urban oasis is the place to spend the entire day. Stroll through the Botanical Gardens and Sculpture Garden. Visit the New Orleans Museum of Art which boasts a phenomenal collection of French, American and Japanese art. If you have kids in tow, the Louisiana Children’s Museum and Carousel Gardens Amusement Park are a must.

While you’re in New Orleans, here are the foods you must try — pralines, PO Boy sandwiches, gumbo, beignets, chicory coffee and a Muffuletta.

There is much to see and do in New Orleans and many more reasons to plan a return visit. I certainly will.