A Weekend in New Orleans: Beyond The French Quarter

by Kerry Andersen

A tank of gas and a few vacation days can get you far in Louisiana. Venture into the Big Easy to indulge in creole cuisine, live music and vibrant culture. Almost everyone is familiar with the world-renowned French Quarter, but locals love to show off smaller authentic experiences that can be sampled over a three-day getaway.

May Events:

• Titanic – An Immersive Voyage is now open at 619 Carondelet Street. The experience takes you through the story of the doomed RMS Titanic using 3D views, dramatic recreations and cutting-edge technology. Tickets at expo-titanic.com.

• Greek Fest – Opa! Prepare to dance and feast at this vibrant three-day festival that draws 20,000 guests over Memorial Day weekend. Now in its 50th year, enjoy authentic baklava, live Greek music and ouzo shots for the adults. 1200 Robert E. Lee Blvd.

• Bayou Boogaloo is a music and arts festival held May 16-18 in Mid-City. Enjoy live music from land or by floating on the bayou. The festival also features comedy, cabaret, an arts market and a crawfish eating contest. thebayouboogaloo.com for directions and details.

Music:

• Preservation Hall is legendary for good reason. In this intimate hall you can bear witness to live musical performances that fuel the soul. The venue at 726 Saint Peter Street is small, so reserve tickets to one of the nightly shows far in advance ($25-40) and get ready for a memorable experience.

• Bacchanal in the Ninth Ward hosts outdoor concerts with visitors from around the world. Before you settle in for the show, choose your favorite cheeses from the cooler and Bacchanal wizards will plate it beautifully with olives, pickles, bread and other goodies to satisfy your munchies during the performance. Music schedule at www.bacchanalwine.com. • Candlelight Concerts – Imagine the iconic Sazerac House bathed in the glow of candles …. The lights dim and a string quartet starts to play Queen, Bruno Mars or Adele. Tickets and calendar at feverup.com; 101 Magazine Street.

After Dark:

• Rooftop Bars – Nothing beats the panorama (or cooling breezes) found atop NOLA’s rooftop bars. It’s a relaxing way to cap off a day of walking before you head out for dinner. Grab a handcrafted cocktail while taking in a skyline view at Rosie’s on the Roof at Higgins Hotel in the Central Business District (across from the WWII Museum) or Hot Tin perched atop the Ponchartrain Hotel on St. Charles Avenue with stunning views of the Mississippi River.

• French Quarter After Dark Tour – Stroll with a local through the French Quarter to learn all about the city’s racy past. Great for history buffs and those looking for a unique and fun experience that includes two leisurely bar stops. twochickswalkingtours.com

For the Kids:

• JAMNOLA is a must see for kids and grownups alike (and a great way to beat the heat). Now at a new permanent location on Frenchmen Street, enjoy 29 exhibits showcasing the iconic art, music, food and theatrics of New Orleans through the eyes of local artists. It’s interactive, bright, colorful and a perfect spot for memorable social media pics! The museum gift shop features unique souvenirs made by local artists. You must book tickets in advance at jamnola.com.

• Louisiana Children’s Museum – After 30 years downtown, the sprawling museum is now housed at City Park amidst 1,300 acres of outdoor beauty. There are a bajillion things to do here, so buy your ticket online to secure a spot and preview the exhibits that will wow your kids all day long.

Shopping:

• Zéla NOLA at 2841 Magazine Street is part gallery, part boutique and all originality. It features jewelry, t-shirts, candles, art and souvenirs all made by local artisans. More than 100 artists are supported when you shop here!

• Mignon Faget is a jewelry designer based in her native New Orleans. For 55 years this 3801 Magazine Street shop has offered jewelry (and now housewares) featuring recognizable NOLA imagery like the streetcar, iris and fleur-de-lis.