Travel Guide: New Orleans

I recently visited New Orleans with my husband and I was one of the coolest places we’ve ever been! There’s so much to see and do, and I love that it’s somewhere you can head for an extended weekend and have an amazing time!

Visiting New Orleans was part trip – part vacation. I felt like I was able to see the sites but also spend time exploring the city in a relaxed way all while experiencing the culture of the area. The music, the food, the architecture, the streets, the locals, the history all make New Orleans somewhere that you need to see in your lifetime.

New Orleans felt similar to other cities I’ve visited (Seattle, San Francisco, etc.) because of its proximity to the water and age of the buildings, but it really has a culture and spirit all of its own. If you haven’t been, you really need to go and experience this incredible city. There are so many different areas to explore, each rich with history.

Some of my favorite things to do there include strolling through the French Quarter and stopping at Café du Monde for beignets. New Orleans is home to so many great shops and galleries (#shoplocal) and incredible architecture. There’s so much to see that doesn’t cost a penny! Plus, everything you need to see is within the area on the map shown above!

If you have time to leave the city and explore the surrounding areas, I highly recommend a Swamp or Plantation Tour. This perhaps once-in-a-lifetime experience isn’t something you want to miss out on! Just remember, it gets hot in the south, so be sure to pack some sunscreen! (TIP: bring hearing protection, too, as the airboats are quite loud!).

You can also head to Avery Island and see where the famous Tabasco Sauce is made! Be sure to download our Travel Guide below for all the details on what to do while you’re there!

Not sure what to pack, when to go, where to stay? Wondering what the best things to see, do and eat are? Maybe you’re looking for the best places to shop!