Lauren is one of our Customer Service gurus! Virgin Experience Gifts fans can find her on the other end of our phone line, day-in and day-out, helping folks find and book the perfect experience gifts. During her down time, she's likely finagling some fierce trend-setting and urban exploring!

 

At the beginning of March I ventured to New Orleans for a week. A whole week. Given the reputation of Bourbon Street and my limited knowledge of the city, I thought I was in over my head. I quickly learned that I was mistaken and that New Orleans is rich in history, experiences and incredible food. Read on for my top recommendations of what to do in New Orleans!

Where to Stay: Faubourg Marigny

The Faubourg Marigny neighborhood is located between the French Quarter and Bywater providing many gems right at your fingertips. A 10-minute stroll is all it takes before you’re exploring new territory. In the evening you’ll be conveniently located by Frenchmen Street — famous for its music and jazz clubs, bars and restaurants. To top it off, Frenchmen Street hosts a funky Art Market each week on Thursday through Sunday from 7:00 PM – 1:00 AM.

 

Attractions in New Orleans: Check Out the Cemeteries!

New Orleans is well-known for its unique above-ground burial system and elaborate tombs. The oldest and most famous cemetery in the city, St. Louis #1, is the resting place of Voodoo Queen Marie Laveau, as well as Homer Plessy, the American Louisiana Creole of Color plaintiff in the famous Supreme Court decision of Plessy v. Ferguson. Learn more about New Orleans burial customs and Voodoo history on the St. Louis #1 Cemetery Tour. If you’re game for fun things to do in New Orleans that let you explore on your own, St. Roch Cemeteries No. 1 and 2 should also be at the top of your list! Dare to head into the St. Roch Chapel for an eerie surprise…

 

Indulge in New Orleans Food!

A quick and easy way to eat your way through NOLA is to spend a day on the New Orleans Food Tour! Kick-off with a cooking demonstration at the New Orleans Cooking School, learning how to cook recipes the natives have perfected and then enjoying a tasty lunch. After a short break you will tour 6-7 restaurants and shops for additional samples of Creole classics. Venture outside of the French Quarter for two restaurants specializing in local favorites, fried chicken and Po’ Boys. Willie Mae’s Scotch House has been recognized for ‘America’s Best Fried Chicken’ by the Travel Channel; they hit the nail right on the head! If you’re looking for a classic Po’ Boy, head to the Parkway Bakery and Tavern, where the Poor Boy sandwich originated. (Tip: You’ll need at least seven napkins for their ‘Hot Roast Beef with Gravy’ rendition!)

 

Explore, Explore, Explore!

If I learned anything on this trip, it’s that you will never fall short of activities in New Orleans! As you already know, there are plenty of NOLA tours you can sign up for, but there’s also a ton you can do on your own. My favorite way to learn a neighborhood is to simply wander through the streets; you become privy to beautiful architecture and people as they allow you to observe their everyday life. If you’re only in town for a few days, take this advice: renting a bike is awesome and efficient for some New Orleans sightseeing!