New Orleans Things to Do Tips by wayne0k

The Aquarium, IMAX theatre, Ferry Dock Audubon Aquarium of the Americas Review

The Aquarium is now OPEN!
The most visited attraction in all of Louisiana has been restored, overcoming the effects of hurricane, and is welcoming guests to visit once again.
One of the great places to escape the heat of the day, the Aquarium and Theatre offer wonderful sights for all ages. I skipped the theatre on this trip and spent my time in the Aquarium, which is home to a wonderful collection of sea life. If pressed, I'd have to say that the jellyfish exhibit and the tunnel under the big tank would probably be my favorites. And sure, who doesn't love penguins?

Address: 1 Canal St.

Directions: on the Mississippi

Phone: 800-774-7394

Cruising on the Mississippi River Mississippi Review

If you are interested in seeing some of New Orleans from the water, there are several options all in one place and none lasting more than a few hours.
For a quick and FREE trip, walk aboard the Canal Street Ferry.
For a two hour tour, try the Aquarium to Zoo cruise and back again.
For an afternoon or evening out on the water, join the paddle wheel cruise for dinner and dancing.

Address: Canal Street Dock/Aquarium Dock

Directions: End of Canal St. in Downtown area, at French Quarter entrance

Phone: 504-524-0814

French Quarter Onramental Ironwork French Quarter Review

Walking tours are offered by many guides and offer opportunities to view and visit New Orleans from many perspectives. Most walking tours begin in the early morning while it is still cool enough to enjoy the scenery without melting onto the sidewalk. Likewise, Carriage tours are also available throughout the day and evening since the horse assumes all of the effort.

I elected to forego hiring a guide and hit the road on my own. Early mornings in the French Quarter left me with streets nearly empty compared to the heavy pedestrian traffic of the evening and late night revelers. I also found my early morning walks brought me into contact with many local service people who were more than willing to share their expert knowledge of the city and its sights. Where was the best local food market to be found? Right where the sidewalk sweeper said it was. Where could I find the best breakfast bagels? Exactly where the Postal Carrier offered. And how about a local neighborhood restaurant away from the crowds? Try checking with the gentleman jogger taking a break along his course that followed the St. Charles Street Trolley line. Everyone I spoke with was not only helpful, but also welcoming. Bon et honnete les gens.

With my fondness for local architecture, I set out one day to photograph some of the ornamental ironwork and balcony gardens tucked away on the small residential streets in the French Quarter.

Address: South Central New Orleans.

Jackson Square and St. Louis Cathedral Jackson Square Review

This is the famous Jackson Square and St. Louis Cathedral. I'll bet you are wondering how I got everyone to hide while I took this photo? It wasn't that difficult, just wait for a hot summer day and begin taking pictures at noon. There aren't that many other people crazy enough to stand out there under such conditions. Jackson Square was one of my favorite spots for a walk, especially on Saturday mornings when many local artists would make their work available for viewing and for sale.

The many park benches around the Square also offered great "overflow" seating for the always-full Cafe Du Monde.

Address: Plaza de Armas

Directions: between Decatur and Chartres Sts.

Website: http://www.jackson-square.com/

New Orleans Holocaust Memorial

Striking in its design and message, this site drew many visitors to follow the spiraling path that wound around the sculpture offering a different view from each perspective. This memorial can be found along the riverside levy in the Woldenberg Park.
For a more thorough presentation and interpretation of the sculpture, see: http://www.holocaustmemorial.us/

Address: Woldenberg Park on the Mississippi River

Website: http://www.holocaustmemorial.us/

Woldenberg Park on the Mississippi River

I was too shocked by the image to remember what this sculpture was all about. This is but one of many sculptures that can be found along the riverside Woldenberg Park.

The interesting building behind the statue is the Jax Brewery. The Jax Brewery is another shopping mall with trendy boutiques, a restaurant or two, and a great air conditioning system.

Address: On the River levy

The Plaza by the Ferry Mississippi Review

The Plaza on the levy near the Ferry, behind World Trade Center building, and the East entrance of Riverwalk Shopping Mall was a great little spot to sit and enjoy the sun or the stars. Most evenings a band was present offering wonderful music to enjoy while watching the river life meet the night-life.

Address: Canal Street Dock/Aquarium Dock

Directions: End of Canal St. in Downtown area, at French Quarter entrance

Phone: 504-524-0814