Been going for years! I can't give any advice on where to stay because I walk from my house!

But, if you stay downtown, you can take the Canal St. streetcar that says "Museum", and that one will drop you off a short walk from the entrance- just follow the crowds!
What to wear: lightweight clothing (it's HOT!), sunscreen, hat, sunglasses and comfortable shoes you wouldn't mind getting dirty, such as Tevas.
What to eat/drink: fried green tomatoes, crawfish cakes, strawberry lemonade, rose-mint iced tea
Music tip: To get into some shade, go to the Economy Hall jazz tent-
it is covered and has chairs, and they play more traditional jazz and dixieland there. It is so much fun seeing the older folks second lining to the music!

The Gospel tent is also covered and definitely worth seeing.
I don't see the bigger acts playing because I don't like the larger crowds, so I stick to the smaller stages playing the local acts- I think you get more atmosphere that way.
Have fun!!
