New Orleans-where to go/avoid?

[Princess Mindy]

I'm going to New Orleans in a couple weeks for a business conference. I've never been there so I don't know what there is to do out there besides Bourbon st. I'm staying in the French quarter. What places should I not miss nightlife/food/attraction-wise? And what places should I avoid or make sure not to venture to? I've heard alot of stuff about crime and such so I want to make sure not to fall into that. And also if there are specific places you just didn't like, tell me that too and why-same thing for those you liked!
thanks much!

 

[annegal]

At night stay only on Bourbon.-no side streets!!!.....even Royal is a little scary(deserted) at night

 

[inspector63]

I agree stay with the crowds. I hear Razoo's and Cats Meow are good places to go. Also there is a Coyote Ugly and don't forget Pat O'Brians. I just started working downtown and ready to discover some good restaurants there too. Have fun

 

[Princess Mindy]

thanks for the advice! Any more folks have some suggestions?

 

[Princess Mindy]

bumping up one more time-I need advice please! Don't let me wander into uncharter waters. What is the best place to be? How is Preservation Hall? Need suggestions

 

[Breezy_Carol]

My 2 college age kids were just there for a week earlier this month doing Habitat for Humanity. They aren't 21 yet so couldn't do much on Bourbon Street. DS liked the restaurants on (I think) Decataur Street. DD liked the French Market. They both liked Cafe du Monde for the beignets.

Try going to this thread and asking. Everyone there lives in New Orleans and are very friendly.

 

[Melisa1]

Hi!
Not trying to change the subject on this thread, but when is Mardi Gras?

 

[cajunmommy]

Mardi Gras Day 2007 is Feb 20 (always the day before Ash Wednesday).

Mardi Gras season officially begins on Twelfth Night (which is the Feast of the Epiphany / Three Kings in the Catholic Church).

 

[paigevz]

Mindy, my brother lives in New Orleans. We went all over the place with him, but if you're alone, you should definitely stay on Bourbon Street where the crowds (and the cops) are.

If you want, I'll email him and ask him your questions.........I think there's also a whole thread about New Orleans and visiting there on the Hurricane Katrina board.........up at the top of the community board.

By the way, Tricia (Grumpy'swife) frrom Chatters also lives there.

Have a good time!

 

[leafette]

I never had any problem walking anywhere in the French Quarter, but I wouldn't walk outside of that area at night. So, stay inside the area bordered by Esplanade, Canal, North Rampart and Decatur.

 

[Pugdog007]

I agree to stay on Bourbon, and even on Bourbon don't venture past the Voodoo shop. If you're going to the Convention Center during the day, it's fine. But don't go in that direction at night. The aquarium is very nice (if it's open again) and the zoo is fun too. The French Market & Jackson Square is worth visiting.

 

[Disneyglobegirl]

The French Quarter is pretty safe - just stay where people are around. Do not walk down any dark alleys alone. Just be aware of your surroundings and never go anywhere with anyone you just meet and donot know -take the same precautions that you would in any city you would visit. When you check into your hotel you can ask for recommendations of where to go, what to see and areas to avoid. Definately try to go to Pat O'Briens, Cafe DuMonde. The Red Fish Grill is a great place to eat - if you want a Cajun/Zydeco experience go eat at Mulates ( across from the Riverwalk). You can visit NOLA.com for some more info - they also havea forum there.

Have fun and enjoy your visit!!