Image : http://www.flickr.com
Heading to New Orleans for the NFL Playoffs? Looking to experience the sights and sounds of New Orleans beyond the famed French Quarter? While the Superdome may be the center of activity come playoff time, there is no shortage of other landmarks worth visiting while in town. Where else can you tour a swamp, sample homemade gelato and artisan chocolates, and visit the most famous cemeteries in the country-all in one weekend?
Transport from MSY in Style
Don't just cab or shuttle from the New Orleans airport to your hotel. For just a few extra dollars schedule black town car service through providers like Mike's Livery Service. Whether a grizzled road warrior or a first-time visiting fan, Mike's Livery Service will provide the comfortable and safe transportation you deserve.
Where to Stay in New Orleans
If you're looking for a place to stay while in town for the big game, you might want to check out the deals being offered on the New Orleans Tourism Marketing Corp's web site. The NOTMC highlights the best deals whether you are looking for historic French Quarter properties, luxurious downtown hotels, or off the beaten path B&Bs. Compare prices of the various properties to find the hotel that best fits your budget.
Getting Wild in New Orleans
Drop your bags off at the room and let the fun begin! There's plenty of time to take in Bourbon Street after the game, so don't miss the number of other attractions and landmarks in and around New Orleans. See the "wilder side" just outside of the city. Go on a South Louisiana swamp tour in search of the Honey Island Swamp Monster or catch a glimpse of alligators, nutria and other animals that call this area home. Tour companies like Cajun Encounters offer fantastic personalized swamp tours by locals, and pickup from your hotel's front door.
The New Orleans Experience
Not into wildlife? Get a feel for the historic city with a climate-controlled New Orleans city tour highlighting the history of the French Quarter, the scenic Garden District, and St. Louis Cemetery. Take in the beauty of the historic mansions and the wrought-iron balconies of the French Quarter, and view the burial grounds of some of New Orleans' most famous and storied residents. Whether you're a history buff or a visitor looking to get the full "New Orleans experience" while in town, the New Orleans city tours are a "must-do" activity.
Shop Local
In addition to the cuisine, music and sites, New Orleans is a world class shopping destination. Local favorite Magazine Street showcases dozens of antique shops, jewelers, upscale clothing boutiques, popular eateries and local bars. While strolling Magazine Street, be sure pass local chocolate shop Sucre for a peak at your NFL team's specially created helmet cake. A cake for each opposing NFL team of the New Orleans Saints throughout the regular and playoff season was created by executive pastry chef and TLC's Ultimate Cake-Off competitor Tariq Hanna. While there, why not stop in for a bite of "artisan" chocolate or a homemade gelato. A bit chilly for ice cream? Grab a piping hot cup of dark or peppermint drinking chocolate.
Y'all Come Back Now
Of course, you would need more than a weekend to truly experience everything New Orleans has to offer. At the end of your trip, please feel free to add items and activities to the itinerary, or create your own itinerary for future visits to New Orleans. Also, share your experiences by uploading your photos to the Visit New Orleans Flickr feed. After all, New Orleans is a great place that deserves to be shared with others.
Nick Silbert is a Louisiana resident.
