Long way off but excited

Question

Hi single woman coming from oz nov 3 to nov. 7 New Orleans has been on my bucket list I’m staying at la galleria . I plan to do a plantation tour with swamp boat tour . So recommendations would be great . I also want to do a ghost tour and I want to do a riverboat ride no lunch just the tour on the river. I’m not into food so I’m happy to stop when hungry . Any other help on things to do would be great eg sites to see I love blues music so any places I can sit and have a drink I’m pretty simple to please thanks in advance can’t wait xxx

Answer

It sounds like you’re going to have a fantastic time in New Orleans! Here are some recommendations for your trip based on your interests:

1. Plantation and Swamp Tours: Both are classic New Orleans experiences, and you’ve got some great choices for each.

Plantation Tours: Some popular plantation tours include Oak Alley Plantation, which has stunning oak-lined roads and rich history. Laura Plantation is another excellent option if you're interested in exploring more about Creole culture and the role of women in the plantation's history. Another option is Whitney Plantation, which focuses heavily on the African-American experience and slavery.
Swamp Boat Tour: For a good mix of nature and adventure, you can take a boat tour in the Honey Island Swamp or Jean Lafitte National Historical Park. Companies like Airboat Adventures and Louisiana Swamp Tours offer great options with knowledgeable guides.

2. Riverboat Ride: A great option is the Steamboat Natchez riverboat ride. They offer a classic jazz cruise on the Mississippi River, which is exactly what you’re looking for. It’s a great way to experience the river and see New Orleans from a different perspective, all while enjoying some live jazz music.

3. Ghost Tours: New Orleans is known for its haunted history, and a ghost tour is a fun way to explore the city’s darker past.

French Quarter Phantoms offers ghost walking tours with a focus on the supernatural aspects of the city’s history, including haunted bars, homes, and cemeteries.
The Haunted History Tour is another great option for a spooky, entertaining stroll through the French Quarter.

4. Blues Music and Live Music Venues: Since you love blues music, New Orleans has no shortage of spots to enjoy live performances. The Frenchmen Street area is packed with great bars and clubs that feature live music, especially blues and jazz. Here are a few suggestions:

Spotted Cat Music Club: A cozy spot with live jazz and blues.
Preservation Hall: An iconic venue for traditional New Orleans jazz. They often feature incredible local musicians.
The Maison: Known for live music, they often host blues bands and other genres as well.
Vaughan’s Lounge: If you’re looking for a more local and laid-back atmosphere, Vaughan’s in the Bywater neighborhood is a great dive bar with live music.

5. Other Must-See Sites: New Orleans is a city steeped in history, culture, and beautiful architecture. Here are some places you should try to visit during your stay:

Jackson Square: A historic square with the famous St. Louis Cathedral, and often home to street performers, artists, and musicians.
Royal Street: One of the best streets for shopping, art galleries, and street musicians.
The National WWII Museum: If you have some free time, this is one of the most highly recommended museums in New Orleans.
Garden District: For beautiful historic homes and lovely streets to walk around, the Garden District offers a stunning contrast to the French Quarter.
French Market: The open-air market near the French Quarter is a great spot to pick up souvenirs and enjoy local crafts, food, and music.

6. Dining Tips: While you mentioned you're not overly concerned with food, New Orleans is known for its incredible cuisine, so you may still want to stop in some local spots when hunger strikes. Here are some great, low-key spots to consider:

Café du Monde: Don’t miss the famous beignets and café au lait at this iconic café, open 24/7.
Central Grocery: Try the famous muffuletta sandwich at this local deli.
Dat Dog: A casual spot with great hot dogs and a fun atmosphere.
Johnny’s Po-Boy: For an authentic po’boy sandwich, Johnny’s is a New Orleans classic.

Transportation Tips: Since you’re staying in the French Quarter, most of the major attractions are within walking distance, so you won’t need a car for most of your time. If you want to venture out further, the streetcar is a fun and easy way to get around. For the swamp and plantation tours, you’ll likely need to book a guided tour or arrange for transportation.

Enjoy your trip to New Orleans! The city has so much to offer, and you're sure to have a fantastic time experiencing the culture, music, and history. Have a great time and let the good times roll!

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