New Orleans sampler - Work conference last weekend in March

Question

Hello

Traveling to New Orleans for a work conference March 27-30. Conference Hotel is across from the Superdome for reference.

I have never visited New Orleans and would like a few ideas for things we could enjoy after a long day of conferencing :).

We will not have a rental car, but we are good with ride share or public transport to get around.

There are four of us, middle aged IT types. I am very interested in yummy, not fancy, dining options. Shrimp is number one on my list, but one member of our group is not a seafood fan so somewhere with good non-seafood options would be nice.

Next on the agenda is somewhere to listen to live music that would cater to some old folks who have to get up in the morning though cocktails could definitely be included.

We talked about taking a tour of some kind - I am feeling like a cheesy ghost tour or cemetery tour or something fun like that might fit the bill.

If you have anything that I am not thinking of that we should consider, I am open to suggestions.

Thank you in advance for your ideas and suggestions.

Answer

New Orleans is a great city for a work conference, and there’s plenty to do after hours! Here’s a mix of dining, live music, and fun activities that will fit the bill for a group of middle-aged IT folks looking to unwind after a long day.

### Dining Options (Including Shrimp & Non-Seafood Dishes)

Coop’s Place: A casual spot in the French Quarter known for its shrimp and grits, fried chicken, and other southern specialties. It's not fancy but the food is great, and they have both seafood and non-seafood options.
Mother’s Restaurant: Located in the Warehouse District, this place is a New Orleans classic. You can’t go wrong with their famous shrimp po’boys, but they also offer hearty gumbo, roast beef, and fried chicken, so there’s something for everyone.
Willie Mae’s Scotch House: If you're craving fried shrimp, this place is legendary. It's a bit of a drive, but you can always take a rideshare. It's also known for its fried chicken, so non-seafood fans are covered.
Acme Oyster House: If you want to try classic New Orleans seafood like oysters, shrimp, and po’boys, this spot in the French Quarter is perfect. For those not into seafood, they have great gumbo and jambalaya as well.
Johnny’s Po-Boys: A casual joint with great po’boys (fried shrimp and roast beef are the highlights). You can easily find something for the seafood lovers and non-seafood fans alike.

### Live Music Options (Casual Vibes for Early Risers)

Preservation Hall: For a classic New Orleans jazz experience, this is a must-see. The performances are lively but early enough that you’ll be able to enjoy the music without staying up too late. It’s a historic venue with a laid-back atmosphere.
The Spotted Cat Music Club: Located on Frenchmen Street, this intimate venue offers great jazz and blues performances. It’s a lively, but casual place where you can enjoy drinks and music without going too late into the night.
Fritzel’s European Jazz Club: Another French Quarter favorite with a more intimate vibe. Fritzel’s features jazz bands that play throughout the evening, and the setting is perfect for a relaxed night out with cocktails and good tunes.
The Maple Leaf Bar: Known for its local music scene, The Maple Leaf Bar often features brass bands and jazz, though it's not too rowdy. It’s a bit off the beaten path but offers great live music in a laid-back setting.

### Fun Tours to Consider

Cemetery Tours: Since you mentioned a cheesy ghost or cemetery tour, you can’t go wrong with the St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 tour. It’s a bit eerie but fascinating, and you’ll learn a lot about New Orleans’ history and the famous people buried there (including Marie Laveau, the Voodoo Queen).
Haunted History Tours: If you’re in the mood for something spooky, the Haunted History Tours offer guided tours of the most haunted places in New Orleans. They have walking tours in the French Quarter and even some bus tours. It’s a fun way to explore the city’s darker side!
Steamboat Natchez Harbor Cruise: A classic New Orleans experience! If you’re interested in a riverboat tour, the Steamboat Natchez offers a great tour with beautiful views of the Mississippi River. They also offer cocktails on board if you want to relax and enjoy the scenery without a meal.

### Additional Recommendations

The French Market: If you have time during the day, check out the French Market, which is close to your conference location. It's a great place to explore local vendors, enjoy some snacks, and pick up souvenirs.
Walking Tour of the French Quarter: If you’re not into organized tours, just walking around the French Quarter can be an experience in itself. Enjoy the unique architecture, street performers, and shops.
Royal Street: For a nice stroll with some unique shops and art galleries, Royal Street is a great place. You can pop in and out of galleries, boutiques, and antique shops while soaking up the local atmosphere.
New Orleans Pharmacy Museum: If you’re interested in history, this quirky museum offers a fascinating look at the medical practices of the 19th century in New Orleans. It's small but interesting, and not too far from your hotel.

Since you're attending a conference, I would recommend planning for a mix of activities that offer both relaxation and a bit of adventure. There's so much to see and do in New Orleans, and with rideshare, getting around without a car is very convenient.

Enjoy your trip, and have fun exploring New Orleans!