New Orleans Adventures: Jazz, Food, French Quarter & Bayou Tours
New Orleans is one of the most exciting cities in the United States. It is full of history, food, music, and culture. Known as the birthplace of jazz, the city welcomes you with southern charm, colorful streets, and amazing flavors. On our recent trip, we fell in love with its rhythm, tastes, and stories.
Where We Stayed: Audubon Cottages
In the heart of the French Quarter, we stayed at the historic Audubon Cottages. Built after the great fires of the 1700s, the cottages are named after naturalist John James Audubon, who lived there while working on his Birds of America series. Each cottage is private and charming, with modern comforts and even a haunted past. Ours opened onto a quiet courtyard with what is believed to be the oldest pool in the French Quarter. Having our own French Quarter Butler made the stay feel extra special.
Mornings at Café Du Monde
One of our favorite rituals was walking to the French Market for coffee and beignets at Café Du Monde. Powdered sugar covered our fingers as we sat and watched the city wake up. It was the perfect way to start the day and soak in the local energy.
Food and Flavors of New Orleans
Beyond beignets, New Orleans is a food lover’s dream. We enjoyed:
- Gumbo – a warm, rich stew that tasted like comfort in a bowl
- Jambalaya – spicy rice packed with sausage and seafood
- Po’boys – messy, delicious sandwiches filled with shrimp
- Crawfish – fresh and spicy, especially in season
- Cocktails – we tried the famous Hurricane, sweet and strong
Every meal felt like a celebration.
Exploring the French Quarter
Walking through the French Quarter felt like stepping back in time. The balconies draped with ironwork, the music floating through the air, and the smell of Creole cooking around every corner made the neighborhood unforgettable. Street performers and artists lined the sidewalks, adding to the magic.
Streetcar Adventures
To see more of the city, we hopped on a streetcar. The ride itself was charming, taking us past the Garden District’s grand homes, quirky shops on Magazine Street, and lively neighborhoods. It was a simple but fun way to explore.
Music and Nightlife
At night, New Orleans truly comes alive. We visited Preservation Hall to hear classic jazz and then wandered over to Frenchmen Street where live bands played in cozy clubs. The energy was contagious, and the music made us want to dance.
Into the Bayou
A highlight of our trip was a boat ride through the Louisiana swamps. Surrounded by cypress trees and still waters, we spotted birds, turtles, wild boars, and even alligators. The mix of calm beauty and wild nature was unforgettable.
Festivals and Culture
New Orleans is also famous for its celebrations. While we didn’t visit during Mardi Gras, locals told us stories about the colorful parades and costumes. The city also hosts the Jazz & Heritage Festival and the Voodoo Music + Arts Experience, both worth planning a trip around.
Tips for Visiting New Orleans
- Best time to visit: spring (February–April) or fall (October)
- Stay at least 3–4 days to enjoy the city fully
- Pack light clothes, comfy shoes, and an umbrella (for sudden rain)
- Ride the streetcars, explore on foot, and use rideshares for longer trips
Final Thoughts
From mornings with beignets to nights filled with jazz, every moment in New Orleans felt alive. Staying at the Audubon Cottages gave us history and comfort, while our swamp adventure showed us the wild side of Louisiana. Whether it’s the music, food, or people, New Orleans has a magic that stays with you long after you leave.
