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Exploring New Orleans: Introduction
Exploring New Orleans was right up on my list after watching the famous Girls Trip movie with my girls! But if you had told me in 2017 that I’d finally make it to New Orleans, I don’t think I would’ve believed you. By the time I got to New Orleans, it was already my fifth time in America, but this was my very first time stepping foot in the city that had been on my list for so long. I was staying in Houston with family at the time, and I decided to hop over to New Orleans with family for a few extra days.
Growing up, New Orleans was one of those places I always heard about in films, music, and, of course, in the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina. By the time I went, the city was already buzzing with life again, and I felt like I was walking straight onto the set of Girls Trip (if you haven’t seen the movie, you have to watch it).
This is a post of me exploring New Orleans with a few suggestions of what to do in New Orleans with family.
Exploring New Orleans with Family
I spent most of my time with my twin sisters, brother, my dad and mum, which made the trip even more special. We first went to the Aquarium of the Americas. Despite being the oldest, I honestly felt like a big kid walking through the tunnels, watching sharks and schools of fish swim above us. We then got the New Orleans streetcar, it’s kind of a tram, to be honest, we have them here in London also. It was such a fun day out just exploring the city.
Walking Through the French Quarter
We walked through the French Quarter, which was exactly what I imagined it to look like from the movie. Bright balconies covered in hanging plants, jazz spilling out from bars, and horse-drawn carriages clip-clopping through the streets. It felt so historic and wonderful to see.
I loved just wandering around, taking in the energy and architecture. Of course, I had to stop for photos. New Orleans has that cinematic vibe where every corner feels like a movie scene, which I truly felt I was in.
Eating and Drinking in New Orleans
Eating and drinking in New Orleans is a huge part of the city’s identity. I loved the seafood there, which I had both in Houston and New Orleans. I also had my first Fat Tuesday slushie (those things are HUGE), tucked into fried chicken and fries at Raising Cane’s, and explored sweet shops that felt like candy heaven. You can honestly enjoy so much food in New Orleans; I love it.
If you’re a foodie (like me), you’ll love the mix of Creole, Cajun, and Southern comfort food that fills the city.
Reflections on My First Visit
Even though my trip was short, New Orleans left a big impression on me. It’s one of those cities that feels like it has so many layers. From history, culture, music, food, and family, there is something for everyone, and it is all tied together.
For me, it was the perfect mix: spending quality time with my family, and finally experiencing the French Quarter, and of course, enjoying all the food and fun that all came with it.
More Travel Tools & Resources for Exploring New Orleans
- My Instagram and TikTok have quick snap videos on the specifics exploring New Orleans and DM me if you have any questions about your trip.
- Before going to New Orleans, I recommend visiting the Foreign Advice Page for U.K. travellers. Check if you need visas here.
- For city tours, New Orleans with Viator or Get Your Guide if you want specific tours. Please read the reviews before booking!
- Get travel insurance. I recommend that anyone travelling should have travel insurance, which you can get via SafetyWing here.
- I used Airlo, an e-SIM card, for data. You can purchase it here and use the code ADEBOL5279 for a discount.
Exploring New Orleans Conclusion
Would I go back? Absolutely. I would love to come back for Essence Festival one day if I can. New Orleans is one of those places I know I barely scratched the surface of. I’d also love to go back for Mardi Gras, a jazz festival, or even just to spend more time soaking in the music and culture. If you’ve never been, I’d definitely say it’s worth adding to your U.S. bucket list.
Have you been to New Orleans? Would you go exploring New Orleans? When you do, let me know your favourite part of the food, the music, or the culture. And if you’re planning a trip, check out tours and experiences in New Orleans here.
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Speak soon,
Debs x
