Plans to Exploring New Orleans Before Our Cruise: The French Quarters

Whenever we plan a cruise, arriving a day early is non-negotiable—airline delays are no joke, and missing the ship isn’t the kind of adventure we’re after. This time, we’ve gone one better and booked two nights in New Orleans before our Caribbean cruise on the Norwegian Getaway. After arriving late on our first night (just enough time to crash at the hotel), we’ll have a full day to dive into the magic of NOLA.

We’re considering renting a car, but first, we need to figure out which neighborhood we want to stay in. New Orleans is a patchwork of vibrant, unique areas, each with its own character, and we’ve been doing some research to narrow down our options.

Our plan? Spend one day exploring each neighborhood we’re curious about and then decide where we’d love to call home for our brief stay.

Image: booking.com

The French Quarter: The Heart of New Orleans

The French Quarter is what most people picture when they think of New Orleans. From its wrought-iron balconies to its lively streets, it’s romantic, jazzy, and full of history. Jackson Square, the iconic St. Louis Cathedral, and Bourbon Street are all here, along with century-old restaurants like Antoine’s and Brennan’s that have shaped New Orleans’ culinary identity.

This area is bustling with tourists, so if you’re looking for quiet, it’s not the best fit. Parking is also notoriously difficult. Still, it’s hard to resist the charm of a neighborhood where ghost tours mingle with street musicians, and fortunetellers set up shop in the shadow of centuries-old buildings.

Why the French Quarter is Calling Us:

• Historic Vibes: The architecture here feels like stepping into another century.
• Nightlife: There’s a certain thrill to Bourbon Street’s endless energy, but even beyond that, jazz clubs and cozy bars abound.
• Central Location: Many of New Orleans’ top attractions are within walking distance.

What Gives Us Pause:

• Crowds: The party doesn’t stop, and neither do the throngs of tourists.
• Pickpockets: With so many people, you’ll need to stay vigilant.
• Parking: If we rent a car, we’ll need a solid plan—or a hotel with a parking option.

The French Quarter Experience

We can already picture ourselves strolling through Jackson Square, maybe hopping onto a steamboat cruise or joining a ghost tour to uncover the city’s haunted history. And let’s not forget grabbing a hurricane in one of those famous “go cups” to sip while soaking up the lively street scene.

The French Quarter is undeniably magical, but we’re still weighing our options. Other neighborhoods like the Garden District, Uptown, and Marigny all have their own allure, and we’re excited to explore those too.

So, stay tuned as we uncover more about New Orleans! For now, we’re diving into the French Quarter with open minds (and empty stomachs). If you’ve been here before, let us know your favorite spots—we’re always up for insider tips!

Here’s to creating new memories in the Crescent City before we set sail.

—The Trekking Pawns 🌎✈️