New Orleans: Gentilly, New Orleans East, and the Ninth Ward

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9th Ward, New Orleans East & Gentilly | New Orleans

As we prepare to embark on our cruise from New Orleans, we’ve decided to arrive two nights early to immerse ourselves in the city’s magic before setting sail. One night will be all about catching up on rest after a late-night flight, but the next day, we’re diving into exploring this vibrant city.

With so many distinct neighborhoods to choose from, we’re planning to visit a different one each day to help us decide where we’d want to stay or explore further. Today, let’s talk about the fascinating and resilient neighborhoods of Gentilly, New Orleans East, and the Lower Ninth Ward.

Gentilly: Resilient Charm and Diverse Culture

Gentilly, nestled on the eastern edge of New Orleans, is a neighborhood with stories to tell. It’s close to the University of New Orleans and has a historic gem in Pontchartrain Park, one of the city’s oldest African-American neighborhoods.

What We’re Excited About

  • Lakefront Views: With its proximity to Lake Pontchartrain and the Lakefront Airport, we’re drawn to the mix of water views and retro architecture.
  • Cultural Diversity: The area boasts a rich, multicultural community that’s rebounding with grit and grace.
  • Affordability: Compared to other areas in NOLA, Gentilly offers a more budget-friendly option.

Things to Note

  • It’s a bit farther from the bustling downtown and Uptown areas.
  • The neighborhood has a moderately high crime rate, so we’d want to be mindful of where we wander.

New Orleans East: A Hidden Gem Worth Discovering

Often overlooked, New Orleans East is brimming with opportunities for exploration and cultural immersion. Stretching between the Seventh Ward and the Bayou Sauvage National Wildlife Refuge, it’s a neighborhood full of history, resilience, and nature.

What’s Calling Us Here

  • Nature Adventures: We’re eager to stroll the boardwalks of the Bayou Sauvage National Wildlife Refuge, keeping an eye out for local wildlife (yes, even alligators!).
  • Vietnamese Cuisine: This neighborhood is known for its Vietnamese food markets and restaurants, and we can’t wait to try an authentic Vietnamese po’boy (banh mi).
  • Unique Attractions: The restored Lakefront Airport, with its art deco design, is a must-see for history buffs like us.

Considerations

  • This area is more residential and industrial, so it might lack the lively energy of downtown.
  • It’s a bit of a drive from the main tourist hubs, so a rental car would be essential.

Lower Ninth Ward: A Story of Resilience

The Lower Ninth Ward is more than a neighborhood—it’s a symbol of hope and recovery. Post-Hurricane Katrina, this area has been rebuilding with strength and creativity.

Why We’re Drawn In

  • Katrina History: Touring the House of Dance and Feathers will help us understand the cultural traditions and history that make this area so special.
  • New Architecture: Rising from the floodwaters, the Lower Ninth Ward showcases innovative, sustainable homes built as part of its recovery efforts.
  • Community Spirit: This neighborhood feels authentic and deeply connected to its roots.

Things to Be Aware Of

  • While we’re eager to visit, this is a place we’ll explore during the day to fully appreciate its beauty and significance.

Our Takeaway

Each of these neighborhoods offers something unique, from the diverse charm of Gentilly to the hidden treasures of New Orleans East and the resilient spirit of the Lower Ninth Ward. While these areas might not be where we decide to stay, they’re on our must-visit list for the stories they tell and the experiences they offer.

If you’ve visited these neighborhoods or have tips for hidden gems, let us know! We’re always up for an adventure—and a good po’boy.

Stay tuned as we continue to explore the Crescent City and get ready to set sail.

—The Trekking Pawns 🌍🚢

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