Living on campus, it’s easy to get stuck in the “Tulane Bubble.” The urge to get out and explore can sometimes be trumped by the comfort of having everything you need close by. But the more I research things to do in New Orleans, the more I realize how much I’m missing by staying within a mile radius of campus. Here are some of the best things I’ve done so far, touristy as they may be, and some that I’ve been dying to try!
Favorites so far…
Preservation Hall
Not only is the music here great, but the venue is synonymous with New Orleans. Admission is $15 and you can hear live jazz from 8-11 pm every night. The Preservation Hall Jazz Band plays here, as well as other bands and musicians, so get a group of friends and check it out one night. An added bonus is that you won’t struggle to find an answer when your out of town relatives ask you if you’ve heard any jazz lately!
Cemetery Tour
If you’re like me and not from New Orleans, the history behind the city’s cemeteries is unlike anything you’ve ever heard before. I had the privilege of touring St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, but I’m sure any of the others would be just as interesting. From the fascinating explanation of why New Orleans cemeteries are so different from anywhere else, to the famous people buried there (Ernest “Dutch” Morial, Voodoo priestess Marie Laveau, Homer Plessy), to the possibility of a quasi-celebrity citing (Nicolas Cage already has a tomb here)–this tour is a must-do!
On my New Orleans bucket list…
Swamp tour
Maybe it’s just because I’ve always wanted to see an alligator in the wild, but I absolutely cannot wait to go on a swamp tour. What could be better way to get to know the beautiful natural area surrounding New Orleans than by floating under Spanish moss, checking out Louisiana wildlife, or spotting an actual 10-foot gator? I’ve told my friends to be prepared for me to get thoroughly and embarrassingly excited the first time there’s an opportunity to take way too many pictures of the wildlife!
National WWII Museum
Dorky as it may sound, I’ve always had a soft spot for history museums. I’m excited to have the chance to see all of the World War II memorabilia, including letters, recruitment posters, and a huge aircraft. The museum is also said to do a great job of paying tribute to those who lost their lives. One of the best parts about this museum? Students get in for a discounted price with IDs!
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