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Fully engaged
From the charm of the Garden District with its vintage streetcars to the magic of the French Quarter, history is all around you in New Orleans, LA. After a day of exploring the past of a highly intriguing city, you can even experience history with your choice of hotel.
A little background
Founded in 1718, New Orleans grew from a trading camp on the Mississippi River to a community that still exists as the French Quarter. Today the French Quarter is known as the birthplace of American jazz and the home of the annual Mardi Gras celebration. New Orleans residents share French, Spanish, Creole, African American and Native American roots.
Where to stay
With a history dating to the 18th century, the Dauphine Orleans is a landmark in Old New Orleans. Just one block away from Bourbon Street, the hotel offers guests easy access to the French Quarter. It was part of the red-light district from 1897 to 1917 featuring May Baily’s Place, a well-known bordello. Today, the bordello-turned-bar is filled with memorabilia of its famous past.
The Ritz-Carlton New Orleans has a different kind of history. Originally, this fine hotel located on the edge of the French Quarter was once the Maison Blanche. When constructed in 1897, the five-story building was one of the first true department stores in the area and remained in operation until 1998. The Ritz-Carlton New Orleans provides the personal service for which it is known and includes a spa, fitness center and M bistro, a restaurant that offers Cajun and Caribbean cuisine.
If you are mixing business with pleasure, consider staying at the Hyatt Regency New Orleans, located downtown on Loyola Avenue adjacent to the Mercedes-Benz Super Dome. The hotel provides both a fitness and business center, Continental and American breakfast choices and a restaurant that serves up Creole and Spanish cuisine for lunch and dinner. Sleep well; some guests say the beds are the most comfortable around!
Where to eat
Cited in 1996 as “The Best Restaurant in the United States,” the Commander’s Palace in the beautiful Garden District should be on your list of go-to eating establishments. It has been noted for culinary excellence in dining since 1893. Emeril Lagasse and Paul Prudhomme are just two of the wonderful chefs who have been in charge at this fine restaurant. Enjoy its famed turtle soup to begin your meal and finish with a serving of Creole Bread Pudding Souffle.
You may also want to visit the Court of the Two Sisters, a restaurant located on property that has enjoyed significant value—and notoriety—since 1726. Its open-air courtyard provides a beautiful backdrop for romantic dinners and the restaurant’s famous Live Jazz Brunch.
But no trip to New Orleans would be complete without relaxing at the Original Café Du Monde with coffee and beignets. Part of the New Orleans French Market, this open-air café has been delighting patrons with its famed sugary confections since 1862.
How to get there
Just 11 miles from the city, Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) is served by both major airlines and commuters. One of the airport’s unique features is live jazz, which both passengers and the public can enjoy. As to ground transportation, visitors can choose from rental cars, limousines, shuttle buses and taxis.
Note: All travel is subject to frequently changing governmental restrictions—please check government advisories before scheduling trips.Enjoy your visit as you travel into history!