FIRST VISIT TO NEW ORLEANS
 

Since this is our 1st trip to NO what are the best things to see we only have 5 days! Also, what is the very best restuarant to splurge on!
Thanks for your help!

Ok - here goes.

Things to do: St. Charles Streetcar and new Canal Streetcar ride, a city tour with a cemetery stop, a half-day swamp tour (that's plenty of time), maybe a plantation/swamp tour if you like history, a steamboat ride (don't go for the dinner cruise, the food isn't that good), the French Market, Jackson Square, Frenchman Street, Mardi Gras World and maybe fit in a cooking class.

Somebody else can fill you in on great restaurants but I can give some hints on less expensive places. Petunia's for breakfast, Pat O'Brien's for Hurricanes, Deja Vu for a local bar/restaurant, either Acme Oyster House or Felix's, Cafe duMonde and be brave and try a Lucky Dog.

Have fun and enjoy the city - my husband went for his first time probably 8-9 years ago and we've been going back once a year ever since (we'll be there in just 2 weeks and already have plans for 2005). It just gets in your blood.

I forgot to add - try these websites for guide books, maps and discount coupons:

NewOleansonline.com (Good Time Guide)
bigeasy.com (Visitor magazine)
Neworleanscvb.com (Visitor guide)
LouisianaTravel.com (Tour Guide)

Hi--sorry for the picky point, but it is a little jarring to readers when you put your queries in all caps. People will answer you w/o your needing to do that.

Agree with ccolor and would add other ideas of D-Day Museum (takes ALL day), Aquarium and Zoo (you can get a combo ticket which includes a boat ride between the two, and I think you can do both in one day if you start out early). Beignets at Cafe DuMonde across from Jackson Square and Muffelata's at Central Grocery across from the French Market. Loved Dick and Jenny's restaurant. Whatever you do - you will love it. Was there for 2nd trip one year ago today!

Just adding a carriage ride to the list. Kind of pricey because it's such a touristy thing to do, but lots of fun.

Mother's restaurant for the Shrimp Jambalaya, po boys sandwiches and the bread pudding.

NOLA's for dinner - Emeril's restaurant. AMAZING!!!

Steve