NEW ORLEANS and MEMPHIS
 

Any comments to make about these two destinations? What is Gracelands like to visit? any ways to beat crowds? what is the best attractions in each city? Many thanks for your responses

Anne, do a little research. There are hundreds of New Orleans posts on this board. Probably dozens for Memphis. THEN ask specific questions.

thanks - any other comments more helpful out there?

Anne, actually it is helpful! The info you want is OUT THERE.

Sounds like the X-Files, Bob...THE TRUTH IS OUT THERE. :-)<BR><BR>Crowds are low in the summer in both cities because it's 110 degrees in the shade.

I have replied and been helpful to quite a few questions on here which i could answer with 'the answers out there!!' jeez.. Im from britain, so its all new to me!! a little guidance don't go amiss does it..

Anne, your questions are very broad. I'll try though. Graceland is crowded and tacky. Summer is the best way to beat crowds. French Quarter and Graceland are the best attractions.<BR>

Graceland is the silliest, cheesiest place I've ever been! But it's certainly unique so by all means go if you're interested. I'd advise you to make reservations in advance and go as early in the morning as you can to avoid the crowds. Do NOT get a hotel in that vicinity, though, as it's not a very safe part of town. I think you'd be much happier downtown near Beale Street...there are lots of restaurants and places to stay nearby. Beyond that, I'd advise you to do what the other posters have...do a search. There are simply too many options of things to do in NO to mention them all...or even part of them.

I second the recomendation for staying near Beale St. In Memphis I suggest a trip to the National Civil Rights Museum http://www.civilrightsmuseum.org<BR> We also enjoyed the tour at Mud Island.

Both, but especially New Orleans are very, very hot in summer. NO is much cheaper to visit in June-Sept than the rest of the year. That's how to beat the crowds. New Orleans has a million attractions, but most festivals etc. fall in the spring and autumn months when weather is best. It's up to you -- either city is going to crowded at times.<BR>As for Graceland, well, it is cheesy. But it's also probably the most American thing we have.

Dear Anne,<BR>I have been to both and my favorite was New Orleans. I'm guessing that since you chose these two destinations you are a music fan. Bourbon Street in NOLA is loaded with clubs, most not charging a cover but do require you to buy a drink. You can walk in and out of the clubs at will all night long. A few blocks from Bourbon Street is Decatur Street which has the House of Blues and Margaritaville. We spent a lot of time at both of these places. Across the street from The House of Blues is a small independent record shop that has lots of good bootlegs, if you're into the music. There is a large mall there (the only mall I've ever been in where I could carry around alcoholic beverages), a casino, an aquarium, and an Imax movies theater. Most of your time will be spent, though, club hopping at night. You MUST go on a haunted history walking tour -- it's just a fun, goofy thing to do. Also, take a steamboat ride on the river.<BR><BR>We also enjoyed ourselves in Memphis, but not as much as NOLA. Beale Street is similar to Bourbon Street, but it was smaller than I imagined. BB King's Blues Club is good and I really liked the Rum Boogie Club. If you are a music fan you MUST go to Sun Studio and take their tour. This was my favorite part of the trip! Also, at the time we were there the Fender Guitar place had a really good Memphis Music museum display. I don't know if that is still there, though. And, yes, we went to Graceland. Honestly, it's over-priced and pretty cheesey, but "when in Rome..." I hope this helps!

thanks for your comments! especially about the safety aspect near gracelands.

yes, you guessed it, i'm a music fan, so its great to get the tips regarding the clubs in NO