I am going to Carnival for the first time in 2009 and I need some info on where to go for the parades on Lundi Gras and Mardi Gras. Im going to go to Proteus and Orpheus on Monday and I hope I can get to Zulu and Rex on Fat Tuesday. If anyone can give me an idea of where on the routs to go and when to get there to get the most throws I would be extremely appreciative. The more detail the better since I have never been to New Orleans or to Mardi Gras before.

Thanks everyone, mscmkr

Go to this website for schedule and parade routes:
http://www.experienceneworleans.com/mardigras/#

Another site to try would be NOLA.com Mardi Gras forum. These people know all there is to know about Mardi Gras. Enjoy!

Hey thanks for the info on the websites but I was hoping for some insight from some people who have been there themselves and figured out a few tips on where to stand along the routs and what to do. Anyone with some insider info please chime in I would greatly appreciate it.

Thanks everyone, mscmkr

Here's my quick suggestion: Get a map of the parade route from one of the internet sites, then look for a location that occurs just after a turn in the route. For some reason I have found that the throws right after a turn are always a bit more plentiful. But since you have never been there, be forewarned that it will be crowded and noisy everywhere, and you might have to push and shove a bit to keep your place. Arrive early and enjoy.

mscmkr
Where are you staying?

I made the huge mistake of staying in Newark New jersey when I went to Manhattan last year and that didnt work out at all. Well, this time I payed the extra money and got a room just on the edge of the French Quarter. Its on Saratoga and Canal Street.

Also, just wanted to say thanks to everyone that helps all the people that ask for it on this site. Its so great to get all this information "before" I get there. It makes the trip so much better. Thanks everyone your the best. mscmkr

Saratoga and Canal? Which side of Rampart is Saratoga on? You do NOT want to stay on the "other" side of Rampart. What's the name of your hotel?

I just looked up Saratoga and Canal on mapquest.com. I would not advise you to stay there.

Another inquiry as to what hotel your are in.

It looks like you are right by the Tulane Medical Center Complex - next to the Tidewater Bldg that has some of the School of Public Health. There is a hotel right there that we used to use for visiting professors, etc.

It's FINE for the purpose we had (the visiting folks were almost always in the "care" of someone from the department) but I would not recommend it for visitors.

IF you do end up staying there, I would just be sure to take a taxi to and from the hotel. I would not want to be walking in that area of Canal Street after dark. Daytime is okay, but not at night and certainly not after a parade.

Saratoga and Canal is on the other side of Rampart. Near Tulane medical center and Charity.

I don't know what hotel that is, but I'd try to find something closer to the FQ. South of Rampart (or east, whatever it is).

<<I don't know what hotel that is, but I'd try to find something closer to the FQ. South of Rampart (or east, whatever it is).

It's impossible to use N,S,E,W in New Orleans. Best to think of the FQ area as "Riverside" of Rampart.

Oh my!!!

Not a good location. If it is not too late I would reconsider.

What is the hotel name?