Caroline Helwick

The joie de vivre that New Orleans exemplifies radiates most from the Vieux Carr?, or the French Quarter. Whether you're looking for great music, mysticism, history and architecture, or art and antiques, a walk through this district offers something for everyone.

Don't leave town without a stroll through the French Quarter, or, ideally, two strolls: one during the day and one at night for completely different experiences. During the day, the French Quarter is a panoply of eclectic shops, art galleries, bakeries, restaurants, and street artists. At night, Bourbon Street comes alive with the sound of jazz (mostly Dixieland) and revelers. If Bourbon Street proves too intense, stroll down Royal or Chartres (pronounced "Charters") for a more serene experience.