Thursday, March 15, 2012

Uniquely New Orleans!

As one of the most distinctive cities in the world, New Orleans has some long-standing treasures that you should not miss while in the Crescent City!

Acme Oyster House

For over 100 years, Acme has been satisfying the hungriest of people all over the world! It's quality you can taste in the fresh, hand-shucked Louisiana oysters. Whether served ice cold on the half shell, char grilled and sizzling in garlic butter or fried to golden perfection, Acme oysters are some of the best you'll ever have.



After many decades of success, business had slowed for Acme and many other French Quarter businesses in the early 1980’s. For a while, Acme closed at 4:00 pm and had only one waitress on staff. This prompted Acme to make the now famous “Waitress Available Sometimes” neon sign, which is proudly displayed in each restaurant and on the menu.


And it's not just the oysters, Acme Oyster House serves all of the New Orleans classics like red beans and rice, seafood gumbo, jambalaya and more, all served with a smile.


Mardi Gras World

Just because you missed Mardi Gras this year, does not mean you have to miss the festivities! Come seewhere Mardi Gras is MADE! See Mardi Gras magic created right before your eyes in this maze of amazing carnival creations. Mardi Gras World is the most unique attraction in America’s most uniquely attractive city. It’s a world of wonders, created for you by the people who bring Mardi Gras to life every year.


MardiGras World is open 7 days a week from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm. Tours are offered every 30 minutes, with the last tour starting at 4:30 pm.


Preservation Hall


Preservation Hall is located in the French Quarter, just three blocks from the Mississippi River. Preservation Hall opened its doors in 1961. The hall was created as a sanctuary, to protect and honor New Orleans Jazz. The hall's founders wanted to create a place where New Orleans musicians could forever play New Orleans style jazz,




Today, over 40 years later, the hall is still going strong. On any given night, the hall is filled to capacity with people eager to hear New Orleans jazz played by veteran musicians in their 70's and 80's and younger musicians learning and embracing music that is both sweet and very beautiful.






Preservation Hall opens at 8:00 pm every day. Music begins at 8:15 pm. Admission is $15 per person and all ages are welcome. They close the gates at 11:00 pm.


Tuesday, March 6, 2012

Experience The Past

Have you seen the movie “Saving Private Ryan”? The opening scene depicts the Omaha Beach landing of Allied troops during the D-Day Invasion of Normandy in World War II. The landing craft that was used for the invasion was designed and manufactured by Andrew Higgins and his New Orleans’ based company. The boat’s official name is Landing Craft, Vehicle, Personnel (LCVP) but was generally referred to as Higgins boats. General Dwight Eisenhower (who later became President Eisenhower) credited Mr. Higgins as “…the man who won the war for us. … If Higgins had not designed and built those LCVPs, we never could have landed over an open beach. The whole strategy of the war would have been different." A replica of this historically important boat can be found at the National World War II Museum in New Orleans. If at all possible, the museum is definitely a must-see during your visit.



The museum is a moving tribute to the courageous men and women who unselfishly gave of themselves to ensure our freedom. Besides the many exhibits, there other great things to do at the museum. The Solomon Victory Theater screens the film “Beyond All Boundaries” a 4-D experience that utilizes a technique that engages all the audience’s senses. The Stage Door Canteen presents live performances, usually featuring singing and dancing, that bring back the spirit of this incomparable era. Dining at the museum is another great experience. Chef John Besh has two restaurants at the museum. The American Sector features new takes on traditional American dishes while the Soda Shop does the same for diner fare.




Again, the National World War II Museum is a truly memorable experience that should not be missed. For more information, please refer to the museum’s website.