“Laissez les bons temps rouler,” or as us non-French speakers would say, “Let the good times roll!”

The countdown is on, and we are gearing up for another awesome Healthy Teen Network Annual National Conference. This year, we’re located in culture-rich New Orleans!

Though our conference is a hub for informative sessions and awesome networking opportunities, your fave blogging “Chère” is here with a few recommendations for eats and scenery!

Are you ready?

If you find yourself in New Orleans on a Sunday, they’re notoriously known for their “Second Line” Sunday Parade! What’s a Second Line Parade you may ask? Previously thrown during jazz funerals, second line parades have evolved into a festive gathering of folks who want to revel in a good time.  Surrounded by a live band and attaching bystanders, it’s hard not to get swept up in the excitement. Learn more about the history behind the Second Line Tradition in this YouTube video. New Orleans boasts a rich history. There are quite a few tours and museums you can check out during your stay.

Backstreet Cultural Museum

The Backstreet Cultural Museum holds the world’s most comprehensive collection related to New Orleans’ African American community-based masking and processional traditions, including Mardi Gras Indians, jazz funerals, social aid and pleasure clubs, Baby Dolls, and Skull and Bone gangs. The museum’s filmed records of over 500 events constitute the most cohesive archive documenting these cultural traditions.

In addition to its permanent exhibits, the Backstreet Cultural Museum hosts public performances of music and dance, provides outreach programs, and creates an annual book, Keeping Jazz Funerals Alive, that chronicles the year’s jazz funerals.

Ask Arthur Walking Tours

Expertly guided tours of the French Quarters, Garden District and St. Louis Cemeteries, Arthur provides both private and daily tours.

Cajun Encounters Swamp Tours

Glide through gator territory on a small, flat-bottomed boat and hear all about the swamp and its natural inhabitants from our local, expert captains. Pickup services are available from many French Quarter hotels and visitor centers for your comfort and convenience.

Louis Armstrong Park

You don’t have to be a fan of Satchmo to take in this beautiful space. Located just a few feet from the French Quarter, this open green space is home to various sculptures and duck ponds. Relax a bit and people watch as you take in some of New Orleans history.

French Market

Since 1791, the French Market has been a cultural and commercial hub for New Orleans. Located along the Mississippi River, you can find everything from crafts to food here. It’s also a great location to take in the local flavor and people watch.

And now for everyone’s favorite part…THE FOOD and SWEETS! You can’t visit New Orleans without stopping in to try some of the local fare and authentic spices.

Acme Oyster House

Located in the French Quarter, Acme has been serving up raw and charbroiled oysters since 1910! Dine on various delectable Gulf Coast seafood selections. Oysters not your thing? They’re also known for their savory po’ boys and gumbo.

Dooky Chase’s Restaurant

One can’t help but be drawn to a place that boasts the cooking of the Queen of Creole Cuisine. Since 1941, the Chase family has grown their family business from a sandwich and lottery ticket outlet to what is known today. Known for their Tuesday-Friday Lunch Buffet, you can fill your belly with stuffed shrimp, red beans, and other various Chase Family favorites.

Café Du Monde

Known for their dark roasted coffee and chicory and beignets, Café Du Monde has been a “must stop” since 1862. Located in the New Orleans French Market, the Café is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week! So that means there’s no excuse not to stop in for a hot cup and fresh powdery pastry.

Ruby Slipper Café

This award-winning café is famous for their breakfast brunch and lunch dishes. Located on Canal Street, it has delicious items, such as Kiwi Berry Chantilly Cream Pancakes, Louisiana Blue Crab Cake Benedict, and their Hello, Sunshine Cocktail! Stop in one morning for a delicious breakfast bite!

Southern Candymakers

Pralines, tortues, and toffees, oh my! While you’re visiting the French Market, be sure to stop by Southern Candymakers. Known for their fresh hot pralines samples, the relatively 25 years young shop has all your sweet tooth items covered. Be it their tortues or salt water taffy, you’ll want to carry some of their awesome items home for your family.

I trust that this whet your appetite for all things Nawlins, mon amis!

See you in October!