In past blog posts, I recommended three museums, three restaurants and three walking tours in and around the French Quarter. Now that things are really warming up in the Crescent City, here are my top three things to do after your workday.
The Doctor Is In
Doctor Gumbo’s tour pours deep into the history of NOLA cocktails.
We must start with libations, as so many of us venture to NOLA for this very reason. My favorite way to learn more about the history of the city’s cocktails, along with imbibing in them, is the Doctor Gumbo way. This walking tour (yes, another walking tour) transcends you beyond the average Hurricane. Guess where the Grasshopper (a delicious concoction of Crème de menthe and Crème de cacao) was invented? According to legend, it was the bar Tujague’s. What I like most about the Doctor Gumbo tour is you get the backstory behind the drinks and the bars. We had a blast on this trip through mixology history, even if I don’t quite remember the story behind absinthe!
Bow to the Queen
The second way to enjoy the city after five is on a river cruise, as you see the city’s sights from the water. There are several cruise companies that offer evening jaunts;, I prefer the Creole Queen Evening Cruise. This paddleboat option may not be the biggest, but it definitely provides a more intimate setting. The menu includes NOLA favorites such as gumbo, jambalaya and red beans & rice, along with a delectable bread pudding. While enjoying your dinner, you will be entertained by a jazz band and take in a lovely sunset. A must-do, especially for first-timers!
The Twilight Zone
The Thursdays at Twilight Concert Series includes acoustic performances.
Lastly, this time of year brings more opportunities to enjoy the great outdoors. Every Thursday, from now until the end of July, you can enjoy performances at City Park. The “Thursdays at Twilight” concert series presents incredible music by a multitude of artists. Whether you gravitate to jazz, acoustic guitar, opera or swing tunes, it’s in the series lineup. Admission is only $10 per person, so it is one of the activities you can do on the cheap.
These three recommendations each offer fun, entertainment and relaxation. What more could you ask for when after a long day at work than to take five, after five?