Show 'em your NOLA
Guests peruse Bacchanal"s vast wine selection before heading to the restaurant"s back patio for live music. (Photo by Paula Burch-Celentano)
Only at Tulane, Only in New Orleans. Introduced to first-year students at the annual convocation address, this slogan permeates every student"s Tulane University experience. As this chapter of their academic career closes with Commencement on Saturday (May 16), it"s time to do what New Orleanians do best celebrate.
As family and friends of the class of 2015 visit this week, graduates should take the opportunity to reveal different sides of this soulful city to newcomers.
As this chapter of their academic career closes with Commencement on Saturday (May 16), it's time to do what New Orleanians do best -- celebrate.
Here are some suggestions for showing off your New Orleans.
Audubon Butterfly Garden and Insectarium
Occupying the historic Old New Orleans Customs House, the insectarium is devoted to educating guests on the world"s 900,000 bug species. All ages will marvel at the Butterflies in Flight exhibit. The vividly hued inhabitants often perch on visitors" shoulders as they tour the Japanese-style garden.
Since 2012, the Frenchmen Art Market has operated as New Orleans" only nightly outdoor art market. The Marigny neighborhood shopping hub offers handcrafted artwork, gifts and jewelry from local artisans. After exploring aisles lined with whimsical prints and rustic accessories, rove the rest of Frenchmen Street, a live music mecca.
Bacchanal"s backyard oasis of mismatched patio furniture surrounds the humble stage that hosts live music nightly. With a block party atmosphere, the eatery invites guests to pull up a chair and select from its incredibly curated menu and vast wine collection. Assemble a gourmet cheese plate or sample the bacon wrapped dates served with piquillo peppers.
From Friday (May 15) through Sunday (May 17), the 10th annual Mid-City Bayou Boogaloo will blanket the banks of Bayou St. John. The free festival will feature an arts market, daily live music and a myriad of local food vendors. Encouraging visitors to enjoy the lineup while staying active, festivalgoers are invited to kayak on the bayou and dock at the Dumaine Street stage.
