Face it: if you’re passing through town to catch a cruise in New Orleans, you may as well book-end your trip with a few days in the Big Easy – most cruise passengers spend at least a day or two in New Orleans, according to Gary LaGrange, president and chief executive officer of the Port of New Orleans. We’ve selected a range of New Orleans hotels for you to check out – from historic to budget – for your stay in New Orleans pre- or post-cruise.

Check room rates and book hotels near the New Orleans cruise terminals.

Splurge: Hotel Monteleone
In 1886, Antonio Monteleone – a shoemaker who came to New Orleans from Contessa, Italy, and prospered at his French Quarter boot factory – bought the 14-room Commercial Hotel and gave it his name. Four generations (and a $60+ million renovation) later,  the family-owned, 600-room Monteleone (pictured above) is a six-time AAA Four Diamond award-winner and secure in its reputation as the Grand Dame of French Quarter hotels. The vibe throughout is retro-European hotel – from the guest rooms’ rich fabrics and marble bathrooms to the liveried doormen and the 16-story building’s distinctive Baroque façade. The hotel recently celebrated its 125th Anniversary and the hotel property experienced a top-to-bottom refreshing – from the rooftop pool and lounge area to the iconic Carousel Bar. Criollo, a new restaurant in the hotel, is set to open in Summer 2012. With its central location in the French Quarter, a few blocks from the cruise terminal, Bourbon Street, Jackson Square and shopping at Canal Place and the River Walk, the Monteleone is an ideal home base for exploring the Crescent City in style. Click here to book a room at the Hotel Monteleone.

Steal: Queen and Crescent Hotel

With the French Quarter at its doorstep, only three blocks away, the Queen and Crescent Hotel is one of the best-kept secrets in budget-friendly New Orleans hotels. This intimate, well-priced boutique property offers a cozy bar, compact Euro-style rooms with original artwork and all the necessities. But it’s not what’s inside the hotel that makes it such a bargain – it’s what’s just outside, mere blocks away. The Queen & Crescent is less than 5 blocks from Harrah’s Casino, the Audubon Insectarium, and Bourbon Street, and you can walk to most New Orleans attractions, including Jackson Square, the French Market and Café du Monde, in less than 15 minutes. Book a room at the Queen and Crescent Hotel.

Great location: Loews New Orleans Hotel

How’s this for convenience: an easy stroll from three streetcar lines (St. Charles, Canal, Riverfront), Harrah’s Casino and the New Orleans cruise terminal. That’s just part of the draw of Loews New Orleans, a former office building that was transformed into a 21-story 4-star hotel. The hotel comes complete with Café Adelaide (named for the colorful aunt of Ti Adelaide Martin, co-owner of Commander’s Palace) and the Swizzle Stick Bar, a cocktail emporium not to be missed. Rooms are huge and boast endless amenities, from city and river views to laptop-size safes to high-speed Internet access and local art. Click here to book a room at the Loews New Orleans Hotel.

Chic boutique: The Saint

Newly opened and uber-contemporary, The Saint Hotel is an impressive $45 million redo of a former hotel and office building called the Audubon, built in 1909.  Located in prime Mardi Gras viewing real estate at 901 Canal, the eight-story boutique 166-room hotel boasts a sleek modern design, urban-chic guest rooms, columned lobby, gorgeous Beaux Arts architectural details and the soon-to-open Halo rooftop bar overlooking the city.

Swanky: Le Pavillon

With its sumptuous gilt lobby,  Italian marble and grand chandeliers, Le Pavillon Hotel is a local landmark.  Some of the art-filled guest rooms are small, but there are antiques throughout and a beautiful rooftop swimming pool to stave off the swampy summer heat.  In  what might be the most unusual of hotel traditions, peanut butter and jelly sandwiches and cold milk is offered as a late night buffet. Click here to book a room at Le Pavillon Hotel.

Budget: Best Western Plus St. Charles Inn

Located right on the St. Charles streetcar line, the Best Western Plus St. Charles Inn delivers a familiar brand, good value and comfy rooms including plenty of extras like free Internet, parking and continental breakfast. Check rates and book a reservation at the Best Western Plus St. Charles Inn.

French Quarter: Prince Conti

Tucked into a corner of the French Quarter, the Prince Conti Hotel is a gem, a European style pension adjacent to the Bombay Club, known for its extensive martini list and Café Conti, open for breakfast or Creole lunch. The AAA triple-diamond rated hotel features 76 antique-filled guest rooms on three floors. A friendly, helpful staff is happy to assist. Click here to book a room at the Prince Conti hotel.

Who: Russell Murphy, Royal Sonesta Hotel

NewOrleans.com: Where do you buy art?

Russell Murphy: When I’m buying for myself, I go to Royal Street. I don’t think you’ll find more educated people in this city about art and antiques.

NO.Com: Everyone knows about Jazz Fest and French Quarter Fest — are there any off-the-tourist-radar festivals or events in the city that you enjoy?

RM: The Fringe Fest has become an overwhelming success in the past few years. It’s full of different “fringe” arts – not Picassos, but people saying “I’m going to take a bunch of broken beads, melt them down, make a piece of art out of it and display it in a vacant lot.” Or if you want to do spoken word, music with non-traditional instruments, if you want to paint a house, the Fringe Fest lets local young people participate in the art scene in a different way.

NO.Com: What’s your favorite green space in New Orleans?

RM: I like Woldenberg Park. There’s nothing more romantic than going and hanging out on the river and watching the ships go by. I think there’s a certain amount of therapy involved. The other half of that therapy might be drinking, but we’ll leave that open to everybody. I like to sit back, relax, and feel the city of New Orleans as it’s washing through.

NO.com: What in New Orleans do visitors and hotel guests ask you about most often?

RM: The streetcar. How to use it, where it is, where it goes. The streetcar is a unique part of our culture and it’s a phenomenal way to see the city. Granted, I always give the yin and yang answer to visitors. In the middle of August? Don’t ride it. But for Jazz Fest or when it’s not so hot, it’s the best way to see the city on your own. You get to see and feel New Orleans in a way you can’t if you’re driving around on your own.

NO.com: Name a neighborhood restaurant you recommend often.

RM: I love Mandina’s. It’s about as New Orleans as it gets. One of my personal favorite places to go is Angelo Brocato’s for ice cream. I’d sell my mother’s soul for the St. Joseph’s almond ice cream. My wife and I like to split a cannoli, too.

NO.com: Where do you send guests for a good cocktail?

RM: I’m not just saying this because it’s in the hotel, but Le Booze at the Royal Sonesta is a great place. I’m a people-watcher. I love going over there, talking to the bartender, and watching the wackos go by on Bourbon Street. It’s New Orleans voyeurism at its best.

NO.com: What tours do you always recommend to visitors?

RM: A swamp tour. We’ve got the bachelor party guys who want to jump in the water with an alligator. Then we’ve got the people who want to come in for an educational background. We share with them: this is a dying thing. The swamps and the marshlands are sinking as we go along. They want to see what it’s all about, they want to understand it better themselves, because Americans are smart. They understand what’s going on with the wetlands and they want to see what’s happening in person. Click here to book a Swamp Airboat Adventure Tour.

Despite its reputation as a playground for grownups, New Orleans is also a city of families. Whether you have a few days (or just hours) before or after your Caribbean cruise from New Orleans, there are plenty of family-friendly diversions in the Big Easy.

The Audubon Institute Attractions

The Audubon Institute is the umbrella organization behind the Aquarium, the Zoo and the Insectarium.

Aquarium of the Americas

Get up close and personal with 15,000 underwater creatures, including sharks, penguins and sting rays. The Aquarium of the Americas is within blocks of the French Quarter, right on the Mississippi River. The aquarium journeys through major aquatic habitats of North and South America, including a nod to the local population in the Mississippi River Gallery. The most colorful exhibit is also one of the most interactive: the Caribbean Reef is designed with a 32-foot-long aquatic tunnel, where you’re in the middle of the action, surrounded by 132,000 gallons of water and thousands of colorful reef fish.

From the New Orleans cruise terminals: Less than 5 blocks (5-10 minute walk) to Canal Street/riverfront.

Audubon Zoo

This sprawling, 53-acre menagerie is home to more than 1,500 exotic animals that live in lush, painstakingly created natural habitats inside the zoo. Favorite exhibits include the Asian elephants, Malayan sun bears and Bengal tigers at the Asian Domain; gorillas, orangutans, golden lion tamarins at the World of Primates; and alligators, copperheads and rattlesnakes at the Reptile Encounter.

From the New Orleans cruise terminals: 5-10 minute cab ride; 20-30 minutes on the St. Charles Avenue streetcar to Audubon Park.

Audubon Insectarium

Located in the historic U.S. Custom House on Canal Street in the French Quarter, the Insectarium is devoted to all things creepy, crawly and winged, from waterbugs to butterflies. See the world from a bug’s perspective as you wander through a mysterious Louisiana swamp and a butterfly-filled garden. The museum boasts more than 75 live and interactive exhibits in addition to thousands of mounted specimens.

From the New Orleans cruise terminals: Less than 10 blocks to Canal Street/N. Peters.

Entergy IMAX Theater

Located next to the Aquarium of the Americas, New Orleans Entergy IMAX Theater offers a spectacular you-are-there view of subjects ranging from nature and sports to outer space. The Entergy IMAX Theater is one of only six in the world to offer flat-screen, single-projection, 3-D and high definition technology.  Recent shows include Hurricane on the Bayou, Lions 3-D and Under the Sea 3-D.

From the New Orleans cruise terminals: Less than 5 blocks to Canal Street / riverfront

New Orleans City Park

There is plenty of room for kids to run and play in this 1,300-acre park – the fifth largest urban garden in America – but City Park also offers a few unique attractions for youngsters.

From the New Orleans cruise terminals: 5-10 minute cab ride; 20 minutes on the Canal/City Park streetcar line

Carousel Gardens Amusement Park at City Park

Kids of all ages have been riding the “flying horses” of City Park’s antique carousel since 1906. One of only 100 antique wooden carousels in the country and the last one in Louisiana, the carousel figures are the masterwork of famed carousel carvers Looff and Carmel. The kids won’t care that this beautiful carousel is listed on the National Register of Historic Places, but anybody with an eye for fine renovation will appreciate this source of local pride. Other rides for the little ones include Musik Express, Rockin’ Tug, Coney Tower, Ferris Wheel, Bumper Cars, Live Oak Lady Bug roller coaster, and a miniature train ride that tours the park.

Storyland at City Park

Built in the 1950s, Storyland is a playground featuring 25 larger-than-life storybook exhibits, a fantasy play area inhabited by sculpted fairytale characters (many of which were created by New Orleans’ finest float craftsmen at Mardi Gras World). Crafts activities are held in the Mother Goose Circle. The scene is really very sweet and great for the little ones.

Louisiana Children’s Museum

Need to keep the kids occupied before you embark? The Louisiana Children’s Museum is easy walking distance to the New Orleans cruise terminals.

Hands-on learning equals hands-on fun at this spunky children’s museum, where kids are encouraged to discover a world of wonder throughout 30,000 sq. ft. of learn-by-doing exhibits. Head upstairs where role-playing rules – at the Little Winn-Dixie, a grocery store complete with dairy cases and cashiers; a Kid’s Café, for budding chefs-to-be; an optical shop; and a TV set where kids can be a news anchor, reporter, director or meteorologist. A few of the most popular destinations include Team Turtle Training Camp, where older kids play video games geared for learning about health and fitness, and Art Trek, a place for would-be artistes to draw, paint and sculpt their masterpieces.

Whether you’re fresh off the ship or headed to the New Orleans cruise terminals with the family, the Little Port of New Orleans exhibit at the museum is another interactive activity to wow the kids with. An interactive global map tracks a barge’s cargo, with tugboats and cruise ships vying for space on the make-believe river.

From the New Orleans cruise terminals: 5-minute walk / 5 blocks

Battle of the Bands at Tipitina’s

Get ready to rumble on Friday night at Tipitina’s as HBO wunderkind David Simon promotes a musical mashup with contenders from the soundtrack rosters of Treme and The Wire, two critically acclaimed shows his Blown Deadline Productions has made for the pay per view network. Hosted by New Orleans native (and Treme star) Wendell Pierce and Michael K. Williams (“Omar” from The Wire), the Battle Royale benefits the Tipitina’s Foundaton and the Roots of Music non-profit marching band initiative. East Coast contenders go-go act Anwan Glover and the Backyard Band and jazz-funk ensemble Lafayette Gilchrist and the New Volcanoes to go toe-to-toe with local champs The Stooges Brass Band and heavyweight brawler Galactic. Clearly, the locals are heavily favored against the no-name Yankee contenders, but with the proceeds going to benefit two great local charities, everybody wins in this good, clean fight.
Details: Tickets $20 Doors 8:00 p.m.  Friday, May 11 at Tipitina’s (501 Napoleon 504-895-8477)

Shakespeare in the Besthoff Sculpture Garden

The New Orleans Museum of Art and the NOLA Project team up this month to put forth the wonderful Shakespearean romp “As You Like It” in the Besthoff Sculpture Garden adjacent to the museum. The last such endeavor, “A Midsummer Night’s Dream”, was such a resounding success that NOLA Projects artistic director A.J. Allegra has been anxiously awaiting a chance to return and stage what many regard as Shakespeare’s most intelligent comedy. Kathlyn Carson assumes the roll of Rosalind in this tale of mistaken gender and sexual tension set in the Forest of Arden. Sets shift to different spots around the garden, and patrons are encouraged to bring a blanket and light folding chairs.
Details: Tickets $16.  Doors: 5:00 p.m. Show starts at 7:00 p.m. Performances May 9,10,13,16,17,18, and 20. Bestoff Sculture Garden at New Orleans Museum of Art  (One Collins C Diboll Circle, 504-658-4100)

MaiFest/VolksFest at Deutches Haus

Ancient pagan festivals marking spring and life’s resurgence from the cold dark winter are celebrated by cultures worldwide. Maifest, the German spring fling, dates back to the 10th century, and the celebration traditionally includes cakes, sausages, and a maypole decorated with ribbons. This weekend the Deutches Haus of New Orleans brings their version of MaiFest/VolksFest with a plethora of German beer, food, schnapps and plenty of polka music to boot. Arrive in a Volkswagen and receive priority parking and free admission.
Details: Tickets $6.  4 p.m. – 11 p.m. Friday, May 11; Noon – 11 p.m. Saturday, May 12 at Deutches Haus New Orleans (1023 Ridgewood Dr. Metairie, 504-522-8014)

Nola Veggie Fest at the New Orleans Healing Center

If you’ve had enough crawfish and sausage for the moment,  check out Nola Veggie Fest at the New Orleans Healing Center. Local vegetarians and vegans organized Veggie Fest to spread the word about food choices. The two-day program includes food sampling, cooking demonstrations, and a variety of speakers addressing health, fitness and nutritional issues as well as music from the Taboo Brass Band. There will be plenty of local food vendors offering a variety of vegan options and a grand variety of conscious crafts.
Details: Tickets $10.  10 a.m. – 6 p.m. Saturday, May 12; 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Sunday May 13 at the New Orleans Healing Center (2372 St. Claude Ave., 504-940-1130 )

The Heartless Bastards at One Eyed Jacks

The Heartless Bastards burst onto the scene from Cincinnati in 2004 when they were signed by Fat Possum Records as a result of a demo passed along by Black Keys drummer Patrick Carney. From there the band went through several lineup changes with original drummer Dave Colvin joining singer/songwriter Erika Wennerstrom, who presides with confidence and style like a garage band version of Adele with her personalized lyrics and round vocal delivery. The Heartless Bastards are touring in support of their new release Album Arrow.
Details: Tickets $18.  Doors 9:00 p.m.  Saturday, May 12 at One Eyed Jacks (615 Tolouse St. 504-569-9-8361)

Mother’s Day preview of Renee Bistro at Renaissance Arts Hotel

Mom will rejoice this Sunday to find that one of the city’s most beloved chefs has returned to the French bistro fold as Renee Bajeux revives Rene Bistro in the space formerly occupied by LaCote Brasseirie in the Renaissance Arts Hotel. Bajeux’s first incarnation of Rene Bistro at the Pere Marquette Hotel was one of the most highly-regarded restaurants in the city, but closed after Hurricane Katrina. Bajeux, who first came to local prominence at the Windsor Court Hotel, has bopped around a bit since the storm, recently completing a stint at the Rib Room. On Mother’s Day, he gives a welcome preview to the restaurant, which officially opens on May 15.
Details  Brunch $50. Served from 11 a.m. – 5 p.m. Sunday, May 13 at Rene Bistrot (700 Tchopitoulas St., 504-613-2350)

National World War II Museum

Memorial Day is, first and foremost, about commemorating all Americans who have died fighting for our country. Honor the brave and pay a visit to the National World War II Museum. This world-class museum holds the country’s largest collection of World War II memorabilia – from soldiers’ letters homes and breathtaking photographs to detailed exhibits about every stage of the war. The Solomon Victory Theater at the museum screens hourly showings of Beyond All Boundaries, a groundbreaking 4-D film produced by Tom Hanks that journeys from the bombing of Pearl Harbor to the final Allied victory in first-person accounts and archival footage.
Details: National World War II Museum (945 Magazine Street) – Museum exhibits open daily, 9:00 am – 5:00 pm. Beyond All Boundaries shows daily from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm, Sunday – Thursday, plus 5:00 pm showings on Friday and Saturday. The film runs approximately 45 minutes.

New Orleans Wine & Food Experience (May 22 – 26)

Otherwise known as NOWFE, this mother of all food festivals in New Orleans pairs top local restaurants with renowned winemakers for a five-day bacchanalia of wine dinners and events celebrating the city’s rich culinary scene. NOWFE is celebrating its 20th Anniversary this year. Don’t miss the Grand Tasting, an uber foodie marathon held at the Convention Center on Friday, May 24 and Saturday, May 25 featuring wine and food samples from more than 75 premier New Orleans restaurants and chefs and 175 wineries.
Details: Prices for wine seminars and restaurant wine dinners vary. Tickets for the Grand Tasting are $89 in advance and $100 the day of the event. See the schedule of events and buy tickets on www.nowfe.com

New Orleans Greek Festival (May 25-27)

OPA! Sure, New Orleans is known for its fine Creole and Cajun cuisine, but if there’s one annual festival that proves there’s more to our food culture than gumbo and po-boys, it’s Greek Fest. This three-day festival is held at Holy Trinity Cathedral, a gorgeous church on Bayou St. John in Lakeview, and features a bounty of Greek eats. Think: slow-roasted spring lamb sold by the pound, traditional Greek dinners and a pastry “shop” brimming with more than 20 homemade traditional Greek pastries. (The pastry booth is a feast for the senses and worth the 10-minute drive from downtown New Orleans to see for yourself.) The festival also features cathedral tours, Hellenic dancers, live Greek music and – because it’s so nice, we’ll say it twice – slow-roasted lamb.
Details: Holy Trinity Cathedral (1200 Robert E. Lee Blvd.) – $5 admission (children under 12 free). Hours: Friday, May 25 — 5:00 pm to 11:00 pm, Saturday, May 26 — 11:00 am to 11:00 pm Sunday, May 27 — 11:00 am to 9:00 pm

Audubon…anything

Bring the kiddos to any of New Orleans famous family attractions. Check out the Cool Zoo water park at Audubon Zoo (open 10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Tuesday-Sunday), explore life under the sea (and river) at Audubon Aquarium of the Americas, or get up close to the creepy, crawly side of life at Audubon Insectarium. Pay a discounted price for the Audubon Experience Package, which offers admission to all four Audubon attractions, including admission to the Entergy IMAX Theate (now showing Born to be Wild 3D, Lions 3D, Hurricane on the Bayou and Under the Sea 3D). Click here for the Audubon Experience Package and tickets to other Audubon attractions.

Cruise to the Caribbean via New Orleans

You deserve a real vacation…not just a Federal holiday, but one with fun in the sun and gorgeous scenery – and one where you don’t have a lift a finger. Carnival Conquest sets sail on May 27 on a 7-night Caribbean cruise with ports of call in Jamaica, Cayman Islands, Mexico. (Packages starting at $754.) Or, take a 5-night Western Caribbean cruise on Carnival Elation on May 28. Ports of call include Yucatan and Cozumel Mexico, and packages are as low as $519. Click here to check rates and book your New Orleans cruise to the Caribbean!

Birdfoot Chamber Music Festival / Party at the Piazza (May 25)

The inaugural Birdfoot Chamber Music Festival delivers the best in live chamber music to New Orleans and is the Gulf South’s only chamber music festival. Hosted by Loews New Orleans Hotel, the Party in the Piazza on May 25 will include selected Duos by Béla Bartók, Brahms Hungarian Dances for piano four-hands, excerpts of Brahms’ Piano Quintet in F minor Op. 34, and Antonín Dvořák’s String Serenade in E major, Op. 22.
Details: $10 admission (plus food & beverage concessions). Friday, May 25, 5:30 p.m. – 8 p.m. at Piazza d’Italia at the Loews New Orleans Hotel (300 Poydras Street)

3rd Annual Big Easy Comedy Festival (May 26)

Get your giggles on at this at the 3rd Annual Big Easy Comedy Festival, featuring natiional comedians Mike Epps, Tony Rock, Gary Owen, Jay Lamont, and Joe Torry.
Details: Tickets $45-$75 (plus fees), May 26 at the UNO Lakefront Arena (6801 Franklin Ave.)

Number of rooms: 226

Wow hotel feature: The Crystal Room brings bling to breakfast with sparkling chandeliers, Bananas Foster waffles and Creole omelets. You’ll be back for the gumbo at lunch.

Room with a view: You’ll find one of the best cityscape views in town from the Le Pavillon’s rooftop, along with one of the best year-round heated hotel pools in New Orleans. The rooftop also features a hot tub, sun deck and private cabanas. Pool-side food and beverage service is available.

Hidden Gem: In case you’re feeling a bit peckish before turning in (or going out), munch on the hotel’s famous lagniappe snack of ice cold milk and peanut butter and jelly sandwiches, served on a silver platter at 10 p.m. every night in the lobby.

Concierge in the know: Crackerjack concierge Justin Fauth, currently president of the New Orleans Concierge Association, has been guiding guests of Le Pavillon since 2000. He’s the go-to guy for anything you can think of – including where to find the driest martini in town. Click here to read more about Fauth’s favorite tips and places to go.

Check, please: Looking for the best restaurants near Le Pavillon? Because of it’s prime location, the hotel is within walking distance to many famous New Orleans restaurants, including celebrity chef John Besh’s Restaurant August, Cajun classic Bon Ton Cafe and Mother’s (home of the “debris” po-boy.) More nearby restaurants to consider:

Ste. Marie (930 Poydras St.) just one block from the hotel, serves modern French fare and six Champagnes by the glass. The steak tartare will satisfy your Francophile carnivore and the garlicky moules frites spiked with chorizo will be gone in a flash. Ste. Marie is also located on Poydras Street, one block away from the hotel.

Herbsaint (701 St. Charles Ave.) Under the guidance of James Beard award-winning chef Donald Link, Herbsaint sets a dynamic table with French and Italian inspired dishes fueled by local ingredients and distinctive southern flair.  Case in point: Kurobuta pork belly with bacon, white beans and cabbage. Herbsaint is a scenic walk just four blocks from the hotel. Reservations recommended.

Catch a show at: Two blocks from the hotel, Lafayette Square is one of the city’s many inviting green spaces, but this one showcases 12 weeks of free Wednesday night concerts (called Wednesdays at the Square) from March to May, plus ongoing special events in the summer and fall months. Check the NewOrleans.com Festivals & Events calendars for weekly details.

Beignets, beignets, beignets

Café Du Monde serves these famous pillows of powdered-sugary fried dough with chicory-laced café au lait 24/7. No visit to New Orleans is complete without at least one order. Lines can be daunting during busy weekends. Local tip: hit up Café du Monde for a treat late-afternoon or after dinner, when lines are shorter. Or, order beignets from the to-go window at the back of the restaurant and enjoy them on a bench in Jackson Square or Woldenberg Park on the riverfront.

Take a New Orleans tour. Any tour.

Anyone who has taken a cruise knows the deal: leave it to the professionals when you want to explore a destination in a short amount of time. A 2- or 3-hour New Orleans city tour will cover more ground in New Orleans than you can cover on your own in a week. Or, bite off a smaller piece of the city with a French Quarter tour. If you’re in town for an extra day or two, cruise through South Louisiana’s famous swamps or explore historic Oak Alley and Laura Plantations.

Click here to book a tour in New Orleans.

Catch a show at Preservation Hall

This iconic French Quarter music venue has been THE place for no-frills, top-notch traditional jazz and brass since 1961. There’s no bar and seating is limited to a few rows of folding chairs (standing room, otherwise) – because here, it’s all about jazz. The line to get in starts forming about 30 minutes before each show. Details: Preservation Hall (726 St. Peter Street, (504) 522-2841), tickets $15. Open nightly, 8 p.m. to 11 p.m.

Grab a muffaletta to go at Central Grocery

Dusty cans of olives and imported tomatoes are not the draw at this old French Quarter Italian grocery. People are here for one reason: to grab N’Awlins version of a sub (invented in this very market), piled high with Italian meats and dressed with the store’s trademark green olive salad. Local tip: Grab a Barq’s rootbeer with your order – this local favorite is the traditional accompaniment to wash down a muffuletta.

Hop on a streetcar

One of the least expensive, most interesting ways to explore New Orleans: via streetcar. For $1.25 (or a $3 all-day “Jazzy Pass”), you can ride miles and miles of rails that run through New Orleans. The St. Charles Avenue streetcar runs from Canal Street across 13 miles of the Garden District and Uptown neighborhood. The Canal/Carrollton streetcar traverses Mid-City and runs to City Park or the cemeteries. The Riverfront streetcar runs along the river, from the Convention Center and New Orleans cruise terminal area to the French Market.

Shop the French Market

The historic French Market offers a mixed bag of kitsch, local artwork and imported knockoffs alongside stands selling New Orleans souvenirs from hot sauce to voodoo dolls. Every Sunday at 2 p.m., chefs, cocktail experts, local farmers and other foodie folks conduct free cooking demonstrations and discussions at the French Market Fare stage, courtesy of the Southern Food and Beverage Museum.

Join the scene on Frenchmen Street

A diverse crowd frequents this street just outside of the French Quarter in the Marigny because it is lined with some of the city’s best live music clubs, including d.b.a., The Spotted Cat, Snug Harbor and the Blue Nile. You’ll hear ragtime jazz, blues, brass and more seven nights a week on Frenchmen Street, from local greats like Walter “Wolfman” Washington, Glen David Andrews, Meschiya Lake, Jon Cleary, and The Tin Men. Click here to check the calendar for show listings…or just hit the street and club-hop. Many of these live music venues do not charge a cover, so be sure to tip the band.

Dine at a legend

Whether you stand in line for lunch at Galatoire’s on a Friday afternoon (they don’t take reservations for the plum first floor tables) or head to Commander’s Palace in the Garden District, or get dolled up for dinner at Antoine’s, a meal at one of New Orleans’ historic restaurants is a must. (Click here for a list of New Orleans essential restaurants.)

Visit the National WWII Museum

Home of the largest collection of WWII memorabilia in America – from soldiers’ letters home and exhibits on the technological innovations of the war to vivid photographs and film footage ­– the National WWII Museum chronicles the war that changed the world. Interesting fact: The museum was built here in part because the landing craft used in the D-Day invasions were built locally and tested on nearby bayous. Details: National World War II Museum (945 Magazine Street, (504) 528-1944)

Aw Shucks!

Have a seat at the scarred marble oyster bar and watch the pros in action at Acme Oyster House, where Gulf oysters are a specialty, and the fried oyster po-boys are just about perfect. If the line snaking outside Acme is not your cup of gumbo, cross the street to Felix’s and order a few dozen raw or char-grilled at the stand-up oyster bar. Details: Acme Oyster House (724 Iberville Street, (504) 522-5873)

We know NOLA! If you have any questions about exploring New Orleans before or after a cruise, drop us a message on our Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/myneworleans

Where Y’at?

Click here for New Orleans maps: Download free maps of Downtown & the French Quarter, a New Orleans Hotel map and a New Orleans Cruise Terminals & Parking map.

In the Terminal

Situated behind the New Orleans Convention Center on the Mississippi River, the Erato St. and Julia St. cruise terminals are centrally located and within easy walking distance to New Orleans and French Quarter hotels, restaurants and attractions. There is an ATM in the terminal, as well as a refreshment stand serving snacks, coffee and ice cream, and a souvenir kiosk. (But seriously…don’t blow your appetite on such fare! A city known for it’s unique cuisine awaits. See the New Orleans Cruise Guide: Food for details.)

If you only have a few hours to explore New Orleans post-cruise, you can transfer your luggage to the airport if you’re flying out the same day. Call Rush It Courier Service (877-467-8898) for rates. You may also find that the larger hotels near the New Orleans cruise terminal will store your bags for a nominal fee – check with the Hilton New Orleans Riverside, the Sheraton New Orleans or the Marriott on Canal. (Note: some hotel bellmen will only accept bags from hotel guests; one of our hotel insiders advises visitors to avoid talking about whether or not you’re a guest at the hotel and to tip generously, at least $3-5 per bag).)

Walk to the French Quarter from the New Orleans cruise terminals: approximately 10 minutes

The cruise terminals at the Port of New Orleans are an easy walk to hotels, shopping, live music clubs, restaurants, and landmarks of the French Quarter and downtown New Orleans – 10 to 15 minutes or less, or approximately 10 blocks. The terminals are directly behind the New Orleans Convention Center, next to the Warehouse / Arts District and Central Business District, and within walking distance of the historic French Quarter (about 10 minutes).

Streetcar to the French Quarter from the New Orleans cruise terminals: approximately 5 minutes, plus wait time

You can either walk less than 10 short blocks to Canal Street (where the French Quarter begins), or take the Riverfront streetcar line ($1.25/person) with stops at Canal near Harrah’s Casino and the Aquarium of the Americas, and at the French Market near Café du Monde. Ask a terminal SeaCap porter to point you to the closest streetcar stop at the terminal.

Pedicab to the French Quarter from the New Orleans cruise terminal: approximately 5 minutes

Pedicabs are a new addition to New Orleans’ transportation scene. You might catch a pedicab near the cruise terminals and Convention Center, or you can call ahead to schedule a pick-up. Rates: $1/block/person, or $60 per hour (rates increase for major holidays, including Mardi Gras).

New Orleans pedicab companies

NOLA Pedicabs (504) 274-1300

Need a Ride Pedicabs (504) 488-6565

Bike Taxi Unlimited (504) 891-3441

Cab to the French Quarter from the New Orleans cruise terminal: approximately 5 minutes, $10-$12

As with most cruise terminals, the wait for a cab as the entire ship disembarks can be epic. To avoid the wait, walk up Julia Street, away from the terminal, across Convention Center Blvd. — you may have less of a wait flagging a cab at a cross-street like Commerce or Tchoupitoulas (pronounced CHOP-ih-TOO-lis). Cab fare: $3.50 plus $2/mile and $1 per additional passenger. During peak visitor times, fares increase to $5 per person or the meter rate (whichever is greater).

Need more information about getting around town before or after a New Orleans cruise? Consider us your personal local guide! Drop any questions on the NewOrleans.com Facebook page.

Give her cookies for a good cause

If mom is a tough cookie to buy for, consider a box of goodies from some of the city’s top bakeries. A select group of New Orleans bakeries is selling special cakes, cookies, and candies May 7 – 12 with proceeds going toward the restoration of the Margaret Haughery monument in the Lower Garden District. Haughery devoted her life to helping orphaned children and needy women in New Orleans in the 1800s. The monument, unveiled in 1884, was the first monument of a woman erected in the United States. Participating bakeries include Bittersweet Confections (725 Magazine St, 504-523-2626), Maple Street Patisserie (7638 Maple St, 504-304-1526), and Swiss Confectionery (747 St. Charles Ave, 504-522-7788). For more information, contact the Monumental Task Committee at (888) 534-3936

Celebrate strong, courageous women

May 8th marks the date in 1429 when Jeanne d’Arc, the Maid of Orleans, lifted the siege of that French city. Here in Joan of Arc’s New World city, the event will be commemorated with an exhibit at the Old Ursuline Convent of photographer Alex Labry’s images of Joan of Arc statues taken throughout France. The exhibit opens with an artist’s reception on Tuesday, May 8th, from 5-8 p.m., and stays on display through the end of June 2012. Details: Old Ursuline Convent, 1100 Chartres Street, 504-522-2621, ext. 205

Treat her like a queen on the Creole Queen

Click here to book a reservation for Mother’s Day brunch on the Creole Queen. The captain will narrate the voyage as it meanders down the Mississippi, pointing out landmarks along the way while everyone enjoys a deluxe brunch buffet with champagne. Passengers disembark at the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve midway through the trip and receive a tour of the Chalmette National Battlefield. Details: Boarding time: 11:30 a.m. Tickets: $70 (adult), $59 (child).

Do the zoo

For more than twenty years, Audubon Zoo has been giving moms free admission to the zoo on Mother’s Day. Craft tents, tasty treats, and a performance by Irma Thomas and the Professionals round out a great family day at the zoo. Details: Buy tickets ahead of time to skip the lines! Open 10 a.m. – 5 p.m., Adults: $16.00, seniors: $13.00, children 2-12 years: $11.00, FREE for moms.

Keep mom out of the kitchen….

Vacherie at the Hotel St. Marie is serving a South Louisiana brunch spread (think: Boudin Benedict or Crawfish Frittata) complete with fresh baked cakes and pies. Make your reservation early for a shot at a coveted spot in Vacherie’s lush courtyard (pictured above). Details: Brunch served 7 a.m. – 2 p.m., 827 Toulouse Street, 504-207-4532

The Royal Sonesta hotel hosts a Royal Champagne Brunch that kicks off with mimosas and a buffet including She-Crab Bisque, Lavender-Roasted Rack of Lamb, and Pomegranate Crème Brulee. Details: Call 504-553-2270 to reserve tables in hourly seatings between 10:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. Tickets: Adults: $79, children 5-12: $35, children under 5 eat free

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