For your third day in New Orleans, we recommend digging more into its history. Specifically, see some of the smaller museums and try some of the foods that were invented in town.
Start your day at the Hermann-Grima House. Learn about the way people lived in this 19th century home. They do not shy away from telling the story of how the family exploited slaves for household labor, and how urban enslavement differed from rural settings. The tours are by appointment only, so reservations are recommended. Walk by and snap a picture of its sister property, the Gallier House, that was featured in the film Interview of the Vampire. If you are a big fan, they offers tours as well.
Afterwards, grab lunch at Antoine’s Restaurant, that has been in operation since 1840. The menu features French-Creole cuisine. It offers reasonable prix-fix lunches of New Orleans classics, and is an inexpensive way to try a classic restaurant.
After lunch, spend some time in Jackson Square. It is a pretty park and a tourist destination, where artists, musicians, and vendors are often found. The Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis is indicative of its French founding history, and is worth a look inside for its beautiful art. There are several museums around the perimeter of the square. Try to step in one or two to round out your afternoon. The Presbytère was particularly interesting, with exhibits on the history of Mardi Gras and on lessons learned after Hurricane Katrina. The Cabildo building itself has a fascinating history, and its museum features many New Orleans historical artifacts.
For dinner, visit more classic New Orleans restaurants where some well-known foods and drinks were invented! Try the Pimm’s Cup at Napoleon House, the Bananas Foster at Brennan’s Restaurant, and the Hurricane at Pat O’Brien’s. Napoleon House has a great menu, and we recommend it for dinner, saving Brennan’s for dessert. Pat O’Brien’s is more suited for happy hour drinks or a way to wrap up the night.
