New Orleans is like my third home. For those that follow me regularly, I'm down there a couple of times a year. January is not usually the time of year you think of visiting New Orleans, but honestly it's one of my favorite times of year. The crowds are smaller so you can actually see things and take your time doing it. So here is some of my absolutely favorite things to do this time of year. 

Tips and Tricks

• I'm from Colorado. I went to college in Alamosa in the San Luis Valley. It was not that big of deal to walk to class in the morning in -45 degrees. The New Orleans cold though... it's that bone chilling high humidity cold and it's usually wet. The rain is freaking cold. I recommend a good water resistant outer shell and a nice hoodie underneath. 
• Just because the sun isn't out doesn't mean you won't get dehydrated, especially if you are drinking. 

1. Go to the museums. New Orleans has such a rich history, considering it's been there for 300 years! This time of year the crowds are much smaller so it's a fully immersive experience. The Pharmacy Musuem is my absolute favorite. Definitely do the guided tour if you can. It's worth it. Also the Storyville Museum and WWII are phenomenal. The Presbytere and the Cabildo have SO MUCH! From Mardi Gras to Katrina. Plus it's inside so you can worth up. My favorite was the SNL photos. 

• • https://pharmacymuseum.org
    
  • https://www.nationalww2museum.org
  • https://www.instagram.com/nolastoryville/

2. It's New Orleans! You have to go to a cemetery or three! Check out Sacred Grinds Coffee Shop for a warm drink and then you can wander the close by cemeteries (there's several!)

• • https://www.instagram.com/sacredgrinds/

3. Check out the early Mardi Gras Parades! Mardi Gras season kicks off on January 6th with the Joan of Arc Parade! I have seen it multiple times now, and this year participated, and it's my absolute favorite! It's fun and whimsical, and a little more family friendly compared to later parades but this one has so much heart. The feast before hand is absolutely amazing! Definitely look into it. 

4. Go find King Cake! After January 6th King Cake is officially legal in New Orleans and you can find different ones everywhere. Every bakery has different ones. There's French versions and New Orleans versions, so try as many as you can. All of them are good! I also make sure to hit up the Rouses Market are St. Philip (it's the closest to Dark Matter) for ones to bring home. And remember, the knife always stays in the box. 

5. Do some shopping! Absolute musts for me are Dark Matter Oddities and Artisan Collective, Voodoo Authentica of New Orleans Cultural Center & Collection, Crescent City Books. We were able to have conversations with the people working and learn so much stuff! That book is from 1584! 

• https://www.instagram.com/darkmatteroddities_nola/
• https://www.voodooshop.com
• http://www.crescentcitybooks.com

6. EAT! New Orleans is famous for its food and drink. Coop's is always one of my favorites. The rabbit jambalaya is amazing on a cold day. The Cafe Brulot at Antoine's is a great night cap. One of the things about New Orleans is that all the food is good, especially the not-New Orleans food, because it has to be. Check out Bratz Y'all for their German food and beirgarden. It's so perfect and cozy for a cold night. The gluhwein! Make sure to get the nuts in it! Trust me on that one. I don't care what time of year it is Frozen Irish Coffee from Molly's is a must! I would have three everyday if I could. 

• https://www.coopsplace.net
• https://antoines.com
• https://www.bratzyall.com
• https://www.mollysatthemarket.net