Congo Square
Great place for a romantic promenade in New Orleans and to connect with nature as well as your ancestors. Every Sunday from 3pm-6pm for the past 300 years there has been a drum circle. I’ve been to plenty of drum circles, but the vibe of this one felt richly rooted by the tree of life and the gumbo of people and cultures that bring this place to life. If you’re interested show up early so you don’t miss the opening ceremony. Recognizing the importance of this location from a historic and cultural perspective can easily be lost on you if you don’t do your research or take a guided walking tour. I’m so grateful some locals volunteered to give me the back story as well as the best time to enjoy the park. You won’t learn much by just walking around because despite there being plenty of sculptures, seating, enchanting pathways and ponds it lacks signage. Congo Square is an open space within Louis Armstrong Park, which is located inside the historic Tremé neighborhood of New Orleans, just north of the French Quarter. It’s easily accessed on foot or by ride share. Once you’ve had your fill of the vibrancy and activities in the quarter this is a great place for a meditative stroll.
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Amistad Research Center
Some friends and I visited from Chicago and the exhibition at the time was “Free Southern Theater”. It was interesting to learn the historical beginnings of Black people in theater minus “blackface”.
It’s really just a resource center, I would recommend it for anyone with an interest in history (visiting Tulane University).
Free People of Color Museum
This was by far the best tour I have ever taken at any museum or facility. Jyna gives tour and plays the part brilliantly. It was filled with information and she kept my interest. All I can say is BRAVO and give a standing ovation!!! She also tries to engage tourist which makes you feel a part of it all. I left wanting to learn more! The history of the beginning of blacks and creoles is so unique and beautiful!!! It shows how people of African descent are intelligent, industrious and even when held back will find ways to excel. Even in 18th century there was an 80% literacy rate among these people.
The young lady who checked us in was also very nice and inviting! She also shared information regarding the NOAAM which is in walking distance (.7 miles). If you arrive early you are allowed to walk around museum and take photos with no flash.
I highly recommended visiting this museum if in New Orleans. The tours are only on Friday and Saturday and only once each day so please check schedule. You must also book tour online and an email will be sent pay for in advance. It’s worth every penny and I highly recommend allowing yourself to have this wonderful experience!!
Airboat Adventures
We saw lots of alligators. The smallest was a tiny baby. The biggest was 11-12 ft long. We saw other wildlife too! It was beautiful out there. Our captain was GREAT! Can’t go wrong here.
Gallery 600 Julia
This is the BEST art gallery in New Orleans, for painting quality and selection! It specializes in Louisiana art, and the care that goes into it shows. A gem not to be missed!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
Sutton Galleries
One of my favorite galleries in Nolo. Love the pieces and style – not just the usual crazy stuff to get your attention but actual interesting and attractive stuff you’d want to display because you enjoy looking at it. Of course, that’s my opinion, and art speaks to everyone differently, but hey, I think I know art as I’ve done a bit of painting and sculpting myself! I also enjoyed speaking with Tommy, the director.