Easy on the wallet Big Easy

Beignets and Cafe au Lait are the perfect start to your New Orleans adventure. Dont' worry about all that powdered sugar on your shirt - it gives you an air of distinction!

Get off on the right foot with a free walking tour of the French Quarter that departs from the visitor center on Decatur. This will help you get your bearings and identify things that might interest you for later in the trip!

Get the New Orleans staple Muffaletta sandwich to go and head on over to Jackson Square for a picnic.

Find a nice bench in Jackson Square and enjoy people watching. With all the buskers, tarot readers, portrait artists, and musicians, it's the perfect way to ease into the afternoon!

Brush the olive salad off your shirt and head into the cathedral. It's free to look around and there is some really interesting history to be found.

Walk off some of that "Muff" at the Riverwalk. Take a leisurely stroll along the river, and figure out what makes this the crescent city!

I know! You've already had one "sandwich" today, but you won't regret taking in the other "sub" that epitomizes New Orleans.

You'll never forget the feeling you experience during an evening at Preservation Hall. The ambiance is true sense of New Orleans History, the music is world class, and at 5 bucks, it's a bargain that can't be beat. Your ticket buys you entrance for the whole night so feel free to come and go. Here's a tip: If you want a seat, you'll need to be in line early. But if you don't mind standing, go a little later in the evening. There usually isn't a line for the later sets and the guy working the door will keep you posted on when the next chance to enter is coming up.

Top off your night with a famous Hurricane and a stroll down Bourbon Street.

Browse the rows upon rows for bargains on jewelry, campy souvenirs, and great foods and spices to take a bit of cajun flavor home with you!

Surely you've worked up an appetite from all that shopping! Stop by Aunt Sally's for some fresh Pralines, and pick up some to take to all your friends back home.

You should be easing into the relaxed state of mind that typifies New Orleans. Stop by the Royal Street Grocery and Deli for some takeout. They have an amazing array of New Orleans faves (Barbecue Chicken, Ribs, Fried Catfish, Red Beans and Rice...). The food is amazing and it's just a fraction of the price you'd pay elsewhere. Take your food to go and follow your feet to a place to eat - you're sure to find a great spot where you can take in some music from street performers and enjoy your awesome lunch.

Spend the afternoon strolling throught the interesting shops in the French Quarter. Make sure to stop into this "tea room" which boasts a very rich history. (You may even see some ghosts!)

This is an authentic New Orleans experience that can't be beat. This is a local spot, a bit off the beaten path, but all the more worth it! You'll never believe the deal they have on Monday nights! For 5 bucks, you get to enjoy the classic New Orleans sound of Bob French and Friends. But here's the great part - after the first set is finished, they put out a spread of FREE barbecue chicken and red beans and rice! Dinner and music for 5 bucks can't be beat. (But get there early if you want to get a seat. This place gets packed with locals!)