Think “Free” in NOLA, Part 2

Here are more ideas on how to enjoy the freebies that we have in The Big Easy and, if you to missed Part 1 CLICK HERE to catch up and review.  

Overall, I explored 18 possibilities: 12 are completely free and six charge a modest fee ($25 or less).

EXPLORE ELEGANT ROYAL STREET: FREE   

Royal Street runs parallel to Bourbon Street. Yet this thoroughfare – one of the finest stretches of art galleries, antique stores, restaurants and architecture in the country – is sometimes almost completely missed by visitors.

The blocks of Royal between St. Louis and St. Ann Streets become a pedestrian mall from 11am to 4pm. You’ll find the shop, Trashy Diva at 537 Royal (504) 522-4233 and it’s a must-visit – the name alone can stop traffic. You’ll find 40s and 50s-inspired retro dresses, jewelry, lingerie and much more. There’s an entire line of clothes for those who love rockabilly (country + rock), plus some corsets and other fun finds if you’re feeling adventurous. Some sections of Royal are fenced off to form pedestrian malls (don’t bike through these areas—you will be ticketed).

New Orleans is even more magical when the sun sets and night falls

VISIT OUR BOTANICAL GARDENS: $10

From the 1930s on, we've been proud to offer views of our cultivated Botanical Gardens in City Park. Open year-round, ten acres of gardens and art await you. Whether you are a local or a visitor, make sure to take a leisurely stroll through our many gardens where more than 2,000 plants from around the world are featured. It usually takes 1 1/2 to 2 hours to walk through – but feel free to stay longer if you wish.

NEW ORLEANS GLASSWORKS: FREE

Here is where you’ll find free daily demonstrations, studios, cutting-edge facilities, and first-class workshops led by master craftsmen. There’s also a gallery/exhibit space for contemporary art, with demos and artists working in studios on-site. This unique endeavor is located at 727 Magazine Street (504) 529-7277. Watching an artist create a beautiful piece is an incredible experience.

Housed in a restored 1800's brick building with over 25,000 sq. ft., the New Orleans GlassWorks & Printmaking Studio is located between Girod and Julia Streets. This means that it’s less than two blocks from the St. Charles streetcar line and the National World War II Museum.  

SAIL AWAY ON THE ALGIERS FERRY: $4

Since 1827, the ferry has traveled across the Mississippi River to Algiers Point, a historic neighborhood with loads of 19th century village charm. You can board the ferry at the foot of Canal Street – right next to the Aquarium of the Americas. Round trip for pedestrians and bikers is $4.

THE HISTORIC NOLA COLLECTION: FREE

The Historic New Orleans Collection (THNOC) is a museum, research center, and publisher dedicated to preserving the history and culture of New Orleans and the Gulf South. It has helped local residents and visitors become aware – and learn about -- the multicultural history of the region through thought-provoking exhibitions; original books, periodicals and articles. This treasure is located at 520 Royal Street (504) 523-4662.

Chatting, strolling and just having fun – all free at Jackson Square

LONGUE VUE HOUSE & GARDENS: $10

You can set your own pace when you opt for a self-guided stroll through the gardens and grounds. Or, bring a picnic basket and enjoy dining under the shade of majestic Oak Allée. A guided tour of the house OR garden is $20, while a tour of the house AND garden is $25. Location: 7 Bamboo Road, New Orleans, (504) 488-5488.

THE ALLWAYS LOUNGE: FREE LESSONS

You can swing dance every Sunday at this lively joint. The Lounge offers free swing dance lessons, courtesy of the NOLA Jitterbugs Dance School. One visitor says, “I totally recommend checking out this diamond-in-the-rough; especially on Sunday nights when they offer lessons that really get things going.” The lounge and theatre are at 2240 St. Claude Avenue and they can be reached at (504) 321-5606.

LE BON TEMPS ROULE: FREE OYSTERS

This historic neighborhood bar is open 24 hours, features live music, an all-day happy hour and free oysters on Fridays. Can’t beat this combo! It was founded in 1877 – which makes it the third oldest restaurant in New Orleans. Antoine’s is the oldest, followed by Tujague’s (the second oldest). It is located at 4801 Magazine (504) 897-3448. And yes, there are free oysters on the half shell from 7 pm – until they run out and the live music starts -- with no cover. Comment: when you’ve been around for 144 years I guess you know what you’re doing. Let the Good Times Roll!  

SATURDAY MORNING JAZZ YOGA: FREE

Arrive at 10 am at the historic French Market (the city’s oldest public market) for indoor classes in the New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park visitor’s center that is about a block downriver from Café du Monde. Bring your own yoga mat – show up about 10 minutes early to register.

WHY RATHBONE MANSIONS? I made a point of choosing a mix of places and things to do. So between our first write-up and this one you may feel a little dizzy with all this activity. Never fear: when you’re back at Rathbone Mansions and sink into one of our super-comfy beds you’ll sleep like a baby and be ready to tackle the world all over again. That’s a promise.

PLEASE CHECK THE WEB for any additional information you may need about any of the places that appear in this blog.

Shaun Nelson-Henrick

Hang in, sport – we’re getting there.