Bourbon Street

I guess the best way to describe Bourbon Street in New Orleans is to say “Party!”. This several block long street is home to more bars, pubs, souvenir shops, sex clubs and eateries and is most famous for being the party capital of New Orleans. As the evening gets going the bands start playing and the alcohol starts flowing. The later it gets they wilder it is. And the locals keep things lively with make-up bands playing on the street in different places. And yes, this is the place where girls on the balconies lift their shirts and show off their breasts for a string of colorful beads, although I’ve heard several times of that happening in reverse, with the girls down on the ground showing off for the guys on the balconies. I guess I was there on a quiet night. Some of the music is just loud and noisy while others are worth stopping and listening to for awhile. Only a few places have a cover charge, and you can usually hear the music outside just as well. It is a fun experience at anytime of the year.

Let’s face it, a trip to New Orleans wouldn’t be complete without a night on Bourbon Street. Although it wasn’t quite what I had expected, it was interesting to see. Most of the bars are a little sleazy for my taste and I don’t think I saw one restaurant on the whole street where I would be willing to eat. There’s something about a restaurant located next to a strip club or “live love acts” club that just doesn’t do it for me. As for the strip joints, I know that’s a big pull for many people but the ladies promoting the clubs didn’t look too appealing. Plus, it was a little strange to see some of the pictures plastered outside of the clubs for all to see…especially walking by the “love acts” club. This defiantly isn’t the place for children. On top of that, be prepared for street performers and all forms of disguised beggars. Some guys even put slices of aluminum cans on the bottom of their shoes to tap dance for money. People came up to me at least ten times trying to “cite me” for various reasons…aka trying to get me to give them money.

Everyone should go to Bourbon at least once in their life! It's a party every night with beads flying and drinks all around! There are always people up on the balconys or running around with beads. (Who says Mardi Gras is only once a year?)

You have to stop and get a hand grenade or a hurricane, I would HIGHLY not recommend getting both in one night! They're VERY strong and VERY cheap!!

My only other recommendation is do not wear open toe shoes or shoes you care about! The street is always a bit damp and I don't really want to think too hard about why...but it's not pretty!

Do you really not know?? This place is Mardi Gras 365 days a year.  Beers are usually buy 2, get 2 or 4 for the price of one.  Parades all the time, even little ones at nite.  Crawfish are always awesome.  Locals are great people.  You have to go to Tropical Isle on Bourbon St. and get a Hand Grenade, very strong drink (be careful!!!)