Plan Your Trip: What to do While Visiting NOLA

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The American Academy of Dermatology (AAD) Annual Meeting kicks off this week on March 17th and ends on March 21st in the bustling city of New Orleans, Louisiana. To add to the excitement, AAD also happens to take place during St. Patrick’s Day weekend. After attending thought-provoking sessions at AAD, use the list below to plan your most memorable trip yet.

1. Downtown Irish Club St. Patrick’s Day Parade

The Downtown Irish Club’s St. Patrick’s Day parade kicks off at 6:30 pm CDT on Friday, March 17th. The parade will start at Washington Park (700 Elysian Field Ave., New Orleans, LA) and will make its way from the Marigny through the French Quarter and ends in downtown New Orleans. Additionally, there will be an after party at the Ugly Dog Saloon from 10 pm-12:30 am CDT.

2. Gators & Ghosts French Quarter Tour

Gators & Ghosts specializes in showing customers the “darker side” of New Orleans with ghost and cemetery tours. There are also opportunities for airboat swamp tours, New Orleans City tours, and visits to historically persevered plantations. Owners Charlotte and Leonard Crist started their business to help rebound New Orleans’ economy after Hurricane Katrina.

3. New Orleans Food Walking Tour & Cooking Class

Learn how to make classic Louisiana favorites with a cooking demonstration at the New Orleans Cooking School, followed by a 3-hour walking food tour with Destination Kitchen. The walking tour includes 6-7 food and beverage tastings and visits to some of the best restaurants in the area to learn more about the history and culture of New Orleans.

4. Café du Monde

The famous Café du Monde is a must-see destination in New Orleans. The traditional café first opened in 1862 and has been a staple in New Orleans culture since. Known for its powdered sugar-covered beignets and “Au Lait” style coffee, the café is open 24 hours a day and 7 days a week. If you can’t stand to leave New Orleans without a Café du Monde coffee, its famous blends are available to purchase online and ship to your home.

Follow along throughout the week for more up-to-date coverage from AAD.