This New Year’s, Longhorns will travel from far and wide to cheer on Texas football at their historic game against the Washington Huskies at the Sugar Bowl in New Orleans. A city with a rich history and many tourist attractions, New Orleans offers a variety of experiences. For those visiting who wish to immerse themselves in the culture, The Daily Texan compiled a list of things to do to make the most out of a visit to New Orleans.
Cafe Du Monde
Famous for its baked-to-perfection beignets, Cafe Du Monde has just the one sweet on its menu. Patrons can get coffee, juice or soda with their order, but that’s all the customization allowed. With stands all around Louisiana and 10 in the New Orleans metropolitan area alone, Longhorns can check out the main location on Decatur Street in the French Quarter for a sweet treat and a pick-me-up.
New Orleans Museum of Art
NOMA is open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. most days, except Wednesdays when it’s open 12 p.m. to 7 p.m. and Mondays when it’s closed completely. Before it closes on Dec. 31, catch the “NEW at NOMA: Recent Acquisitions in Contemporary Art” exhibition, which highlights work by BIPOC, LGBTQIA+ and female-identifying artists, according to the NOMA website. Don’t skip past the Besthoff Sculpture Garden where dozens of works are on display. Adults can enter for $15, but with a UT ID, students get in for $8.
Canal Streetcar Line
An affordable and super fun way to see the city remains the Canal Streetcar Line. Stops along the line include Bourbon Street, North Rampart Street, Royal Street and more. For the most economical way to enjoy the line, visitors can buy the Jazzy Pass sold by the New Orleans Regional Transit Authority. While the line charges $1.25 for adults for a single ride, a 1-day Jazzy Pass costs just $3, a 3-day pass comes out to $8 and a 7-day pass is $15.
Pat O’Brien’s
With a courtyard restaurant location on Bourbon Street and a bar on St. Peter’s Street, Pat O’Brien’s offers something for everyone. For those wanting to become a part of the city’s camaraderie, visit the St. Peter’s Street location to watch live sports and take a gander at the famous Flaming Fountain. At this location, visitors should also stick around to watch musicians duke it out over dueling pianos in the piano lounge.