For this week’s blog I’d like to present a very different picture of the famous French Quarter in New Orleans. The first picture that comes to mind is usually this: crowds of young folks in various stages of inebriation circling around Bourbon Street to find “the action” – which usually means the opposite sex and much more (a major emphasis on the latter) – I think you get my drift.    

But, the French Quarter, which was founded in 1718, is one of New Orleans’ most historic neighborhoods – and when night falls horse hooves clop, music throbs and gaslights flicker in places full of storied people and legends.

Time for a change: I would like to focus on things that one can DO in the French Quarter. After searching, I came up with three ideas: (1) where you can go to take amazing “selfie pictures” – a current craze if there ever was one, (2) a great cooking school where you do the work and eat the results – and finally, (3) a perfect place where you can hold a memorable party – or, a Rehearsal Dinner for 60 guests that will be remembered for a long time.

THE ARTMAZING SELFIE GALLERY

This is a series of interactive art exhibits where you complete the picture. The ARTmazing Gallery is a larger-than-life 6,000 sq. ft. exhibition-and-special events space that offers an unusual experience for all. After seeing an interactive gallery for herself in New York City, the owner wanted to bring this idea to New Orleans. Basically, it lets your imagination flow and frees your inner artist.

The gallery houses a total of 13 “Instagrammable Rooms” filled with wild scenes (or backdrops). For example, the MILLIONAIRE’S ROOM features a “cash rainfall” that allows guests to twirl around in a million dollars OR you can create your own Rainbow if you don’t need any more dough in your life! If you want to learn more feel free to call 504-354-8633.  

THE MARDI GRAS SCHOOL OF COOKING

Here is a sample of four hands-on classes that offer: (1) a Roux Class, (2) a Louisiana Sauce Class, (3) a Traditions Class and (4) a Brunch Class – this one really appealed to me because, as we all know, Sunday Brunch is a tradition in New Orleans. One of the selections offered is: Eggs Benedict with Hollandaise Sauce over a Crab Cake.

Champagne, Mimosas, Bloody Marys, wine, beer, tea and water are included with your class and meal. Classes are available every day at 10 am, 2 pm or 6 pm – with a minimum of two people and a maximum of 10. For more information call 504-344-3977.

IRISH CULTURAL MUSEUM, NEW ORLEANS

This museum features a Spanish courtyard with a welcoming, friendly atmosphere that’s a tribute to the vibrant culture of New Orleans’ Irish and their heritage.

However, what really caught my eye about this place was a Georgia couple who decided to hold a rehearsal dinner for their son and new daughter-in-law here. For the dinner itself, they chose the museum’s in-house catering that resulted in a fabulous combo of Irish, New Orleans and Cajun dishes (sounds terrific). At their son’s request, they also chose boiled crawfish as a major “appetizer.”

Everything went off without a hitch in spite of having 60 guests (plus several kids and babies). They all sat in the courtyard as it was a warm evening BUT there were three air-conditioned rooms for: moms/babies + a movie lounge for kids + a room that is the museum’s St. Pat’s Pub – they had an open bar to the delight of all legal-age (21) adults. The very pleased MOTHER OF THE GROOM who had arranged this bash says, “From the moment our guests walked off a busy French Quarter Street and headed through the charming entrance gates to the museum’s courtyard – it felt as if they had stepped into a small, hidden oasis. It was a magical night for all. Interested? Call 504-416-0735.

When I finished writing this all I wanted to do was head for a French Quarter party in New Orleans!!!

WHY RATHBONE MANSIONS? If you’re planning a celebratory bash in the French Quarter for a birthday, engagement or graduation and wondering where out-of-town folks can stay – please consider our gracious antebellum mansions (yes, there are two of them). We’re only a 15-minute stroll from the French Quarter. Rathbone will be a win-win choice all around.

PLEASE PHONE, USE EMAIL OR CHECK THE WEB for the current status of whatever gallery, school or museum you choose to visit.

Shaun Nelson-Henrick