Underage New Orleans Travel Journal 🎷: An Incomplete Guide

Back in middle school, I fell in love with The Originals (the spinoff of The Vampire Diaries), and ever since, New Orleans—this city full of secrets, art, and romance—has held a special place in my heart. My trip started with a little hiccup: I missed my flight from New York. But I rebooked for the next early morning, and set off with the sunrise 🌅, diving into a 3-day, 3-night “special forces-style” (packed) itinerary. The whole city oozes Southern charm—you can enjoy the palm trees swaying in the open air while soaking up the richness of its culture. Every corner feels like a mix of wildness and elegance. Day 1⃣️: Oak Alley Plantation 🌳🏠 The plantation was smaller than I imagined. The towering oak trees I’d seen in online photos had thinned out after hurricanes, but standing beneath their thick, gnarled trunks still took my breath away—they’re a testament to time. Walking through the grounds felt like stepping into a chapter of America’s Civil War history. There are cozy benches under the oaks, dappled sunlight filtering through the leaves, and only the occasional car passing by in the distance. It’s the kind of place that makes you slow down completely, forgetting the rush of everyday life 🕰️. Pro tip: Getting an Uber back was so hard. We ended up paying $35 per person for a ride—total heartache! Save yourself the trouble and book a tour with a shuttle bus; it’s way more convenient (and cheaper). Day 2⃣️: Swamp Tour & Jazz Show 🐊🥁 🐊 Swamp Wildlife Tour 🦝 This was like a real-life Fantastic Beasts set in the swamps! Our captain had amazing eyes—even with sunglasses on, he spotted alligators of all sizes: from huge adults to tiny newborns. We also saw snakes, birds, and raccoons that looked surprisingly cute (especially when they weren’t rummaging through trash cans 😂). The airboat zoomed across the water, and the wind blew away all our worries. Every turn brought a new surprise—whether it was a hidden alligator sunning on a log or a flock of birds taking flight. It was such an immersive experience, getting up close to nature and that raw, untouched environment. We didn’t want it to end! P.S. The souvenir shop is fun to browse, and you can wait in line for a free photo op holding a baby alligator—its skin was softer than I expected! 🐣 🥁 Jazz at Preservation Hall 🎺 You can’t visit New Orleans without seeing a jazz show at Preservation Hall—it’s iconic! The venue is small (it’s been around for decades, so it has that cozy, vintage feel), but the band’s energy was off the charts. They laughed and interacted with the audience, making everyone feel like part of the fun. The lineup had it all: jazz bass, piano, trombone, trumpet, clarinet, sax, and drums. Every musician got a chance to shine with a solo, and their ensemble pieces were seamless. The best part? No two shows are the same—we went back again on the third day (it was pouring rain, and we needed something cozy to do), and the setlist and vibe were totally different. Both times, we left with huge smiles—total satisfaction. Day 3⃣️: Voodoo Museum & WWII Museum 🕯️ Voodoo Museum Voodoo culture is one of New Orleans’ most famous (and misunderstood) gems. The museum is small, but it’s packed with treasures: fortune-telling tools, handmade crafts, statues, and more. It’s a fascinating peek into the beliefs and traditions of the past—you leave with a better understanding of how Voodoo is part of the city’s identity, not just a “spooky” stereotype. 🪖 The National WWII Museum Located in the CBD, this museum is massive—and absolutely incredible. The exhibits are engaging and detailed, with some interactive displays that let you “step into” history (like simulating a WWII-era plane ride). Even though the subject matter is heavy (it’s about war, after all), there are little touches of humor that make it feel more human, not just a list of facts. It’s a must-visit if you’re into history—we spent hours there and still didn’t see everything. #EatingWalkingWandering #NewOrleans #Foodie #TravelDiary #FoodDiary