While the typical visitor takes in the sights and sounds of the French Quarter and eats their way through the city until they are ready to pop the buttons off of their pants, residents know that New Orleans and the surrounding areas have so much more to offer.
Cultural Events. Did you know that New Orleans is home to the oldest American opera association? Or that if you've heard enough jazz for the day, you can take in a performance by the symphony? If you prefer a little dancing with your music, the ballet would make a perfect night out as well.
Read more about the many cultural events in New Orleans.
Festivals and fairs. I don't think there is a person in the city who doesn't attend at least one or two festivals a year. Whether it's a fundraising event for a local school, a food festival, or the big daddy of them all, the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival, your calendar can quickly be filled to overflowing with the large number of events that are scheduled throughout the year. 2009 New Orleans Festival Calendar
Family friendly fun. A common misconception is that New Orleans is not a kid friendly town. Au contraire! We have a wide variety of things to do and places to go that are not only family friendly, but designed specifically with the kids in mind. Family activities in New Orleans
Military specials. For military personnel being transferred to New Orleans, there are even some extra special on base activities just for you! One of the most fun is the Welcome Home Troops Parties that are held at NAS JRB New Orleans on a regular basis. The parties will continue until every single serviceperson returns home.
This is just the tip of the iceberg! It's no wonder that New Orleans was honored as a cool city...and that's why I'm still proud to call it home.
Relocating to New Orleans? The West Bank Living team would be thrilled to help you find the right place to call home.
Copyright 2009. West Bank Living. All rights reserved.

Lisa...Beautiful picture! Have not been back there in some time!
I did my corporate training at the New Orlean Hilton Riverside and Towers! What a monster hotel!
Lisa, How neat! I would have NEVER guess that New Orleans has the oldest Opera Assoc. Learn something new everyday! You were dead on about tourists eating our way through the city until our buttons pop off our pants :) Great food, ALL over the place. The next time I'm in your fine city, I"m going to have to check out more than just the French Quarters, for sure!
Congrats to New Orleans, sounds like lots to do!
Hi Lisa! You guys sound like Charlotte--I need to see if we made that list with you! I love your photo too.
I heard that on the radio. I know its different as I was showing in the French Quarter this morning. Always an enjoyable experience as to what you find and see.
Hi Lisa, Very cool! I would love to visit someday, I just haven't made it there yet! Very nice post about your very cool city! Congrats!
Lisa, You know a post is good GREAT when it makes you want to visit--and I so want to visit New Oleans!
Thom/Ray, that's a beautiful hotel and the view of the river and the city can't be beat!
Elizabeth, of course you will, because you have to come to the West Bank and see ME :)
Marchel, there is SO much to do hear that there's no excuse for being bored!
Debe, thanks :)
Eric, good luck with your showings.
Mary, everyone should visit at least once - it's one of those cities that you don't really "get" until you've been here.
Carole, I want you to visit too!
Now that's a list worth being on, take care.
New Orleans is a fun city no doubt. I was in the French Quarter just recently.
JL, not everyone can be cool :)
John, you came to the south shore? Wish I'd known...we need to meet up one day!
Hi darling!! Congratulations on this honor! I have never been to New Orleans, but I can't wait to visit.
BTW...I've not forgotten about you. I've just been slammed out of my mind. I have not come up for air in a LONG time. What day is it? JK...but not by much. Let's talk this week. ~GBU~
Lisa-I haven't been to New Orleans in a while but the few trips I've made to the area were fantastic. Great food, beautiful buildings and loads of fun. Might be time for another trip!
As well it should be! I love your city and need to visit again in the future!
PS thanks for stopping by my FaceBook and have a great week!
Elizabeth, I can't wait for you to visit either!
Cindy, come on down :)
Russell, anytime, my friend - hope your week is fabulous too!
It's about time to start the next round of partying over there isn't it?
Hi Georgie! Yep, parades will start soon. We are riding on Valentine's Day and again on Mardi Gras day!
Lisa I've always wanted to go to New Orleans! - Are you kidding me? Its Marti-Gras during the KWFR?? Geesh.....I think you should be sending an e-mail directly to Gary Keller - and demand the Next event be held in New Orleans to make up for it? Next years FR? Too bad :-(
Liz, I KNOW! I was all excited about getting to attend then I looked at the dates and...well, let's just say that I have other pressing appointments on Feb. 24th :)