NOLA '25
In the spring of 2025, I had the incredible opportunity to visit New Orleans to attend and present at the Annual Conference for the National Council for Marketing and Public Relations (NCMPR). Before diving into conference sessions, I made time to explore some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, including the French Quarter, Jackson Square, and St. Louis Cathedral.
Downtown New Orleans is a vibrant fusion of history, culture, and modern energy, making it an unforgettable destination for any traveler. The French Quarter, with its historic architecture, lively streets, and world-renowned cuisine, is the heartbeat of the city. Bourbon Street offers an electrifying nightlife experience, while Royal Street invites visitors to browse elegant art galleries, boutique shops, and charming cafés.
From Creole and Cajun cuisine in legendary restaurants to the sounds of live jazz on street corners, every moment in New Orleans is an immersive experience. Whether you're savoring a beignet at Café du Monde, listening to live brass bands, or admiring the beauty of historic landmarks, this city delivers an unforgettable blend of Southern hospitality and artistic soul.
St. Louis Cathedral and Jackson Square
Tuesday, March 25, 2025
After arriving in New Orleans and settling into my hotel, I joined some friends for a walk through the French Quarter, kicking off our adventure with a search for one of the city’s most famous sandwiches—the Muffuletta from Central Grocery. Known for its layers of Italian meats, cheese, and signature olive salad, this sandwich was definitely “I Like Sandwiches” worthy. We enjoyed our massive Muffulettas while sitting in Jackson Square, soaking in the sights and sounds of this historic landmark.
Originally known as Place d’Armes, Jackson Square has been a focal point of New Orleans since the 18th century. The square was renamed in honor of Andrew Jackson, the hero of the Battle of New Orleans, whose statue now stands at its center. Surrounded by lush greenery and centuries-old oak trees, the square is a hub for artists, musicians, and street performers, all contributing to the lively atmosphere.
Overlooking the square is the breathtaking St. Louis Cathedral, the oldest continuously active Roman Catholic cathedral in the United States. First built in 1727 and later reconstructed in 1789 after a fire, the cathedral’s striking façade and triple steeples make it one of the most recognizable landmarks in New Orleans. After filling my camera’s media card with images of the park and its surroundings, I stepped inside the cathedral to admire its stunning stained glass, ornate altar, and centuries of history.
From its rich past to its vibrant present, Jackson Square and St. Louis Cathedral are must-visit destinations for anyone exploring New Orleans.
Please note: You can click on the thumbnail images for a slideshow.
The French Quarter: History, Music, and Beignets
After visiting St. Louis Cathedral, I slipped back into the French Quarter to explore its timeless charm. Walking through this historic neighborhood felt like stepping into another era, with ornate wrought-iron balconies hanging over narrow streets and hidden alleys. The French and Spanish-inspired architecture, colorful facades, and gas-lit lanterns create an atmosphere that is uniquely New Orleans.
Founded in 1718 by Jean-Baptiste Le Moyne de Bienville, the French Quarter—or Vieux Carré—is the city’s oldest neighborhood. Despite fires in the late 18th century, much of the current architecture reflects Spanish colonial influences, with its intricate ironwork and open courtyards. Today, it remains the cultural heart of the city, where history blends seamlessly with modern vibrancy.
Every few blocks, I encountered a live jazz band, their brass instruments filling the streets with the unmistakable sounds of New Orleans music. Whether it was a lively Dixieland jazz trio or a full brass ensemble, the rhythm and energy of the city were impossible to ignore. I continued wandering the streets well into the evening, soaking in the atmosphere.
Before calling it a night, I made a necessary stop at the world-famous Café du Monde for some beignets. Though I was still full from my earlier Muffuletta, there’s always room for a New Orleans dessert—even if it had to be to-go. As I walked back to my hotel after sunset, beignet bag in hand, I reflected on a perfect first day in the Big Easy.
Back to the French Quarter
Wednesday, March 26, 2025
With a late conference start time on Wednesday, I took full advantage of the quiet morning and returned to the French Quarter just after sunrise. The usually bustling streets were nearly empty, save for construction workers and crews hosing down the sidewalks—a daily ritual in New Orleans to prepare for another lively day.
In this rare moment of stillness, I could truly appreciate the beauty of the Quarter’s architecture. The intricate wrought-iron balconies, the wooden shutters, and the historic facades stood undisturbed in the soft morning light. This part of New Orleans was originally designed in the early 18th century, and despite fires and hurricanes, the district retains much of its French and Spanish colonial charm.
I always make time to get lost in a city, and this was my chance. With no crowds, no distractions—just the rhythmic click of my camera—I wandered the narrow streets and hidden alleys, soaking in the quiet magic of the Vieux Carré before the city awakened.
Return to St. Louis Cathedral and Jackson Square
I couldn’t resist making my way back to St. Louis Cathedral and Jackson Square to experience them in the quiet of the early morning. Under an overcast sky, the park and cathedral took on a different kind of beauty—soft, diffused light filtering through the clouds, morning dew clinging to the grass and wrought-iron benches, and an atmosphere of peaceful solitude. Seeing these landmarks in the hushed stillness of morning—before the crowds arrived—was a breathtaking experience
This, That and Everything Else
After a morning of sightseeing, I was ready to experience something quintessentially Southern—lunch at Waffle House. Known for its classic diner atmosphere and comfort food, Waffle House is a must-visit when in the South. Whether you're craving a hot waffle or a hearty breakfast platter, the experience is as much about Southern hospitality as it is about the food. I couldn't resist indulging before diving into full conference mode.
Once the conference began, it was three days of jam-packed marketing sessions, filled with insights and networking opportunities. But even amid the busy schedule, we made sure to celebrate the unique culture of New Orleans—sampling local cuisine, enjoying the vibrant atmosphere, and, yes, snapping plenty of photos. I'll admit, I have a habit of taking pictures of food, especially when it's as delicious as New Orleans cuisine.
On the way home, I had the chance to catch a glimpse of the Baseball Cathedral, Wrigley Field, a place that's as much a part of Chicago’s identity as New Orleans is to the South.
