The New Orleans Garden District

On our way home from Florida, we stopped halfway and spent the night in New Orleans. I've been many times, but it was a first for our kids. They love history and were just amazed by The French Quarter. They loved the antique stores with the civil war swords and muskets. I have to admit I was tempted to buy one for the office and hang it on the wall, but I don't think it would go with our decor, lol. We took the kids to Jackson Square and my older son let me know how important Andrew Jackson was to New Orleans. He used to watch The Military Channel for fun. I know! Here they are in front of the St. Louis Cathedral.



They are all smiles after having beignets for the first time. Can you say sugar high?

Unfortunately, this is when I discovered my camera had been on the wrong setting and all of my previous pictures were overexposed. I was upset because we happened to walk up a street where a spin-off of The Vampire Diaries was being shot. I love that show and was so disappointed that my pictures didn't turn out. Oh, well. I can't wait to watch the pilot when it airs next month. The new show is called The Originals. I hope I see the parade scene I watched being filmed. Yes, I know I'm too old for these shows!

Even though The French Quarter is packed with great restaurants, amazing old buildings, and antique stores, it can be a little seedy. I really prefer The Garden District, especially when you have kids in tow. It is easy to go back and forth between both areas by taking a streetcar.




But, don't think you have to go to The French Quarter for dinner. Some of the best restaurants in the city are right on Magazine Street.

I love this cute little bakery.




Casual-But-Oh-So-Cute Dining




But, the best part of the Garden District is the beautiful antebellum homes.































Don't you wish you could see inside these homes? I've seen a few featured in magazines and I love how many mix family antiques with modern art and decor. Sometimes historic homes make you feel like you're stuck in a time warp if decorated too traditionally, and it can be a little creepy.

And, I promise this is the end of my vacation photos! ;)