1

Definitely book your room if you haven't already. You can catch Mardi Gras parades on Jan, 20, 25 and
27 in the French Quarter itself which is convenient. There are other parades in the suburbs if you want to
venture out. Tons to see and do right in the French Quarter with a lot of hot nightclubs just east of the French Quarter in the Fauboorg Marigny neighborhood-- Snug Harbor and a lot of jazz clubs with live music.
I'd google up New Orleans for events you'll need advance tickets for. While there, I'd try to hear the Rebirth Jazz
Band with Kermit Ruffins- possibly playing at the House of Blues. Go have a listen at Preservation Hall, maybe
catch a concert at Tipitina's. For dining- two great spots are Galatoire's in the French Quarter and Commander's Palace in the Garden District. Central Grocery for a great Muffaletta sandwich. Two bars dripping with pirate ambience are Lafitte's on Bourbon Street, and Napolean House in the Quarter.
Le Bon Temp Roulez!

2

You may want to do a plantation tour. There are also swamp tours, but it may be a bit too cold in Feb for them. Don't forget to check out uptown - don't spend all your time in only the French Quarter where most tourists will be. Aso, New Orleans in general is known for unique food. If you're into food, look up a list of musts at http://www.chowhound.com.

http://www.neworleans.com/new-orleans-mardi-gras/

3

Steve, you need to book a room. Here's a schedule of what's going on during mardi gras in terms of parades:

http://www.mardigrasneworleans.com/schedule.html