New Orleans

New Orleans’ iconic Pontchartrain Hotel is a top choice among travelers looking for garden district hotels. It sits on a quaint street corner , surrounded by 200-year-old oak trees, with Mardi Gras beads hanging on their branches from years past. It’s the prefect location, away from the hustle and bustle of the French Quarter, but still within walking distance to Magazine Street and the central business district. The original streetcar route runs right in front …

You might be surprised to know that Mardi Gras lasts much longer than the 5-day New Orleans grand event. For some, Mardi Gras lasts all year long, especially those responsible for building the vibrant, iconic floats for the parades. The magic happens at Mardi Gras World where more than 500 floats are built and housed for the 35+ Mardi Gras parades that happen each February. Thirty full-time artists and 300 seasonal artists work 365 days …