ALGIERS. This Mardi Gras workshop extravaganza is an historical museum and one of the world's largest float builders. Blaine Kern's Mardi Gras World is located in Algiers, one of the oldest parts of the city. The company houses a museum with a fun, interactive tour, and visitors learn about the magic of Mardi Gras. At the end of the guided section, you can even dress up in costumes and recieve a King Cake.

FRENCH QUARTER. Bourbon Street is the heart of the action loaded with bars, restaurants and unbelievable Jazz music floating in and out of the restaurants and clubs. This area is what makes New Orleans known worldwide. Twenty five million visitors a year come to the Quarter to partake in the fun, and during Mardi Gras, the fun never stops!

FRENCH QUARTER. Often called the heart of New Orleans, Jackson Square is full of energy and activity. Facing the Mississippi River and directly across from the St. Louis Cathedral. In the shadows of the Andrew Jackson statue, erected for his heroism during the Battle of New Orleans, you will find street artists painting during the day and jazz musicians by night. The gardens are great for a picnic or a leisurely stroll. This is the site of the French Quarter Festival in April, where local restaurants set up stands and dish out delicious cuisine.

GARDEN DISTRICT. Founded in 1833 and listed in the National Register of Historic Places in 1972, this is New Orleans first planned cemetery. Distinguished by the intersecting avenues this cemetery was designed to accommodate funeral processions. This cemetery is noted in Anne Rice's book "Interview With The Vampire," and has become a tourist attraction as a result. Offers hour-long tours of the cemetery; you'll learn about burial practices, the history of New Orleans, and see the tombs of famous people.

FRENCH QUARTER. Look both ways before you cross the street! You'll not only have to watch out for cars but also pay attention for streetcars zipping down the road. There are two streetcar lines in New Orleans ­ St. Charles and Riverfront. Routes are not extensive but a ride will show you some of the city's major sites and tickets are very inexpensive. New Orleans streetcars are the oldest continuously running street railway in the US. Now part of the municipal transit system, the 35 olive green trolley cars date from 1923-24, with the rail line completed in 1835.