New Orleans! On The Mississippi!

There are some places that just feel like home and for our family New Orleans is one such place. We’ve been fortunate to visit multiple times and though we have many favorites, we also try to experience new things each time we visit. This past trip found us on THE River. The Mississippi River that is! Though technically this wasn’t a new activity for Tim and I we’d never taken the boys. In fact it had been 16 years since Tim and I had last set sail on the Mississippi back when we were still an engaged couple. Very romantic!

The weather was beautiful and we had nothing on our agenda so we figured why not and It was so worth it! Not only was the scenery beautiful, but we learned a lot about New Orleans and it was a lovely place to sit back and relax for a few hours.

The Details

There are two options for riverboat rides, the Steamboat Natchez, New Orlean’s only steamboat, and the Creole Queen a paddle boat. We choose the Natchez, which conveniently docks on the riverfront just on the other side of the JAX Brewery in the French Quarter.

There are multiple times and options available, but because we decided on this activity last minute our only option was the evening dinner cruise. Dinner is optional and we had already eaten, but in hindsight it looked pretty good! If you’re a planner advanced reservations are available.

Along The Way

Boarding begins one hour prior to the boat setting sail, but you’re welcome to board all the way up until just before departure. The cruise sails down the river for one hour and back for another putting you right back where you started.

The Creole Queen Paddle Boat

The 9th Ward

Steamboat Home

refinery lights

Along the way you’ll hear information about New Orleans and the surrounding areas along the river banks. We learned about Steamboat homes and the cities levies as well as a bit of history. We saw a many sights, including the Domino sugar factory, which produces 20 percent of the nations sugar, an oil refinery, plantation homes, the lower 9th Ward, navy vessels, the Creole Queen and so much more. The sunset was spectacular and I couldn’t take enough photos!

Once the sun went down we explored the ship a bit, learning all about how the steam engines operate. Afterwards we ordered drinks and contented ourselves with the view and the sounds of a live Jazz band.

If you’re in the Crescent City and looking for a nice way to take a break while still enjoying all that this amazing place has to offer you might consider a ride on the Great Mississippi River.

Creole Queen

NOLA Skyline

The French Quarter