Like that crazy uncle who dresses too cool for his age and drinks just a little too much at every family gathering, Bourbon Street is an important part, though a bit of an embarrassing part of the N’awlins family.
Of course, Rue Bourbon is famous with tourists for its decadent role in Mardi Gras (though Mardi Gras never touches Bourbon’s bricks), but Bourbon Street is not just about flashed boobs and drunken stumbling. Notice I said “just”. The street is architecturally pristine with the defining balconies, brightly painted bricks and plaster, beautiful light posts and fresh flowers. It’s steeped in history, and represents the center of the culturally significant “French Quarter.”
Of course, it’s also lined with bars, restaurants and souvenir shops and on New Year’s Eve, it is the ultimate draw – at least until the Jackson Square festivities kick off. So, after dinner, a few beers and a couple signature drinks – a Sazerac, Pat O’Brien’s Hurricane, and Mardi Gras’ own “Hand Grenade” – a punishingly strong night-ender, we positioned ourselves on the nearest balcony with beads in hands. We can’t remember what happened next (or at least we’re not telling you!)
The next morning we arrived on Bourbon Street at 9:00 and were surprised to see there was little evidence of the previous night. Apparently each morning, the street is reborn, scrubbed clean (literally, with hoses) from the previous day’s debauchery, and readied for yet another night’s wickedness. By 11 a.m. the street comes alive again, with everything from the previous night forgotten.
Some of the photos we can show you.
