<p>Planning to visit Tulane, and trying to work out a strategy. This will be culmination of a grand tour of southern schools. As it stands, we would be arriving on a Tuesday around dinnertime, driving a one-way rental from out of town. Wednesday would have tour of Tulane, followed by Pelicans game that night. Fly out of MSY on Thursday morning. Trying to plan the details. Where should we stay (French Q, downtown, airport, etc.)? Any must-eat places (besides Cafe du Monde)? Other recommended activities? Should we ditch the car upon arrival? All suggestions greatly appreciated.</p>
<p>I would suggest staying at the Hampton Inn on St Charles (they have free parking, free wifi and a free breakfast in the lobby which is not bad). Make sure that wherever you book, you ask for the “Tulane rate” (usually a nice savings and available at lots of NOLA hotels). The Hampton Inn is Uptown, not far from Tulane and from there, you can walk to Magazine Street (lots of restaurants there). On Wednesday I would take the street car to the school (there is a stop right across the street from the hotel - $1.25 per person each way, or you can buy a day pass - $3, I think- exact change needed). There is construction on the street car line, so you will need to get off at the end and transfer to a bus, but it is no big deal (just follow the other people, or ask the driver what to do). Then get off a few minutes later right in front of Tulane. If you choose to drive to the school, I would call admissions and ask if they can email you a temporary parking permit (street parking around the school is difficult and most is only 2 hour parking).
After your tour and info session, you can eat lunch on campus, or you can explore some of the areas around the school (Maple Street, Oak Street, Freret Street- look a map ahead of time so you can see exactly where to go because it can be a little confusing if you don’t know where you are going). Or, you can go across the street from the school and check out Audubon Park- it’s huge, even has a zoo! Or, you can jump back on the street car and take it all the way (past The Hampton Inn) down to the French Quarter (It will take you through Uptown, the Garden District, the Business District and then the French Q)- just get off at the last stop and cross the street to Bourbon Street. From Tulane to the French Q is around a 25-30 min street car ride.
If you choose to drive, just be aware that some of the streets are very narrow and parking is a little crazy (you practically have to park on the side walks on some streets). The street car is slower but it will give you a real feel for the city. You can also call a cab (United Cab co 504- 522-9771).
To get other ideas of what to do, check out some of Tulane Jeff’s blogs- just google Tulane Jeff Things to do around NOLA.
Have fun!!!</p>