Heather Lueke Smith, a board-certified attorney practicing construction, local government, and contract law out of her own firm, enjoys spending her free time traveling around the world. Having traveled to several countries in Europe and throughout the United States, Heather Lueke Smith’s favorite place to visit is New Orleans, Louisiana.

New Orleans offers a huge variety of museums, art galleries, historical sites, and other activities to both locals and tourists. One popular site for visitors is Jackson Square, a public square in the French Quarter that has been around since the city was first founded in the 1700s.

Serving as a major city landmark, the square is home to the Tennessee Williams Festival’s “Stella!” shouting contest, the Louisiana State Museum, and several 18th century buildings, including the Cabildoand the St. Louis Cathedral. Also located in the French Quarter is Bourbon Street, which maintains an exciting night life. Full of live music, clubs, and karaoke bars, Bourbon Street stays busy well into the night regardless of what day of the week it is.

The Audubon Zoo in uptown New Orleans is another popular attraction. Situated on over 58 acres of natural habitats, the zoo is home to a wide range of exotic animals. Its Louisiana Swamp Exhibit is particularly popular, allowing visitors to get up close to alligators and black bears. For visitors who enjoy museums, the Ogden Museum of Southern Art showcases a large collection of ceramics, paintings, and photography that come from below the Mason-Dixon Line. On Thursdays, the museum is host to live musicians who play while visitors enjoy mingling throughout the galleries.