Named after its owner, who was the Minister of Finances at the end of the 18th century, Dar Hassan Pacha is a well-preserved palace, rebuilt throughout the years. It served as residence for governors and emperors passing Algiers. While Dar Hassan Pacha is closed to the public, it is a popular motive for pictures for its impressive facade and lovely central patio.

Mardi Gras and Carnival have long been the marquee events in New Orleans, with the first recorded parade taking place in 1837. Attracting hundreds of thousands of people each year, these festivities trace their origins to French traditions—Mardi Gras translates to "Fat Tuesday" in French. Carnival officially kicks off on January 6th (Epiphany) and unfolds over several weeks, beginning with elaborate, invitation-only balls hosted by krewes (private clubs), where debutantes are introduced to society. The excitement builds in the final weeks, leading up to Mardi Gras, with the famous street parades filling the city with colorful costumes, floats, and lots of music.

The Alaska Zoo might be small, but it offers a rare chance to see Arctic and sub-Arctic animals like musk oxen, lynx, and wolves up close. Many of the animals here are rescues or permanent residents that wouldn’t survive on their own, making it more of a wildlife sanctuary than your typical zoo.

The Audubon Aquarium is adjacent to the French Quarter, right on the Mississippi River, which adds to the Aquarium's intrinsically inspiring aura. It displays, among other things, a vibrant world of Caribbean coral reef with a walk-through tunnel, sea otters and penguins engaging in play, and a 400,000 gallon Gulf of Mexico Exhibit which allows you to visit the gigantic sharks, tarpon, and rays. Guests are even encouraged to feed the parakeets, and get up close and personal with a sting ray.