We know time is running out, but having a difficult time deciding between driving to New Orleans at the end of summer, which would coincide with the Southern Decadence annual celebration (which we understand is one of the top 5 tourist attactions, in terms of number of visitors) ... and Mardi Gras, which comes very early this year (February 5tt) and could likely be quite cold for us Southern California dudes.

We were at Southern Decadence a few years ago, and had a blast...like Mardi Gras, but it is pretty much confined to a portion of the French Quarter...so much more economical hotel and travel rates, and you can navigate the city.