Emily Gautreaux, Author at Arlen "Benny" Cenac Jr

Exploring New Orleans Through Its Museums

New Orleans is celebrated for its music, cuisine, and festivals, but the city also features an impressive collection of museums that capture the depth of its history and culture. From immersive wartime exhibits to intimate cultural spaces tucked inside the French Quarter, each institution provides visitors with a distinct lens into the Crescent City. Whether exploring the vibrant streets of the New Orleans tourism district or wandering through the storied French Quarter, travelers discover that the city’s museums reveal layers of heritage shaped by resilience, artistry, and innovation. The following destinations, curated in this article from Adventures Passport, stand out as meaningful stops for anyone eager to better understand Louisiana culture.

The National WWII Museum ranks among the most elaborate and emotionally powerful museum experiences in the country. Although its subject matter extends beyond local culture, it remains deeply connected to the city’s legacy. Historian Stephen Ambrose, a key advocate for the museum’s creation, has strong ties to New Orleans. Additionally, Higgins Industries, headquartered in the city, produces more than 20,000 landing craft used during World War II. General Dwight D. Eisenhower later credits those vessels with playing a decisive role in Allied victory. The museum functions as far more than a collection of artifacts; it operates as a fully immersive experience complete with multimedia presentations, personal narratives, and expansive galleries. Visitors often find that even a full day is barely enough to explore its exhibits in their entirety.

Located inside a historic Creole townhouse in the heart of the New Orleans Pharmacy Museum, this landmark offers a fascinating glimpse into early American medicine. The building once served as the residence and apothecary of Louis J. Dufilho Jr., the first licensed pharmacist in the United States. Operating until 1855, the apothecary leaves behind an extraordinary legacy. Today, more than 18,000 pharmaceutical and medical artifacts fill the rooms, ranging from antique surgical instruments to early medicinal bottles. Situated just steps from Bourbon Street, the museum balances the lively atmosphere outside with a quiet, contemplative interior that transports visitors back to the early 1800s.

Few experiences feel more distinctly New Orleans than stepping inside Mardi Gras World. Dedicated to the artistry behind the city’s legendary carnival season, the museum introduces visitors to the craftsmanship of parade float design. Operated by Kern Studios, the facility showcases towering float figures, vibrant props, and works in progress destined for parades like Mardi Gras in New Orleans. Guests receive beads upon entry and often sample traditional king cake while touring the warehouse-style studio. Guided tours, typically lasting about an hour, highlight the engineering and artistry required to bring each float to life.

The 1850 House Museum, part of the Louisiana State Museum system, offers a window into antebellum domestic life. Located in Jackson Square, the fully furnished row house illustrates how upper-middle-class families live in the mid-19th century. Carefully curated interiors feature period furniture, decorative arts, and architectural details reflective of the era. The museum’s registration on the National Register of Historic Places underscores its historical significance. Visitors interested in architecture, interior design, or social history find the experience both educational and immersive.

Housed within the historic New Orleans Jazz Museum at the Old U.S. Mint, this institution celebrates the city’s identity as the birthplace of jazz. The building itself once operated as part of the United States Mint from 1838 to 1909. Exhibits trace the evolution of jazz through instruments, photographs, recordings, and tributes to icons such as Louis Armstrong. Rotating art displays and live performances further enrich the experience. The museum illustrates how jazz shapes—and is shaped by—the cultural rhythms of New Orleans.

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Federal Funding Boosts UL Lafayette Impact

The UL Lafayette has entered a significant new chapter with nearly $25 million in federal funding dedicated to advancing research, workforce development, public safety, and national defense initiatives, according to this news release from ULL. Through FY26 federal appropriations approved by Congress and signed into law, the university and its partners secured support for four major projects that collectively strengthen Louisiana’s innovation economy and national impact. These investments reinforce the leadership role of the University of Louisiana at Lafayette while expanding collaboration with federal agencies, industry leaders, and higher education institutions across the region.

The appropriations represent more than a financial boost; they reflect sustained advocacy from Louisiana’s congressional delegation, including U.S. Rep. Clay Higgins, U.S. Sen. Bill Cassidy, and U.S. Sen. John Kennedy. According to Interim President Dr. Ramesh Kolluru, the delegation’s leadership enabled the university to accelerate applied research initiatives that align with both state economic priorities and national strategic needs. He emphasized that this support empowers UL Lafayette to expand targeted programs designed to strengthen Louisiana’s workforce pipeline and deepen the university’s long-term impact.

A $5 million allocation will establish the Silicon Bayou Semiconductor Training Center on UL Lafayette campus. The facility, developed in partnership with South Louisiana Community College and other stakeholders, will focus on semiconductor manufacturing training and applied research. UL Lafayette has already committed to a 12,000-square-foot facility and invested $1.25 million to launch the initiative, positioning the center as a catalyst for Louisiana’s growing semiconductor sector.

The center is designed to support major industry investments, including companies such as First Solar, while helping recruit the next generation of semiconductor manufacturers to the state. As semiconductor production becomes increasingly critical to national supply chains, the training center strengthens Louisiana’s competitiveness and prepares students for high-demand careers in advanced manufacturing.

Another $2.5 million will enhance Bio-Safety Level 3 capabilities at the New Iberia Research Center, expanding its ability to conduct research involving select agents that threaten public health. The funding supports upgrades such as wastewater effluent decontamination systems, enhanced security measures, improved access controls, upgraded waste disposal infrastructure, and secure aerobiology delivery systems.

These improvements strengthen national biosecurity research capacity while ensuring compliance with federal safety standards. By elevating the research center’s infrastructure, UL Lafayette enhances its ability to contribute to infectious disease research, therapeutic development, and public health preparedness—areas that remain essential in a post-pandemic global landscape.

The largest allocation, $12 million, supports the Autonomous Recovery from Cyber Attacks (ARC) initiative, a joint research effort between UL Lafayette and Radiance Technologies. The project focuses on developing technologies that allow systems to autonomously recover from cyberattacks, strengthening resilience across defense and critical infrastructure sectors.

Funding will be shared between the university and Radiance Technologies, underscoring a collaborative approach to applied cybersecurity research. The ARC initiative reflects UL Lafayette’s broader strategy to expand its defense-related research portfolio and deepen federal partnerships tied to national security, resilience, and advanced systems innovation.

The final allocation includes $5 million designated for the PHMSA National Center of Excellence for LNG Safety, with $4.2 million directed toward the center itself and $800,000 supporting its Academic Research Consortium. UL Lafayette co-leads the consortium in partnership with McNeese State University, Southern University, and Texas A&M University.

Collectively, these four initiatives reinforce UL Lafayette’s role as a strategic partner to industry, government, and communities throughout Louisiana and beyond. By strengthening semiconductor manufacturing, biosecurity research, cybersecurity resilience, and LNG safety innovation, the university positions itself at the intersection of workforce development and national priorities. In doing so, UL Lafayette not only expands its research capacity but also helps shape a stronger, more resilient future for Louisiana’s economy and the nation’s security landscape.

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Cajun Crawfish Cornbread with Crispy Pork Cracklins

There are few dishes that capture the bold, savory spirit of South Louisiana quite like a skillet of Cracklin’ Crawfish Cornbread. This recipe from Louisiana Cookin brings together smoky bacon drippings, tender crawfish tails, and crispy pork cracklin’s into one golden, flavor-packed bake. Inspired by the traditions of Acadiana and the comfort-food heritage celebrated across Louisiana, this cornbread transforms a simple side into a hearty centerpiece. Ingredients like crawfish—so central to Cajun cuisine and festivals throughout Lafayette and Breaux Bridge—pair beautifully with stone-ground cornmeal and buttermilk for a rich, tender crumb. Whether you are hosting a backyard boil or preparing a cozy Sunday supper, this dish reflects the rustic charm of cast-iron cooking and the deep culinary roots of Cajun seasoning and Gulf Coast seafood traditions.

Ingredients for Crawfish Cornbread:

● 1 (16-ounce) package frozen cooked crawfish tails, drained and divided
● 1 (3.5-ounce) bag pork cracklin’ strips, coarsely chopped
● 1⅓ cups whole buttermilk
● 2 large eggs
● 1 cup fresh corn kernels (about 2 ears)
● 1 jalapeño, seeded and chopped
● ⅓ cup thinly sliced green onion
● ½ cup chopped red bell pepper
● 5 tablespoons bacon drippings, divided
● 1 cup all-purpose flour
● ¼ teaspoon baking soda
● 2 teaspoons baking powder
● ¼ cup salted butter, room temperature
● 1 cup yellow cornmeal
● 1 teaspoon Cajun seasoning
● 1 teaspoon kosher salt

Directions for Crawfish Cornbread

1. Preheat the oven to 400°F.
2. In a 10-inch cast-iron skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of bacon drippings over medium-high heat. Add the corn, bell pepper, green onion, and jalapeño. Cook, stirring frequently, until the vegetables are tender, about 6 to 7 minutes. Remove from heat.
3. In a medium bowl, whisk together the cornmeal, flour, baking powder, kosher salt, Cajun seasoning, and baking soda. Stir in the buttermilk, eggs, and 2 tablespoons of bacon drippings until combined. Fold in the sautéed corn mixture, chopped cracklin’s, and 12 ounces of the crawfish tails.
4. Add the remaining 2 tablespoons of bacon drippings to the skillet. Place the skillet in the oven for 3 to 4 minutes until the drippings are hot and shimmering. Carefully spoon the batter into the hot skillet and smooth the top with an offset spatula.
5. Bake for about 18 minutes, or until a wooden pick inserted into the center comes out clean. Allow the cornbread to cool for 10 minutes before slicing.
6. In a separate bowl, combine the softened butter with the remaining 4 ounces of crawfish tails. Serve the warm cornbread with the crawfish butter generously spread over each slice.

Baking the batter in a preheated skillet ensures a crisp, golden crust—a hallmark of authentic cast-iron cornbread. The crawfish butter melts into the warm crumb, creating an indulgent finish that enhances the seafood flavor without overwhelming the bread.

Cracklin’ Crawfish Cornbread pairs beautifully with classic Louisiana dishes. Serve it alongside a hearty seafood gumbo, a bowl of red beans and rice, or even grilled shrimp fresh from the Gulf. For gatherings during Mardi Gras season, it makes a flavorful alternative to standard party sides, complementing festive spreads that often include boudin, jambalaya, and king cake. If fresh crawfish is in season, substitute boiled and peeled tails for frozen. Adjust the Cajun seasoning to suit your spice preference, and consider adding a sprinkle of shredded sharp cheddar for an extra layer of richness. Leftovers reheat well in the oven, restoring that crisp exterior while keeping the inside moist.

Cracklin’ Crawfish Cornbread celebrates the bold ingredients and traditions that define Louisiana cooking. With its smoky bacon drippings, tender crawfish, and crunchy cracklin’s, this skillet bake delivers comfort and character in every bite. Whether served at a crawfish boil, a holiday gathering, or a simple weeknight dinner, it brings unmistakable Gulf Coast flavor straight to the table.

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River Views and Revolutionary Roots in Alexandria

Just across the Potomac River from Washington, D.C., Alexandria stands confidently as a destination in its own right. While many travelers use it as a convenient home base for exploring the monuments and museums of the nation’s capital, this historic Virginia city offers far more than proximity, as per this travel blog article from Travel + Leisure. With its cobblestone streets, preserved colonial architecture, and vibrant waterfront, Alexandria blends early American heritage with contemporary energy. Its location minutes from Washington, D.C. makes it easy to enjoy both destinations in one trip, yet Alexandria’s personality feels distinctly its own—relaxed, artistic, and deeply rooted in the past.

Exploring the city’s story begins in Old Town, where guided experiences like those offered by the Manumission Tour Company illuminate the contributions of Alexandria’s African American residents. History continues at Mount Vernon, the estate of George and Martha Washington, where visitors tour the mansion, gardens, gristmill, and distillery for an immersive look at 18th‑century life. In the heart of town, Carlyle House preserves a 1753 Georgian mansion built by merchant John Carlyle, while the nearby Pope-Leighey House showcases both an early 19th‑century home and a striking Frank Lloyd Wright design. Even Gadsby’s Tavern Museum, once frequented by George Washington, now welcomes visitors to explore its storied past.

Art lovers find inspiration inside the walls of the Torpedo Factory Art Center, a former munitions plant transformed in 1974 into one of the country’s largest collections of working artist studios. Here, visitors observe painters, sculptors, photographers, and ceramicists at work—and even purchase original pieces directly from the creators. Nearby, The Athenaeum occupies an elegant 1851 Greek Revival building and serves as home to rotating exhibitions by the Northern Virginia Fine Arts Association. These cultural institutions reinforce Alexandria’s commitment to supporting both heritage and living artistry.

Outdoor exploration unfolds along the scenic waterfront. The African American Heritage Trail traces the lives and contributions of Africans and their descendants along the river, offering insight into both enslaved and free communities. Active travelers gravitate toward the 18‑mile Mount Vernon Trail, which stretches beside the Potomac and provides sweeping views of the Washington skyline for walkers, runners, and cyclists. Riverfront parks host festivals, public art installations, and open green space for picnicking, creating an inviting balance of recreation and reflection.

With its setting along the Potomac, time on the water becomes part of the Alexandria experience. Visitors may arrive by Potomac Water Taxi from Georgetown or board the tall ship Providence, a reproduction of John Paul Jones’ first American command. Mount Vernon Cruises offers scenic boat trips to Washington’s estate, blending sightseeing with storytelling. Kayaking, paddleboarding, and sailing also provide memorable perspectives of both Alexandria and Washington from the river itself.

Old Town’s King Street serves as the city’s vibrant corridor, lined with boutiques, bakeries, antique shops, and inviting restaurants housed in centuries‑old buildings. The complimentary King Street Trolley runs daily, making it easy to explore the mile‑long stretch without worrying about parking. On Saturday mornings, the historic Old Town Farmers’ Market—operating for more than 260 years—fills Market Square with fresh produce, breads, meats, and cheeses. Together, these experiences create a destination where colonial charm meets modern vitality.

Alexandria succeeds because it offers both immersion and access. Travelers enjoy a slower pace along the waterfront, then connect to the capital via Metrorail or water routes for iconic monuments and museums. In one compact, walkable city, history, art, outdoor adventure, and architectural beauty converge—making Alexandria not just a stop near Washington, but a memorable destination all its own.

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Hearty Chicken Fricassee with Baby Red Potatoes

There are few dishes more comforting than a skillet of chicken fricassee gently bubbling on the stove. Rooted in both French and Louisiana culinary traditions, fricassee blends the technique of browning meat with slow simmering in a savory gravy. In homes across South Louisiana, this dish, courtesy of Louisiana Cookin, has long appeared on weeknight tables and Sunday suppers alike, often served over a generous scoop of hot rice. Much like the hearty stews celebrated in Cajun kitchens from Louisiana to the bayous beyond Lafayette, chicken fricassee delivers deep flavor without complicated steps.

Traditionally influenced by French cooking methods, fricassee once referred to a white stew made with poultry or veal. Over time, the Louisiana version evolved, embracing bold seasoning and roux-based gravies that reflect Cajun and Creole heritage. This particular preparation uses pantry staples and a touch of prepared roux for ease, similar to products found in regional kitchens like Kary’s Roux. The result is a rich, velvety sauce that clings to tender chicken thighs and hearty potatoes, creating a one-skillet meal that feels both rustic and refined.

Ingredients:

● 6 boneless, skinless chicken thighs (about 2 pounds)
● 3 cups chicken broth
● 1½ pounds baby red potatoes, quartered
● ¼ cup prepared roux
● 1 medium yellow onion, chopped
● 2 stalks celery, chopped
● 1 medium bell pepper, chopped
● 2 cloves garlic, minced
● 2 tablespoons vegetable oil
● 2 teaspoons fresh thyme leaves
● Cajun seasoning, to taste
● 1½ teaspoons kosher salt
● 1 teaspoon ground black pepper
● Hot cooked rice, for serving

Directions for Chicken Fricassee:

1. Begin by heating vegetable oil in a large cast-iron skillet over medium-high heat. While the oil warms, season the chicken thighs evenly with kosher salt and black pepper. Place the chicken into the hot skillet and allow it to brown undisturbed for about three minutes per side. This step builds foundational flavor, creating golden edges that later enrich the gravy. Once browned, transfer the chicken to a plate and set aside.
2. In the same skillet—without wiping it clean—add the chopped onion, bell pepper, celery, and minced garlic. This aromatic trio, often referred to as the “holy trinity” in Cajun cooking, forms the backbone of countless Louisiana dishes. Cook over medium heat, stirring frequently, until the vegetables soften and become fragrant, about three minutes. Their natural sweetness begins to balance the savory depth of the browned chicken.
3. Pour in the chicken broth and add the prepared roux. Whisk thoroughly to ensure the roux dissolves smoothly into the liquid. Bring the mixture to a boil, then reduce the heat to medium and allow it to simmer gently for about 10 minutes. Stir frequently as the gravy thickens and takes on a silky consistency. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon but remain pourable.
4. Return the browned chicken thighs to the skillet, nestling them into the gravy. Add the quartered baby red potatoes around the chicken. Season lightly with Cajun seasoning, adjusting to taste depending on your preferred spice level. Cover the skillet and cook over medium heat for approximately 25 minutes. The chicken is done when it reaches an internal temperature of 165°F, and the potatoes should be fork-tender. Just before serving, sprinkle fresh thyme leaves over the top for a bright, herbal finish.
5. Serve the fricassee generously over hot cooked rice, allowing the gravy to seep into every grain.

Notes:

Although this dish stands confidently on its own, a few simple sides round out the meal beautifully. A crisp green salad dressed with a light vinaigrette offers refreshing contrast to the rich gravy. Steamed green beans or sautéed okra add a seasonal touch, especially during warmer months. For a more indulgent spread, warm French bread or buttered cornbread works perfectly for soaking up every last bit of sauce.

If preparing this for guests, consider beginning the meal with a light appetizer such as deviled eggs or a small seafood gumbo. The layered flavors create a full Southern-inspired menu without overwhelming the palate.

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From Waterfalls to Gondolas: Best Experiences of Stowe, Vermont

Tucked into the northern reaches of Vermont, Stowe, Vermont has long been celebrated as a quintessential New England getaway, as per this travel blog article from Compass Roam. Although peak fall foliage can feel elusive—arriving too early or too late depending on weather and elevation—the town’s charm extends far beyond leaf-peeping season. Set against the rolling ridgelines of the Green Mountains, Stowe offers year-round adventure, postcard-worthy scenery, and a downtown that feels lifted straight from a holiday film set. Whether visiting during the golden days of October, the snowy depths of winter, or the mild, trail-filled months of summer, Stowe, Vermont delivers a full itinerary in a compact mountain setting.

Relax at Spruce Peak Village

At the base of Mount Mansfield sits Spruce Peak, a lively alpine village offering lodging, shopping, seasonal ice skating, and summer concerts. During winter, ski trails connect directly to the village, creating seamless access to the slopes.

Visit Stowe Vermont Covered Bridges

Vermont boasts more than 100 covered bridges, and one of the most talked-about is Gold Brook Covered Bridge (Emily’s Bridge). Surrounded by forest and local legend, the historic structure adds a dose of intrigue to scenic drives through the countryside.

Get Lost in Percy Farm Corn Maze

Seasonal fun awaits at Percy Farm Corn Maze just outside Stowe. Crossing a small bridge into wide-open fields feels like stepping into rural Vermont at its finest. The maze can take longer than expected to complete, but that’s part of the charm. The surrounding farmland and mountain backdrop make it more than just a puzzle—it’s an immersive autumn experience.

Hike to Moss Glen Falls

A short drive outside town leads to Moss Glen Falls, one of the area’s most accessible waterfalls. The gentle trail reaches the cascading falls in under half an hour, making it ideal for a quick nature immersion. The sound of rushing water and moss-covered rocks create a serene mountain setting that feels remote despite its proximity to town.

Explore Bingham Falls

Another scenic option is Bingham Falls, a 1.3-mile out-and-back hike that rewards visitors with dramatic rock formations and a striking waterfall pool. During warmer months, it becomes a popular swimming spot. After rainfall, the trail can be muddy, so checking conditions beforehand enhances the experience.

Drive the Auto Toll Road to Mount Mansfield

No visit feels complete without ascending Mount Mansfield, Vermont’s highest peak. The historic Auto Toll Road winds carefully up the mountainside and is open from late spring through fall. The drive rewards visitors with panoramic views stretching across the Green Mountains. Many choose to picnic at the summit while soaking in the scenery.

Walk or Bike the Stowe Recreation Path

The 5.3-mile Stowe Recreation Path connects resorts, restaurants, and downtown via a paved, non-motorized trail. Following the West Branch River and framed by mountain vistas, it offers one of the most scenic ways to experience the area. Whether walking, cycling, or simply pausing for photographs, the path reveals Stowe’s natural beauty at a relaxed pace.

Take a Gondola Ride at Stowe Mountain Resort

For sweeping alpine views without a strenuous climb, ride the gondola at Stowe Mountain Resort. The 11-minute ascent rises toward the summit of Mount Mansfield, unveiling rolling ridgelines along the way. Open mid-June through mid-October, the gondola offers access to summit trails and dining at the Cliff House Restaurant.

Discover Smugglers’ Notch

Just north of town, Smugglers’ Notch State Park features towering cliffs, winding roads, caves, and expansive hiking trails. Historically used for smuggling goods during the early 19th century and later during Prohibition, the narrow mountain pass carries both natural grandeur and fascinating lore. The scenic drive alone is worth the visit.

Stowe proves that small mountain towns can deliver expansive experiences. From waterfall hikes and gondola rides to scenic drives and historic bridges, this Vermont destination blends outdoor adventure with timeless New England charm. Even if peak foliage proves unpredictable, the surrounding beauty of the Green Mountains ensures that every season feels like the right one.

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