I was stationed down at Polk in Louisiana, so I have been to NO about 10 times. Bourbon Street is about a 1/2 mile long of bars. French Quarters is really nice allot of shops and cool stuff to do in walking distance. I would STRONGLY recommend avoiding anything outside of the downtown area. It is EXTREMELY dangerous and the city is pretty much in ruins outside the centralized area. There are allot of bums and beggers. The crime rate is pretty bad so please watch your wallet. If you have the ability to travel about an hour check out Baton Rouge and see the Mall of Louisiana. It is huge and has an out door portion like easton. I stayed at the Hilton on the Mississippi when i stayed in NO they offer a great military rate. There is a casino right next to it, that I can't seem to remember the name of, but it is very nice.
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It may not snow (often) there but pack for chilly/cold weather. Enjoy your time.