This might just be the best-kept secret in New Orléans. The Canal Street Ferry is FREE to go across the Mississippi River to the town of Algiers, a town that was annexed from New Orléans in 1870. Not only do  you get to cross the mighty Mississippi River, but you also have the opportunity for a spectacular view of the New Orléans skyline.

 

New Orléans Boardwalk

 

Start with a walk along the New Orléans boardwalk of the Mississippi River, admiring the bridge and the huge cargo ships from all over the world, and ending up at the Riverwalk Shopping Mall, where you can stop to do a little Outlet shopping.

Photo courtesy http://30dayadventures.ca/

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Photo courtesy http://photonews247.com/

 

Algiers Ferry Terminal

 

Then just past the Riverwalk Mall, find the Algiers Ferry Terminal, where you can take the late afternoon ferry to Algiers across the Mississippi River. You have to go upstairs to board. The ferry leaves NOLA at 15 minutes and 45 minutes past the hour from 6 am to midnight, and on the half hour from Algiers.

nolaferries.com

 

The Mississippi River

 

By taking the ferry, you get to see one of the largest and most powerful rivers in the world, the deep and muddy Mississippi. Algiers is on the right.

 

Algiers

 

It’s a short 25 minute ride till you arrive at Algiers Ferry Terminal.

 

Did you check out that history? It was first used as a holding area for newly arrived African slaves and for Cajuns arriving from Canada!

 

This town feels like a quiet Pre-Victorian town, oblivious to the passage of time. Although it has been ignored for many years, it got on the map after the hurricane destroyed many parts of New Orleans – because Algiers did not flood at all.

 

Taking a stroll around town is not dramatic, but it is quiet and pleasant.  

 

The charming architecture and decor.

 

Recommendation:  Spend the next two hours wandering around Algiers. Stop for supper. Take the ferry back just after nightfall when the city lights of Nawlins will be at their prettiest.

 

The Mississippi River

 

The sun was just setting as we headed back towards New Orléans.

 

By the time we were approaching New Orléans, the night skyline was flickering playfully on the Mississippi.

 

Yes, this may be the best-kept secret in New Orléans. Did I mention that it is FREE? It may not be a fancy ferry but it’s a splendid 25 minute ride across the mighty Mississippi with a great view of New Orléans from the river. How often do you get a free cruise across the mighty Mississippi? 

 

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