It’s finally fall in New Orleans for approximately 3.5 seconds. We must grasp it now before it slips away on Sunday, or possibly Monday. Here are three ideas for boosting this liminal gap of autumnal weather today, tomorrow and maybe Sunday, if it isn’t already too humid. Launch yourself into any and all outdoor adventures now before the portal to the heat hellscape reopens, at the very latest on Tuesday.

 

Porch and Patio Perching: Grab a beverage and proceed to your own porch or patio, or to one of the many glorious spaces throughout the city. The Chloe, Columns, Elizabeth Street Café at Hotel St. Vincent, Seaworthy, Rosie’s on the Roof, Sylvain, The Elysian Bar and Bacchanal — just to name a few — each have a thoughtfully appointed outdoor area and good vibes to spare. (Be sure to call or visit the respective websites in advance to get COVID-related information and guidelines, make reservations if needed and discern COVID or IDA recovery hours.)

Play in the Park: New Orleans has some of the most beautiful parks in the country and I’m convinced all of us aren’t using them as much as we could and deserve. Off of the top of my head we have Audubon Park in Uptown, City Park in Mid-City, Lafreniere Park in Metairie, Woldenberg Park in the French Quarter and, if you want to go a little farther, Fountainebleau State Park in Mandeville, Jean Lafitte National Park and Preserve in Marrero. Again, there are so many more, so get to googling. (Also check park websites for closures before you go. Some areas may not be open to the public.)

Hop on a Bike: The city’s Blue Bike program is back! Download the app, find a docking station and ride. It’s easy, affordable and convenient. There are also bike rental companies throughout the city if you’d prefer a greater choice of bike styles (the Blue Bikes are a bit heavy and clunky, to be frank). Some also offer tours, which can be a fun change of pace.

 

So, like my dad always said and I assume it was for our wellbeing and not because we were annoying him, “Go outside, get out, right now. Go!”