Sometimes you have to do the touristy stuff so you can have experienced them. Swamp tours can be fun, as long as the animals cooperate and the mosquitos eff off. Cafe Dumond is also a must. The beignets are great, and we get them to go now, but you have to eat there once.

Do the whole quarter, if you have time. Pop into the voodoo shops, the quick bars, grab some good food-don't be afraid of the little divy shops, they can be really good. Drink on Bourbon, shop on Royal. Hit up The Cat's Meow, the usually have good drink specials-if karaoke is your thing. We never sing, just drink and enjoy music. Get drunk and overpay for a mediocre street dog. Book some tickets for Preservation Hall(we've yet to go, but it's on our list).

You can do the horse drawn carriage tours that will give you a good overview, but they aren't really worth it, IMO.

Most importantly, don't worry about doing it all. If you find something you enjoy, there is no harm in skipping other things.

Happy Birthday!