My Uwharrie Off-Road Adventure

Conquering the Unexpected! 

Uwharrie National Forest is a mecca for off-road enthusiasts, offering a diverse range of trails that challenge even the most experienced drivers. The forest boasts nearly 20 miles of trails sprawling across the Badin Lake Recreation Area, with difficulties ranging from easy to extremely challenging.

My Jeep on Dickey Bell Trail

Spring Invasion 2018: A Muddy Affair

During the Carolina Trails Off-Road Spring Invasion in 2018, I experienced firsthand how unpredictable off-roading can be. While my previous excursions on Uwharrie's notorious "Three D" trails (Dickey Bell, Dutch John, and Daniel) had been on dry, dusty terrain, this time was dramatically different.

Uwharrie Off-road Adventure 👉 Spring Invasion 2018

My Jeep on a muddy trail

When Easy Becomes Difficult

Recent rains had transformed the typically manageable trails into slick, treacherous paths of red clay. This unexpected condition turned what should have been an easy to moderate ride into a challenging test of skill and patience.

My Jeep trying to get traction on a muddy trail

Lessons in Traction

My Jeep, usually adept at crawling over rocks, struggled to find traction on the slippery mud. One particularly frustrating moment saw me needing a tow after my driver's side tire repeatedly slipped into a two-foot rut. My treads were caked with slick clay-like mud. It was a humbling experience watching other off-roaders navigate the same obstacle with precise throttle control.

My Jeep Off-road Fail 👉 Struggling in the Mud

Selfie with my muddy Jeep

Adapting to the Elements

As the day progressed, I learned to adjust my driving technique. The key was finding the right balance between caution and assertiveness with the throttle—a skill quite different from my usual rock-crawling approach. By the end of the event, I had noticeably improved my mud-driving abilities.

Takeaways for Off-Road Enthusiasts

Always Be Prepared: Weather can drastically change trail conditions.

Adapt Your Driving: Different terrains require different techniques.

Learn from Others: Observe how experienced drivers handle challenging situations.

Practice Makes Perfect: Each outing is an opportunity to improve your skills.

Read more about my Tips for First-time Off-roaders. 

Uwharrie National Forest offers an unparalleled off-road experience that can challenge and thrill drivers of all skill levels. Whether you're a seasoned veteran or a newcomer to the sport, Uwharrie's trails promise adventure and the opportunity to expect—and conquer—the unexpected.

My new Jeep friends

Check out my videos from the event! 

👉Learning to Use Throttle 

👉 Slab Pile Trail 79 & Wolf Den Trail 89

👉 Rocky Mountain Loop

👉 Challenging Day on the Trails

My Experience with the Quadratec Q-Performance Stealth Winch

A Reliable Companion

Finally after five years of patiently waiting, I won a winch in 2019 at a Women's Wheeling Day event at Rausch Creek Off-road Park. I was hesitant to spend the money on a winch when the chances of me using it were slim to none. Little did I know, this winch would be used dozens of times over next few years.

My new winch installed on my bumper. 

Over the past four years, I’ve put this winch to the test in some serious off-road recovery situations.

Real-World Scenarios Where My Winch Saved the Day:

✔ The Rubicon Trail – Pulled fellow Jeepers through tough rock gardens.
✔ Jeeps in Ditches – Helped stranded drivers recover their rigs.
✔ Snowy Mountain Trails – Rescued multiple vehicles stuck in heavy snow.
✔ Emergency Recoveries – Pulled out a Jeep after it slide off a mountain road. 
✔ Unexpected Uses – Even used it to flip over a pontoon float at my sister’s lake house!

Through all of this, the Quadratec Q-Performance Stealth Winch has never let me down. It’s durable, reliable, and powerful enough for any off-road challenge.

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Winch Installation: My Experience at Adrenaline Off-Road

Installing a winch for the first time can be intimidating. I wanted to learn the process hands-on, so I headed to Adrenaline Off-Road, where the guys walked me through every step.

One of the techs helping install my winch. 

Installation Process:

1. Mounting the winch – Ensuring it was securely attached to my Jeep’s bumper.
2. Wiring and connections – Hooking up the power cables properly.
3. Safety checks – Verifying everything was tight and operational before the first use.

Pro Tip: If you’re installing a winch for the first time, have an expert double-check your setup! A properly installed winch ensures safety and longevity.

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Key Features of the Quadratec Q-Performance Stealth Winch

🔹 10,000 lbs. Pulling Capacity – Handles heavy-duty recoveries.
🔹 Synthetic Rope – Lightweight, safer, and easier to manage.
🔹 Waterproof Design – Built for extreme weather conditions.
🔹 Integrated Wireless Remote – Convenient and easy to use.

I highly recommend this winch to any Jeep owner looking for a reliable recovery tool. Whether you’re new to off-roading or an experienced trail rider, a dependable winch is a must-have for your setup.

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FAQ: Answering Common Winch Questions

Is the Quadratec Q-Performance Stealth Winch worth it?

Absolutely! After years of real-world use, I can confidently say this winch is dependable, strong, and durable.

How hard is it to install a winch on a Jeep?

With basic mechanical skills, it’s a manageable DIY project, but if you’re unsure, professional installation is recommended.

What’s better: Synthetic rope or steel cable?

Synthetic rope is lighter, safer, and easier to handle, making it my top choice for off-road recoveries.

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Final Thoughts: Why Every Jeeper Needs a Winch

My Quadratec Q-Performance Stealth Winch has been a game-changer, proving its worth on countless trails. Whether you're a seasoned off-roader or just starting out, a winch is one of the best investments you can make for your Jeep.

• Off-Road Recovery Gear Checklist
• Jeep Momma's Winch Install Video

Have questions about winches or off-road recovery? Drop them in the comments below!

Trail Guide Training Class

The Beginning of an Addiction

A Jeep Momma Story of Discovery, Skill Building, and Becoming a Mentor

When I walked into a Jeep dealership in May 2013, I thought I was asking a simple question “What’s the difference between these three Jeep models?” I had no idea that the answer would be the spark that launched an entirely new chapter of my life. That one moment of curiosity would lead me down a decade-long path of off-road adventures, learning, confidence-building, and eventually becoming a mentor to new Jeepers.

What started as a casual inquiry quickly became a full-fledged passion, one that shaped my identity, my skills, and my connection to the Jeep community.

How It All Began: My First Time Off-Road

My off-road journey officially started with a private 101 Skills Driving Course taught by Kyle from Off-Road Consulting. That first class was more than an introduction it was the turning point that opened my eyes to a world I had never experienced.

By the end of the day, the nervousness and uncertainty I felt as a Jeep novice were replaced with excitement, confidence, and a hunger to learn more. That single course ignited the addiction.

Rapid Growth Through Training and Education

Within the first year of owning my Jeep, I immersed myself deeply into learning. Two off-road training classes quickly turned into much more. My desire to understand not just how to wheel, but why techniques work, led me to advanced training in:

• Off-road recovery methods and safety

• Map reading and navigational skills

• Trail guide skills and leadership

• Terrain assessment and risk management

• Communication and spotting techniques

If someone told me in 2013 that I’d be reading topographical maps and guiding groups of Jeepers through challenging terrain, I never would have believed it. But passion changes you and off-roading definitely changed me.

From Student to Mentor: Growing Into the Jeep Community

One of the most meaningful parts of my journey has been the shift from being one of the new Jeep women on the trail to becoming a trusted mentor for other drivers. Over time, experience builds not only skill but perspective and sharing that knowledge became one of my greatest joys.

I began helping new Jeep owners learn recovery basics, spotting, and confidence-building. I found myself becoming the person I needed when I first started a guide, a teacher, and a cheerleader for others stepping into the off-road world.

Jeeps on the trail

The Impact of Expert Instruction

Much of my success and confidence comes from the mentorship of Kyle at Off-Road Consulting, whose expertise has shaped thousands of drivers across the country. His instruction gave me the foundation I needed to evolve, grow, and eventually guide others.

Kyle’s Credentials:

• Certified Off-Road Trainer with i4WDTA (International 4-Wheel Driver’s Training Association)

• Full-time off-road professional seven days a week, living what many enthusiasts consider the dream

• Industry-recognized expert in recovery, terrain reading, vehicle dynamics, and safe off-road operations

Every class I took with Off-Road Consulting pushed me further each adventure refining my skills, sharpening my instincts, and expanding my confidence behind the wheel.

Kyle, Off-Road Consulting 

Embracing the Jeep Lifestyle

What began as curiosity turned into a passion and eventually into a lifestyle. The Jeep community became a source of friendship, mentorship, and inspiration. It offered me a place to grow, to challenge myself, and to rediscover strengths I didn’t realize I had.

My transformation from a curious first-time Jeep buyer to a seasoned off-road enthusiast and mentor is proof that passion, when pursued wholeheartedly, can reshape your life. The trails taught me resilience. The community taught me belonging. And the Jeep taught me confidence.

My story isn’t over not even close. Every year brings new trails, new challenges, and new Jeepers to guide. The addiction continues, and I look forward to every mile still ahead.

FAQ: Starting Your Jeep Off-Road Journey 

How do I get started with off-roading if I’m a complete beginner?

Begin with a reputable training course like Off-Road Consulting. A foundational skills class builds confidence, teaches proper technique, and drastically improves safety.

Do I need a Jeep to take an off-road driving course?

Most off-road training organizations, including Off-Road Consulting, require your own vehicle so you can learn how your Jeep reacts on the trail.

Why is professional off-road training important?

Training teaches critical skills such as recovery techniques, safe vehicle operation, reading terrain, spotting, and understanding vehicle limits. These are essential for safe, responsible off-roading.

How long does it take to feel confident off-road?

Confidence builds with both training and experience. Many Jeep owners feel significantly more capable after just one professional class.

Is trail guiding a skill I can learn?

Yes. With proper training and experience, you can progress from student to mentor and eventually to trail guide, just as I did.

Who is i4WDTA and why does their certification matter?

The International 4-Wheel Driver’s Training Association sets the global standard for off-road driver education. An instructor certified through i4WDTA is recognized as an expert in safe, responsible off-roading.

Rapid Growth and Skill Development

Within my first year of Jeep ownership, I had already completed two off-road training classes. But I didn't stop there. My thirst for knowledge and adventure led me to pursue additional training in:

• Off-road recovery techniques
• Map reading skills
• Trail guide certification

Off-road Consulting 👉 Trail Guide Training Class Here

Trail Guide Training selfie

Top 5 Must Have Primitive Camping Items

Passion For the Great Outdoors

I have a deep passion for camping and immersing myself in the wonders of the natural world. The joy of gathering around a campfire with friends, engaging in delightful conversations, is a cherished experience. My upbringing in the beautiful landscapes of Minnesota and North Dakota allowed me to spend my entire childhood camping and fishing, resulting in a treasury of incredible memories from lakesides to wilderness retreats.

Over the years I have made mistakes but turn them into valuable lessons. Primitive Camping Mistakes - 10 mistakes beginners make

Check out my Mastering the Art of Camping page! 

Jeep Momma YouTube Video - Top 5 Must-have Primitive Camping Items 

Campfire

1. A Reliable Heat Source (Buddy Heater or Similar)

Staying warm is essential for safety and comfort especially during cold-weather camping. A portable heater designed for tent use helps regulate temperatures, prevents dangerous overnight cooling, and significantly improves sleep quality.

Safety Tip:
Always follow manufacturer guidelines and ensure adequate ventilation.

2. Multiple Heavy-Duty Tarps

Tarps are indispensable for primitive camping. They provide shelter, protect gear, create wind breaks, and form emergency rain covers. Use them to build a dry cooking area, a gear staging space, or a secondary shelter during storms.

Pro Tip:
Bring paracord and stakes so you can deploy tarps quickly and securely.

3. Fire-Starting Essentials

Whether for warmth or cooking, fire is central to primitive camping. Pack multiple fire-starting methods such as:

• Waterproof matches

• Ferro rods

• Butane lighters

• Fire cubes or fatwood

Backup options ensure you’re prepared even in wet or windy conditions.

4. A Quality Sleeping System (Insulated Pad + Warm Sleeping Bag)

Primitive campsites often mean uneven terrain, colder temperatures, and no insulation from the ground. A good sleeping system not only improves comfort but also maintains warmth and reduces overnight heat loss.

Look for:

• A sleeping pad with an appropriate R-value

• A sleeping bag rated for temperatures below what you expect

5. A High-Output Headlamp or Lantern

Lighting is essential for navigating camp, cooking after sunset, and maintaining safety in remote areas. Hands-free lighting like a headlamp allows you to move around the campsite, gather firewood, or handle gear without juggling a flashlight.

Add a backup:
Carry spare batteries or a small power bank.

BONUS: Additional Gear Worth Bringing

(Adding this optional section boosts AEO visibility and enhances your topical authority.)

• Paracord

• Water filtration system

• Folding saw

• Compact camp stove

• First aid kit

• Emergency bivy

• Biodegradable wipes

• Bear-safe food container (if needed for your region)

FAQ: Primitive Camping Essentials

What is considered “primitive camping”?

Primitive camping means camping without modern facilities with no hookups, no bathrooms, and no established amenities. It requires self-sufficiency and advance preparation.

Is a Buddy Heater safe inside a tent?

Many models, including the Buddy Heater, are designed for indoor or tent use. Always follow safety guidelines, maintain ventilation, and never leave the heater unattended.

How many tarps should I bring?

At least two—one for shelter and one for gear. Serious campers often bring three or more for maximum versatility.

What’s the best way to stay warm during cold-weather primitive camping?

Use a high-quality sleeping bag, an insulated sleeping pad, and a tent-safe heater. Sleeping directly on the ground without insulation results in rapid heat loss.

Do I need fire-starting tools even if I have a stove?

Yes. Fire is a survival tool, a backup heat source, and a core part of primitive camping. Always carry at least two or three fire-starting methods.

What is the Jeep Black Hole? Why Jeep Wranglers Lose Things Behind the Glove Box

5 Things I Didn’t Know When I Bought My Jeep Wrangler

Quick Answer: The Jeep Black Hole is the hidden cavity behind the glove box in many Jeep Wrangler JK and JL models. When the glove box becomes overfilled, papers, tools, and other small items can slide over the back edge and fall into the space behind it, making them seem lost until the glove box is removed.

When I bought my Jeep Wrangler, I had no idea I’d be discovering new quirks and surprises years later. One of the biggest and funniest discoveries was something I call the Jeep Black Hole. It took me five years to figure out why gear kept disappearing inside my Jeep, and once I finally found the culprit, everything made sense.

This post breaks down what the Jeep Black Hole actually is, why it happens, and how you can avoid losing your stuff. I also share the other surprising things I didn’t know when I bought my Wrangler, which I reveal in my YouTube video linked below.

What Is the Jeep Black Hole? 

The Jeep Black Hole is the hidden space behind the glove box where items from the glove box fall when the compartment gets too full.
Things slip over the back edge of the glove box and vanish into the deep cavity behind it sometimes for months or even years until you remove the glove box panel and rescue your lost gear.

If something goes missing in your Wrangler and you swear you never took it out of the vehicle… check behind the glove box. It’s probably there.

Recommended Reading

 

Jeep Easter Eggs

Jeep Secrets Revealed

Beginner Jeep Momma How To Guide

How to Retrieve Items From the Jeep Black Hole

1. Empty the glove box.
2. Open the glove box fully.
3. Release the side stops.
4. Allow the glove box to drop downward.
5. Look behind the compartment using a flashlight.
6. Carefully remove any items that have fallen into the cavity.

Always check your owner's manual for model-specific instructions before removing interior panels.

Why the Jeep Black Hole Exists

The Wrangler’s glove box design makes this phenomenon almost inevitable:

• The glove box sits in front of a deep void in the dash

• Items can slide over the top edge when the box is overloaded

• The box opens downward, encouraging small items to shift

• Rough trails and bouncing only accelerate the problem

This combination creates the perfect drop zone for anything small enough to fall through.

What commonly disappears into the Black Hole:

• Insurance and registration papers

• Trail notes and maps

• Tire gauges

• Flashlights

• Pens

• Snacks

• Small tools

• Sunglasses

If it fits in the glove box, it can fall through the glove box.

Why It's Called a Glove Box

The term “glove box” comes from the early days of automobiles, when drivers wore driving gloves to protect their hands from cold weather, engines, and open-air cabins. Automakers added a small compartment specifically for storing gloves, maps, and small tools hence the name.

What It’s Called Today

Many modern manufacturers refer to it as a:

• Glove compartment

• Instrument panel compartment

But I continue using the traditional name because that is what I grew up calling it back in the "olden" days. 

How to Prevent the Jeep Black Hole Issue

You don’t need to modify your Jeep, but a few small habits help:

• Keep only lightweight essentials in the glove box

• Store documents in a sleeve or zipper pouch

• Use interior organizers or trays

• Move heavier or frequently used items to the center console

• Clean out the glove box regularly

These small changes prevent another “black hole rescue mission.”

FAQ: The Jeep Black Hole

What is the Jeep Black Hole?
The space behind the glove box where items fall when the compartment gets overfilled.

Why does my Jeep Wrangler lose things behind the glove box?
There’s an open cavity behind the glove box. When the box is too full, items slide over the edge and drop behind it.

Can you retrieve items from the Jeep Black Hole?
Yes. You usually need to remove or drop the glove box door to access the space behind it.

Does every Jeep Wrangler have a Black Hole?
Most JK and JL owners experience this because of how the glove box design and dash cavity are structured.

What did the glove box originally store?
Driving gloves -- early motorists needed them, and manufacturers created a compartment to hold them.

Can a phone fall into the Jeep Black Hole?
Most phones are too large, but smaller electronics, charging cables, memory cards, and accessories can slip behind the glove box.

Is the Jeep Black Hole a defect?
No. It's generally considered a design quirk rather than a mechanical defect.

Can off-roading make the problem worse?
Yes. Rough trails, washboard roads, and rocky terrain can cause items inside the glove box to shift and fall behind it.

How do I stop things from falling behind the glove box?
Using document pouches, organizers, and avoiding overfilling the glove compartment are the best solutions.

As a Jeep owner who has wheeled across the country and learned these quirks firsthand, I love sharing the surprises and secrets of Wrangler ownership. The Jeep Black Hole is one of those unexpected discoveries that every Jeeper laughs about once they’ve finally found it.

In the video below, I show exactly where the Jeep Black Hole is located and share the moment I finally discovered where my missing gear had been hiding for years.

 Read more about Jeep Secrets Revealed in my blog post. 

Written by Tammy "Jeep Momma" Forsyth  - a Jeep Wrangler owner, off-road enthusiast, and content creator who has explored trails across Colorado, Wyoming, Arizona, Utah, and beyond. Through Jeep Momma, she shares firsthand Wrangler ownership experiences, trail guides, DIY modifications, camping setups, and Jeep community stories to help new and experienced Jeep owners get more from their adventures.👉About Jeep Momma

My First Time Trail Guiding Jeeps Off Road

Jeep Momma Get Lost

Jeep Momma A Trail Guide

I have been off-roading for nearly 5 years now. A couple of weekends ago was my first time leading a group of Jeepers on the trails at Rausch Creek Off Road Park. I have been trail gunner in the past, but never the trail leader guiding a group all day on the trails. 

Pizza Rock in the snow

Luckily for me, I was able to use the Maprika Map app on my phone. It was a life saver. However, we still made a couple of wrong turns, and ended up on some blue trails when our intent was green trails. 

Jeep trail break

The trails were full of snow and ice so that made for even more difficult time traversing the trails. There were even times when we were the first group to wheel the trail. It was like we were breaking new ground. 

Jeeper towing another Jeep

We also needed to winch some Jeeps thru the slippery deep snow. The ice and snow made the green trails blue and the blue trails black. But all in all it was a super fun time, intense but really fun as we all worked together as a team. 

Life Changes Large and Small

Top 5 Ways My Jeep Changed My Life

Life Changes Large and Small

Many Jeep owners say their Wrangler changed their life but for me, it truly transformed everything from my friendships to my confidence, my creativity, and even my mindset. Owning a Jeep opened the door to new passions, new communities, new skills, and a new way of living with purpose.

Below are the top five ways my Jeep changed my life, both in big ways and in the small everyday moments.

1. I Found My Passion Through My Jeep

My Jeep wasn’t just a vehicle it became the catalyst for rediscovering my passion for creativity and storytelling. I’ve loved photography and writing since elementary school, and for many years I lived that passion as a television videographer. When I chose to step away from news to raise my family, I packed those creative dreams away for a while.

But when I bought my Wrangler, everything reignited. The trails, the community, and the adventure inspired me to start a blog, launch a YouTube Channel and share my journey through words, images, and video.

My Jeep gave me a new outlet for the creativity I had been missing for years—right when I needed it most.

2. The Jeep Community Gave Me Lifelong Friends

The Jeep community is unlike anything I’ve ever experienced. Through trail rides, events, meetups, and online conversations, I have met people who feel like family. Even if I don’t see them every day—or even every year—I know these friends will be part of my life forever.

My first Jeep mom friend opened the door to a world of support, camaraderie, and shared adventure. The connections I’ve made through Jeeping are some of the most genuine friendships I’ve ever had.

My First Jeep Mom Friend

3. Off-Roading Became My First Real Hobby

Before owning a Wrangler, I didn’t have a hobby I could truly call my own. Off-roading changed that.

There is nothing like being out in nature with my Jeep, facing the challenges of the trail—every obstacle teaching me something new about driving, patience, and myself.

Off-roading became more than a hobby. It became a way to decompress, reconnect with the world, and embrace adventure on my own terms.

My Jeep in Uwharrie

4. Working on My Jeep Built My Confidence

Learning to work on my Jeep was one of the most empowering experiences of my life. From installing parts to troubleshooting issues, each project pushed me beyond what I thought I could do.

There is a special kind of pride that comes from looking at your Jeep and knowing you did the work.
It strengthened my confidence not only as a Jeeper, but as a woman stepping into a traditionally male-dominated space and proving—to myself—that I am capable of far more than I realized.

Working on my Jeep

5. My Jeep Inspired a New Mindset: Living Simple

Owning a Jeep didn’t just change how I spend my time—it changed how I see life. Some call it minimalism; I call it Living Simple.

Living Simple is about clarity, purpose, and being intentional with how you live. It’s choosing to prioritize what truly matters while letting go of everything that doesn’t.

I realized that the “stuff” piled in my closets, basement, and garage wasn’t adding to my life—it was distracting me from it. As I embraced the Jeep lifestyle, I found myself craving more space for adventure, creativity, and meaningful experiences.

Letting go of the excess was freeing. Not because I wanted less, but because I wanted more room for what matters.

Living Simple became a guardrail—a way to stay focused on the life I want and the purpose I treasure most.

Essentialism Quote

Experience Matters 

As someone who has wheeled thousands of miles, worked on my own Jeep, built a blog and YouTube channel from scratch, and found community across the country, I’ve lived these lessons firsthand. My Jeep didn’t just give me adventures it helped me rediscover myself, build confidence, and create a more intentional life.

Minimalism Quote

FAQ: How a Jeep Can Change Your Life

Can owning a Jeep really change your life?
Yes. Many Jeep owners experience new friendships, personal growth, outdoor adventure, and a stronger sense of identity through the Jeep lifestyle.

How did your Jeep help you find your passion again?
My Jeep gave me the inspiration, content, and community I needed to reignite my love for photography, videography, writing, and storytelling.

What makes the Jeep community so special?
Jeepers support each other—on the trail, during builds, and through everyday life. The shared passion creates deep, lasting friendships.

How can working on a Jeep build confidence?
When you learn to modify or repair your Jeep yourself, you build problem-solving skills and a powerful belief in your capabilities.

What does “Living Simple” have to do with Jeep life?
Many Jeepers discover that experiences matter more than material things. The Jeep lifestyle often inspires intentional living, clarity, and focusing on what truly brings joy.

Bourbon Street and Beyond

A Memorable Weekend Getaway in the Big Easy

I was invited to a weekend getaway to the Big Easy with my niece and her boyfriend. I went down to conquer Bourbon Street and came back with so much more than I ever expected. 

New Orleans is an amazing place with a vibe that no words can describe, a vibe you can only experience. The city is immensely rich in history, one weekend isn't enough to take it all in. Definitely one for the Bucket List. 

My niece, her boyfriend and myself in New Orleans

Discovering the French Quarter's Hidden Treasures

The French Quarter has so much more to offer than music and drinking. Like most cities in the South with many historic stories to be told, the stories New Orleans has to offer gave me chill bumps.

The French Quarter

Haunted New Orleans

New Orleans is known to be the Most Haunted City in America. Knowing that, we took a Vampires and Ghosts Walking Tour and a St. Louis Cemetery Tour to explore the city's spooky side.

Haunted Hotel

Bourbon Street: All-Day and All-Night Party

We spent most of our time exploring the French Quarter, New Orleans' oldest neighborhood. The nights were spent carousing up and down Bourbon Street dancing, drinking, and people watching. Plus, grabbing a string of beads or two. There is no other street like this in America. It's an all-day and night party with bars, jazz and blues clubs, restaurants, shops, and strip clubs lining the sidewalks.

Downtown New Orleans Selfie

New Orleans' Unique Culture and History

Known for its Mardi Gras party all year long, Bourbon Street is lined with jazz and blues clubs and "take-out" bars. You can party to the wee hours of the morning and drink in the streets, taking your drink from one bar to the next.

Sampling New Orleans' Iconic Drinks

During these jaunts up and down Bourbon Street, we made several stops to our favorite bars and, of course, tried out the several "must-try" drinks New Orleans has to offer.

 

Collage of New Orleans specialty drinks

Sugary Delights

First, we started our day at Fais Deaux Deaux, sharing a Fish Bowl, which is a sugary concoction of fruit punch, vodka, tequila, rum, and Everclear.

Drinking a fish bowl

Haunted Adventures at Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop Bar

Our next stop was Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop Bar, a haunted venue on Bourbon Street. The Purple VooDoo Daiquiri was a must-try at this historic bar, the oldest bar in America.

Sign of the oldest bar in America

Hand Grenades and Shark Attacks

Next was the Tropical Isle Bar for a Hand Grenade, a melon-flavored slushy. We made several stops at this bar and even had a surprise experience involving a Shark Attack.

Shark Attack Drink

The Famous Hurricane and Beyond

The Hurricane, one of New Orleans' most famous drinks, was on our list. We picked up Hurricanes at the VooDoo Lounge and enjoyed a buy one get one free deal.

Uncovering the Supernatural

Ghosts and Vampires Galore

We joined a ghosts and vampires walk and explored New Orleans' oldest cemetery, learning about the historical basis for the ghost stories and encountering tales of real-life vampire sightings.  To this day,  there have been many sightings of the Carter brothers, John and Wayne, even by the new owner of the apartment building where the Carter's once called home.  

Ghosts of the Andrew Jackson Hotel

You can even book a stay at local hotels and spend the night with ghosts like at the Andrew Jackson Hotel, where several boys died in a fire decades ago when it was an orphanage.

Ghosts of the French Quarter

New Orleans has a rich history of crime and murder, and some of the city's luxurious mansions are rumored to be haunted. 

Haunted Hotel

Marie Laveau: The Queen of VooDoo

We took a walking tour to learn about Marie Laveau, the Queen of VooDoo, and the misunderstood nature of Louisiana VooDoo, a spiritual religion with roots in West Africa and Native American traditions.

VooDoo has a bad connotation, culturally we think of VooDoo as something evil. Hollywood has sensationalized VooDoo giving it a bad name.

Louisiana VooDoo is a spiritual religion brought to New Orleans from the slaves of West Africa along with traditions from the Native Americans using herbs, poisons, and ritual creation of charms and amulets intended to protect oneself.

Marie Laveau was dedicated to her practice but she couldn't read or write. When she saw her "patient" she would make a doll of them. She would then stick a pin in the doll of where the injury or pain was. New Orleans residents would walk by her shop and see the dolls then see the patient walking down the street looking sickly.

This is how the rumors started with VooDoo dolls. People would say she would stick the doll "in the knee" and the person would have knee pain. When it was just the opposite. 

Marie Laveau

Exploring the French Market

The French Market, originally a Native American trading post, now offers a bazaar-like atmosphere with food, music, and shopping.

Beignet

Cafe Du Monde is known for its beignets, but my experience left me less than impressed. 

On a tour bus

A relaxing trolley ride down St. Charles Avenue offered a different perspective of the city.

Check out my other great getaways from my bucket list like San Francisco and my favorite small towns in America.