"Previously a rotating nightclub known as Top of the Mart, the upper levels of what is the new Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans have been transformed into a major new city attraction–Vue Orleans Observatory, “a 360-degree observation deck and interactive experience" on floors 33 and 34. Having been built on a swamp, New Orleans is mostly low-rise, and so this observation deck, though not that high in relative terms, still delivers memorable views of the surrounding city. Upon entry, follow a bevy of interactive maps to the elevator, where further video traces the history of New Orleans. Narrated by local singing legend Irma Thomas and rendered in beautiful rotoscope animation, you’re surrounded on three sides by ever-shifting scenery while climbing to the first observation deck. There’s one more level to explore, where you can stroll outside around the perimeter of the tower, and take in the views—the vista looking straight up Poydras Street is particularly dramatic." - Paul Oswell
