Points of Interest Coming in from out of town? Here's where the ladies of Purrrlesque scratch their paws. These are our favorite places (not paid advertisements), so hit us up if you have any questions!
Lodging: The Biltmore Hotel: This hotel is less than a block from the venue and they are being kind enough to give us their group rates. They also have free continental breakfast, parking and wifi, as well as wine and cheese in the evenings (yay free booze!). There are hotels a little cheaper across town, but what you save in cost there, you'll repay in fees and parking. To reserve a room, call and say you are with the Purrrlesque Follies.
Food: The venue is on Elm street, which is the cultural center of the city. Here's a few of our tried and true spots. The Green Bean- Great coffee. Everything from your basic black coffee to fair trade, gluten free, vegan, chai cappuccinos. They also serve local beers and have beautiful local art on the walls. Fincastles- Small New Orleans style place open for lunch and dinner. Not quite as good as ACTUAL Nola food, but it'll do in a pinch. Really good Po' Boys. Jimmy Johns- It's a Jimmy Johns. Cheap, quick subs. Pickles to die for. The end. Natty Greene's- Brewery/ Restaurant currently being sued by Budweiser over the name 'Natty'. Good food, great for beer aficionados. McCoul's- Local Irish Style Pub. AMAZING wrap sandwiches and good atmosphere.
Shopping: There's several little shops all around the venue. I can't remember all of their names, but if you get a free hour and want to go exploring, you're sure to find something. Here's the few names I can remember.
Design Archives: Vintage and Antique shop, a little pricey but worth the cost. Legacy Irons Tattoo: Great work. See my mermaid. If you're feeling adventurous. Carolina Thrift: This is across town (10 minute drive?) but this is where the locals know to go to get the good stuff. Friendly Center: Again, about a 10 minute drive, but this is an open air mall with upscale stores and outlets. Ulta, White House, Black House, Victoria's Secret, etc. There's also a few restaurants and grocery stores over there (Harris Teeter and Whole Foods). If you drive a few miles past that there's a Joann's Fabrics if you run into any last minute costume emergencies.
Cultural: A block north of the venue is the International Civil Rights Museum, housed in the Woolworths building that was the site of the first sit ins. The tour takes about an hour and the guided tour is around $10. It's a very beautiful and touching experience and I cannot say enough to recommend this tour.
There's also a ghost tour. I do not remember the name of it, but there's a guy with a lantern and a top hat.