New Orleans is a city like no other. Known for its rich history, unique culture, and vibrant music scene, the city offers an unforgettable experience. Whether you’re a history lover, foodie, or music enthusiast, New Orleans has something for everyone. This guide will take you through the best things to do in the city, ensuring you don’t miss out on any of its highlights.
Explore the Historic French Quarter
The French Quarter is the heart and soul of New Orleans. With its colorful buildings, lively streets, and centuries-old charm, it’s a place where history comes to life.
Bourbon Street
No visit to New Orleans is complete without walking down Bourbon Street. Famous for its bars, clubs, and nightlife, Bourbon Street is filled with music, energy, and excitement. While it’s known for its party atmosphere, it’s also a great place to explore during the day and take in the historic architecture.
Jackson Square & St. Louis Cathedral
Jackson Square is the focal point of the French Quarter, surrounded by historic buildings like St. Louis Cathedral. This iconic cathedral is one of the oldest in the U.S. and is open to visitors. Jackson Square itself is a lively hub, often filled with street performers and local artists.
French Market
The French Market is an open-air market that dates back to the 1700s. It’s the perfect place to pick up local crafts, fresh produce, and souvenirs. Don’t forget to try some famous New Orleans treats like pralines or beignets!
Savor New Orleans Cuisine
New Orleans is famous for its distinctive cuisine, influenced by French, African, Spanish, and Creole traditions. The food is a huge part of the city’s culture, and there’s no shortage of delicious dishes to try.
Café du Monde
No trip to New Orleans is complete without visiting Café du Monde. Famous for its beignets (fried dough covered in powdered sugar) and café au lait, this café has been serving locals and tourists since 1862. It’s a must-try stop in the French Quarter.
Gumbo & Jambalaya
Two dishes you must try are gumbo and jambalaya. Gumbo is a rich stew made with a variety of ingredients like seafood, sausage, and chicken, while jambalaya is a rice dish often served with shrimp, chicken, and sausage. Dooky Chase’s Restaurant and Commander’s Palace are great places to enjoy these New Orleans staples.
Po’boys
A po’boy is a sandwich made with fried seafood or roast beef, served on French bread with lettuce, tomatoes, and pickles. You’ll find some of the best po’boys at Parkway Bakery & Tavern and Domilise’s Po-Boy & Bar.
Immerse Yourself in Music and Culture
New Orleans is the birthplace of jazz, and the city’s music scene is unlike anywhere else in the world. From lively street performances to intimate jazz clubs, there’s no shortage of live music to enjoy.
Frenchmen Street
For a true jazz experience, head to Frenchmen Street, where you’ll find a collection of jazz clubs and bars offering live music every night. Venues like The Spotted Cat Music Club and d.b.a. showcase incredible talent and provide a true taste of the New Orleans music scene.
The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival
If you’re in the city during Jazz Fest (held annually in late April or early May), don’t miss the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival. This world-renowned event celebrates the city’s music, food, and culture, featuring both big-name acts and local performers.
Preservation Hall
For an authentic jazz experience, visit Preservation Hall, a historic venue dedicated to preserving New Orleans jazz. The intimate setting and incredible musicians make it a must-see for any music lover.
Take a Steamboat Cruise on the Mississippi River
New Orleans is situated along the Mississippi River, and there’s no better way to experience the city from a different perspective than by taking a steamboat cruise. These cruises offer scenic views of the city’s skyline and historic riverfront.
Steamboat Natchez
One of the most popular steamboat cruises is the Steamboat Natchez. It features daily tours along the Mississippi River, complete with live jazz music and a buffet lunch or dinner. It’s a great way to relax and take in the sights of the river.
Discover the Garden District
The Garden District is a picturesque neighborhood known for its stunning mansions and tree-lined streets. It’s one of the most beautiful areas in New Orleans and a must-visit for anyone who loves architecture and history.
Magazine Street
Magazine Street is a six-mile stretch of shops, boutiques, art galleries, and restaurants. It’s a charming street where you can spend a day exploring, shopping, and enjoying the local cafes. It’s perfect for a leisurely stroll and a bite to eat.
Lafayette Cemetery No. 1
Located in the heart of the Garden District, Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 is a historic cemetery known for its above-ground tombs. It offers a fascinating look at New Orleans’ burial traditions and is an interesting stop for anyone interested in the city’s history.
Explore the History of New Orleans
New Orleans has a rich and diverse history that has shaped its culture. To truly understand the city, explore its many historic sites and museums.
The National WWII Museum
The National WWII Museum is one of the most important museums in the United States. It offers an extensive and interactive experience that covers the history of World War II. The museum is both educational and moving, with exhibits that bring the past to life.
The Cabildo
The Cabildo is a historic building next to Jackson Square that once served as the seat of Spanish colonial government. Today, it’s home to the Louisiana State Museum, which offers exhibits on the city’s early history, from its French colonial roots to the American Civil War.
New Orleans Museum of Art (NOMA)
The New Orleans Museum of Art (NOMA), located in City Park, houses an impressive collection of European, African, and American art. The museum is a great way to explore the city’s artistic history, and the surrounding Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden is perfect for a peaceful walk.
Enjoy New Orleans’ Unique Festivals
New Orleans is famous for its lively festivals, which showcase the city’s vibrant culture, music, and food. No matter when you visit, you’re sure to find a celebration happening.
Mardi Gras
Of course, the most famous festival in New Orleans is Mardi Gras. Held every year on Fat Tuesday, the city comes alive with parades, parties, and colorful costumes. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience that captures the spirit of New Orleans.
French Quarter Festival
The French Quarter Festival takes place every spring and is a more relaxed, local version of Mardi Gras. It’s a celebration of New Orleans music, food, and culture, with free performances, food stalls, and a festive atmosphere throughout the French Quarter.
Relax in City Park
City Park is one of the largest urban parks in the United States, offering over 1,300 acres of space for outdoor activities and relaxation. Whether you want to enjoy nature, take a boat ride, or visit a museum, City Park has something for everyone.
The New Orleans Botanical Garden
The New Orleans Botanical Garden is a beautiful part of City Park, featuring beautifully landscaped gardens, walking trails, and tranquil ponds. It’s a peaceful place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and enjoy the beauty of nature.
Carousel Gardens Amusement Park
Carousel Gardens is a family-friendly amusement park located within City Park. It features a historic carousel, a Ferris wheel, and other rides for kids and adults alike. It’s a fun stop for families visiting the city.
Conclusion
New Orleans is a city full of life, culture, and history. From exploring the French Quarter and enjoying its delicious food to listening to world-class jazz and learning about the city’s fascinating past, there’s something for everyone. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for another adventure, New Orleans always has something new to offer.
