Everything You Need To Know About New Orleans

As a destination for music, food and culture, few places can rival the lure of New Orleans. But what makes New Orleans such a popular destination? From its vibrant culinary offerings to its deep musical influence, this energetic city offers a wide variety of attractions and activities that make it an unmissable stop on any US itinerary.

Much of New Orleans’ charm can be attributed to its unique blend of cultures, from its vibrant African American heritage to its rich French influences. To fully immerse yourself in this incredible city, be sure to visit some of its iconic landmarks such as the St Louis Cathedral and Jackson Square. These locations offer a tantalizing glimpse into this diverse city’s past and provide a perfect starting point for exploring the city’s celebrated cuisine and arts scene.

The Best Things To Do In New Orleans

As one of the US’s most celebrated cities, New Orleans offers an array of activities for visitors to enjoy. Here’s just a few of the best things to do in New Orleans:

• Take a Swamp Tour – Get up close and personal with New Orleans’ swampy surrounds with the classic airboat tour, ideal for those with an appetite for adventure.
• soaking up some Jazz – Take in a traditional jazz performance at one of the French Quarter’s celebrated venues and feel the soulful rhythms of this city’s musical heritage.
• Explore the Garden District – Wander among the grand homes and lush gardens of this idyllic neighborhood, just a short streetcar ride away from the buzz of the French Quarter.
• Tuck into delicious local cuisine – From gumbo to jambalaya, there are a range of dishes for you to sample in this culinary melting pot.

The Best Times To Visit New Orleans

The weather in New Orleans varies from season to season, though generally speaking, the median temperature remains relatively mild year-round. Peak travel season for the city is during summer months, when temperatures tend to reach their highest and rain is more commonplace. While this makes for an enjoyable beach holiday if you’re looking to catch some rays, it also means more people, higher prices and increasingly crowded attractions throughout the summer months.

For those looking to save money and miss out on the crowds, visiting New Orleans later in the season can often be more favourable. The shoulder season runs from late October through early April, and at this time temperatures are cooler and rain less regular, while many events are still on throughout the city. However if you’re looking to take part in some classic New Orleans traditions like Mardi Gras, be sure to plan your travels well in advance as prices tend to skyrocket around that time.

Conclusion

Whatever you’re looking for, a visit to New Orleans is certainly an experience you won’t soon forget. Whether your appetite is for adventurous excursions or classic Creole cuisine, the unmissable sights and sounds of this remarkable city are sure make your trip one to remember. To learn more about what a trip to New Orleans has to offer, be sure to check out ExperienceNewOrleans.com, a great source of information for upcoming travelers.

An Insider’s Guide to New Orleans

As the birthplace of jazz and a cultural melting pot, New Orleans is a one-of-a-kind city that offers a unique experience to its visitors. Known as the Big Easy, the city is famous for its music, food, architecture, and vibrant nightlife. In this insider’s guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about New Orleans, from sightseeing to dining.

Local Attractions

New Orleans is a city that’s rich in history and boasts a wide range of attractions for tourists to explore. Some of the top must-see destinations are:

– French Quarter: This is the most famous district in New Orleans. It’s filled with charming architecture, music, art galleries, and restaurants.

– Jackson Square: This is a beautiful public park located in the heart of the French Quarter. It’s home to St. Louis Cathedral and an iconic statue of Andrew Jackson.

– Bourbon Street: This is the most famous street in the French Quarter and a popular destination for nightlife lovers. It’s filled with nightclubs, bars, and music venues.

– National WWII Museum: This museum is dedicated to telling the story of the American experience in World War II. It features exhibits, interactive experiences, and movies.

– Garden District: This historic neighborhood is known for its beautiful gardens, stunning architecture, and celebrity homes.

Dining Spots

No visit to New Orleans is complete without trying its world-renowned cuisine. From gumbo to jambalaya, there’s something for everyone. Here are some of the must-visit restaurants for foodies:

– Commander’s Palace: This fine dining restaurant is a New Orleans institution that has been operating for over 100 years. It’s known for its elegant decor, jazz brunch, and Creole cuisine.

– Cafe du Monde: This coffee shop is famous for its beignets. You can enjoy them with a cup of coffee while people-watching in the French Quarter.

– Acme Oyster House: This seafood restaurant is a local favorite that serves the freshest oysters, crawfish, and shrimp.

– Cochon: This upscale restaurant is famous for its meat-centric menu, featuring pork, ham, and bacon dishes.

– Galatoire’s: This is another classic New Orleans restaurant that has been open since 1905. It’s known for its upscale atmosphere, traditional Creole cuisine, and French-inspired cocktails.

Cultural Experiences

New Orleans is a city that’s known for its rich cultural heritage. Here are some of the top activities you can try to experience New Orleans culture at its finest:

– Jazz clubs: New Orleans is the birthplace of jazz, and there are numerous jazz clubs throughout the city. Some of the best ones are Preservation Hall, Snug Harbor, and Tipitina’s.

– Mardi Gras: This is the most famous festival in New Orleans, and it takes place every year in February. It’s a celebration of music, parades, and costumes.

– Voodoo: New Orleans is home to voodoo, a spiritual practice that’s deeply rooted in African and Caribbean cultures. You can visit the New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum to learn more about it.

– Second Line: This is a traditional parade that’s led by brass bands. It’s a unique experience that you won’t find anywhere else.

Local History

New Orleans has a rich history that’s been shaped by its diverse blend of cultures, including French, Spanish, African, and American. Some of the top historical sites to explore are:

– St. Louis Cemetery: This is a historic cemetery that’s home to the final resting place of many famous New Orleanians, including Marie Laveau, the Voodoo Queen.

– The Cabildo: This building was the site of the Louisiana Purchase transfer in 1803. Today, it’s a museum that showcases the state’s history.

– The Presbytere: This museum is located in Jackson Square and features exhibits on the history of Mardi Gras and Hurricane Katrina.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

New Orleans has many hidden gems that are worth exploring. Here are some of the off-the-beaten-path suggestions for those who want to experience something unique:

– Bywater: This eclectic neighborhood is known for its street art, live music, and trendy bars.

– Lafitte Greenway: This is a beautiful bike trail that stretches for 2.6 miles. It’s a great way to explore the city while getting some exercise.

– The Music Box Village: This is an interactive art installation that combines music and architecture. It features musical houses that visitors can play and explore.

– Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve: This park is located just outside the city and is home to a diverse range of wildlife and ecosystems. You can go kayaking, hiking, or birdwatching to experience nature at its finest.

In conclusion, New Orleans is a city that has something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in music, food, culture, or history, you’ll find it all here. Use this insider’s guide to plan your trip and make the most of your time in the Big Easy.