Things to know
Stroll the historic Vieux Carré to see iconic wrought-iron balconies, hidden courtyards, and Spanish colonial buildings. Royal Street offers antique shops and art galleries, while Bourbon Street pulses with round-the-clock energy.
Experience the living tradition of a New Orleans second line, where a brass band leads a joyful, dancing procession through the streets. These community celebrations happen at festivals, weddings, and even funerals, embodying the city's spirit.
No visit is complete without powdered sugar-covered beignets and chicory coffee at the iconic, open-air Café du Monde in the French Market. It's a 24/7 institution that has been serving since 1862.
Venture just outside the city to explore the mysterious Louisiana wetlands. Airboat or kayak tours through the Manchac or Honey Island Swamp offer glimpses of alligators, herons, and towering cypress trees draped in Spanish moss.
Step into the tiny, no-frills Preservation Hall on St. Peter Street for an authentic, intimate jazz experience. Since 1961, it has been dedicated to preserving the traditional New Orleans jazz sound played by master musicians.
Shop six miles of unique local boutiques, art galleries, and antique stores along Magazine Street, from the Garden District to Uptown. It's the perfect place to find one-of-a-kind fashion, home decor, and gifts.
things to do
Beyond the parades and parties, New Orleans is a city of deep history, stunning green spaces, and immersive cultural experiences that engage all the senses.
Explore the city of the dead, where above-ground tombs tell stories of voodoo queen Marie Laveau and other notable New Orleanians. Guided tours are required and provide fascinating insight into unique burial traditions.
One of the nation's oldest urban parks, it's larger than Central Park and home to the New Orleans Museum of Art, centuries-old live oaks, the Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden, and the charming Café du Monde outpost.
Learn the secrets of gumbo, jambalaya, and pralines from a local chef. Schools like the New Orleans School of Cooking offer hands-on classes that dive into the history and techniques of Creole and Cajun cuisine.
For a more local music scene than Bourbon Street, head to Frenchmen in the Faubourg Marigny. Venues like The Spotted Cat, d.b.a., and Snug Harbor feature fantastic jazz, brass, and blues nightly.
This Tremé neighborhood gem is dedicated to preserving the traditions of Mardi Gras Indians, Social Aid & Pleasure Clubs, and jazz funerals. It's an intimate look at the grassroots culture that defines the city.
This open-air market complex has operated for over two centuries. Shop for local crafts, spices, hot sauce, and art, or grab a bite at the food stalls offering everything from crawfish étouffée to Vietnamese pho.
neighborhoods
New Orleans is a patchwork of distinct districts, each with its own architecture, history, and personality, from the historic core to the artsy enclaves.
The oldest neighborhood, defined by its grid of narrow streets, iconic architecture, and non-stop energy. Home to Jackson Square, St. Louis Cathedral, legendary restaurants, and bustling bars.
Famous for its stunning 19th-century mansions, lush gardens, and quiet, oak-lined streets. Take the St. Charles streetcar to admire the homes and visit Lafayette Cemetery No. 1.
Adjacent artsy neighborhoods east of the Quarter. The Marigny is the epicenter of Frenchmen Street's music scene, while the Bywater offers colorful shotgun houses, eclectic galleries, and hip eateries.
One of the nation's oldest African American neighborhoods, considered the birthplace of jazz. Rich with cultural institutions like the Backstreet Museum and just steps from the French Quarter.
A sprawling residential area encompassing Tulane and Loyola universities, the bustling Magazine Street shopping corridor, and the majestic, moss-draped oaks of Audubon Park.
Browse by category
Salons that blend Southern charm with French Quarter flair.
From French Market finds to Magazine Street's mile-long boutique crawl.
A gumbo of Creole classics, po'boys, and culinary innovation.
Experts in preserving historic charm and weathering the subtropical climate.
Find your balance with yoga in the park and historic pharmacy museums.
Where business meets the Big Easy's unique cultural rhythm.
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