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New Orleans
Louisiana
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Visit New Orleans
New Orleans, a vibrant city steeped in a mix of French, Spanish, and Creole cultures, offers an experience unlike any other in the United States. Known for its round-the-clock nightlife, vibrant live-music scene, and spicy, singular cuisine reflecting its history as a melting pot of French, African, and American cultures, the city is an enduring attraction for visitors from around the globe. The heart of the city's festive spirit is the French Quarter, with its lively streets like Bourbon and Royal, where the music seems never to stop and the buildings tell stories of centuries past. Here, one can wander through atmospheric streets lined with historic architecture, from Creole townhouses to Spanish colonial buildings, and discover hidden courtyards blooming with magnolia.
A trip to New Orleans would be incomplete without indulging in its world-famous food. The city's culinary scene is a feast for the senses, featuring dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, po'boys, and beignets, each bursting with flavor and history. Dining in New Orleans is more than just a meal; it's an experience, whether in a fancy French-inspired restaurant or a casual, hole-in-the-wall eatery. The city is also famous for its cocktails, with classics like the Sazerac and Hurricane originating here. For those interested in the origins of these unique flavors, a visit to the Southern Food and Beverage Museum provides insights into the rich culinary heritage of the region.
Beyond the indulgence of the senses, New Orleans is a city with a rich artistic soul. The New Orleans Museum of Art and the Contemporary Arts Center showcase a wide range of visual arts, while numerous galleries in the Arts District are home to works by local and international artists. Music, particularly jazz, is the lifeblood of the city, and visitors can enjoy live performances nightly at venues throughout the city, particularly on Frenchmen Street, known for its eclectic mix of jazz, blues, and indie rock. Each spring, the city hosts the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, one of the biggest music festivals in the country, featuring local music and major acts across multiple genres. Whether exploring its historic streets, enjoying its rich array of foods, or soaking in its vibrant cultural scene, New Orleans offers an enchanting escape into a world where the celebration never ends.
New Orleans Monthly Weather Conditions
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DAYS OF PRECIP.
January
46°F
62°F
12
February
47°F
65°F
11
March
54°F
72°F
12
April
61°F
77°F
12
May
68°F
85°F
11
June
74°F
89°F
11
July
76°F
91°F
10
August
75°F
92°F
14
September
72°F
86°F
12
October
64°F
79°F
8
November
53°F
72°F
8
December
47°F
64°F
12
Need to Know Before You Go To New Orleans
Nickname:
The Big Easy
Primary Language:
English
Time Zone:
America/Chicago
Current Time:
Electric Plug Type:
Type A and Type B
Annual Visitors:
Nearly 19 million
Primary Export:
Petroleum products
Busiest Travel Months:
February, October, April
Quietest Travel Months:
August, September, July
Find your Next Adventure in New Orleans
Explore New Orleans
Iconic Landmarks
French Quarter
The heart and cultural center of New Orleans, known for its historic buildings, vibrant nightlife, and the famous Bourbon Street. The architecture is a blend of Spanish, French, Creole, and American styles, making it a picturesque area to explore.
St. Louis Cathedral
Located in the historic French Quarter, this stunning cathedral is one of New Orleans' most recognizable landmarks. It is the oldest continuously active Roman Catholic Cathedral in the United States and faces Jackson Square.
Jackson Square
A historic park in the French Quarter, which is often lively with artists, musicians, and street performers. It's surrounded by historic buildings including the St. Louis Cathedral, the Presbytère and Cabildo (Louisiana State Museums), and the Pontalba Apartments, offering a glimpse into the city's rich history.
Garden District
Known for its well-preserved antebellum mansions, lush gardens, and Southern charm, this neighborhood offers a picturesque stroll through some of the city’s most beautiful streets, with oak-lined avenues and historic homes.
Preservation Hall
Established in 1961, this intimate venue is dedicated to preserving the New Orleans Jazz tradition. Despite its small size, it is one of the most famous music venues in New Orleans, offering visitors a chance to experience live traditional jazz in a historic setting.
The National WWII Museum
Originally founded as the D-Day Museum, this museum offers a comprehensive look at the American experience in World War II. It has been expanded to include exhibits on the war's industrial and human impacts, making it a significant educational and cultural landmark in the city.
Cultural Experiences
Mardi Gras
Perhaps the most famous event in New Orleans, Mardi Gras is a must-see festival known for its grand parades, elaborate costumes, and festive atmosphere. It's a celebration that encapsulates the spirit of New Orleans with music, dance, and public festivities.
Jazz Music
Experience the heart and soul of New Orleans through its jazz music. Visit the historic Preservation Hall for authentic New Orleans jazz performances, or enjoy live music at the many jazz clubs scattered throughout the French Quarter, such as The Spotted Cat Music Club or Maison.
French Quarter
Explore the oldest neighborhood in the city, known for its European-style architecture, vibrant nightlife, and artistic vibe. Stroll along Bourbon Street and Royal Street, visit art galleries, and try local cuisine at one of the many cafes and restaurants.
Culinary Experiences
New Orleans is famous for its culinary scene which blends French, Spanish, and Creole influences. Don’t miss out on local specialties like gumbo, jambalaya, beignets, and po'boys. Participate in a cooking class or join a food tour to dive deeper into the flavors of the city.
Cemetery Tours
Known as "Cities of the Dead," New Orleans' above-ground cemeteries are an integral part of the local heritage. Take a guided tour of the St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, where you can see the tomb of the voodoo queen Marie Laveau, among other historic sites.
Festivals
Beyond Mardi Gras, New Orleans hosts numerous festivals throughout the year celebrating its music, food, and multicultural heritage. Notable mentions include the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, French Quarter Festival, and Voodoo Music + Arts Experience.
Outdoor Adventures
Kayaking in Bayou St. John
Paddle through the serene waters of Bayou St. John, a historic waterway in the heart of New Orleans. This is a great way to see the city from a different perspective and enjoy some quiet time close to nature.
Swamp Tours
Explore the Louisiana swamps and bayous on a guided boat tour.
Biking the Lafitte Greenway
Stretching 2.6 miles from the French Quarter to Bayou St. John, this urban trail offers a safe and scenic route for cyclists and pedestrians alike, connecting neighborhoods, green spaces, and recreational facilities.
Fishing Trips
Whether it’s deep-sea fishing in the Gulf of Mexico or casting a line in the nearby lakes and rivers, New Orleans is a great base for anglers. Charter a boat or join a guided fishing trip to catch redfish, speckled trout, and even tarpon.
Hiking in Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve
Just a short drive from New Orleans, this national park offers several walking trails through scenic marshes and hardwood forests. The Barataria Preserve trails let you explore the area’s unique wetlands and wildlife.
Horseback Riding in City Park
Enjoy a leisurely horseback ride through New Orleans City Park, one of the oldest urban parks in the country. Equest Farm offers guided rides that are suitable for all skill levels, providing a unique way to explore the park’s extensive grounds and attractions.
Off the Beaten Path
Studio Be
Located in the Bywater district, Studio Be is an expansive warehouse turned art gallery by local artist Brandan "BMike" Odums. The gallery features large-scale, thought-provoking murals and installations that focus on social justice and the history of New Orleans. It's a must-visit for art lovers and those looking to delve deeper into contemporary social issues through art.
Bayou Sauvage National Wildlife Refuge
Just a short drive from downtown New Orleans, this refuge is one of the largest urban wildlife refuges in the United States. It offers a chance to explore Louisiana’s wild wetlands through walking trails and boardwalks. Visitors can spot a wide variety of birds, alligators, and other wildlife. It’s a perfect spot for nature lovers and photographers.
Congo Square
Situated in Armstrong Park, Congo Square is historically significant as the place where enslaved Africans and free people of color gathered on Sundays to market goods, play music, and dance. Today, it remains a vital spot that embodies the multicultural history of New Orleans and hosts various cultural events and gatherings.
Old Ursuline Convent Museum
As the oldest building in the Mississippi Valley, the Old Ursuline Convent offers a glimpse into the early history of New Orleans. The museum showcases artifacts, artwork, and exhibits that tell the story of the city’s development and the impact of the Catholic Church and the Ursuline nuns on education and healthcare.
Music Box Village
A truly unique artistic installation, the Music Box Village is located in the Bywater neighborhood. This "musical architecture" project features artist-built, interactive "houses" that are actually whimsical musical instruments. Visitors can explore and play these structures, creating an immersive and unforgettable auditory experience.
Backstreet Cultural Museum
Tucked away in the Tremé neighborhood, this museum is dedicated to preserving the history and culture of New Orleans' African American community. It features an extensive collection of costumes, photographs, and artifacts related to Mardi Gras Indians, jazz funerals, and other local traditions. It's a profound place to learn about the community-driven aspects of New Orleans culture that have shaped the city.
New Orleans Fun Facts
New Orleans, a city rich in history, culture, and unique traditions, offers a plethora of interesting facts. Here are the top 10 fun facts about this vibrant city:
- Birthplace of Jazz
New Orleans is widely acknowledged as the birthplace of jazz, a genre that began in the early 20th century. The city's diverse culture and musical influences created a perfect melting pot for this new, improvisational music style.
- Mardi Gras
Known for hosting one of the most famous Mardi Gras celebrations in the world, New Orleans transforms into a city of masquerade balls, colorful parades, and street parties. The festival has French Catholic roots and is celebrated with grandeur every year before Lent.
- French Quarter
The French Quarter, also known as the Vieux Carré, is the oldest neighborhood in the city. Famous for its vibrant nightlife, historic sites, and its architectural mix of Spanish, French, Creole, and American styles, it's a major tourist attraction.
- Beignets and Café au Lait
New Orleans is famous for its beignets, square-shaped fried pastries covered with powdered sugar, often enjoyed with a café au lait. Café du Monde is the most renowned café for these treats.
- Above-Ground Cemeteries
Due to its high water table, many of the city's cemeteries feature above-ground tombs and vaults, giving them the nickname "Cities of the Dead." These cemeteries are a must-see for visitors.
- Streetcars
One of the charming ways to explore New Orleans is by its historic streetcars. The St. Charles Avenue line, operating since 1835, is the oldest continuously operating streetcar line in the world.
- Po' Boys
A staple of New Orleans cuisine, the po' boy is a traditional sandwich made from a baguette-like New Orleans French bread, filled with meat or fried seafood. It originated during a streetcar strike in 1929 when a restaurant served free sandwiches to the "poor boys" on strike.
- The Sazerac
Often referred to as America’s first cocktail, the Sazerac was created in New Orleans. It's a mix of rye whiskey or cognac, absinthe, a sugar cube, and a few dashes of Peychaud's Bitters.
- Festivals
Beyond Mardi Gras, New Orleans hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, including the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, Voodoo Music + Arts Experience, and the Essence Music Festival, celebrating the city's rich cultural heritage.
- Unique Dialects
New Orleans residents are known for their unique dialects. Yat, which derives from the greeting "Where y'at?" is specific to New Orleans and resembles the accents found in New York City and Boston, reflecting the city’s diverse European immigrant heritage.
Featured Picture Gallery
Visit the Iconic Bourbon Street of New Orleans
Grab an Order of Beignets, One of the City's Most Famous Food Staples
Mardi Gras is a Staple in New Orleans, Marking the Last Day of Carnival
Take a Visit to the French Quarter, One of New Orleans Most Historic Areas
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