FRENCH QUARTER: No trip to New Orleans is complete without a visit to the historic French Quarter. This neighborhood is known for its colorful buildings, lively atmosphere, and, of course, iconic Bourbon Street. Strolling through beautiful Jackson Square will give you a sense of its history. Originally known as the Place d'Armes, Jackson Square was established in 1721 by French colonial officials. It was designed as a public square and military parade ground, surrounded by important government buildings. Surrounding Jackson Square are several historic buildings, including the St. Louis Cathedral, the Cabildo, and the Presbytère. These buildings reflect the diverse architectural styles of New Orleans and are important landmarks in their own right.
GARDEN DISTRICT: Known for its beautiful mansions and tree-lined streets, the Garden District is a must-visit for architecture and history enthusiasts. Take a guided walking tour or for even more adventure, hop on the St. Charles Streetcar to explore this picturesque neighborhood. Developed in the early 19th century, the Garden District was originally established as a residential area for wealthy Americans who moved to New Orleans after the Louisiana Purchase.
FRENCHMAN STREET: Frenchmen Street, located in the historic Faubourg Marigny neighborhood just outside the French Quarter, is home to numerous live music venues showcasing a wide variety of musical genres, including jazz, blues, funk, and brass bands. From intimate clubs to larger music halls, there's something for every musical taste. The street comes alive at night with the sounds of live music pouring out onto the sidewalks. In addition to its music scene, Frenchmen Street is also known for its vibrant art and culture. You'll find galleries showcasing local artwork, street performers entertaining passersby, and vendors selling handmade crafts and jewelry. Frenchmen Street is dotted with bars, restaurants, and cafes where you can enjoy delicious New Orleans cuisine and refreshing drinks.
NATIONAL WWII MUSEUM: As the official WWII museum of the United States, the National WWII Museum holds significant historical importance. It serves as a memorial to the millions of men and women who served and sacrificed during the war and honors their memory through exhibits, programs, and events. Through oral histories, letters, diaries, and interviews, the museum brings to life the personal stories of individuals who experienced World War II firsthand.
CITY PARK: Escape the hustle and bustle of the city and spend some time in City Park. It is one of the largest urban parks in the United States, spanning over 1,300 acres. The park is home to a diverse range of landscapes, including ancient oak trees, picturesque lagoons, and scenic walking paths. The New Orleans Museum of Art in the park (NOMA)showcases a vast collection of fine art. Not to be missed is the carousel at Carousel Gardens, a classic wooden carousel that dates back to the early 20th century. It features beautifully hand-carved wooden animals, including horses, lions, tigers, and other whimsical creatures and is handicap-accessible.
STEAMBOAT NATCHEZ CRUISE: Experience the romance of the Mississippi River with a cruise aboard the Steamboat Natchez. Relax and enjoy live jazz music, delicious Creole cuisine, and stunning views of the city skyline.
AUDUBON ZOO: Perfect for families, the Audubon Zoo offers hours of fun and entertainment. Get up close and personal with exotic animals at the Zoo, home to over 2,000 animals representing more than 300 species from around the world.
AQUARIUM: Explore the underwater world at the Aquarium. The Aquarium represents over 250 species from around the world and offers a range of interactive experiences for visitors of all ages. Guests can touch stingrays, feed parakeets, and even dive with sharks in the Great Maya Reef exhibit.
CAFE' DU MONDE: No visit to New Orleans is complete without sampling powdered-sugar-dusted beignets and café au lait at Café du Monde featuring its coffee & chicory blend. Established in 1862 and located in the French Quarter across from Jackson Square, this iconic café in the is open 24/7 and is always bustling with locals and tourists alike.
PRESERVATION HALL: Preservation Hall was established in 1961 with the mission of preserving and promoting traditional New Orleans jazz. Immerse yourself in the sounds of traditional New Orleans jazz in nightly performances by some of the city's most talented musicians.
OAK ALLEY PLANTATION: Located about an hour outside of New Orleans on the Mississippi River, Oak Alley Plantation is a beautifully preserved antebellum estate. The most distinctive feature of Oak Alley Plantation is its stunning oak-lined avenue, which consists of a double row of 28 evenly spaced Southern live oak trees that create a dramatic canopy over the pathway leading to the main house. These majestic trees, some of which are over 300 years old, have become synonymous with the plantation and are one of the most photographed scenes in the American South. Take a guided tour of the mansion, stroll down the oak-lined avenue, and learn about the history of sugar cane farming in the region. Oak Alley Plantation offers a range of hospitality services for visitors, including overnight accommodations in historic cottages, and dining at the Oak Alley Restaurant.
New Orleans is a city unlike any other, where history, culture, and vibrant energy intersect to create an unforgettable experience for visitors. One thing is for certain -- a visit to New Orleans is sure to leave a lasting impression on your heart and soul. So, come discover the magic of the Crescent City for yourself and let its unique spirit captivate you.