NEW ORLEANS
A city like no other- full of history, culture and vibrant energy. Known as the birthplace of jazz, with legends like Louis Armstrong. It’s home to world-famous festivals like Mardi Gras and the Jazz & Heritage Festival. The first Mardi Gras parade took place in 1837. The city’s French, Spanish and Creole influences shine through in its stunning architecture, lively traditions, and its legendary cuisine- beignets, po’boys and gumbo. As they say in NOLA- laissez les bon temps rouler- let the good times roll!
French Quarter
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Jackson Square
A historic plaza surrounded by street artists, musicians and performers. The St. Louis Cathedral, the oldest continuously active cathedral in the United States, stands as its centerpiece.
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Bourbon Street
Famous for its nightlife, neon lights and live music, Bourbon Street is a lively spot for bars, jazz clubs and the full NOLA experience.
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Cafe du Monde
A must-visit for beignets. An open-air cafe that has been the city’s favorite since 1862.
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The French Market
A historic market dating back to 1791, offering everything from Creole cuisine and fresh produce to handmade crafts and souvenirs.
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Royal Street
Lined with antique shops, art galleries and charming architecture. Royal Street offers a quieter, more refined side of the French Quarter.
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Preservation Hall
One of the best places to hear live jazz music in an intimate setting. This legendary venue has been preserving New Orleans’ jazz tradition since 1961.
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Pirates Alley
A charming and historic alley near Jackson Square, rumored to have been a meeting place for pirates, including the infamous Jean Lafitte.
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Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop Bar
One of the oldest bars in America, built in the 1700’s, known for its candlelit atmosphere and strong Purple Drank (Voodoo Daiquiri).
LOUIS ARMSTRONG PARK/CONGO SQUARE
Louis Armstrong Park is located just outside the French Quarter. It is named after the legendary jazz musician Louis Armstrong. Louis Armstrong was born in New Orleans and he revolutionized jazz with his virtuosic trumpet playing, distinctive gravelly voice, and charismatic stage presence. The park features scenic lagoons, bridges, a statue of Louis Armstrong, and open green space. It also houses the Mahalia Jackson Theater for the Performing Arts.
Congo Square, located in Louis Armstrong Park, is a historic and culturally significant site. In the 18th and 19th centuries, it was a gathering place for enslaved Africans and free people of color, where they would meet on Sundays to dance, play music, and preserve their cultural traditions. Congo Square remains a symbol of resilience and cultural expression.
Garden District
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St. Charles Avenue
Take a ride on the historic St. Charles Avenue Streetcar, the oldest continuously operating streetcar in the world, to soak in the beauty of the district’s architecture.
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The Pontchartrain Hotel
A historic hotel with rich history that captures the timeless charm of New Orleans. It opened in 1927 and has hosted celebrities like Frank Sinatra and presidents over the years.
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Lafayette Cemetery No. 1
One of the city’s most famous above-ground cemeteries, dating back to 1833, with ornate tombs and a mysterious, haunting beauty.
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Magazine Street
A beautiful street lined with boutiques, cafes, art galleries and antique shops. Perfect for strolling and shopping.
HISTORIC MANSIONS
The Garden District is home to some of the most beautiful antebellum mansions in the South. Notable ones include: The Buckner Mansion, The Briggs-Staub House, and The Carroll-Crawford House.
Warehouse District
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The National WWII Museum
One of the top-rated museums in the United States, offering immersive exhibits on World War II history.
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Lafayette Square
One of the oldest public parks in New Orleans, established in 1788. The park features a statue of Henry Clay, a 19th century statesman, as well as a monument honoring Benjamin Franklin. Historic buildings surround the park including Gallier Hall, a former city hall. Live music and events are held in the park.
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Julia Street
Julia Street is the heart of the Arts District and is lined with some of the city’s best contemporary art galleries of local and international art.
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Mardi Gras World
A behind-the-scenes look at how Mardi Gras floats are made. Tour the massive warehouse where floats are designed and built. See artists at work creating the next season’s floats. And learn about the history of the celebration.
BEIGNETS
A beloved New Orleans pastry with a rich history that ties closely to both French and Creole culinary traditions. These deep-fried, square shaped doughnuts dusted with powdered sugar have become an iconic treat in New Orleans, particularly associated with Cafe du Monde in the French Quarter. Beignets have roots in France, where they were originally called “fritters.” The French brought the concept of frying dough into hot oil to America, and it evolved into the beignet we know.
A taste of New Orleans
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NOLA Poboys
A quintessential part of New Orleans cuisine, beloved for their delicious and hearty sandwiches. The po’boy (short for “poor boy”) is a traditional New Orleans sandwich typically served on French bread.
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Parkway Bakery & Tavern
A beloved institution in New Orleans known for its incredible po’boys. It has been open since 1911, making it one of the oldest and most famous o’boy spots in the city.
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Commander's Palace
A legendary fine dining restaurant located in the Garden District. Established in 1880, it has become a cornerstone of Creole cuisine.
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Brennan's
A historic upscale restaurant that has been serving Creole cuisine since 1946. Located in the French Quarter, it’s best known for its world-famous dessert, Bananas Foster.