New Orleans, USA

The Ultimate Guide to Traveling in New Orleans

Welcome to the Big Easy! New Orleans is a city like no other, with its rich history, vibrant culture, and mouth-watering cuisine. As a traveler, you’ll find plenty to see, do, and experience in this charming city. Here’s your comprehensive guide to exploring the best of New Orleans.

Places to Go

Famous Landmarks

  • French Quarter (Vieux Carré): The oldest neighborhood in New Orleans, known for its historic architecture, lively nightlife, and world-renowned cuisine.
  • Bourbon Street: A iconic street lined with bars, clubs, and restaurants, perfect for people-watching and partying.
  • Jackson Square: A historic park surrounded by art galleries, shops, and cafes, featuring stunning views of the Mississippi River.

Museums

  • National WWII Museum: A world-class museum showcasing the American experience in World War II.
  • New Orleans Museum of Art: A premier art museum with a collection of over 40,000 works of art from around the globe.
  • The Cabildo: A historic building housing a museum dedicated to the history of Louisiana.

Parks and Gardens

  • City Park: A sprawling urban park featuring walking trails, lakes, and plenty of green space.
  • Besthoff Sculpture Garden: A beautiful garden showcasing over 60 large-scale sculptures amidst tranquil surroundings.

Cemeteries

  • St. Louis Cemetery No. 1: The oldest cemetery in New Orleans, famous for its above-ground tombs and intricate ironwork.
  • St. Roch Cemetery: A historic cemetery known for its stunning views of the city and the nearby St. Roch Market.

Activities

Music and Dance

  • Jazz Clubs: Experience live jazz music at iconic clubs like Preservation Hall, The Spotted Cat Music Club, or Snug Harbor.
  • Second Lines: Join a traditional New Orleans parade, complete with brass bands, dancers, and plenty of energy.
  • Zydeco Dancing: Learn the lively dance style that originated in Louisiana.

Food and Drink

  • Culinary Tours: Explore the city’s culinary scene with guided tours focusing on beignets, po’ boys, gumbo, or other local specialties.
  • Brewery and Distillery Tours: Visit local breweries like NOLA Brewing Company or Port Orleans Brewing Company, or distilleries like the Sazerac House.

Other Activities

  • Steamboat Natchez Cruise: Enjoy a scenic cruise along the Mississippi River with live jazz music and stunning views of the city.
  • Ghost Tours: Explore New Orleans’ spooky side with guided tours that delve into its haunted history.
  • Walking Tours: Join guided walking tours to explore historic neighborhoods, hidden gems, or popular attractions.

Where to Eat

Classic New Orleans Restaurants

  • Dooky Chase’s Restaurant: A legendary restaurant serving up Creole cuisine and gumbo.
  • Cafe Maspero: Enjoy a traditional breakfast or brunch in the heart of the French Quarter.
  • Coop’s Place: A casual spot for delicious Cajun fried chicken and red beans.
  • Willie Mae’s Scotch House: Savor Southern comfort food at this historic restaurant.
  • Atchafalaya: Experience modern Creole cuisine with a focus on seasonal ingredients.
  • Herbsaint: Enjoy French-inspired bistro fare in the Warehouse District.

Where to Stay

Luxury Hotels

  • The Ritz-Carlton New Orleans: A 5-star hotel located in the heart of the Central Business District.
  • Hotel Monteleone: A family-owned hotel featuring elegant rooms and a rooftop pool.
  • W New Orleans - French Quarter: A modern hotel offering stylish accommodations and a trendy bar.

Boutique Hotels

  • The Columns Hotel: A charming boutique hotel with Victorian-era architecture and lush gardens.
  • Hotel Provincial: Enjoy a relaxing stay in the French Quarter at this historic hotel.
  • Bourbon Orleans Hotel: A family-friendly hotel located on Bourbon Street, offering comfortable rooms and a rooftop pool.

Budget-Friendly Options

  • International House Hotel: A budget-friendly option with simple but clean rooms.
  • Hotel Mazarin: A stylish boutique hotel featuring courtyard views and a relaxing atmosphere.
  • The Frenchmen Hotel: A budget-friendly hotel located in the heart of the Marigny neighborhood.

Things to Know

Weather

  • Hurricane Season: New Orleans is prone to hurricanes from June to November. Be prepared for extreme weather conditions.
  • Summer Heat: Expect hot and humid temperatures during the summer months (June-August).

Safety

  • Crime: As with any major city, be aware of your surroundings, especially at night or in crowded areas.
  • Hurricane Evacuations: Follow evacuation orders if a hurricane is predicted to hit the area.

Transportation

  • Taxi: Use yellow cabs or ride-hailing services like Uber and Lyft for convenient transportation.
  • Streetcar: Ride the famous St. Charles Avenue streetcar, which connects the Garden District to downtown New Orleans.
  • Buses: Use public buses or take a free shuttle service, such as the French Quarter Shuttle.

Tips

  • Tipping: Show appreciation for good service by tipping 15-20% in restaurants and bars.
  • Dress Code: Be prepared for crowds and hot weather during the summer months. Dress comfortably and stay hydrated.
  • Be Patient: New Orleans can be overwhelming, especially during peak tourist season. Take your time, and enjoy the experience.

Bonus Tips

Explore Neighborhoods

  • Marigny: Discover a vibrant arts scene, eclectic shops, and live music venues in this charming neighborhood.
  • Garden District: Visit stunning antebellum mansions and picturesque gardens in this historic area.
  • Bywater: Enjoy the views of the Mississippi River, explore local art galleries, and experience the city’s unique culture.

Attend Festivals

  • Mardi Gras: Experience the world-famous Mardi Gras celebration in February or March (dates vary).
  • Jazz & Heritage Festival: Enjoy a 10-day music festival featuring local and national acts.
  • Voodoo Fest: Celebrate Halloween with live music, art installations, and spooky decorations.

Last-Minute Information

Important Phone Numbers

  • Emergency Services: Call 911 for emergencies or non-emergency situations (504-821-2222).
  • New Orleans Visitor’s Bureau: Get assistance from the official visitor’s bureau (504-565-1226).

We hope this comprehensive guide has helped you plan an unforgettable trip to New Orleans!