New Orleans is a city unlike any other in the United States. It is a melting pot where French, Spanish, African, and Caribbean influences have simmered for three centuries to create something completely unique. Known as the birthplace of jazz, the city breathes music on every corner, from the clubs on Frenchmen Street to the brass bands in the French Quarter. Its architecture tells the story of its different colonial rulers, while its famous Creole and Cajun cuisine is a testament to its diversity. In "The Big Easy," life is celebrated with passion, whether during the revelry of Mardi Gras or a simple Sunday dinner.
Why visit
- The French Quarter with its Spanish colonial architecture
- World-class live music: jazz, blues, zydeco, and brass bands
- Creole and Cajun cuisine: gumbo, jambalaya, beignets, and po'boys
- Legendary festivals like Mardi Gras and Jazz Fest
- Fascinating history, from voodoo to historic plantations
Top things to do
Explore the French Quarter
The historic heart of the city. Despite its name, most of its architecture is from the Spanish colonial era, with wrought-iron balconies and hidden courtyards. Visit Jackson Square, St. Louis Cathedral, and stroll down Royal Street for art galleries and antique shops.
Listen to jazz on Frenchmen Street
While Bourbon Street is famous for partying, Frenchmen Street in the Marigny neighborhood is where locals go for live music. Clubs like The Spotted Cat and Snug Harbor offer the city's best jazz, blues, and funk every night.
Try the local gastronomy
Food in New Orleans is a religion. Have beignets (sugar-coated fritters) with chicory coffee at Café du Monde for breakfast. For lunch, a po'boy or muffuletta sandwich. For dinner, try Creole classics like gumbo, crawfish étouffée, or jambalaya.
Stroll through the Garden District
Take the historic St. Charles Avenue streetcar to this elegant neighborhood known for its majestic 19th-century mansions and centuries-old oaks. Visit Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 to see the city's famous above-ground tombs.
Learn about Voodoo culture
New Orleans Voodoo is a syncretic religion blending West African beliefs with Catholicism. Visit the New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum or the tomb of famous "Voodoo Queen" Marie Laveau in St. Louis Cemetery No. 1.
