New Orleans is one of the most beautiful cities in the United States, renowned worldwide for its deep roots in jazz music and lavish celebrations.
If you haven’t been to New Orleans before, what are you waiting for? A rich melting pot of many different cultures along the Mississippi River, there simply aren’t too many places like ‘The Paris of the South’.
Renowned as the birthplace of jazz music, there is a deep connection between New Orleans and music, and walking through its streets you are guaranteed to see tons of street musicians looking for an opportunity to shine - or maybe just having a bit of musical fun. Local Cajun cuisine and crazy Mardi Gras celebrations also give a local flavor and a warm relaxed atmosphere to the city, something that reflects even in local art, music, and literature.
Whether you are looking for the roots of jazz music, coming to mingle in the festivities of Mardi Gras, or just want to have great fun and meet interesting people, New Orleans is a city of a thousand possibilities. Check out our list of the spots you don’t want to miss when you are in the ‘Crescent City’.
Mardi Gras
This carnivalesque tradition was brought by the French settlers in the area, becoming particularly popular around the 19th century. Mardi Gras is New Orleans’ main annual event, and the celebration can extend up to a period of two weeks.
The festivities include daily parades along with all kinds of entertainment and celebrations that increase in intensity as the days pass. If you are visiting during Mardi Gras, try to find accommodations with a balcony that allows you to enjoy the festivities from above, you won’t regret it!
The French Quarter
One of the most touristic areas in the city, the French Quarter is what most people think of when they think of New Orleans. Following a curve of the Mississippi River, the main attractions are the old colonial buildings, some as old as 300 years, which showcase French architectural styles and also host a number of excellent dining and drinking spots along with hotels, art galleries, and jazz venues.
Preservation Hall
While it doesn’t look like much from the outside, Preservation Hall is a longtime institution in New Orleans with a strong connection to the origins of jazz music. This is the perfect spot to see some local musicians play in an intimate setting. Bear in mind that seating is likewise very limited, so you should book in advance if you don’t want to miss out on the music.
Steamboat Natchez
A trip to New Orleans wouldn’t be complete without paying homage to the moving lifeforce behind the city, the Mississippi River. If you are feeling adventurous, book a two-hour cruise aboard the paddle steamer Steamboat Natchez and enjoy not only a detailed tour of the riverside areas but also local creole food and live jazz music.
National WWII Museum
This World War II Museum is like no other, full of real historical documents and artifacts that delve deep into the history of the war. The museum has three main sections, with one dedicated to the war in the Pacific, another one to war in Europe, and a third section that houses WWII aircraft.
Short black-and-white documentary videos illustrate the use of the many objects displayed in the exhibits and give you a glimpse into the lives of the heroic soldiers that fought the war. And if that’s not enough, you can even go to the Stage Door Canteen, a detailed historical recreation of a WWII-era venue, featuring performances inspired in the 1940s, with matinees and dinner shows.
In New Orleans, you just have to follow the music
Don’t wait until the last moment to book accommodations, a ticket to Preservation Hall, or a seat aboard the Steamboat Natchez.
Remember, the most important part is having fun! And in New Orleans joy is guaranteed, as long as you keep following the music. Be it with friends or family, New Orleans is an unforgettable experience for revelers of all ages.
