The Big Easy: A City of Jazz, Culture, and Cuisine
New Orleans, the vibrant heart of Louisiana, is a city unlike any other in the United States. Known for its rich history, diverse cultural influences, and lively music scene, New Orleans offers visitors a unique blend of French, African, and American traditions. From the historic French Quarter to the lively Frenchmen Street, the city pulses with energy, music, and the tantalizing aromas of Creole and Cajun cuisine.
Essential New Orleans Information
- Language: English (with a distinctive local accent and vocabulary)
- Currency: US Dollar ($)
- Timezone: Central Standard Time (CST), UTC-6 (UTC-5 from second Sunday in March to first Sunday in November)
- Tipping: 15-20% is customary in restaurants and for services
Where to Stay in New Orleans: Top Neighborhoods for Tourists
French Quarter
The heart of New Orleans, the French Quarter is known for its colorful buildings, jazz clubs, and vibrant nightlife. It’s home to iconic Bourbon Street and offers easy access to many of the city’s top attractions. While bustling and sometimes noisy, it’s the quintessential New Orleans experience.
Garden District
With its grand mansions, tree-lined streets, and tranquil atmosphere, the Garden District offers a more relaxed stay. This picturesque neighborhood is perfect for those seeking a quieter experience while still being close to attractions. It’s also home to some of the city’s best restaurants.
Marigny
Just downriver from the French Quarter, Marigny is a hip neighborhood known for its colorful Creole cottages and vibrant music scene. Frenchmen Street, the area’s main attraction, is lined with live music venues and quirky bars, offering a more authentic New Orleans nightlife experience than Bourbon Street.
Central Business District (CBD)
The CBD offers a mix of high-rise hotels, trendy restaurants, and excellent shopping options. It’s conveniently located near the French Quarter and offers easy access to the streetcar lines. This area is ideal for business travelers or those preferring modern accommodations.
Bywater
Bywater is an up-and-coming neighborhood known for its artistic vibe and colorful street art. It offers a more local experience with quirky cafes, hip restaurants, and affordable accommodations. While further from the main tourist areas, it’s perfect for those seeking a more authentic, off-the-beaten-path experience.
Must-See Sights in New Orleans
- French Quarter: The historic heart of the city, known for its vibrant nightlife and beautiful architecture.
- Garden District: A picturesque neighborhood featuring grand mansions and lush gardens.
- Jackson Square: A historic park surrounded by museums, cafes, and street performers.
- Bourbon Street: The famous entertainment street known for its bars, music clubs, and lively atmosphere.
- St. Louis Cathedral: The oldest cathedral in North America, an iconic landmark in the French Quarter.
- Frenchmen Street: The go-to destination for authentic live jazz and local music.
- National WWII Museum: A world-class museum offering an immersive look at the war that changed the world.
Discover New Orleans’ Hidden Gems
- Backstreet Cultural Museum: A small museum offering insight into New Orleans’ African American cultural traditions.
- Crescent Park: A riverside park offering stunning views of the Mississippi and the city skyline.
- New Orleans Pharmacy Museum: A quirky museum housed in the site of the first licensed pharmacy in the United States.
- Studio Be: A massive warehouse featuring powerful, large-scale street art by local artist Brandan Odums.
- The Music Box Village: An outdoor art installation where musical architecture creates a unique sensory experience.
Food Highlights: Must-Try New Orleans Dishes
- Gumbo: A hearty stew considered one of Louisiana’s signature dishes.
- Jambalaya: A flavorful rice dish with meat and vegetables, similar to Spanish paella.
- Po’ Boys: A traditional submarine sandwich on New Orleans French bread.
- Beignets: Square pieces of fried dough covered in powdered sugar, perfect with café au lait.
- Crawfish Étouffée: A spicy Cajun stew with crawfish served over rice.
- Bananas Foster: A dessert made from bananas and vanilla ice cream, served with a rum sauce.
6 Essential Tips for Visiting New Orleans
- Use the Streetcar: Take advantage of the historic streetcar system for a scenic and affordable way to explore the city.
- Stay Hydrated: New Orleans can be hot and humid, especially in summer. Carry water and take breaks in air-conditioned spaces.
- Explore Beyond Bourbon Street: While iconic, Bourbon Street can be overwhelming. Don’t miss the charm of other neighborhoods.
- Try Local Cuisine: New Orleans is a food lover’s paradise. Be adventurous and sample local specialties.
- Check the Festival Calendar: The city hosts numerous festivals year-round. Plan your visit around one for a unique experience.
- Take a Walking Tour: Guided tours, especially in the French Quarter or Garden District, offer invaluable historical insights.
How to Get to New Orleans
Air: New Orleans is served by one major airport:
- Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY): Located about 11 miles west of downtown New Orleans in Kenner, Louisiana. It handles both domestic and international flights. The airport is connected to the city center by taxi, ride-sharing services, and airport shuttles. A new terminal opened in 2019, offering modern amenities and improved transportation options.
Rail: New Orleans is a stop on several Amtrak routes:
- New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal: Located in the Central Business District, this station serves three Amtrak lines: the City of New Orleans (to Chicago), the Crescent (to New York City), and the Sunset Limited (to Los Angeles).
The station is within walking distance of many downtown hotels and is also served by local buses and streetcars, making it easy to reach other parts of the city.
