New Orleans, USA

The Ultimate Guide to Travelling in New Orleans, USA

Introduction

New Orleans, the birthplace of jazz, the city of Mardi Gras, and a melting pot of French, Spanish, African, and American cultures. Known for its vibrant energy, rich history, and mouth-watering Creole cuisine, NOLA (as locals call it) is a must-visit destination for any traveler. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll take you on a journey through the city’s best places to visit, eat, stay, and experience.

Places to Visit

French Quarter

  • Bourbon Street: The iconic party hub of NOLA, lined with bars, clubs, and restaurants.
  • Jackson Square: A historic park surrounded by historic buildings, street performers, and live music.
  • St. Louis Cathedral: A beautiful Catholic cathedral dating back to 1720.

Garden District

  • Lafayette Cemetery No. 1: A historic cemetery with above-ground tombs and a spooky atmosphere.
  • Magazine Street: A six-mile stretch of boutique shops, art galleries, and restaurants.
  • Garden District Mansions: Take a stroll through the picturesque neighborhood to admire the stunning antebellum mansions.

Other Attractions

  • National WWII Museum: A must-visit for history buffs, offering interactive exhibits and personal stories.
  • New Orleans Museum of Art: Located in City Park, featuring a diverse collection of art from around the world.
  • Audubon Nature Institute: Explore the zoo, aquarium, and insectarium, or take a stroll through the beautiful Audubon Park.

Activities

Music and Dance

  • Preservation Hall: Catch an intimate jazz performance in this historic venue.
  • New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park: Learn about the city’s rich jazz heritage and attend a live concert.
  • Dance Classes: Take a lesson in traditional New Orleans styles like second line dancing or salsa.

Food and Drink

  • Culinary Tours: Sample the city’s famous cuisine on a guided tour, from beignets to gumbo.
  • Brewery Tours: Visit local breweries like NOLA Brewing or Port Orleans Brewing Company.
  • Coffee and Beignet Café Hopping: Spend an afternoon exploring the city’s charming coffee shops and cafes.

Outdoor Adventures

  • Steamboat Natchez Cruises: Take a scenic ride along the Mississippi River while enjoying live jazz and Creole cuisine.
  • Kayaking or Paddleboarding: Explore the city’s waterways and get some exercise on a guided tour.
  • City Park: Visit the Besthoff Sculpture Garden, take a stroll around the lake, or attend one of the many festivals held here.

Where to Eat

Breakfast

  • Cafe du Monde: The iconic beignet cafe in the French Quarter.
  • Willie Mae’s Scotch House: A Treme institution serving up Southern breakfast comfort food.
  • Atchafalaya: Try their famous shrimp and grits or alligator sausage.

Lunch

  • Dooky Chase’s Restaurant: Sample Creole cuisine at this legendary eatery in Treme.
  • Cochon Butcher: Enjoy delicious sandwiches, salads, and charcuterie in the Warehouse District.
  • Parkway Bakery and Tavern: Try their famous po’ boys or muffulettas.

Dinner

  • Dooky Chase’s Restaurant (again!): Their dinner menu is just as impressive as their lunch offerings.
  • Coop’s Place: Cajun cuisine and cold beer in the French Quarter.
  • GW Fins: Upscale seafood restaurant with an extensive wine list.

Where to Stay

French Quarter

  • Hotel Monteleone: A historic hotel with elegant rooms and a rooftop pool.
  • Lafitte Guest House: Charming B&B with a courtyard pool and free breakfast.
  • Astor Crowne Plaza: Modern hotel with comfortable rooms and a great location.

Garden District

  • ** Columns Hotel**: A beautiful Victorian-era hotel with a stunning lobby and comfortable rooms.
  • Hotel Mazarin: Boutique hotel with stylish rooms and a relaxing courtyard.
  • Avenue Plaza Resort: Spacious suites and a rooftop pool overlooking the city.

Things to Know

Safety

  • Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night in the French Quarter.
  • Avoid walking alone in dimly lit areas or near abandoned buildings.
  • Keep valuables secure and be cautious of pickpocketing.

Weather

  • New Orleans is hot and humid during the summer months (June to August).
  • Hurricane season runs from June to November; check weather forecasts before traveling.
  • Pack light, breathable clothing and sunscreen.

Tipping Culture

  • Tip 15% to 20% at restaurants and bars.
  • Show appreciation for live music performances with a small donation or tip.
  • Consider tipping tour guides and drivers who provide excellent service.

Transportation

Airports

  • Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY): Located about 11 miles west of the city center.
  • Taxi: Approximately $35 to $40 to the French Quarter or Garden District.
  • Uber/Lyft: Ride-hailing services available from the airport.

Getting Around

  • Streetcar: The famous St. Charles Avenue streetcar is a convenient way to explore the Garden District.
  • Bus: The RTA (Regional Transit Authority) offers an extensive network of buses across the city.
  • Walking/Biking: New Orleans is a walkable city; consider renting a bike or taking a stroll along the Mississippi River.

Tips and Tricks

Festivals

  • Mardi Gras: The ultimate NOLA experience, but plan ahead as accommodations book up quickly.
  • Jazz Fest: Celebrate the city’s rich jazz heritage over two weekends in April.
  • Voodoo Fest: A Halloween-themed music festival featuring local and international acts.

Insider Knowledge

  • French Quarter Happy Hour: Many bars offer happy hour deals from 3 pm to 6 pm.
  • Free Walking Tours: Take advantage of free guided tours, like the French Quarter Walking Tour or the New Orleans Architecture Tour.
  • Second Lines: Join a spontaneous second line parade and dance through the streets with locals.

Etiquette

  • Respect Local Traditions: Be mindful of cultural heritage sites, especially during festivals.
  • Dress for the Occasion: Dress appropriately for the occasion, considering the city’s laid-back vibe.
  • Be Prepared for Crowds: Popular areas can get crowded; plan ahead and be patient.

Conclusion

New Orleans is a city like no other – a vibrant melting pot of cultures, cuisines, and experiences. With this comprehensive guide, you’re ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure in the Big Easy. Remember to respect local traditions, be prepared for crowds, and always keep a sense of humor. Laissez les bons temps rouler! (Let the good times roll!)