The city's historic heart, famous for its vibrant nightlife, colorful buildings, and the annual Mardi Gras festival.

The French Quarter, also known as Vieux Carré, is the oldest neighborhood in New Orleans. It's a vibrant and bustling area, known for its lively nightlife, colorful buildings, and rich history. The French Quarter is a melting pot of cultures, with influences from Europe, Africa, and the Caribbean. /n The area is home to many iconic landmarks, including the St. Louis Cathedral, the French Market, and the infamous Bourbon Street. The French Quarter is also known for its unique architecture, with many buildings dating back to the 18th and 19th centuries. The area is a must-visit for anyone traveling to New Orleans, offering a unique blend of history, culture, and entertainment.

The French Quarter is the oldest neighborhood in New Orleans, known for its vibrant nightlife and colorful buildings.

A historic and affluent neighborhood known for its well-preserved antebellum mansions and Southern charm.

The Garden District is a beautiful and historic neighborhood in New Orleans. Known for its well-preserved antebellum mansions, lush gardens, and Southern charm, the area is a testament to the city's rich history and culture. /n The Garden District is a great place to take a leisurely stroll and admire the stunning architecture. Many of the homes in the area date back to the 19th century and are a mix of Greek Revival, Italianate, and Victorian styles. The area is also home to several famous landmarks, including the Lafayette Cemetery and the Commander's Palace restaurant. The Garden District is a must-visit for anyone interested in architecture, history, or simply enjoying the beauty of New Orleans.

The Garden District is a beautiful and historic neighborhood in New Orleans, known for its well-preserved antebellum mansions.

One of the oldest city-governed cemeteries in New Orleans. It is a non-segregated, non-denominational cemetery. There are immigrants from over 25 different countries and natives of 26 states as identified on the closure tablets.

Lafayette Cemetery is a historic cemetery located in the heart of New Orleans. It's one of the city's oldest and most significant cemeteries, with a history that dates back to the 19th century. The cemetery is known for its unique above-ground tombs and mausoleums, which are a common feature in New Orleans due to the city's high water table. /n The cemetery is also famous for its beautiful and ornate ironwork, which can be seen on many of the tombs. Walking through the cemetery, you'll find a peaceful and serene atmosphere, despite its location in the bustling city. It's a place where you can take a step back in time and learn about the city's history and the people who helped shape it. The cemetery is also a popular location for film and TV shoots, and has been featured in many movies and TV shows over the years.

A historic cemetery in the heart of New Orleans, Lafayette Cemetery is a must-visit for history buffs.

Known as the local's version of Bourbon Street, it offers live music, bars, and local cuisine.

Frenchmen Street is a vibrant entertainment hub located in the heart of New Orleans. This bustling street is known for its live music venues, offering a variety of genres from jazz to blues. /n The street is also a foodie's paradise, with a plethora of restaurants and eateries offering local cuisine. Whether you're looking to enjoy some live music, indulge in some local cuisine, or simply soak up the vibrant atmosphere, Frenchmen Street is a must-visit destination in New Orleans.

Frenchmen Street is a vibrant entertainment hub in New Orleans, known for its live music venues and local cuisine.

The city's oldest fine arts institution hosts an impressive permanent collection of almost 40,000 objects.

The New Orleans Museum of Art, located in City Park, is the city's oldest fine arts institution. It houses an impressive collection of art, spanning several centuries and representing cultures from around the globe. /n The museum's collection includes over 40,000 works, ranging from European and American art to African and Japanese pieces. The museum also features a sculpture garden, which showcases over 60 sculptures set among a beautifully landscaped garden. Whether you're an art enthusiast or simply looking for a cultural experience, the New Orleans Museum of Art is a must-visit.

The New Orleans Museum of Art is the city's oldest fine arts institution, housing an impressive collection of art.

A beautiful sculpture garden located within the New Orleans City Park. It features over 60 sculptures scattered on a beautifully landscaped site.

The Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden is a stunning outdoor space located in New Orleans' City Park. The garden spans five acres and features over 60 sculptures from renowned artists from around the world. The sculptures are set amidst a lush landscape of live oaks, magnolias, camellias, and lagoons, creating a serene and inspiring setting. /n The garden is a must-visit for art lovers and anyone who appreciates natural beauty. As you stroll through the garden, you'll encounter a diverse range of sculptures, from abstract pieces to lifelike statues. Each piece is thoughtfully placed within the landscape, creating a harmonious blend of art and nature. The garden is also home to a number of special events throughout the year, including art workshops, concerts, and guided tours. Whether you're an art enthusiast or simply looking for a peaceful place to relax, the Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden is a must-visit when in New Orleans.

An outdoor sculpture garden located in New Orleans, featuring works from renowned artists.

A world-class aquarium with vibrant marine life exhibits and immersive experiences.

The Audubon Aquarium of the Americas is a renowned aquarium located in New Orleans, Louisiana. It is one of the leading aquariums in the United States and is home to an impressive collection of marine life. The aquarium features a large Caribbean reef exhibit, a walk-through tunnel, and a variety of other exhibits showcasing species from around the world. Visitors can learn about the importance of conservation and the role of aquariums in preserving marine biodiversity. /n The aquarium is also known for its interactive exhibits, which allow visitors to get up close and personal with some of the animals. These include a touch pool and a stingray touch tank, where visitors can touch and feed the stingrays. The Audubon Aquarium of the Americas is a great place for families, with plenty of educational and fun activities for children of all ages. It's a must-visit attraction for anyone visiting New Orleans.

A popular attraction in New Orleans, the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas offers a deep dive into the world's fascinating underwater and aquatic species.

A popular tour in New Orleans that offers a unique view of the city's architecture, skyline, and natural beauty. The cruise also provides a glimpse into the industrial heritage of the region.

The Mississippi River Cruise is a unique and unforgettable way to experience New Orleans. As you glide along the mighty Mississippi, you'll be treated to stunning views of the city's skyline and the surrounding countryside. /n The cruise also offers a fascinating insight into the history and culture of New Orleans. As you listen to the informative commentary, you'll learn about the city's founding, its role in the Civil War, and its importance as a port. You'll also hear stories about the people who have lived and worked along the river, adding a personal touch to the experience. /n Whether you choose a daytime cruise or a romantic sunset cruise, the Mississippi River Cruise is sure to be a highlight of your visit to New Orleans.

A scenic river cruise along the mighty Mississippi. Offers stunning views of New Orleans and its surroundings.

Experience the vibrant culture of New Orleans, Louisiana, a city rich in history, music, and culinary delights. Explore the French Quarter, famous for its lively jazz clubs, colorful architecture, and the iconic Bourbon Street. Visit the historic St. Louis Cathedral and the bustling French Market. Immerse yourself in the city's unique culture with a tour of the Mardi Gras World or a haunted history tour. Enjoy a steamboat cruise on the Mississippi River or a swamp tour in the bayou. Savor the flavors of Creole and Cajun cuisine, including gumbo, jambalaya, and beignets. Whether you're a history buff, foodie, music lover, or adventurer, New Orleans offers an unforgettable travel experience.

French Quarter

Garden District

Lafayette Cemetery

Frenchmen Street

Start your day with a stroll through the historic French Quarter, known for its vibrant nightlife and colorful buildings with cast-iron balconies. Stop by a local café for a traditional beignet breakfast.

Enjoy a classic New Orleans lunch featuring Creole and Cajun cuisine in a charming restaurant in the Garden District.

After lunch, explore the Garden District, known for its well-preserved antebellum mansions and the famous Lafayette Cemetery. Take a guided tour or wander on your own.

For dinner, head back to the French Quarter and enjoy a meal at a restaurant offering live jazz music, a quintessential New Orleans experience.

After dinner, immerse yourself in the lively music scene of Frenchmen Street, known as the local's Bourbon Street, offering a variety of live music ranging from jazz to blues.

Exploring the French Quarter and Garden District

New Orleans Museum of Art

Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden

Audubon Aquarium of the Americas

Begin your second day with a visit to the New Orleans Museum of Art, home to a fine collection of French and American art, and stroll through the adjacent Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden.

Have lunch at a local seafood joint and try the famous New Orleans po'boy sandwich, a must-have culinary experience.

Spend your afternoon exploring the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas, located on the banks of the Mississippi River. It's a great place for families and marine life enthusiasts.

For your final dinner, enjoy a meal at a restaurant in the Warehouse District, known for its contemporary art galleries and trendy eateries.

End your trip with a relaxing river cruise on the Mississippi, taking in the beautiful New Orleans skyline at night.

Art, Seafood, and a River Cruise

Daylight saving time: +1hr, begins second Sunday in March; ends first Sunday in November; note: the 50 united states cover six time zones

UTC-5

New Orleans has four distinct streetcar lines: the St. Charles line, the Canal Street line, the Riverfront line, and the Rampart-St. Claude line. Each offers a unique tour of the city and is a convenient way to get around.

The New Orleans Regional Transit Authority operates a network of buses that cover the city. Buses are a cost-effective and efficient way to travel to different neighborhoods.

New Orleans is a very bike-friendly city with numerous bike lanes and paths. Bike rentals are available throughout the city.

Renting a car can be a convenient option if you plan to visit areas outside of the city center or if you prefer to have your own transportation. However, parking can be difficult in some areas.

Ridesharing services like Uber and Lyft are widely available in New Orleans. This can be a convenient and often cost-effective way to get around, especially if you're traveling in a group.

Taxis are readily available throughout the city. They can be hailed on the street, ordered by phone, or picked up from designated taxi stands.

The Algiers Ferry provides a unique way to travel across the Mississippi River and offers stunning views of the New Orleans skyline.

New Orleans is a very walkable city, especially in areas like the French Quarter and the Garden District. Walking allows you to take in the sights and sounds of the city at your own pace.

Pedal cabs, also known as pedicabs, are a fun and eco-friendly way to get around. They're especially popular in the French Quarter.

For a more traditional and leisurely mode of transport, consider a horse and carriage ride. These are especially popular for sightseeing in the French Quarter.

A hearty soup that's a staple in Louisiana cuisine. It's made with a mix of meat and/or seafood, including sausage, chicken, crab, shrimp, and oysters, and served over rice.

Gumbo

A popular French doughnut brought to New Orleans by the French colonists. It's deep-fried and covered with powdered sugar.

Beignets

A one-pot dish originating from New Orleans. It's a mix of meat, vegetables, and rice, typically including chicken, sausage, shrimp, bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes.

Jambalaya

A classic New Orleans dish made with crawfish smothered in a thick, spicy sauce, served over rice.

Crawfish Étouffée

A traditional Louisiana sandwich typically filled with fried seafood like shrimp, oysters, or catfish, though roast beef versions are also popular.

Po' Boy

A sandwich that originated among Italian immigrants in New Orleans. It's made with a round Sicilian sesame bread filled with cured meats, cheese, and olive salad.

Muffuletta

A simple, hearty dish traditionally served on Mondays in New Orleans. It's made with red beans, vegetables, spices, and smoked pork, served over rice.

Red Beans and Rice

A colorful ring-shaped cake associated with Mardi Gras celebrations in New Orleans. It's often filled with cream cheese or praline and decorated with the traditional Mardi Gras colors of purple, green, and gold.

King Cake

A dessert made from bananas and vanilla ice cream, with a sauce made from butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, dark rum, and banana liqueur. It was created in New Orleans in the 1950s.

Bananas Foster

Considered America's first cocktail, it's made with rye whiskey, absinthe, sugar, and Peychaud's Bitters. It's a staple in New Orleans' cocktail scene.

Sazerac

A sweet, fruity cocktail made with rum, fruit juice, and grenadine. It's a popular drink in New Orleans, especially during Mardi Gras.

Hurricane

A style of coffee that's been popular in New Orleans since the Civil War. It's made by blending coffee beans with roasted, ground chicory root, which gives it a unique, slightly bitter flavor.

Chicory Coffee

New Year's Day

New Year's Day (substitute)

Martin Luther King Jr. Day

Presidents' Day

Memorial Day

Juneteenth

Independence Day

Labor Day

Columbus Day

Veterans Day (substitute)

Veterans Day

Thanksgiving Day

Christmas Day

A charming town with beautiful beaches, unique shops, and delicious seafood.

Bay St. Louis

A park that preserves significant examples of the rich natural and cultural resources of Louisiana's Mississippi River Delta region.

Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve

A historic plantation known for its stunning alley of oak trees.

Oak Alley Plantation

A historic plantation estate featuring beautiful gardens and a restaurant.

Houmas House Plantation and Gardens

A brewery offering tours and tastings of its craft beers.

Abita Brewing Company

A wildlife park offering guided tours to see and feed free-roaming animals.

Global Wildlife Center

A historic estate featuring a Classical Revival-style mansion and eight acres of gardens.

Longue Vue House and Gardens

The capital of Louisiana, known for its vibrant music scene, unique food, and historical sites.

Baton Rouge

A city known for its Cajun and Creole cultures, with plenty of music, food, and history.

Lafayette

A region known for its casinos, golf courses, and beautiful beaches.

Mississippi Gulf Coast

Bridge and fountain at the Armstrong park in NOLA

New Orleans is known for its hot and humid climate, especially during the summer months. Make sure to pack lightweight, breathable clothing.

The city is also known for sudden rain showers, so always carry an umbrella or raincoat with you.

Public transportation is reliable and affordable in New Orleans. The city has a comprehensive bus system and historic streetcars.

New Orleans is a city with a vibrant nightlife. However, it's important to stay safe. Avoid walking alone at night and stay in well-lit areas.

The city is famous for its cuisine. Don't miss out on trying local dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, po'boys, and beignets.

Tipping is customary in New Orleans. It's standard to tip 15-20% at restaurants, bars, and taxis.

New Orleans is a city rich in history and culture. It's worth taking the time to learn about the city's past, including its French, Spanish, and African influences.

The city is known for its music, particularly jazz. You'll find live music in many bars and restaurants throughout the city.

New Orleans is a city that loves to celebrate. If you're visiting during Mardi Gras, be prepared for large crowds and lots of festivities.

The legal drinking age in New Orleans is 21. It's also legal to drink in public in New Orleans, as long as your drink is in a plastic container.

New Orleans is located below sea level, which can lead to flooding during heavy rain. Pay attention to weather forecasts and warnings.

The city is known for its unique architecture, including Creole cottages, shotgun houses, and grand mansions. Take the time to explore the city's different neighborhoods.

New Orleans is a city that values its traditions. Respect local customs and traditions, especially during festivals and parades.

The city has a vibrant arts scene. Don't miss the chance to visit local art galleries and craft markets.

New Orleans is a city with a strong sense of community. Don't hesitate to ask locals for recommendations or directions.

The city is known for its voodoo culture. You'll find many shops selling voodoo dolls and other related items.

New Orleans is a city with a laid-back attitude. Don't rush, take your time to soak in the atmosphere.

The city is located in the southern United States, where the sun can be intense. Don't forget to wear sunscreen, especially during the summer months.

New Orleans is a city with a diverse population. Be respectful of all cultures and backgrounds.

The city is known for its Southern hospitality. Expect to be greeted with warmth and friendliness wherever you go.

January is the coldest month in New Orleans, with temperatures ranging from 5 to 18 degrees Celsius. It's a great time to visit if you prefer cooler weather.

February sees a slight increase in temperature, making it a pleasant time to explore the city's vibrant culture and history.

March marks the beginning of spring in New Orleans, with temperatures ranging from 11 to 24 degrees Celsius. The weather is perfect for outdoor activities.

April is a warm month with temperatures ranging from 15 to 28 degrees Celsius. It's a great time to visit the city's parks and gardens.

May is the start of the hot season in New Orleans, with temperatures reaching up to 32 degrees Celsius. Make sure to stay hydrated and wear sunscreen.

June is one of the hottest months in New Orleans, with temperatures peaking at 35 degrees Celsius. It's a great time to visit the city's beaches and pools.

July is the hottest month in New Orleans, with temperatures ranging from 24 to 36 degrees Celsius. It's a great time to enjoy the city's indoor attractions.

August is equally hot as July, with temperatures peaking at 36 degrees Celsius. It's a great time to enjoy the city's indoor attractions and nightlife.

September marks the end of the hot season in New Orleans, with temperatures ranging from 22 to 34 degrees Celsius. It's a great time to visit the city's parks and gardens.

October sees a drop in temperature, making it a pleasant time to explore the city's vibrant culture and history.

November is a cool month with temperatures ranging from 11 to 24 degrees Celsius. It's a great time to visit the city's parks and gardens.

December is a cool month in New Orleans, with temperatures ranging from 7 to 20 degrees Celsius. It's a great time to visit if you prefer cooler weather.

New Orleans, Louisiana, is known for its vibrant culture, music, and cuisine. However, the city's subtropical climate can be a bit challenging for tourists, especially those not accustomed to high humidity and heat. 

The city experiences hot and humid summers, with temperatures often reaching above 90°F (32°C). If you're planning a summer trip, be prepared for this intense heat and pack lightweight, breathable clothing. Don't forget your sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to protect yourself from the sun. Stay hydrated and take breaks in air-conditioned spaces whenever possible.

The winter months are mild and short, with temperatures usually ranging from 50°F to 65°F (10°C to 18°C). If you're visiting during this time, pack layers to accommodate the cooler evenings and warmer days. 

New Orleans can be quite rainy, with the wettest months being July and August. An umbrella or raincoat is a must-have year-round, but especially during the summer months. 

The city is also susceptible to hurricanes, with the season typically running from June through November. If you're planning to visit during these months, it's crucial to stay updated on the weather forecasts and heed any warnings or advisories.

Regardless of when you visit, experiencing the weather in New Orleans is part of the city's charm. Just remember to pack accordingly and stay safe!

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2-Day Ultimate Guide to Exploring New Orleans, Louisiana

About New Orleans, Louisiana