Curator’s statement
New Orleans is a city that pulses with energy and rich cultural heritage, where every corner feels alive with history and tradition. The atmosphere is a unique blend of old-world charm and modern vibrancy, with rhythms of music filling the streets and the scent of delicious cuisine lingering in the air. Known for its diverse cultural influences, the city celebrates life with a spirited sense of community, from its lively festivals to the artful expressions that can be found on every block. The blend of sounds, tastes and traditions creates an undeniable magic, inviting visitors to slow down, embrace the moment and experience a place where every day feels like a celebration.
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Where to stay in New Orleans
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Things to do in New Orleans
St Louis Cathedral
French Quarter: The French Quarter is a vibrant historic neighborhood, known for its charming cobblestone streets, colorful architecture and lively atmosphere, where the city's rich cultural heritage comes to life through music, cuisine and festivals.
Jackson Square: Jackson Square is a picturesque and bustling landmark, surrounded by historic buildings and lush greenery, where street artists, performers and visitors come together to celebrate the vibrant spirit of the city.
City Park: City Park is a sprawling urban oasis, offering scenic walking trails, picturesque lagoons and lush greenery, providing a peaceful escape and a hub for outdoor activities in the heart of the city.
National WWII Museum: The National WWII Museum is an immersive and poignant tribute to the heroes and history of World War II, offering captivating exhibits and personal stories that bring the global conflict to life.
New Orleans Museum of Art: The New Orleans Museum of Art is a premier cultural institution, showcasing an impressive collection of art spanning centuries and cultures, set within the serene beauty of City Park.
Oak Alley Plantation: Oak Alley Plantation is a stunning historic site, renowned for its majestic, tree-lined alley of centuries-old oaks and its fascinating glimpse into the region's antebellum past.
Steamboat Natchez: The Steamboat Natchez offers a classic riverboat experience, allowing visitors to cruise along the Mississippi River while enjoying live jazz music and stunning views of the city's skyline.
Audubon Zoo: Audubon Zoo is a lush, expansive wildlife sanctuary, home to a diverse range of animals and immersive exhibits that highlight global ecosystems and conservation efforts.
Crescent Park: Crescent Park is a scenic waterfront green space, offering picturesque views of the Mississippi River and the city skyline, along with walking trails, gardens and public art installations.
French Market: The French Market is a bustling open-air market, offering a vibrant mix of local food, unique crafts and live entertainment, making it a lively hub for both locals and visitors.
Places to eat & drink in New Orleans
Minter Oso: Minter Oso is a trendy taco spot in New Orleans, offering a creative menu of flavorful, fresh tacos made with locally sourced ingredients, served in a laid-back, vibrant setting perfect for casual dining.
Compère Lapin: Compère Lapin is a renowned New Orleans restaurant that blends Caribbean and Southern flavors, offering a unique and inventive dining experience.
Dakar NOLA: Dakar NOLA is a vibrant New Orleans restaurant that brings the bold and flavorful tastes of West Africa to the city, serving up traditional Senegalese dishes with a modern twist in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Maypop: Maypop is an innovative restaurant that blends bold Asian and Southern flavors, offering a creative dining experience with a focus on fresh, locally sourced ingredients and unique, artful dishes.
Meril: Meril is a lively and contemporary restaurant offering a diverse menu of bold, flavor-packed dishes that showcase fresh local ingredients in a casual yet vibrant setting.
Brennan’s: Brennan's is an iconic, upscale restaurant known for its refined Creole cuisine, elegant atmosphere and classic dishes, offering a timeless dining experience in the heart of the French Quarter.
Cochon Restaurant: Cochon is a rustic, Southern-inspired restaurant that celebrates the flavors of Cajun and Creole cuisine, offering expertly crafted dishes focused on locally sourced meats and fresh ingredients in a lively, casual setting.
Bésame: Bésame is a vibrant, Latin-inspired restaurant that blends bold flavors and fresh ingredients to create a unique, festive dining experience with a focus on inventive tapas.
Copper Vine Restaurant: Copper Vine is a stylish restaurant that offers a carefully curated menu of modern Southern dishes in a chic, relaxed atmosphere.
Mister Mao: Mister Mao is a trendy fusion restaurant that creatively combines Asian, Latin and Southern flavors, offering bold and unique dishes in a vibrant, contemporary setting.
Need to know
The streetcar is a great way to get around the city and is also a great cultural experience. You must try beignets at one of Cafe Du Monde's locations. Some other well-known foods in New Orleans are gumbo, jambalaya, po'boys and red beans and rice.
Travel Advisor
Emily Bissette
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our New Orleans page.