Jump To:
About this guide
Set along the Mississippi River, New Orleans, Louisiana celebrates the tapestry of Black culture, history, and world-renowned Creole cuisine. Widely recognized as the birthplace of jazz, the historic Tremé neighborhood and the mesmerizing pageantry of the Mardi Gras Indians shines during carnival season. The city offers a powerful window into the Black experience in the United States. With an unmistakable rhythm and soul, New Orleans has long inspired legendary musicians, artists, and civil rights icons who helped shape its enduring cultural legacy.
- Best time to travel: March to May and September to November (peak season), June to August (off-season), December to February (shoulder season)
- Time zone: Central Time Zone (CST)
- Currency: USD ($)
- Noteworthy: Mardi Gras (February), New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival (April-May), Essence Festival (July), Celebration in the Oaks (November-December)
- Best for: Southern American History, Art and Music Festivals, Nightlife and Shopping, Creole Cuisine
Get Away: Getting To and Around New Orleans, Louisiana
By Air
Travelers typically arrive via Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport, the region’s primary gateway located about 15 miles from downtown. The airport offers numerous domestic and international connections, with taxis, airport shuttles, and rental cars providing convenient access into the heart of the city.
By Car
Renting a car can be useful for exploring neighborhoods beyond the historic center or taking day trips outside the city. While driving provides flexibility, parking in busy districts like the French Quarter is limited and costly. Oftentimes, many visitors choose to park once and explore other ways.
By Public Transit
There are streetcars, buses, and rideshares available for hassle-free transportation throughout New Orleans. There is a public transit system that provides affordable access to the city's top attractions and vibrant neighborhoods. Travelers can purchase the convenient Jazzy Pass for unlimited rides and utilize the historic St. Charles Streetcar.
Operated by the New Orleans Regional Transit Authority, the public transportation in New Orleans runs an extensive network of buses and historic streetcars that connect to major attractions and neighborhoods. Visitors can purchase a Jazzy Pass for unlimited rides and hop aboard iconic routes like the St. Charles Streetcar Line for an easy and scenic way to get around.
Explore New Orleans, Louisiana on Foot
Neighborhoods such as the French Quarter and Garden District are especially walkable, making it easy to soak in the city’s architecture, street performances, and hidden courtyards. Strolling through these historic streets is one of the best ways to experience local culture. Make sure to wear comfortable shoes, stay aware in the surrounding area, and prepare for the city’s warm, humid weather.
Quick facts
Good For
Southern American History
Art and Music Festivals
Nightlife and Shopping
Creole Cuisine
Keep in mind
- Mardi Gras (February)
- New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival (April-May)
- Essence Festival (July)
- Celebration in the Oaks (November-December)
Gourmet
Gourmet: Places To Eat In New Orleans, Louisiana
Executive Chef Ricky Cheramie's contemporary Creole cuisine shines at Restaurant Rebirth in New Orleans. With fresh flavors, global influences, and deep Cajun roots, each dish has earned praise from local and national critics.
Savor a taste of Cajun and Creole excellence at Olde NOLA Cookery on Bourbon Street. This colorful, cozy spot offers award-winning dishes like authentic gumbo, classic shrimp Po'boys, and Stuffed Flounder with seafood rice.
Indulge in the rich flavors of the Colombian Andes at Maïs Arepas, conveniently located near the National WWII Museum in New Orleans. The menu offers signature arepas with pulled pork, skirt steak, Louisiana jumbo shrimp, fried yuca, shrimp ceviche, and the hearty bandeja paisa.
Located on Magazine Street, The Rum House in New Orleans is one of the most popular restaurants in the area. As a Caribbean taqueria, the menu includes dishes like flaked fish and scallop tacos made with fresh ingredients and terrific marinades.
Nothing like indulging in Gulf seafood in an inviting outdoor space at the laid-back gem,Deanie's Seafood. The New Orleans-style brunch menu includes fried oysters, Old School Crabmeat Etouffee, a Cajun breakfast plate, and creative Southern cocktails.
Dine at the Bakery Bar with its tasty and diverse New Orleans brunch and dinner menu. Guests can indulge in The BB Breakfast Sandwich, Patatas Bravas, a classic Cuban sandwich, and other creative bar food.
Play
Play: Things To Do In New Orleans, Louisiana
Book the Steamboat Natchez Evening Jazz Dinner Cruise for a night of authentic New Orleans charm on a paddle-wheel riverboat. This scenic evening ride has unparalleled city views, lively jazz performances, and a delicious Creole-style dinner.
This Food Walking Tour Of The French Quarter shares iconic dishes, kitchen tours, and the best spots in the French Quarter. Visitors can try everything from the best beignets in the city to delicious briskets.
Uncover the eerie secrets during this Haunted Ghost, Voodoo, Vampire, and Mystery Tour. An expert guide helps navigate the city's haunted history as guests immerse themselves in chilling tales and local Louisiana lore.
Explore historical highlights and Creole heritage on the Katrina, Garden District, French Quarter, And Cemetery City Tour. Stay cool in an air-conditioned minibus as a local expert guides guests through the French Quarter, Garden District, and unique burial sites.
This New Orleans Cocktail And Food History Tour showcases NOLA’s culinary heritage at six diverse locales with plenty to enjoy. The tour guide shares the history behind the mouthwatering food and creative cocktails in the French Quarter and beyond.
Led by a local jazz musician, guests venture beyond Bourbon Street during the Frenchmen Street Live Music Pub Crawl. Prepare to party as you listen to historical New Orleans ghost stories and visit top-notch venues.
Book this NOLA Photo Experience to explore hidden gems beyond the tourist areas of the city. Explore unique food and art spots while capturing the city's rich history, style, and street vibes.
Experience this vibrant New Orleans New Orleans Street Art And Mural Walk Ft. Banksy and see the city’s artistic treasures. Guests uncover the underground art scene with murals by renowned artists like Banksy and local talent on the urban art scene.
