New Orleans

A vibrant port city famous for its French Quarter architecture, live jazz music, Creole cuisine, and annual Mardi Gras festival. It's an essential cultural destination offering a unique blend of African, European, and Caribbean influences unlike anywhere else in the US.

Things to do

• French Quarter Walking Tour — Explore the historic colonial architecture, wrought-iron balconies, and narrow streets of the Vieux Carré, the heart of New Orleans' original settlement.
• Live Jazz at Preservation Hall — Experience traditional New Orleans jazz in an intimate, no-frills venue that has hosted authentic brass bands and jazz musicians since 1961.
• St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 — Visit the iconic above-ground tomb cemetery dating back to 1789, featuring distinctive Creole architectural styles and the resting place of Marie Laveau.
• Mardi Gras Parade Experience — Witness the elaborate floats, costumed krewe members, and street revelry during Mardi Gras season, the most famous celebration in the city.
• Steamboat Natchez Cruise — Take a paddlewheel riverboat cruise on the Mississippi River with live jazz music, dining, and views of the city skyline.
• Frenchmen Street Live Music Venues — Walk this lively street in the Marigny neighborhood lined with clubs featuring live brass bands, funk, and local musicians every night.

Food to try

• Gumbo — A thick, savory stew made with a roux base, okra or filé powder, and protein like sausage, seafood, or chicken, served over rice and essential to Creole cuisine.
• Po'boy Sandwich — A New Orleans specialty featuring fried seafood (usually shrimp or oysters) or roast beef on a French baguette, dressed with lettuce, tomato, and remoulade sauce.
• Beignets — Fried pastry squares dusted heavily with powdered sugar, best experienced at the iconic Café Du Monde with chicory coffee.
• Jambalaya — A one-pot rice dish combining meat or seafood, vegetables, and bold Creole spices, reflecting West African and Spanish influences.
• Crawfish Boil — Freshwater crawfish boiled with corn, potatoes, and spices in a seasoned broth, traditionally eaten by hand during spring season.
• Muffuletta — A hearty sandwich filled with cured meats and a distinctive olive salad on a seeded round loaf, originating from the Italian community.

Local customs & good to know

• Dress Code Matters for Venues — Many upscale restaurants and clubs enforce dress codes that prohibit athletic wear, so plan accordingly and dress respectfully for evening outings.
• Learn Krewe Traditions — Understanding that krewes are social organizations that organize Mardi Gras parades will help you appreciate the parade hierarchy and throwing customs.
• Respect Spiritual Practices — Voodoo is an important spiritual tradition in New Orleans; approach related sites and practices with respect rather than treating them as tourist novelties.
• Use Street Smarts at Night — While the city is welcoming, stay aware of your surroundings, travel in groups after dark, and avoid certain neighborhoods outside the tourist areas.