Tourist places in New Orleans, New Orleans Travel Info
New Orleans, Louisiana, is the most populous city in the state, known for its unique cross-cultural and multilingual heritage. Founded in 1718 by French colonists, it was once the territorial capital of French Louisiana before becoming part of the United States in the Louisiana Purchase of 1803. The city is often described as "the most interesting" in the U.S. due to its vibrant culture, music, cuisine, and historic architecture. It''s also increasingly known as "Hollywood South" for its role in the film industry.
New Orleans is located in the Mississippi River Delta, in southeastern Louisiana, south of Lake Pontchartrain, and on the banks of the Mississippi River. It is approximately 105 miles upriver from the Gulf of Mexico. The city''s early development was along a sharp bend in the Mississippi, earning it the nickname "Crescent City." Its strategic position at the mouth of the Mississippi-Missouri river system made it a crucial transportation hub and distribution center for waterborne commerce.
New Orleans is famously known for its vibrant culture, particularly its music (birthplace of jazz), Creole and Cajun cuisine, and annual celebrations like Mardi Gras. It''s also recognized for its unique architecture, especially in the French Quarter, and its historic cemeteries with above-ground tombs. The city is home to the New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park and the New Orleans African American Museum. Its laid-back atmosphere has earned it the nickname "The Big Easy."
The best time to visit New Orleans is from February to May when the weather is comfortably cool and the city is alive with celebrations like Mardi Gras and the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival. Another excellent period is September to November, offering pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds. Summers (June-September) can be hot and humid with a higher chance of hurricanes, while winters (December-January) are mild and less crowded, ideal for a quieter trip.
French Quarter: Historic heart of New Orleans, famous for its vibrant nightlife, unique architecture, and Bourbon Street.
Jackson Square: Historic park in the French Quarter, surrounded by iconic buildings and street performers.
St. Louis Cathedral: A prominent landmark in Jackson Square, one of the oldest cathedrals in the United States.
National WWII Museum: World-class museum detailing the American experience in World War II.
Garden District: Known for its stunning antebellum mansions and lush gardens, offering architectural tours.