New Orleans is the hometown of jazz, plus a few you may never have heard off, are played here on every corner, bar and every night of the week. The city is a melting pot of cultures with a diversity that is reflected in everything from the music and food to the language and architecture. Also known to the world for its outrageous Mardi Gras celebrations.
PLACES TO VISIT
1.THE FRENCH QUARTER
Set along a bend on the Mississippi River, the main attraction here is the architecture. Dated back 300 years the old buildings show French influences, with arcades, wrought iron balconies, red-tiled roofs, and picturesque courtyards. Mamy of the old buildings now contain hotels, restaurants, souvenir shops and galleries.
2.AUDUBON AQUARIUM OF THE AMERICAS
The aquarium focuses on species found in North, Central, and South America. Visitors can learn about creatures that lurk below the surface of the nearby surrounding waters, this includes everything from sharks and stingrays to sea turtles. Also available are hands-on experiences with the African penguins and a chance to Scuba dive or snorkel the Great Maya Reef.
3.NEW ORLEANS MUSEUM OF ART
The museum features an excellent collection of French, American, African and Japanese art. Another of the institutions highlights is the outdoor Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden, with more than 60 sculptures, a lagoon and walking paths.
4.BLAINE KERN’S MARDI GRAS WORLD
Famous for its elaborate Mardi Gras celebrations, visitors can see a glimpse of what's involved behind the scenes in this huge event - sculptured props, huge floats, outrageous costumes, and all kinds of figures. Guided tours are offered through the workshops where artists and sculptors work.
5.LOUISIANA STATE MUSEUM AT THE CABILDO
The Cabildo, was built in 1795 as the residence of the Spanish governor. Registered as a Historic National Place the Cabildo today houses the Louisana State Museum. The museum focused largely on the history of New Orleans and Louisiana.
6.NATIONAL WWII MUSEUM
The museum exhibits documentary snippets that tell the history of WWII as it was fought in Europe and in the Pacific. The museum is divided into three sections, with one section devoted to the war in the Pacific, another devoted to the war in Europe, and a third building that houses WWII aircraft. Short black and white documentary style film segments give a real life look at how the items on display were involved in the war as you walk from room to room.
7.THE BACKSTREET CULTURAL MUSEUM
Established by the local photographer and history buff, Sylvester Francis. On display is an eclectic collection of costumes, memorabilia, photographs, films and other artifacts related to African American culture.
OTHER PLACES TO VISIT
- New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum
- French Market
- Louis Amstrong Park
- Contemporary Arts Centre
- St Louis Cathedral
- Jackson Square
- Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve
- Audubon Zoo
- Steamboat Natchez
- The Garden District
- Park CityPreservation Hall
- The Presbytere
- Louisiana Children’s Museum
- Carousel Gardens Amusement Park
- Ogden Museum of Southern Art
- Louisana State Museum
- Longue Vue House and Gardens
- Lake Pontchartrain
- Saint Louis Cemetery
The best time to visit New Orleans is from February to May when the weather is comfortably cool and the celebrations are in full swing.
The best way to get around in New Orleans on foot or with a historic street car, buses and taxis.
