· US

New Orleans

New Orleans, Louisiana, United States

Laissez les bons temps rouler in New Orleans! New Orleans, Louisiana, is more than just a city; it's a swirling, seductive blend of history, culture, and pure joie de vivre. Nestled on the Mississippi River, this vibrant…

#Southern cuisine#Jazz music#Mardi Gras#French Quarter#Mississippi River

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Stay & fly Things to do Videos Practical Guide

Top hotels & flights

Hand-picked stays and the best fares into New Orleans.

Top Hotels in New Orleans

Top Flights to New Orleans

Popular activities

Tours, tickets and experiences travelers book most in New Orleans.

Tours

French Quarter Walking Tour

Explore the historic French Quarter with its unique architecture and vibrant culture.

Evening Jazz at The Spotted Cat Music Club

Enjoy authentic New Orleans jazz at The Spotted Cat Music Club on Frenchmen Street.

Garden District Walk and Visit

Explore the beautiful Garden District of New Orleans with its historic mansions and lush greenery. A guided tour that covers the history and architecture of the neighborhood.

Mississippi River Steamboat Cruise

Experience a classic steamboat cruise along the Mississippi River with live jazz music and stunning views of New Orleans.

Join the Lively Preservation Hall Jazz Band Performance

Immerse yourself in New Orleans' music scene at the iconic Preservation Hall, home to live jazz bands.

Visit to Mardi Gras World

Explore the fascinating world of Mardi Gras by visiting Mardi Gras World, where artists create and store vibrant floats for the famous festival.

Explore the National WWII Museum

Spend the morning exploring the National WWII Museum, where you can learn about the profound impact of World War II on the world.

Visit to the Garden District

Stroll through the Garden District and admire its beautiful historic antebellum mansions and lush gardens.

Outdoor

Relax at Audubon Park

Spend a leisurely afternoon at Audubon Park with serene lakes, towering oaks, and lush landscapes. Perfect for a walk or just relaxing on the grass.

Relax by the Mississippi River

Take a leisurely walk along the Mississippi River and enjoy the scenic views.

Location videos

Real reels from travelers, plus longer watches to get the full picture.

From travelers

Watch & explore

Practical info

The essentials for planning your time in New Orleans.

Currency

$ | USD | US Dollar

Population

Information not available.

Average weather

New Orleans

Jan

17°8°

Feb

18°9°

Mar

21°12°

Apr

25°16°

May

29°20°

Jun

32°24°

Jul

33°25°

Aug

33°25°

Sep

31°23°

Oct

27°18°

Nov

22°13°

Dec

18°9°

Local guide

What travelers love, what to watch for, and a deeper read on New Orleans.

What people love

There are several pros to traveling to New Orleans, Louisiana:

Rich history and culture: New Orleans is known for its vibrant culture, unique Creole cuisine, and historic architecture. Visitors can explore landmarks such as the French Quarter, Jackson Square, and St. Louis Cathedral to learn about the city's rich history.
Music and nightlife: New Orleans is famous for its music scene, particularly jazz. Visitors can enjoy live music performances at venues throughout the city, especially in the lively Frenchmen Street area. The city also hosts several music festivals throughout the year, such as the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival.
Culinary delights: New Orleans is a food lover's paradise, with a diverse range of culinary offerings. Visitors can sample traditional Creole and Cajun dishes such as gumbo, jambalaya, and beignets. The city is also home to numerous renowned restaurants and food markets.
Festivals and events: New Orleans is known for its lively festivals and events, including Mardi Gras, the city's famous carnival celebration. Other popular events include the French Quarter Festival, the Essence Festival, and the New Orleans Film Festival.
Southern hospitality: Visitors to New Orleans can experience the city's famous Southern hospitality, with friendly locals and a welcoming atmosphere. The city's unique blend of cultures and traditions creates a warm and inviting environment for tourists.

Overall, New Orleans offers a diverse range of attractions and experiences for travelers looking to explore a vibrant and historic city.

What to know

Traveling to New Orleans, like any destination, has some potential drawbacks to consider:

Weather: New Orleans is prone to hurricanes and tropical storms, especially during the Atlantic hurricane season (June to November). Visitors should be aware of potential weather disruptions and plan accordingly.
Crime: New Orleans has a reputation for higher crime rates compared to other U.S. cities. Visitors should take precautions to ensure their safety, such as avoiding certain areas at night and staying alert in crowded areas.
Traffic and Parking: Like many major cities, New Orleans can have congested traffic and limited parking options, especially in popular tourist areas. Consider using public transportation or ridesharing services to avoid the hassle of driving and finding parking.
Crowds: New Orleans is a popular tourist destination, especially during peak seasons like Mardi Gras and major events. Visitors may encounter large crowds, long lines, and difficulty finding accommodations.
Health Concerns: New Orleans has a warm and humid climate, which can exacerbate certain health conditions or discomfort for some travelers. Visitors should stay hydrated, wear sunscreen, and take precautions against insect bites.
Cost: Depending on the time of year and activities planned, visiting New Orleans can be expensive. Accommodations, dining, and entertainment can add up quickly, so budget-conscious travelers should plan accordingly.

Overall, while New Orleans offers a vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and unique experiences, travelers should be aware of these potential drawbacks and take necessary precautions to ensure a safe and enjoyable visit.

New Orleans, located in southeastern Louisiana at the mouth of the Mississippi River, is one of the most culturally rich and historically significant cities in the United States. Its history is marked by a blend of French, Spanish, African, and American influences, making it a unique cultural melting pot.

Early History and Founding

Pre-Colonial Period: Long before European settlement, the region was inhabited by Native American tribes, including the Choctaw, Houma, and Chitimacha peoples.
French Founding (1718): The city was founded by the French in 1718 and named La Nouvelle-Orléans in honor of the Duke of Orleans, Regent to Louis XV. It was established under the direction of Jean-Baptiste Le Moyne de Bienville and quickly became a strategic port city.

Colonial Period

Spanish Control (1763-1800): After the French and Indian War, the city was ceded to Spain. Under Spanish rule, significant architectural and urban development occurred, including the construction of the Cabildo and the St. Louis Cathedral in what is now the French Quarter.
Return to French Control (1800): New Orleans briefly returned to French control under Napoleon Bonaparte through the secret Treaty of San Ildefonso.
Louisiana Purchase (1803): The United States acquired New Orleans from France as part of the Louisiana Purchase, a pivotal event that doubled the size of the country.

19th Century

War of 1812 and the Battle of New Orleans (1815): The city was the site of a major victory for the United States against the British, led by General Andrew Jackson, solidifying American control.
Civil War and Reconstruction: New Orleans was captured early in the Civil War by Union forces in 1862. Post-war, it struggled with reconstruction like much of the South.

Cultural Development

Creole and Cultural Influence: New Orleans developed a unique Creole culture, marked by a mix of French, Spanish, African, and Caribbean influences. This cultural blend is evident in the city's cuisine, music, and festivals.
Jazz Music: New Orleans is the birthplace of jazz, a genre that emerged in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Notable figures include Louis Armstrong and Jelly Roll Morton.

20th Century

Civil Rights Movement: New Orleans played a significant role in the Civil Rights Movement, with efforts to desegregate schools and public facilities.
Hurricane Betsy (1965): One of the early major hurricanes to strike New Orleans, causing significant damage and prompting improvements in flood control.

21st Century

Hurricane Katrina (2005): This devastating hurricane caused catastrophic flooding, especially in the Lower Ninth Ward, and led to widespread displacement and redevelopment efforts. It exposed significant issues with the levee system and emergency response.
Resurgence and Modern Development: Post-Katrina, New Orleans has seen significant rebuilding efforts and a resurgence in tourism and cultural vitality.

Important Landmarks

French Quarter: The city's oldest neighborhood, known for its vibrant nightlife, historic architecture, and cultural landmarks like Bourbon Street and Jackson Square.
St. Louis Cathedral: The oldest continuously active Roman Catholic cathedral in the United States, located in Jackson Square.
The Cabildo: A historic building that served as the seat of colonial government and the site of the Louisiana Purchase transfer ceremonies.
Garden District: Known for its well-preserved antebellum mansions and lush gardens.
Audubon Park: A large urban park that includes the Audubon Zoo and is a significant recreational area.

Notable Figures

Jean Lafitte: A pirate and privateer who played a role in the Battle of New Orleans.
Louis Armstrong: One of the most influential figures in jazz music, born and raised in New Orleans.
Tennessee Williams: Playwright of "A Streetcar Named Desire," which is set in New Orleans.

New Orleans continues to be a center of vibrant cultural activity, drawing millions of visitors annually for its festivals, music, and cuisine. Its resilience and rich history make it one of America's most distinctive cities.