New Orleans is a city unlike any other in the United States. With its unique blend of French, Spanish, African, and Caribbean influences, NOLA offers visitors a vibrant cultural experience that engages all the senses. From the soulful sounds of jazz wafting through the streets to the mouthwatering aromas of Creole cuisine, the Big Easy invites you to laissez les bon temps rouler (let the good times roll).
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On a recent trip to New Orleans, we discovered why this resilient city continues to captivate travelers two decades after Hurricane Katrina. Here are some of the highlights that make NOLA a must-visit destination:
A Rich Tapestry of History
Founded in 1718 by French colonists, New Orleans has a fascinating and complex history. The city changed hands between the French, Spanish, and Americans over the centuries, with each culture leaving its mark. African influences from the slave trade also shaped NOLA’s unique identity.
Today, you can explore this history through guided tours of the French Quarter and Garden District. We recommend starting with a hop-on hop-off bus tour to get oriented and learn interesting tidbits from knowledgeable local guides. Walking tours offer a more intimate look at the city’s architecture and hidden gems.
For a deeper dive into NOLA’s past, visit some of the excellent museums:
- The National WWII Museum – An immersive look at America’s role in the war
- New Orleans Jazz Museum – Celebrating the city’s musical legacy
- New Orleans Museum of Art – Showcasing 5,000 years of artistic heritage
The Birthplace of Jazz
Buddy Bolden Statue in Louis Armstrong Park
No visit to New Orleans is complete without experiencing its legendary music scene. As the birthplace of jazz, NOLA continues to be a mecca for musicians and music lovers.
We highly recommend taking a jazz tour to learn about the genre’s roots and evolution. Our tour started in Louis Armstrong Park and wound through the streets to Frenchman Street, the best place to catch live performances.
For an unforgettable evening, stroll down Frenchman Street and pop into the various clubs and bars. With no cover charges and one-drink minimums, it’s easy to sample different styles and find your groove. From traditional jazz to blues and everything in between, the musical offerings are as diverse as the city itself.
Beyond the French Quarter
While the French Quarter is the heart of tourism in New Orleans, venturing beyond its boundaries reveals even more of the city’s charms. We stayed on the edge of the French Quarter and the Marigny neighborhood at Hotel de la Monnaie, which offered a perfect home base for exploring.
Other areas worth visiting:
- The Garden District for stately mansions and lush greenery
- City Park for outdoor recreation and the New Orleans Museum of Art
- The Bywater for hip cafes and colorful street art
Sailing under the Crescent City Connection at Night
Getting Out on the Water
New Orleans’ location along the mighty Mississippi River has shaped its history and culture. To fully appreciate the city, take a river cruise on an authentic paddlewheel steamboat. We enjoyed a sunset jazz cruise on the Creole Queen, taking in views of the city skyline as the sun dipped below the horizon.
For the more adventurous, swamp tours offer a chance to spot alligators and learn about the unique ecosystem of the bayous. Just be prepared for intense heat and humidity, especially if visiting in summer!
The Spirit of New Orleans
What truly sets New Orleans apart is its indomitable spirit. Despite the devastation of Hurricane Katrina, the city has rebounded with remarkable resilience. New growth and energy pulse through NOLA’s veins, while still honoring its rich cultural heritage. From the lively street performers in Jackson Square to the centuries-old oaks draped in Spanish moss, New Orleans is a city that gets under your skin. Its intoxicating blend of history, music, food, and joie de vivre create an atmosphere you won’t soon forget. Be sure to check back next week for a post about the unforgettable food on New Orleans!
So grab a go-cup, join a second line parade, and let New Orleans work its magic on you. As they say in NOLA, “Laissez les bon temps rouler!”