All about New Orleans
When to visit
If you’re looking to party, you can’t go wrong with planning your visit around Mardi Gras, which usually falls in February or March; the colorful and frenzied celebrations will give you a taste of the city’s vibrant culture. The spring also sees pleasant weather, with an average high of 77°F (25°C) in April and 85°F (29°C) in May. Once the heat of summer comes, prices drop and the streets go quiet, making it a budget-friendly time to visit. Otherwise, winters are relatively moderate, and temps rarely drop below 46°F (8°C).
Getting around
The neighborhoods of New Orleans are quite compact, making it ideal for walking. Areas like Bourbon Street, which have plenty of bars and cafés to rest weary feet, are easily explored on foot. Otherwise, jump on one of the city’s iconic streetcars or regular buses; running throughout the city, they can get you to most of the main sights for a cost-effective price. At night, taxis and ride-hailing services are the most convenient and safest options when traveling from point A to B.
Traveler tips
The Crescent City is known for its Creole cuisine, a fusion of French, Spanish, West African, and Native American culinary influences. Must-try dishes include stews like gumbo and jambalaya at Gumbo Shop or New Orleans Creole Cookery. Deep-fried beignets from Café du Monde are also world-renowned; pair one with a café au lait for an excellent pick-me-up. Don’t be alarmed if you see people drinking in the streets, especially on Bourbon Street: It’s legal in New Orleans, so long as your beverage is in a plastic cup.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is New Orleans famous for?
New Orleans is famous for its food, festivals, nightlife, and architecture. It’s a great place to try Cajun and Creole dishes, listen to live jazz or drink the night away on Bourbon Street, or check out the architecture in the French Quarter and the Garden District. Mardi Gras and Jazz Fest are the best-known celebrations and are some of the top things to do in New Orleans.
What should first time visitors do in New Orleans?
First-time visitors to New Orleans will want to check out the two prime touristy areas: the French Quarter and the Garden District, which are linked by the city’s St. Charles Streetcar, a destination unto itself. First-timers should also stop by the Café du Monde for its famous beignets and chicory coffee.
Is 3 days enough for New Orleans?
Three days is enough for New Orleans, though you could easily spend much longer in the city without getting bored. Still, three days will give you enough time to visit the French Quarter and the Garden District, check out one of the famous cemeteries, and take a cruise on the Mississippi.
What is the most famous part of New Orleans?
New Orleans’ most famous area is the French Quarter. This is where many of the city’s main attractions like St. Louis Cathedral and dining options are located, and it’s where you’ll find Bourbon Street, the main nightlife drag. The Garden District is also well known, offering gorgeous mansions just a short streetcar ride away.
What is there to do in New Orleans besides party?
There are many more things to do in New Orleans than just partying. It’s a great place to sample local dishes such as crawfish etouffee, jambalaya, and beignets, or check out architecture in the French Quarter and Garden District. Other popular attractions include the St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 and the Mississippi River.
What do locals do in New Orleans?
New Orleans locals often avoid the touristy throngs of the French Quarter in favor of lower-key neighborhoods, such as the nearby Bywater/Marigny and Treme areas. The Warehouse Arts District is also a great place to dine and drink among locals, without straying far from the French Quarter.