New Orleans is a great tourist destination you should add to your bucket list. It has amazing architecture and world-class restaurants and is home to live music.
Visiting New Orleans allows you to try swamp adventures while enjoying seafood and the Mardi Gras show.
You can also explore its rich Cajun and Creole culture and enjoy its bustling nightlife.
As a first-time New Orleans visitor, gathering information about the best places to visit before your trip can help ensure an unforgettable experience.
This guide outlines five top tourist attractions in New Orleans.
1. French Quarter
French Quarter, also known as Vieux Carre, a French term that means Old Square, is located on the Mississippi river banks where the French established New Orleans in 1718. It’s New Orleans’ oldest neighborhood and a state historic landmark.
The French Quarter houses historic buildings, top-rated restaurants, museums, iconic music halls, and more. Bourbon Street is the French Quarter’s most popular street. There’s also Royal Street which offers an excellent history mix, outstanding shopping opportunities, and fine cuisine.
If you want to enjoy quality traditional jazz music, Frenchmen Street is the place to be. You can also find St Louis Cathedral and Jackson Square in the French Quarter.
With a list of the Best Things to do in the French Quarter, you can ensure a memorable, fun-packed experience while keeping yourself busy.
2. The National WWII Museum
The National WWII Museum narrates the American experience story in the war that made a difference, including why the war was fought, what it means now, and how it was won. It is intended to help generations learn the price of freedom and get inspired by everything they learn.
When you visit the museum, you’re taken on an immersive World War II tour in each war theater through multimedia experiences, exhibits, and many personal accounts.
3. Garden District
The Garden District is popular for its oak tree-lined alleys and opulent mansions, Magazine street restaurants and shopping, the St. Charles streetcar, the historic Lafayette Cemetery No. 1, and the famous Commander’s Palace restaurant.
While in the Garden District, you can visit Anne Rice’s mansion, treat yourself to a cocktail or delicious cuisine, go to the Rink, and experience the Mardi Gras parade.
You can also visit famous TV and movie filming locations like Miss Robichaux’s Academy, Nolan House, and Maddox-McClendon House.
4. Jackson Square
Jackson Square, a national historic landmark, is located in the middle of the French Quarter on Decatur Street amid the French market and Jax Brewery shopping mall.
There are many fun things to do at the square, such as visiting St. Louis Cathedral and Cabildo. It also acts as an open-air market for artists and vendors to showcase and sell their items. There’s also the Café du Monde, where you can enjoy a beignet and a café au lait.
5. Preservation Hall
The Preservation Hall is located between Royal and Bourbon Streets. It operates as a music venue, a non-profit organization, and a touring band while being New Orleans’ culture and music cornerstone.
The Preservation Hall is the place to visit to enjoy intimate, acoustic jazz concerts.
Endnote
New Orleans is a beautiful, touristic destination you should consider visiting. Familiarize yourself with the top tourist attractions in New Orleans to plan a memorable trip.