Festivity carries in the air as much as the sounds of saxophones and trumpets in New Orleans. Though Hurricane Katrina left a mark in 2005, NOLA has not lost its indomitable spirit, charm, or the inextinguishable joie de vivre that makes it one of the most unique cities in the U.S. and the world. From the ever-lively Mardi Gras to the eclectic mix of cultures to the rich cuisine reflecting its Cajun, Creole, and French roots, New Orleans is a constant celebration of the human spirit.
New Orleans is a city where history seeps from every corner, brick, and building. The Crescent City, as it is known, has undergone transformation upon transformation to become the vibrant hub of tourism and culture it is today.
With its roots in Spanish and French rule, European influence is still evident in the French Quarter's architecture—from the charming courtyards to the stately, multi-story buildings.
Over the years, thousands of Americans, Germans, Sicilians, Irish, and Haitians have made New Orleans their home, creating a melting pot of cultures that has sometimes boiled over. This cultural tension led to the Americans settling in what is now the Central Business District, seeking distance from the Creoles of the French Quarter. The term "neutral grounds," still used to describe city medians, originates from the Canal Street median, which served as a neutral business zone between the Americans and Creoles. It seems natural that "New Orleans" and "culture" are uttered in the same breath, as the city is awash with passion, verve, and history.
Also nicknamed "The Big Easy," perhaps to contrast with the hustle and bustle of "The Big Apple," New Orleans has maintained its relaxed, easy-going vibe. With its abundant parks, preserves, bayous, and waterways, the city offers a natural escape for both locals and visitors. Cozy cafés and restaurants stand ready to serve up a warm beignet and café au lait, while the sounds of live jazz fill the air each night, embodying the city’s timeless spirit.
New Orleans has the uncanny ability to combine fun and excitement with its endless historical elements. Each year, millions flock to experience Mardi Gras, while the city’s iconic streets and districts offer endless exploration. The soulful sounds of jazz accompany you at every turn, as do the warm, wide smiles of the welcoming New Orleanians.
French Quarter
Jackson Square
Mardi Gras
St. Louis Cemetery
Swamp Boat Ride & Oak Alley Plantation Tour from New Orleans
Food Walking Tour of the French Quarter
New Orleans Steamboat Natchez Jazz Cruise
New Orleans Premier Haunted Ghost, Voodoo, Vampire & Mystery Tour
The Cabildo
Airboat Ride
St. Louis Cathedral
Garden District
City Park
New Orleans Museum of Art (NOMA)
New Orleans School of Cooking
Canal Street
The National WWII Museum
New Orleans Streetcars
Jean Lafitte National Historical Park & Preserve
Caesars Superdome
Audubon Zoo
Audubon Aquarium
New Orleans Ferries
Ogden Museum of Southern Art
Backstreet Cultural Museum
Louisiana Children's Museum
Immerse yourself in Louisiana’s musical, culinary, and cultural heritage at one of more than 400 festivals celebrating everything from crawfish to cotton and Blues to barbecue. Don’t miss the biggest festival of all, Mardi Gras, with its spectacle of parades, music, and food events, held in nearly every community in the state.
Mardi Gras (January–February)
New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival (April–May)
French Quarter Festival (April)
New Orleans Wine & Food Experience (June)
COOLinary New Orleans Restaurant Month (August)
Satchmo SummerFest (August)
Christmas New Orleans Style (December)
In Louisiana, you’ll discover a vibrant and unforgettable melting pot of cultures and cuisines. Visitors from around the world are drawn to savor flavorful Cajun and Creole dishes before dancing the night away in the birthplace of American Jazz, Cajun, and Zydeco music. With endless opportunities for fishing, biking, birding, paddling, and golfing, Louisiana is the ultimate playground for outdoor enthusiasts.
Bayou Lafourche
Lafayette
Northshore
Lake Charles
Baton Rouge
Houma
Much of New Orleans' appeal lies in its incredible cuisine. Southern, Cajun, Creole, and French fare are the most common, with each restaurant adding its own twist to these traditional favorites. This makes dining in the Crescent City a truly unique experience, with each venue offering something distinct and memorable.
Bourbon House
Bayona
Commander’s Palace
Boucherie
Acme Oyster House
Antoine's Restaurant
The Company Burger
GW Fins
August
Zea Rotisserie & Bar
Mr. John’s Steakhouse
Clancy’s Restaurant
Bennachin Restaurant
Cochon
Broussard's
Ancora Pizzeria
Hoshun
Boasting style, character, quality, and history, the cafés of New Orleans never cease to satiate even the most distinguished palates. Traditional French beignets are freshly baked at the famous Café du Monde, and chicory coffee is brewed daily. No matter where you go, you'll find delicious food around every corner.
Café Du Monde
Napoleon House
Jacques-Imo's
Cafe Amelie
Atchafalaya
Mr. B’s Bistro
Avenue Cafe
Hivolt
Elizabeth’s
Mammoth Espresso
Tout de Suite Cafe
Envie Espresso Bar & Cafe
Standing boldly against the vivacity of New Orleans' world-famous streets are its nightclubs and bars. Jazz plays a central role in the city's identity, and it truly is ubiquitous—heard in bars, cafés, restaurants, and small venues throughout the city. From grand orchestras to new young trios, jazz is the air this city breathes, so indulge and take a deep breath.
The Elysian Bar
The Bombay Club
The Spotted Cat Music Club
Preservation Hall
Ernst Cafe
Fritzel’s European Jazz Club
NOLA Brewing & Pizza Co.
The Carousel Bar & Lounge
d.b.a.
The Sazerac Bar
Tropical Isle
Rock 'N' Bowl
The Jimani
Crescent City Brewhouse
Parasol's
The Metropolitan
Bacchanal Fine Wine & Spirits
French 75 Bar
Maple Leaf
Cure
Whether seeking familiar retail brands or hoping to browse through authentic New Orleans galleries, shopping options never fall short in this city. Independent boutiques, antique stores, souvenir shops, and outlet malls offer visitors a vast mix of selections.
Royal Street
Jackson Square
The Shops at Jax Brewery
Canal Place
Louisiana Music Factory
Fifi Mahony's
Vieux Carré Wine & Spirits
New Orleans Glassworks & Printmaking Studio
Oakwood Center
Lakeside Shopping Center
Passport/Visa
Citizens of Schengen Area countries, along with Andorra, Australia, Brunei, Canada, Ireland, Japan, Monaco, New Zealand, San Marino, Singapore, South Korea, Taiwan, and the United Kingdom, can visit the United States for up to 90 days without needing a visa, provided they obtain an approved ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) before their trip. All other travelers must secure a visa before visiting the U.S.
In addition, international travelers must ensure their passport is valid for at least three months beyond their intended stay. For the most current information and any updates on entry requirements, it is advisable to consult the U.S. Department of State website or contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate before traveling.
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Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY)
Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) is located approximately 18 kilometers from downtown New Orleans, making it about a 20-minute drive under normal traffic conditions. Travelers can reach the city center via several transportation options. Both taxis and rideshare services like Uber and Lyft can be picked up from the Arrivals Curb on Level 1, just a short walk from the baggage claim area. Public transportation is also available, with the Jefferson Transit E2 bus providing service to downtown New Orleans.
Address: Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport
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Phone: +1 504 303 7500
Website: https://flymsy.com
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Best Time to Visit
New Orleans is a happening city, which means there is always something going on regardless of the time of year. That being said, the best time to visit "The Big Easy" is between the months of February through May when the city is at its busiest, and many arrive for Mardi Gras as early as January. Temperatures rise throughout the summer (June through September), while October through January is moderate in temperature and less crowded than spring.
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Public Transport
Bus:
The New Orleans Regional Transit Authority (NORTA) operates over 30 bus routes across the city, offering a convenient way to explore various neighborhoods. The fleet includes modern, bio-diesel buses equipped with large windows, perfect for enjoying the scenic views of New Orleans. For detailed route maps and schedules, visit the official RTA website.
RTA offers several fare options, including One-Way Fares and Jazzy Passes valid for 1 day, 3 days, or 31 days. These passes can be used on both buses and streetcars. One-way tickets and 1-day passes can be purchased directly from bus drivers using exact change. Alternatively, you can buy any fare type through the GoMobile app, which allows for instant access on your smartphone. Passes can also be ordered online through MyRTA, or purchased at various retail locations across the city. Additionally, Ticket Vending Machines (TVMs) are available at key points along the Canal Streetcar Line, where you can buy passes.
Streetcar:
Streetcars are a quintessential part of New Orleans' charm and a favorite mode of transportation for both locals and visitors. The city operates four lines: St. Charles, Canal Street, Riverfront, and the N. Rampart line, all of which originate downtown. Streetcar fares are the same as bus fares, with one-way tickets and 1-day passes available for purchase with exact change upon boarding. You can also buy 3-day and 31-day Jazzy Passes through the GoMobile app, online with MyRTA, from numerous local retailers, or at TVMs along the Canal Streetcar Line.
Other Transportation:
In addition to public transit, bike rentals are widely available throughout New Orleans, offering a flexible and eco-friendly way to explore the city.
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Website: www.norta.com
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Taxi
In New Orleans, finding a taxi is relatively easy, especially in popular areas like the French Quarter, Central Business District, and major hotels. Taxis are metered, and while they don't have a specific color, they are often marked with the company name and a lighted roof sign. In addition to traditional taxis, ride-sharing apps such as Uber and Lyft operate extensively throughout the city, providing a convenient alternative for getting around the Big Easy.
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Post
Sending parcels and letters in the U.S. is straightforward, with the United States Postal Service (USPS) being the primary provider. USPS offers a range of services, including First-Class Mail for letters and postcards, Priority Mail for packages, and Priority Mail Express for guaranteed overnight delivery. In New Orleans, you can easily locate the nearest USPS post office or blue collection box by using the USPS website or mobile app. Many locations also offer self-service kiosks for purchasing postage or dropping off items.
In addition to USPS, private couriers like FedEx and UPS operate in the city, offering faster and more flexible delivery options, though typically at a higher cost.
Address: US Post Office - 701 Loyola Avenue, New Orleans
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Phone: +1 800 275 8777
Website: www.usps.com
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Pharmacy
In New Orleans, major pharmacy chains include Walgreens, CVS, and Rite Aid.
Address: CVS - 800 Canal Street, New Orleans
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Phone: +1 504 528 7099
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Telephone
Country Code: +1
Area Codes: 504
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Electricity
US standard voltage is 110-115V and the standard frequency is 60Hz. The sockets and the power plugs are of type A and B. Type A plugs have two flat parallel pins, while Type B plugs have two flat parallel pins plus a grounding pin.
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Time Zone
New Orleans is located in the Central Time Zone (CT). This time zone is 6 hours behind Coordinated Universal Time (UTC-6).
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