10 Popular Destinations to Explore in New Orleans

New Orleans has long been one of the most popular cities in America. It hosts several world-class celebrations and festivals such Mardi Gras and Jazz Fest and is home to the historic Bourbon Street and French Quarter. There are plenty of music clubs, natural wonders, and museums to explore and the local Cajun food is simply delightful. The attractions are all easily accessible and these are some of the top ones to visit in New Orleans.

1. The Garden District

If you hop on the St. Charles Streetcar in the historic French Quarter you can take it to the beautiful Garden District. This area is filled with a wide variety of fantastic plantation-style homes that were built by the city’s wealthiest residents after the Louisianan Purchase.

2. The French Quarter

The French Quarter of the town, which was established back in 1718, is the city’s most well known neighborhood. It’s only a small area of 7×13 blocks in size. It’s a very pedestrian-friendly region which is bursting with tourist attractions, live music spots, and shops. It’ll likely take a couple of days so see it all on foot. Bourbon Street is probably the most famous location here.

3. Audubon Nature Institute

The Audubon Nature Institute is home to three separate family-oriented New Orleans attractions. The Louisiana Swamp can be found in the zoo and it’s home to some rare white alligators. You’ll also find an aquarium, where you can view an IMAX film called Hurricane on the Bayou that tells the visitors the tragic story of Hurricane Katrina through the eyes of a 13-year-old. The institute also features an insect-arium. This is where the brave tourists can sample an assortment of cooked insects.

4. City Park

New Orleans City Park is about 1,300 acres in size, making it just about double that of Central Park in New York City. It sands on a former plantation and is overflowing with wonderful green space and waterways. It houses several interesting attractions such as the New Orleans Museum of Art and Sculpture Garden, the Storyland Playground, the New Orleans Botanical Garden, and the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park. It also features the NOLA Gondola, which is a Venetian-style gondola ride that takes visitors through the scenic park. When Christmas comes, you’ll find the park hosts a huge, colorful light display.

5. Ghost Tours

New Orleans was a favorite haunt of prostitutes and pirates many years ago and the city has a reputation of being haunted. You’ll easily find nightly ghost tours when visiting, with most of them concentrating on the French Quarter. These trips tell the colorful and creepy history of the city.

6. National World War II Museum

This popular museum was originally called the D-Day Museum when it opened its doors back in 2000. It’s now known as the National World War II Museum and offers over 70,000 square feet of exhibit space. There are numerous interactive displays that take you through different aspects of the war. There’s also an informative 4-D film called ‘Beyond All Boundaries,’ which is narrated by actor Tom Hanks.

7. The Steamboat Natchez

The Steamboat Natchez takes passengers down the historic Mississippi River for some excellent sightseeing opportunities and tasty jazz dinners. It’s one of just two authentic steamships that still sail down the mighty Mississippi. The Natchez also provides free concerts on shore before setting sail.

8. Mardi Gras World

The city of New Orleans is probably most famous for its annual Mardi Gras festival which attracts thousands of visitors from all over the world. Mardi Gras is the city’s busiest time with its colorful street parades and live music. If you’d like to see where the parade floats are made and learn more about this fabulous festival then the best place to visit any time of the year is Mardi Gras World.

9. St. Louis Cemetery No. 1

This famous French-Quarter cemetery was established back in 1789 and is now on the National Register of Historic Places. This is where Queen Marie Laveau, local politicians, and Civil and Revolutionary War Soldiers are buried. It features elaborate tombs that are set above ground. It’s believed that the small cemetery is haunted by those who were laid to rest there.

10. The Cafe Du Monde

The Café Du Monde is famous for its chicory coffee and beignets and is open for your pleasure 24 hours a day except on Christmas. The café opened up in 1862 and is one of New Orleans’ most-visited sites even though it serves coffee, soft drinks, and beignets only.