City break in New Orleans, LA, USA [Image Pedro Szekely on Flickr]Some travelers head to New Orleans for Mardi Gras, others visit to listen to home-grown jazz, while more head there for the amazing food. It isn’t a cliché to say that the Big Easy has something for everyone, as there is so much more to this iconic Louisiana city. While it is hard to list every attraction in one article, the following are some of the major things to see and do on a fun city break in New Orleans.
Say bonjour to the French Quarter of New Orleans
Bourbon Street, French Quarter [Image Pedro Szekely on Flickr]One absolute must-see and do in New Orleans is the fascinating French Quarter and it is worth visiting at any time of year. This is the city’s oldest neighborhood, with the Vieux Carre lined by gorgeous architecture, as well as a sense of history, great characters, food and music. Along the way, chat with the characterful residents, watch street performers play and enjoy views of the Mississippi right at the edge of the Quarter. One must-visit in the French Quarter is the Historic New Orleans Collection. This is a museum, publisher and research center dedicated to the study and preservation of the history and culture of the city, as well as the Gulf South region of the US.
Explore the National WWII Museum
Expressions of America sound and light show at the World War II Museum [Image @wwiimuseum/Instagram]The National WWII Museum isn’t just one attraction, it is a sprawling complex with exhibits relating to those who served in WWII and their stories. Among the highlights is a theater with WWII-era musical performances, actual plans and Higgins Boats and Jeeps. Moreover, the site has a restaurant and great gift shop offering 1940s-inspired souvenirs and clothing.
Hear the music in Frenchmen Street, New Orleans
Frenchmen Street [Image Brian Lauer on Flickr]Adjacent to the French Quarter is Marigny, one of the top spots for music in New Orleans. Here, several live music venues offer jazz, reggae, rock and blues, while there is often a brass band performing on the corner of Frenchmen Street. Work up an appetite and head to one of the many restaurants serving everything from pizza to pub grub, a good steak, or a burger. This will give plenty of energy to continue to explore and enjoy the endless music.
Relax with a picnic in City Park
City Park, New Orleans [Image Wally Gobetz on Flickr]For a restful break, City Park is a 1,300-acre landscaped green space with walking paths, spreading oak trees and native birds. The park was established on the former site of Allard Plantation and facing Bayou St. John. Take the kids to Big Lake and rent a swan boat or head to the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park or Storyland. Spend time on a fascinating nature trail that heads to the highest point in New Orleans, Laborde Mountain, offering beautiful views across the city.
Make time to visit these attractions on a city break in New Orleans, or find out more about the Big Easy on the official tourism website.
[…] ft. Meanwhile, at the top there is plenty of fun for the kids, including an ice skating rink, an amusement park and a small zoo. As for parents, there is plenty of shopping and dining to do besides enjoying the […]
[…] the release of their breakthrough platinum album, Deluxe, featuring the iconic hit “Good,” the New Orleans-based band has attracted a devoted following, dubbed the […]
[…] ft. Meanwhile, at the top there is plenty of fun for the kids, including an ice skating rink, an amusement park and a small zoo. As for parents, there is plenty of shopping and dining to do besides enjoying the […]
[…] the release of their breakthrough platinum album, Deluxe, featuring the iconic hit “Good,” the New Orleans-based band has attracted a devoted following, dubbed the […]