New Orleans is one of the most eccentric cities in the United States with more than enough places to visit.
The French Flair, historic feel, and jazz all flow through the veins of a unique locale. New Orleans is a city to explore, famous for its Spanish and French vibes through architecture, music, and culture. New Orleans' buzzing nightlife and rich history make this city a must-see Bucket List visit.
I had the opportunity to visit New Orleans this past week and here are some of my favorite spots that I visited.
1. French Quarter
The French Quarter, also known as the Vieux Carré, is the oldest section of New Orleans. Both locals and tourists can't get enough of the unique area attractions. From the beautiful architecture to art galleries, museums, and restaurants, the French Quarter has something for everyone - no matter what your age, budget, or interests may be.
2. Bourbon Street
Bourbon Street is one of the wildest streets in New Orleans. Painted bodies, loud music, colorful graffiti, and eccentric people are some of the many things you will encounter. It is best known for its bars and strip clubs, but it can also feel as if you are traveling back 100 years, with the historic feel to the heart of the French Quarter.
3. Jackson Square
This is the center of the historic New Orleans and is also known as Place d'Armes. It is one of the best places to visit if you are looking for beautiful scenery, architecture, and landscaping. In the center of the square, there is a statue of General Andrew Jackson, surrounded by trees and greenery. The fence that borders Jackson Square is an artist's hang out, and there are many shops and restaurants nearby. There is an amazing photo opportunity if you stand in the center of the square with the St. Louis Cathedral in the background.
4. Seafood Restaurants
New Orleans is one of the culinary capitals of the U/S., with a cuisine entirely its own. Reflecting the city's Cajun, Creole, and French roots, New Orleans has some of the most unique and delicious foods the country has to offer. Oysters, Gumbo, Alligator, World Famous Po’boys, and Crawfish are just a sliver of what you can find down in New Orleans.
5. Cafe Du Monde
Cafe Du Monde is a renowned open-air coffee shop located on Decatur Street in the French Quarter that is a must-see tourist destination. It is known for its uplifting spirit, delicious café au lait, and famous beignets. The old style cafe is open 24 hours, to fit your late night craving for coffee and beignets.
6. Ghost Tours
New Orleans is known to be the "Most Haunted City in America" and these Ghost Tours will certainly bring the dead back to life through the tour of the most haunted locations. Historians will take you around New Orleans and give you spooky tales. Depending on the tour, they might even let you go inside the haunted houses. New Orleans is most known for the Voodoo Queen, Marie Laveau, and many other historical witches and ghosts that flaunt the streets.
7. Historic Cemetery Tour
If you are into the supernatural, the Cemetery Tours are for you. With spooky history, unique, ornate tombs, and some of them dating back to the late 1700s, travelers are eager to explore the New Orleans resting places. There are dozens of cemeteries spread throughout the city, but most tours will take you through St. Louis Cemetery #1, home of Marie Laveau, and Lafayette Cemetery - a popular location where movies are shot.
8. Garden District
Walk shady avenues lined with antebellum homes, and hear how a small riverside settlement grew into a lavish, wealthy city. The Garden District features some of the most wealthy homes with beautiful gardens and greenery with breathtaking views.
9. New Orleans Museum of Art
The Museum houses a $200 million collection in 46 galleries: European painting and sculpture from the 16th through 20th centuries; American painting and sculpture from the 18th and 19th centuries; European and American prints and drawings; Asian, African, Oceanic, Pre-Columbian, and Native American art; photography; and European and American decorative arts. If you are an art guru, this relaxing museum is the place for you.
10. Swamp Boat Tour
These boat tours are located just outside of the city, and they are quite the adventure. Be prepared to take lots of photos considering you will see dozens of wild alligators, and watch your tour guide get their attention with chicken. These tours are located in New Orleans swamps and are a must-see if you are into wildlife.
Whether this is your first time or you're a seasoned visitor, the city's infectious spirit is sure to motivate you to experience all New Orleans has to offer.
