New Orleans is a diverse, vibrant city with endless excitement to offer visitors of all ages. The city is renowned for delicious Cajun and Creole food, great music, and fun festivals that pop up throughout the entire year. Whether you prefer the nonstop activity of the French Quarter or a more easygoing vacation in Uptown, New Orleans has something for everyone. Check out the musicians in Treme, talented artists in the Arts District, or the kayakers in the Bayou St. John. Book your stay at one of many cozy New Orleans vacation rentals today. Here are several of the greatest neighborhoods to visit in The Big Easy.
1. French Quarter
The city’s oldest and most popular neighborhood, the French Quarter, or Vieux Carré, is a lively neighborhood that stays active 24 hours a day. A vacation rental here puts you in the heart of the city, with many shops, restaurants, and cafes right at your doorstep. Wander the streets listening to jazz musicians, stop and admire the street artists selling their work, or pick up a muffuletta at Central Grocery to have lunch along the Mississippi River. At night, take a ghost tour or stop at Cafe du Monde for a sweet treat of beignets.
2. Faubourg Marigny
If you love music, you will love your vacation rental in the Faubourg Marigny. This funky neighborhood is home to Frenchmen Street, a two-block stretch of jazz clubs and cafes. No matter what time of day, you can find local musicians here, from the Swingin’ Jazz Brunch at Maison to the late night performances at Snug Harbor. This area is perfect if you want a more peaceful neighborhood close to the French Quarter.
3. Bywater
Further along the Mississippi River, the Bywater neighborhood is an artsy mix of residences and trendy restaurants. You can find many brightly colored shotgun homes and Creole cottages for rent along quiet tree-lined streets. Take a walk down Gallier Street to Elizabeth’s Restaurant to enjoy an authentic New Orleans breakfast, and then explore the art galleries along St. Claude Avenue.
4. Central Business District
The Central Business District is an excellent option if you want plenty to do near your vacation home, plus easy access to other parts of the city. Several historic streetcar lines crisscross the neighborhood, taking you wherever you want to be. Along Canal Street, shop at Canal Place, view marine life at the Aquarium of the Americas or explore the world of insects at Butterfly Garden and Insectarium. Head over to Lafayette Square in the evenings for a free concert by local performers.
5. Garden District
Vacationing in the Garden District makes you feel as if you are worlds away from the rest of the city. Take a walk down any of the streets to marvel at the large, historic mansions, many with their own courtyard or garden filled with amazing landscaping. The neighborhood’s main commercial district is Magazine Street, filled with cafes, restaurants, and shops.
6. Uptown
Bordering the Garden District, Uptown is primarily a residential neighborhood and the perfect place for a rental home if you are looking for peace and relaxation. The highlight of this neighborhood is Audubon Park, which features plenty of outdoor activities such as tennis, soccer, kayaking, and horseback riding. Join the joggers, walkers, and cyclists looping through the park, or gather for a picnic under the large oak trees. Golfers can play a few holes at Audubon Trail Golf Course, while the kids say hello to the giraffes at the Audubon Zoo.
7. Bayou St. John
Nature-loving families should consider Bayou St. John, home to City Park. This area has a mix of condos, Creole cottages, and shotgun houses within walking distance to the park, a bustling green space with lots to see and do. Take the kids to Carousel Gardens and Amusement Park to enjoy the rides or to Storyland to visit their fairy tale friends. The Sculpture Garden is a must-see for art-lovers or anyone who wants to find a peaceful spot outdoors. Some vacation homes are located right on the bayou, allowing you to kayak to City Park and other destinations in the neighborhood.
8. Freret
Freret is a small residential neighborhood that is less touristy than others, and it’s a good option if you want to vacation next to the locals. A vacation home in Freret puts you within close proximity to small neighborhood eateries and shops. Several festivals and street fairs are held throughout the year, and no matter what the day, you are sure to find an open-air art market, po-boy festival, or jazz parade winding through the streets.
9. Arts/Warehouse District
If you want to be near the museums and art of New Orleans, rent a vacation home in the Arts/Warehouse District, which has more than 25 art galleries for you to explore, plus plenty of restaurants and shopping. Stop by the National World War II Museum for a guided tour from one of the war veterans, or visit the Children’s Museum for hands-on activities. In the evenings, catch up-and-coming musical acts at Howlin’ Wolf or Republic.
10. Treme
The popular HBO series about this neighborhood has brought more and more visitors to Treme, and it is easy to see why a vacation rental here may be a great choice. This historic neighborhood has several museums dedicated to the African-American art and history of New Orleans, and many cafes serve authentic Southern cuisine. Jazz music is said to have begun in this neighborhood, where you can find plenty of clubs and lounges to spend the evenings.
11. Algiers
If you want a New Orleans location with a village feel, Algiers is the place to rent a vacation home. Just a short ferry ride across the Mississippi River from the Central Business District, this area offers specialty shops, several lovely parks, and a laid-back atmosphere. Algiers is also home to Mardi Gras World, the warehouse where parade floats are made. Visit here to get a behind-the-scenes look at the float-building process.