About New Orleans
New Orleans is a place bursting with vibrant culture. It is one of the oldest cities in the United States and is known for its music, food, and art. Jazz night clubs, Creole restaurants, and street art make up the best of these three categories. New Orleans is always planning something; from Jazz Fest to Mardi Gras, festivals in New Orleans are happing all the time! Don't get lost in all the excitement! It is not hard to find something going on, you just have to know the right places to look for whatever kind of scene you are looking for.
Things to do in New Orleans
The most popular place for tourists to check out is the French Quarter. Teaming with restaurants and bars, the French quarter also is a great sightseeing spot with historic sites such as Jackson Square. Take a street car tour through the city to get an initial view, then pick where you want to get your fill of creole food and music after talking to some locals. A riverboat cruise along the Mississippi can give you all three: a great tour, great music, and great food. Bourbon Street is where the bar scene is the most prominent. Outside New Orleans, the swamp tours are mysteriously beautiful and somewhat of a thrill at times when a gator swims up to your boat. Also outside the main city, you can take tours of the grand plantations that are now historical sites. Use
this easy guide to plan a weekend trip to New Orleans.
If you happen to be traveling to New Orleans with seniors, we recommend
these five fantastic activities that they are sure to enjoy. If you're coming to New Orleans for spring break, be sure to check out
these five Louisiana beaches for great relaxing and swimming. Head to
Gulf Shores, Alabama, and
Biloxi, Mississippi for fun out-of-state day trips.
New Orleans Accommodations
New Orleans vacation rentals range from single room apartments to luxury mansions. Make sure you check out what festivals are happening during your stay because that can drastically change the price and availability of accommodations and flights. Also, check the safety of the location you book a rental in, as not all places are good for children, or get a little more risky at night. Someone traveling for the New Orleans night scene will want to stay in a different spot than a family doing a little site seeing tour, but Tripping has places for both!
Best New Orleans Neighborhoods to Stay in
Known for its huge Mardi Gras celebration every year, New Orleans has plenty of options for partygoers, but it also has beautiful architecture, amazing food, and historical attractions. If you want to explore New Orleans outside of its party scene, there are plenty of places to do so. The Garden District, Arts Warehouse District, and Algiers neighborhoods all offer visitors something different, so check them all out to get a better perspective on the type of city New Orleans really is.
Things to do in The Garden District
Seen in many Hollywood movies, the Garden District is home to some beautiful architecture, shopping, and history. Magazine Street, the 6-mile shopping destination in New Orleans, is just around the corner. Here, you’ll find antiques, clothing, jewelry, and so much more. Start at “Lower Magazine” located at the intersection of Magazine and Felicity. Along with shopping, Magazine street is home to some of the best dining spots in town. For a breakfast bite and a coffee, head to District Donuts Sliders Brew. Their festive donuts are the perfect was to start your day. Or, have brunch at Brick and Spoon where you can build your own Bloody Mary. Many restaurants on Magazine Street have outdoor seating, so you’ll also get a chance to people watch here, too. Another reason to check out this neighborhood is the architecture. In the Garden District, you’ll catch a glimpse of Raised Centerhall Cottages, those one-and-a-half-story homes raised a bit above street level with columns and a porch stretching all the way across the front. You will also want to keep an eye out for the Double Gallery Houses. They’re set back off the sidewalk and include stacked and covered front porches and a front door off to one side. These are just a few of the beautiful architectural styles you’ll spot on your visit. All in all, your trip to the Garden District will not disappoint.
Things to do in The Arts Warehouse District
Originally established as an industrial area to store goods shipped through the Port of New Orleans in the 19th Century, the Arts Warehouse District has been transformed into an art and culture destination. Be sure to head over to the Contemporary Arts Center, opened in 1976, and stroll through the 10,000-square-foot performance and art center. The CAC isn’t the only place to browse at some art. The Arts Warehouse District, true to its name, is home to over 25 art galleries. Walk up and down Julia Street, where most of the galleries are located, on the first Saturday night of every month and you’ll get to partake in the monthly gallery hop. Aside from art, this neighborhood boasts museums like the National World War II Museum, one of the most popular attractions in New Orleans. There’s also the Louisiana Civil War Museum and the Children’s Museum to keep you busy. For an evening on the town, dine at Annunciation Restaurant and order some traditional Cajun and Creole food. Continue the night at Howlin’ Wolf, a club and premier music venue for local rock bands. Finally, end your evening at Tommy’s Wine Bar where you’’’ have over 150 wine bottle selections to choose from for your nightcap.
Things to do in Algiers Point
An off-the-beaten-path neighborhood across the Mississippi River, Algiers Point is the perfect destination for the weary traveler. Some have described Algiers Point as “New Orleans’ Brooklyn without the bustle”, and it’s easy to see why. The neighborhood was once a haven for musicians, and at one point housed 36 music and dance halls. Today, the neighborhood’s 3-mile long riverfront offers visitors ample space to walk, bike, or picnic along the water. Check out the amazing view of the New Orleans skyline from the riverfront, too. New life has been breathed into many older buildings in the area, and you’ll see recording studios, specialty stores, and shops throughout the village. While you’re here, be sure to go to the Jazz Walk of Fame, which honors the musical legends who once called New Orleans home. The Algiers Folk Art Zone and Blues Museum is another great stop during your visit, as is the Tulane Museum of Natural History. For some good southern cooking, head over to Chubbies Fried Chicken for some downright delicious fried chicken and biscuits. This neighborhood’s quieter atmosphere is a welcomed change for those visiting New Orleans, so if you’re looking for a peaceful break from the city without having to go too far, be sure to check out Algiers Point.
