Now you can add a little extra to your vacay with tours, theme park tickets & more.
Things to do in New Orleans
French Quarter
Known to have some of the best restaurants in New Orleans, the French Quarter is also the city’s historic heart. With vibrant buildings and cast-iron balconies, the architecture of the French Quarter is unlike anywhere else in the U.S. Serving as the centerpiece, St. Louis Cathedral is also the perfect view for the historic park. This area is considered a National Historic Landmark as it was the location for the 1803 Louisiana Purchase.
Bourbon Street
One of the oldest, and probably noisiest, cities in America, New Orleans’ Bourbon Street dates back to 1718 and has been the heart of the town ever since. The street itself is lined with neon lights, colorful beads, french-style balconies and music, making a perfect place for a night out on the town. Contrary to popular opinion, the street was actually named after Rue Bourbon, the French royal family that ruled when New Orleans was founded. Today, the street lies in the middle of the French Quarter, extending 13 blocks from Canal Street to Esplanade Avenue.
Mardi Gras New Orleans
Though Mardi Gras (French for “Fat Tuesday”) is celebrated globally on every Tuesday before Ash Wednesday, New Orleans is renowned for its festivities in particular. The celebration’s origins can be traced back to medieval Europe, with influences all the way from Rome and Venice to the French House of the Bourbons. Mardi Gras changes every year, but is usually sometime between February and March, though parades will often begin as early as January. Since this is the most popular time to visit New Orleans, we suggest booking both your flight + hotel as early in advance as possible for the best rates and availability.
The Mississippi River
Experience the sights and sounds of river life that enchanted characters of history and literature - like Mark Twain's Huck Finn and Tom Sawyer aboard the historic Steamboat Natchez. Cruise down the Mississippi River to the delightful tunes of the Steam Calliope as you view breathtaking sights like the Chalmette Battlefield, the French Quarter, Aquarium of the Americas and the Audubon Zoo. Choose from a daytime or dinner/jazz cruise featuring the Dukes of Dixieland.
New Orleans Travel Tips
Time Zone: Central Standard Time
Popular Attractions: Bourbon Street, The French Quarter, St. Louis Cathedral and The Mississippi River
Notable Experiences: Mardi Gras parades, New Orleans Saints game, Audubon Zoo and Audubon Aquarium of the Americas