New Orleans, Louisiana: Iconic Sights and Sounds in Diverse Neighborhoods

Cast-iron balconies, walled courtyards and colorful Creole cottages line the streets of the French Quarter, home to some of New Orleans’ most recognizable landmarks. At museum and research center The Historic New Orleans Collection on Royal Street, learn about the history and culture of the city before trekking towards Jackson Square. There stands The St. Louis Cathedral, a majestic church blending Renaissance, Gothic Revival and Spanish Colonial architecture as an homage to its three-hundred-year history. Across the street, stop into the original Café du Monde. A trip to the French Quarter isn’t complete without a crispy beignet and a café au lait.

Music is in the air as you stroll through the stylish, up-and-coming neighborhoods of Marigny and Bywater. The sounds of jazz, reggae and blues spill out of the clubs lining Frenchmen Street, and nature calls from the green space of Crescent Park. Located on the Mississippi River, Crescent Park offers unparalleled views and access to the water. Sit on the bank or bike to Music Box Village, an interactive installation of musical architecture and experimental public artworks. After a long day of exploring, wind down with local music and eclectic cuisine at trendy spots like Spotted Cat and Bacchanal Wine.

Tour scenic, historic streets and embark on kid-friendly pursuits in Uptown New Orleans and the Garden District. Start the day at the Audubon Zoo. Located on Magazine Street, this expansive zoo is home to over 2,000 animals – some of which you can meet up close. From there, explore the rest of Magazine Street. With nearly 10 kilometers of shopping, food and fun ranging from international cuisine and vintage stores to spas and art galleries, Magazine Street is sure to please. Once you’re ready to relax, find a seat on the St. Charles Avenue streetcar to enjoy views of historic Louisiana architecture along one of the USA’s oldest streetcar lines.

Ride the streetcar to New Orleans’ Central Business District (known by locals as the CBD), a bustling, creative city center marked by forward-thinking innovation. At Vue Orleans’ 360-degree indoor and outdoor observation deck, take in unforgettable views of the city and peer through the Vue Finder to learn a bit about each neighborhood’s history. A short walk from Vue Orleans is Canal Place, New Orleans’ premier shopping destination for luxury brands. When it comes to dining, the CBD boasts a variety of international and down-home options. Chow down on Caribbean and Latin flavors, Cajun and Creole dishes, Southern soul food and more without ever leaving the city limits.

Delight in the laid-back pace and quirky charm of the eclectic Mid-City area. Get some fresh air with 38 kilometers of hiking trails, lakes for fishing and boating, and lively playgrounds. Art lovers can find over 40,000 art pieces spread out over the galleries and grounds of the New Orleans Museum of Art and Sculpture Garden. In the neighboring Bayou St. John, enjoy waterfront activities, colorful Creole mansions, beer gardens and music and food festivals hosted throughout the year.

A former industrial district with a deep history and sophisticated flair, the Arts and Warehouse District features The National WWII Museum, which explores the events of World War II from an American perspective. A short drive from the museum is Mardi Gras World, where every day is Fat Tuesday. On the self-guided tour, see the massive working warehouse where artists bring spectacular parade floats to life. More art awaits on Julia Street, locally nicknamed “Gallery Row,” where dozens of art galleries feature the works of local and nationally known painters, sculptors and mixed-media artists.