Downtown New Orleans Map

Introduction

Downtown New Orleans is a vibrant and historic area with a rich cultural heritage, world-renowned cuisine, and unique architecture. It is a popular destination for travelers seeking a blend of history, entertainment, and adventure. This travel guide will provide you with a comprehensive overview of the top attractions, hidden gems, food scene, budget-friendly tips, outdoor adventures, historical landmarks, family-friendly activities, off-the-beaten-path experiences, natural wonders, vibrant nightlife, local markets, beaches and mountains, cultural immersion, art and music scene, walking tours, architectural marvels, historical sites, biking routes, wellness retreats, and adventure sports.

Top Attractions

The French Quarter

The French Quarter is the heart of New Orleans and is known for its historic buildings, jazz music, and vibrant nightlife. Some of the top attractions in the French Quarter include Jackson Square, St. Louis Cathedral, Bourbon Street, and the French Market.

Garden District

The Garden District is a beautiful neighborhood with historic mansions, lush gardens, and tree-lined streets. Some of the top attractions in the Garden District include Lafayette Cemetery, Commander’s Palace, and Magazine Street.

National World War II Museum

The National World War II Museum is a must-visit attraction for history buffs, featuring interactive exhibits and personal stories that bring the war to life.

Hidden Gems

Bacchanal Wine

Bacchanal Wine is a hidden gem located in the Bywater neighborhood, offering live music, a vast selection of wines, and delicious food.

Banksy Murals

New Orleans is home to several Banksy murals, including one on the side of a building in the Bywater neighborhood.

The Music Box Village

The Music Box Village is a whimsical outdoor music venue featuring a collection of artist-created musical houses that visitors can explore and play.

Food Scene

Po’boys

Po’boys are a quintessential New Orleans sandwich made with French bread and filled with fried seafood or roast beef. Some of the best places to try po’boys include Parkway Bakery & Tavern and Domilise’s.

Gumbo

Gumbo is a hearty stew made with sausage, chicken, shrimp, and okra, often served over rice. Some of the best places to try gumbo include Dooky Chase’s and Commander’s Palace.

Beignets

Beignets are a New Orleans staple, made with fried dough and dusted with powdered sugar. Cafe Du Monde is the most famous place to try beignets.

Budget-Friendly Tips

Free Walking Tours

Several companies offer free walking tours of the French Quarter and other neighborhoods, providing an excellent introduction to the city’s history and culture.

Streetcar Rides

Riding the streetcar is a cheap and scenic way to explore the city. The St. Charles line takes you through the Garden District, while the Riverfront line offers stunning views of the Mississippi River.

Happy Hour Deals

Many bars and restaurants in the city offer happy hour specials, providing an opportunity to try New Orleans cuisine and drinks at a lower price.

Outdoor Adventures

City Park

City Park is a massive urban park that offers a range of outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, boating, and fishing. The park also features several museums and art installations.

Bayou Kayaking

Kayaking through the bayous and swamps surrounding New Orleans is a unique and unforgettable experience. Several tour companies offer guided tours.

Lafitte Greenway

The Lafitte Greenway is a 2.6-mile bike path that connects the French Quarter to Mid-City, offering a safe and scenic way to explore the city by bike.

Historical Landmarks

St. Louis Cathedral

The St. Louis Cathedral is a historic landmark located in Jackson Square, dating back to 1727 and featuring beautiful architecture and artwork.

The Cabildo

The Cabildo is a historic building located in Jackson Square, dating back to the 18th century and serving as the site of the Louisiana Purchase transfer in 1803.

The Old Ursuline Convent

The Old Ursuline Convent is a historic building dating back to 1752, featuring beautiful architecture and a museum that explores the history of the Catholic Church in New Orleans.

Family-Friendly Activities

Audubon Zoo

The Audubon Zoo is a popular attraction for families, featuring a range of animals, a splash park, and a train ride.

Children’s Museum

The Louisiana Children’s Museum is a hands-on museum that offers a range of interactive exhibits and activities for kids of all ages.

Steamboat Natchez

Taking a ride on the Steamboat Natchez is a fun and educational experience for families, offering a chance to learn about the history of the Mississippi River while enjoying live music and a delicious meal.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences

Haunted History Tours

New Orleans is known for its haunted history, and several companies offer ghost tours that explore the city’s dark past.

Backstreet Cultural Museum

The Backstreet Cultural Museum is a unique museum located in the Treme neighborhood, featuring exhibits on Mardi Gras Indian culture and second line parades.

Music Clubs

New Orleans is home to several music clubs that offer a chance to experience live music in an intimate setting, such as Tipitina’s and Preservation Hall.

Natural Wonders

Barataria Preserve

The Barataria Preserve is a beautiful wetland area located just outside of New Orleans, offering hiking trails, boardwalks, and a chance to spot wildlife.

Fontainebleau State Park

Fontainebleau State Park is a scenic park located on the north shore of Lake Pontchartrain, offering hiking trails, fishing, and camping.

Mississippi River

The Mississippi River is a natural wonder in itself, and several companies offer riverboat tours that provide a unique perspective on the city and the river.

Vibrant Nightlife

Bourbon Street

Bourbon Street is the most famous nightlife destination in New Orleans, featuring a range of bars, clubs, and live music venues.

Frenchmen Street

Frenchmen Street is a popular destination for locals and tourists alike, offering a range of music clubs and bars that cater to different tastes.

Preservation Hall

Preservation Hall is a historic jazz club located in the French Quarter that features live music from some of the city’s best musicians.

Local Markets

French Market

The French Market is a historic market in the French Quarter that offers a range of food, crafts, and souvenirs.

Crescent City Farmers Market

The Crescent City Farmers Market is a weekly farmers market that features fresh produce and food from local farmers and vendors.

Mardi Gras World

Mardi Gras World is a unique attraction that offers a behind-the-scenes look at the making of Mardi Gras floats and costumes, as well as the chance to try King Cake.

Beaches and Mountains

Grand Isle

Grand Isle is a beautiful beach located just south of New Orleans, offering swimming, fishing, and beachcombing.

Fontainebleau State Park

Fontainebleau State Park is also a great destination for hiking and exploring the nearby mountains.

Abita Springs

Abita Springs is a charming town located north of New Orleans, featuring a range of outdoor activities and a brewery that offers tours and tastings.

Cultural Immersion

Second Line Parades

Second line parades are a unique New Orleans tradition, featuring brass bands, dancers, and colorful umbrellas. Visitors can join in the parade or watch from the sidelines.

Creole Cooking Classes

Several cooking schools in New Orleans offer classes that teach visitors how to make traditional Creole dishes, such as gumbo and jambalaya.

Mardi Gras Indians

Mardi Gras Indians are a unique cultural group in New Orleans that create elaborate costumes and perform on Mardi Gras day. Visitors can learn about the history and culture of the Mardi Gras