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Explore the Big Easy: A Travel Guide to the Delights of

About New Orleans, United States

New Orleans is a vibrant city known for its jazz music, Creole cuisine, and Mardi Gras celebrations. Take a stroll down Bourbon Street, visit the historic French Quarter, and indulge in delicious gumbo and jambalaya. New Orleans is the perfect destination for those looking for a unique and exciting travel experience.

New Orleans, Louisiana is a vibrant city known for its rich history, music, and food. Located in the southern United States, the city is situated on the banks of the Mississippi River and is a melting pot of cultures, blending French, Spanish, African, and Caribbean influences.

One of the most popular destinations in New Orleans is the French Quarter, a historic neighborhood that dates back to the city's founding. The area is known for its distinctive architecture, lively nightlife, and world-famous Bourbon Street, where visitors can enjoy live music and traditional New Orleans cuisine.

Another must-see attraction is Jackson Square, a public park in the heart of the French Quarter that is home to many historic buildings and monuments, including the iconic St. Louis Cathedral. Visitors can also enjoy street performances and browse local artists' work in the square.

For those interested in history, the National World War II Museum is a must-visit destination. The museum is dedicated to preserving the memory of World War II and features a wide range of exhibits, including artifacts, interactive displays, and personal stories of those who served.

New Orleans is also known for its food, with a rich culinary tradition that blends French, African, and Caribbean influences. Visitors can enjoy classic dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, and red beans and rice, as well as fresh seafood and beignets, a local pastry.

Finally, no trip to New Orleans is complete without experiencing the city's vibrant music scene. From jazz to blues to funk, the city is home to a wide range of music venues and festivals, including the world-famous Jazz Fest.

Overall, New Orleans is a vibrant and unique travel destination that offers something for everyone. Whether you're interested in history, music, or cuisine, this Louisiana city is sure to leave a lasting impression on visitors.

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Popular Stays in New Orleans, United States

Explore some of the most affordable vacation packages and accommodation stays in New Orleans, United States

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Business hotels

Sheraton New Orleans

The Sheraton New Orleans is a modern 49-story, smoke free and pet friendly 4 star hotel conveniently located on Canal St, where the restaurants and shops of the French Quarter meet New Orleans' bustling Central Business District. The Sheraton New Orleans Hotel offers a restaurant and lobby lounge along with a Starbucks on the lobby level. In-room dining is available 24 hours a day. The 24-hour business center includes 54 meeting rooms, and a conference center. The hotel also offers concierge and wedding services. The full-service FedEx Business Center is located in the hotel lobby near the Camp Street entrance. Registered hotel guests also enjoy access to a 24-hour self-service center adjacent to the Gallery meeting space. The full-service Business Center on the third floor keeps you connected to work or home. A range of services including faxing, copying, shipping, and High Speed Internet Access are offered. The Sheraton New Orleans Hotel is entirely smoke-free, fines apply for violations. All of the 1,110 guestrooms in the Sheraton New Orleans Hotel look out onto city or river views and come with oversized leather chairs, premium bedding, and wireless Internet access. The following fees and deposits are charged by the property at time of service, check-in, or check-out. Fee for full breakfast: USD 19.75 per person (approximately) Fee for in-room wireless Internet: USD 14.95 per night (rates may vary) Fee for in-room wired Internet: USD 14.95 per day (rates may vary) Valet parking fee: USD 46 per night plus tax (in/out privileges) Late check-out fee: USD 50 Refrigerator fee: USD 10 per stay Rollaway bed fee: USD 25.00 per stay Pet fee: USD 75 per stay
The Hyatt Centric French Quarter is a 4 Star Hotel restaurants, shops, and live entertainment along historic Bourbon St are just steps away from the restored 1913 facade of this centrally located New Orleans French Quarter hotel. Hyatt Centric French Quarter's lobby level harbours the colourful Red Fish Grill, an acclaimed seafood restaurant; a large outdoor patio and separate pool area are on the second floor. This 4-story smoke-free New Orleans hotel has several restaurants, 24-hour room service, and an outdoor pool with an enclosed patio. 10 conference rooms totalling 10, 660 square feet are available for meetings and special events. Guests at the Hyatt Centric French Quarter have complimentary 24-hour access to the hotel's fitness room. Wi-fi in common areas and guest rooms are free. The 254 rooms at the Hyatt Centric French Quarter have 12-foot ceilings with plum-colored walls and soft, stylish furnishings. Complimentary amenities include Portico products. No pets allowed. The Hyatt Centric French Quarter offers a 2nd-floor outdoor swimming pool surrounded by a large patio. Guests have complimentary 24-hour access to the hotel's fitness room. In-room spa services, including massage, manicures, and pedicures, can be arranged. Valet parking is available for our guests. (Charges apply by the property at time of check-in, or check-out. ) Charges may apply by the property at time of check-in, or check-out
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Business hotels

Maison Dupuy

With a stay at Maison Dupuy Hotel, you'll be centrally located in New Orleans, just a 4-minute walk from Bourbon Street and 9 minutes by foot from Canal Street. This historic hotel is 0. 5 mi (0. 7 km) from Jackson Square and 1. 3 mi (2. 1 km) from Harrah's New Orleans Casino. . Take advantage of recreation opportunities including an outdoor pool and a 24-hour fitness center. Additional amenities at this hotel include complimentary wireless Internet access, concierge services, and gift shops/newsstands. . Stay in one of 200 guestrooms featuring flat-screen televisions. Your pillowtop bed comes with down comforters and premium bedding. Complimentary wireless Internet access keeps you connected, and cable programming is available for your entertainment. Private bathrooms with shower/tub combinations feature complimentary toiletries and hair dryers. . Take advantage of the hotel's room service (during limited hours). . Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a business center, and express check-out. Planning an event in New Orleans? This hotel has 2612 square feet (243 square meters) of space consisting of conference space and meeting rooms. . Distances are displayed to the nearest 0. 1 mile and kilometer. Louis Armstrong Park - 0. 2 km / 0. 1 mi- Bourbon Street - 0. 4 km / 0. 2 mi- Royal Street - 0. 4 km / 0. 2 mi- Preservation Hall - 0. 4 km / 0. 2 mi- Historic New Orleans Collection - 0. 4 km / 0. 3 mi- Marie Laveau House of Voodoo - 0. 5 km / 0. 3 mi- New Orleans Musical Legends Park - 0. 5 km / 0. 3 mi- New Orleans Jazz Museum - 0. 5 km / 0. 3 mi- New Orleans Pharmacy Museum - 0. 5 km / 0. 3 mi- The Shops at JAX Brewery - 0. 6 km / 0. 4 mi- Saint Louis Cathedral - 0. 6 km / 0. 4 mi- Decatur Street - 0. 7 km / 0. 4 mi- Historic Voodoo Museum - 0. 7 km / 0. 4 mi- Saenger Theatre - 0. 7 km / 0. 4 mi- Steamboat Natchez Dock - 0. 7 km / 0. 4 mi. The nearest major airport is Louis Armstrong New Orleans Intl. Airport (MSY) - 25. 7 km / 15. 9 mi.
Sports and Entertainment
Business hotelsHotels with charm

Crowne Plaza New Orleans French Quarter

Welcome to the exquisite Crowne Plaza® New Orleans French Quarter, perfectly situated on Canal Street, just steps away from the vibrant energy of Bourbon Street. Immerse yourself in luxury with our elegant guestrooms, adorned with premium amenities and complemented by complimentary Wi-Fi. Experience unparalleled convenience with our 20 refined meeting rooms, meticulously designed to accommodate any event, from corporate conferences to social gatherings. Discover the enchantment of the French Quarter as you explore the nearby iconic sites. Indulge in the irresistible hot beignets at the celebrated Café du Monde in Jackson Square. Take a charming streetcar ride to the National WWII Museum, where history comes alive, or venture into the Garden District for a delightful antique shopping experience. In the evening, immerse yourself in the electric atmosphere of a game at the legendary Caesars Superdome. Savor the flavors of Cajun-style dishes, while the soulful melodies of live jazz serenade your senses. Delight in the perfect blend of comfort and sophistication at our upscale New Orleans hotel. Immerse yourself in the spirit of this remarkable city, where every corner holds a story waiting to be discovered. From the bustling energy of Bourbon Street to the hidden gems along the cobblestone streets, let us create unforgettable memories during your stay at the Crowne Plaza®. Book your extraordinary experience today.
Stop at Wyndham New Orleans - French Quarter to discover the wonders of New Orleans (LA). Offering a variety of facilities and services, the property provides all you need for a good night's sleep. Service-minded staff will welcome and guide you at Wyndham New Orleans - French Quarter. Each guestroom is elegantly furnished and equipped with handy amenities. The property offers various recreational opportunities. A welcoming atmosphere and excellent service are what you can expect during your stay at Wyndham New Orleans - French Quarter.
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Business hotelsHotels with charm

New Orleans Marriott

The New Orleans Marriott is a 3.5 star dominating its corner of the French Quarter, this twin-tower hotel looms over Bourbon St, 2 blocks from Aquarium of the Americas, and 4 blocks from the boutiques and restaurants of the Riverwalk Marketplace. This 41-story New Orleans Marriott has a restaurant and bar. Guests can upgrade to an M Club level room and enjoy exclusive access to the M Club Lounge. Located on the first floor, the M Club Lounge provides guests with the ideal space to work, recharge, connect, and relax. Enjoy snack and food options and 24/7 lounge access for up to 2 guests daily (additional charges will be applied for extra guests). The banquet and meeting spaces comprise a combined 86,849 square feet (8,068 square meters) and have teleconferencing and videoconferencing capabilities. The business center offers computers as well as faxing and photocopying services. The fitness center, located on the fifth floor with views of the Mississippi River Bridge, has free weights and various exercise machines, including treadmills, and stationary bicycles. The 1,333 contemporary guestrooms of the New Orleans Marriott, most with spectacular views, are furnished with soft couches, cherry-wood headboards, premium linens, and high-speed Internet access. Pets not allowed. The following fees and deposits are charged by the property at time of service, check-in, or check-out. Fee for buffet breakfast: USD 24.00 per person (approximately) Fee for in-room wireless Internet: USD 12.95 per night (rates may vary) Fee for in-room wired Internet: USD 12.95 per night (rates may vary) Fee for wireless Internet in public areas: USD 12.95 per day (rates may vary) Valet parking fee: USD 47.57 per day
Omni Royal Orleans is in the center of the vibrant French Quarter, a 5-minute walk from the banks of the Mississippi. The bars of Bourbon Street, jazz at Preservation Hall, and St. Louis Cathedral are but minutes away, and some of New Orleans' finest Creole restaurants are within a few blocks. Guests are welcomed in the graceful elegance of the lobby with its marble, onyx statues, and chandeliers. Omni Royal Orleans Hotel features an outdoor pool, a fitness center, and a rooftop terrace. The hotel offers a restaurant and a coffee shop. Guests can unwind with a drink at one of the hotel's bars, which include 2 bars/lounges and a poolside bar. Omni Royal Orleans Hotel is a smoke-free property. This property offers a 24-hour business center and event facilities measuring 14000 square feet (1301 square meters) include conference space and 8 meeting rooms. This business-friendly hotel also offers gift shops, luggage storage, tours/ticket assistance, and dry cleaning/laundry services. Parking is available onsite for a surcharge. Fee for in-room wireless Internet: USD 9. 95 per night (rates may vary). Outdoor Pool bar is open seasonally. Current hours are 5am-10pm
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Business hotelsHotels with spaSport hotels

Jw Marriott New Orleans

A stay at JW Marriott New Orleans places you in the heart of New Orleans, steps from Canal Street and Bourbon Street. This luxury hotel is 0. 3 mi (0. 6 km) from Caesars New Orleans Casino and 0. 8 mi (1. 3 km) from Ernest N. Morial Convention Center. . Don't miss out on recreational opportunities including an outdoor pool and a 24-hour fitness center. This hotel also features complimentary wireless internet access, concierge services, and gift shops/newsstands. . Make yourself at home in one of the 501 air-conditioned rooms featuring iPod docking stations and flat-screen televisions. Wireless internet access (surcharge) keeps you connected, and cable programming is available for your entertainment. Private bathrooms with showers feature hair dryers and bathrobes. Conveniences include phones, as well as safes and desks. . Enjoy a meal at the restaurant, or stay in and take advantage of the hotel's room service (during limited hours). Quench your thirst with your favorite drink at the bar/lounge. To-go breakfasts are available daily from 6:00 AM to 11:00 AM for a fee. . Featured amenities include express check-out, complimentary newspapers in the lobby, and dry cleaning/laundry services. Planning an event in New Orleans? This hotel has 23313 square feet (2166 square meters) of space consisting of conference space and 22 meeting rooms. . Distances are displayed to the nearest 0. 1 mile and kilometer. Canal Street - 0. 1 km / 0. 1 mi- Royal Street - 0. 1 km / 0. 1 mi- Decatur Street - 0. 2 km / 0.

Things to do in New Orleans, United States

Choose from a range of unique experiences and fun activities in New Orleans, United States

The picturesque beauty and architecture of the Louisiana plantations are a “must” for any visitor to New Orleans. Many of these breathtaking homes are within an hour’s drive from the city. Your tour will begin with a comfortable ride out of New Orleans where your guide will share with you the origin of the Louisiana plantations, along with the effect they had on the city of New Orleans, and its residents. Along with discovering beautiful buildings, luscious gardens and historic artifacts, these homes also represent some of the darker chapters of Louisiana history. Many of the plantations will provide a focus on the lives of the slaves that brought these homes to life, and share some of the realities of the rural south during this time in our nation’s history. Upon arrival, each plantation home has its own guide to bring you through the main house, and share its specific story. Following your home tour, we will escort you around the grounds and answer any questions that may arise.
This is not just another drive out to the river road to visit plantations. Your driver/guide will enlighten and educate you along the way on such things as the Louisiana swamp, Lake Pontchartrain and an over view of what the Corp of Engineers have done to prevent the next hurricane Katrina catastrophe. And host of other surprises along the way.
Oak Alley is one of the most magnificent plantation tours because of the 28, evenly spaced, huge Oak Trees that go from the river road to the Plantation House. Built in 1837 using Greek Revival architecture, and restored in 1925, this house could to be straight out of the movie “Gone with the Wind”. In addition to antique farm equipment, the twenty-five acre grounds also feature a restaurant, blacksmith shop and a souvenir shop, of which you'll enjoy some free time to peruse at your leisure. It is a comprehensive plantation experience.
On this full-day tour, you'll be driven to the Oak Alley Plantation House, then see the Cajuns of the bayou living and surviving in harmony with the swamps. Located about an hour and a half outside the city of New Orleans, Oak Alley is one of the most magnificent plantation tours because of the 28, evenly spaced, huge Oak Trees that go from the river road to the Plantation House. Experience bayou living where here, the waterways are their highways. From the relaxed comfort of our covered New Orleans Swamp Tour Boats, you will drift slowly past a 2000 year old Indian Burial Mound, a Cajun cemetery and Fishing village! You may see the wildlife that made the Barataria Swamps the Crown Jewel of the Louisiana Purchase. If the 10:45am departure is chosen, these activities will be in reverse.
Go beyond New Orleans to tour two grand Louisiana plantations on the banks of the Mississippi River. At Whitney Plantation, see the harsh realities and raw historical facts of a dark side of American history. The slave narratives and artwork recreate the world of a pre-Civil War southern sugar plantation and memorial in honor of the lives of the enslaved people who toiled there. Take a short drive down the Great River Road, admiring other plantations from afar and learning their unique stories. Pause in front of Oak Alley Plantation's famous oak-lined esplanade before arriving at your last stop, Laura Plantation. Hear personal stories of those who lived there, surrounded by sweeping sugarcane fields and historically significant slave quarters. This small-group tour allows a limited number of people to ensure a more personalized attention from your guide.
Come take a journey back in time and see Louisiana's beautiful plantations.  Over the years, these plantations inspired many people to write books, screenplays and feature them in movies.  We pick up at all hotels in the Uptown, Downtown and French Quarter areas. If you are staying outside of this area, call to set up a pick up location. Seating is limited so reserve your tour.
WEST-AFRICAN Captured for their agricultural and construction skills, their work created the Louisiana colony and influenced all segments of the newly-forming Creole culture, best seen today in language, cuisine, music, family-centered traditions, architecture and life-style. This sugarcane plantation started in 1805 with 7 enslaved people (six west-Africans and one Amerindian). As the plantation grew, so did the number of enslaved workers. Four original slave cabins built in the 1840s remain standing today on the plantation. By the onset of the Civil War, 186 workers were enslaved on this farm. Following the emancipation of slaves in Louisiana (1866), the great majority of these former slaves continued to live in the Laura Plantation quarters. Descendants of these men & women were displaced in 1895 when cypress lumber companies had their own workers inhabit the Laura slave quarters. The cabins were lived in until 1977. Descendants of slaves live near the Laura Plantation to this day.
Your tour guide will point out many points of interest along the way, Lake Pontchartrain,The vast marsh Land and Louisiana swamp, The site of the largest slave revolt recorded in American history Destrehan Louisiana in 1811 slavery rebellion.

Why People Love New Orleans, United States

See what people have to say about activities and accommodations in New Orleans, United States

S
sueirvine
5
May 2022
We had a wonderful tour and transportation to Oak Alley Plantation. We were picked up in front of our hotel. We had a lovely driver, John, and Ben was our tour guide. He shared his passion for New Orleans with us on the hour drive to the plantation. He also prepared us for our visit to the plant...
W
W4406XTjamesb
5
Nov 2023
We had an excellent customised, day-long tour of Laura and Whitney plantations, with lunch at Oak Alley. Ben was very accommodating, picking us up from our hotel and negotiating the French Quarter at rush hour at the end to drop us at Preservation Hall for a late afternoon jazz gig. He was timely...
R
Rebecca_T
5
May 2021
This was such a lovely tour and time spent with Benjamin was like a day with a friend who knows everything about the history of Nola.

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Frequently Asked Questions about New Orleans

What are some must-do activities in New Orleans?

There are so many things to do in New Orleans, but some of the top activities include: - Taking a stroll through the French Quarter - Visiting the historic St. Louis Cathedral - Riding the streetcars - Listening to jazz music on Frenchman Street - Taking a swamp tour - Trying local cuisine like gumbo, jambalaya, and beignets - Touring the beautiful Garden District - Experiencing the nightlife on Bourbon Street - Watching a Mardi Gras parade (if you're visiting during Mardi Gras season) - Exploring the National WWII Museum

What are some of the best attractions in New Orleans?

New Orleans has plenty of amazing attractions to check out, including: - The French Quarter - Jackson Square - St. Louis Cathedral - The National WWII Museum - The Garden District - The New Orleans Museum of Art - The Audubon Zoo - The Audubon Aquarium of the Americas - The Mardi Gras World museum - The Louisiana Children's Museum

What are some of the best neighborhoods to stay in while visiting New Orleans?

New Orleans has a variety of fantastic neighborhoods to choose from, depending on your interests and budget. Some of the best neighborhoods for tourists include: - The French Quarter - The Garden District - The Warehouse District - Uptown - The Marigny - Mid-City

What are some good restaurants to try in New Orleans?

New Orleans is known for its incredible cuisine, so there are plenty of amazing restaurants to choose from. Some of the best include: - Commander's Palace - Cafe du Monde - Galatoire's - Cochon - Brennan's - Emeril's - Acme Oyster House - Antoine's - Dooky Chase's - Parkway Bakery & Tavern

What is the best time of year to visit New Orleans?

The best time to visit New Orleans is from February to May, when the weather is mild and there are plenty of festivals and events happening. This includes Mardi Gras season, which typically falls in February or early March. Just be aware that hotel prices can be high during this time, and the crowds can be quite large.

What is the best way to get around New Orleans?

New Orleans is a very walkable city, so if you're staying in or near the French Quarter, you can easily get around on foot. However, if you want to venture further afield, you can take advantage of the city's streetcars, buses, and taxis. There are also plenty of bike rental shops if you want to explore on two wheels.

What are some of the best accommodations in New Orleans?

New Orleans has a wide variety of accommodations to choose from, ranging from budget-friendly hostels to luxurious hotels. Some of the best options include: - The Ritz-Carlton New Orleans - The Hotel Monteleone - The Roosevelt New Orleans - The Ace Hotel - The Maison Dupuy Hotel - The Omni Royal Orleans - The Catahoula Hotel - The Old No. 77 Hotel & Chandlery - The International House Hotel - The Henry Howard Hotel

What are some good day trips from New Orleans?

If you're looking to explore more of Louisiana while you're in New Orleans, there are plenty of great day trip options. Some of the most popular include: - Plantation tours along the River Road - Swamp tours in the nearby bayous - Visiting the historic city of Baton Rouge - Taking a ferry to the charming town of Algiers - Exploring the beautiful nature of Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve

What are some of the best free things to do in New Orleans?

There are plenty of free things to do in New Orleans, including: - Walking around the French Quarter - Visiting Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 in the Garden District - Checking out the art galleries on Julia Street in the Warehouse District - Listening to live music on Frenchman Street - Visiting City Park and the New Orleans Botanical Garden - Watching the Mardi Gras parades (if you're visiting during Mardi Gras season) - Exploring the French Market

What are some good nightlife spots in New Orleans?

New Orleans is known for its lively nightlife, so there are plenty of great spots to check out after dark. Some of the best include: - Bourbon Street - Frenchman Street - The Spotted Cat Music Club - The Maple Leaf Bar - The House of Blues - The Columns Hotel - The Carousel Bar & Lounge - The Sazerac Bar - The Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop Bar - The Preservation Hall Jazz Band

What are some of the best festivals in New Orleans?

New Orleans is famous for its festivals, and there are plenty to choose from throughout the year. Some of the best include: - Mardi Gras - Jazz Fest - Essence Fest - French Quarter Fest - Voodoo Fest - Bayou Boogaloo - Satchmo Summerfest - Tales of the Cocktail - The Po-Boy Festival - The Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival