NEW ORLEANS

NEW ORLEANS



New Orleans is the most celebrated city in the American South, the largest in the state of Louisiana, and the state's #1 tourist and vacation attraction. A heavenly blend of mouth watering Creole food, rich history and great Blues and Jazz music make New Orleans the vibrant city that it is!

Just 100 miles above the mouth of the Mississippi River, the city is making a strong comeback after the great destruction caused by Hurricane Katrina in 2005. The loyal citizens of 'The Big Easy' refused to let their town fade away, and it is that incredible spirit of native Louisiana people that remains the key ingedient in New Orlean's on-going recovery.

One of the oldest cities in the U.S., New Orleans retains its magic and seduction over residents and visitors alike. With mild winters and steamy summers, the city invites everyone to enjoy its lively French Quarter and Garden District, mysterious bayous, gracious plantations, spicy Creole food and the hedonistic Mardi Gras celebrations and classic Jazz Fests.

• New Orleans Photos

ADDITIONAL LOUISIANA CITY PAGE:

• Baton Rouge

• New Orleans is also known as "The Big Easy", a nickname that stems from the town's rich jazz tradition and the name of a local 1900's dance hall.
• 80% of New Orleans flooded when Hurricane Katrina hit in 2005.
• The main culinary tradition in New Orleans is their famous Creole.

LARGE printable New Orleans map
LARGE printable New Orleans (French Quarter) map



Take a look at our New Orleans map to spot these great things to do in New Orleans:

• The French Quarter
  The French Quarter is the oldest, most famous and most visited district in New Orleans, Louisiana. Laid out during French and Spanish colonial times in the 1700's, the area stretches along the banks of the Mississippi River.
  
  The French Quarter exudes a spirit of history and roaring good fun. While visiting this National Historic Landmark, don't miss Jackson Square and Bourbon Street, famous for drinking establishments, amazing restaurants and the uniquely beautiful architecture that is pure New Orleans.
• Mardi Gras World
  Every February, New Orleans opens its arms to the masses of revelers who descend on the town for Mardi Gras from all countries of the world.
  
  If you miss the world famous Mardi Gras festival, make sure you pay a visit to Mardi Gras World! The Carnival experience is not complete without a peek into the sensational world of thousands of beautifully sculptured props and breathtaking giant figures being crafted for next year's parade.
  
  Welcome to the place where Mardi Gras is made! Watch the local artists create the floats for next year's festival and learn about Mardi Gras spirit year-round.
• New Orleans Cemetery Tours
  Learn about much of New Orleans' history by taking these uniquely New Orleans cemetery tours. Hauntingly beautiful and with rich architecture, the New Orleans cemeteries tours unearth heartfelt stories thought buried forever.
  
  Noted for the ornate above-ground tombs, these true Cities of the Dead make an unforgettable Louisiana vacation tour. Be sure not to miss the famous Lafayette Cemetery, resting place to some of the most illustrious (and notorious) citizens of New Orleans.