Louisiana

Visiting New Orleans? Don’t Leave Without Checking Out These Seven Places

Visiting New Orleans? Don’t Leave Without Checking Out These Seven Places

Beautiful, mystical, and full of culture, New Orleans houses many sights that are not your average attractions. Here are some you shouldn’t miss on your next visit.

New Orleans is a haven of cultural diversity, which is apparent in everything from the local cuisine to architecture. And those visiting the historical hometown of jazz will have plenty of sights to marvel at, including museums, gardens, squares, and various cultural venues.

The city is just oozing with history and character. If you make it a point to visit the highlights of the city, you’ll leave with a strong, lasting impression that will urge you to come back.

Here are the seven amazing New Orleans locations that are guaranteed to make you fall in love with the city.

1. Jackson Square

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Initially called Place d’Armes, the beautiful square is located in the French Quarter and by the banks of the Mississippi. Jackson Square is an idyllic spot as it’s surrounded by other New Orleans landmarks, such as the St. Louis Cathedral and Louisiana State Museums of Presbytère and Cabildo.

Among the luscious greenery are various restaurants and shops. And the square’s centerpiece is a statue of Andrew Jackson on a horse, dating from the mid-19th century.

2. The National WWII Museum

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The three sections of the museum document World War II history and are devoted to the European and the Pacific theaters, while the third section exhibits aircraft from the conflict.

There is an abundance of short films that illustrate how the people back then used the various items on display, including authentic testimonials. It’s also interactive, as the museum visitor takes on the role of a common soldier as they receive updates at several stations during the tour.

Besides the exhibits, there are two noticeable amenities within the museum.

You can get some refreshments while enjoying a matinee or a dinner show in the Stage Door Canteen. This era-appropriate entertainment contributes to the already great immersion provided by the museum environment that strives for authenticity.

There’s also a 4D Theater where you can see a showing of a documentary film while rumbling chairs and stage props enhance the experience. It’s an excellent addition to the exhibits and might be the main attraction for many visitors.

3. The French Quarter

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Without a doubt, the historic French Quarter is the primary city location for most tourists. This aptly named part of New Orleans is full of intricate architecture, with buildings that are over three centuries old showcasing the French style of the era.

There are plenty of restaurants and hotels, shops that sell various souvenirs, as well as galleries and jazz venues for those interested in the rich New Orleans culture. Note that the more high-end spots are mainly located along Royal Street. And if you want to catch some quality traditional jazz, many excellent joints can be found on Frenchmen Street.

Of course, there’s the world-famous Bourbon Street that might not be for everybody because it can get rather crowded and filthy, especially at night.

4. St. Louis Cathedral

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Within the French Quarter and near Jackson Square is where you’ll find the fascinating St. Louis Cathedral. The oldest continually used cathedral in the U.S., the church was erected in 1794 during New Orleans’ rebuilding efforts after a considerable portion of the city experienced damage in a great fire.

Its construction lasted for more than five years and the location used to be the site of a previous church that didn’t survive the destructive fire. The cathedral received the internal decoration in 1825 and an organ four years later.

5. Garden District

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The Garden District offers an authentic, if somewhat stereotypical, sight of New Orleans, as it’s adorned with mansions and houses dating from the 19th century, and luscious greenery.

This is primarily a residential area that’s more serene than some other spots. But it doesn’t mean the Garden District isn’t welcoming to tourists. Besides the captivating architecture, the area features various shops, boutiques, and eateries, although those are not as densely packed as their French Quarter counterparts.

If you’re interested in experiencing the history and beauty of the neighborhood, guided walking tours are available to take you through all the noticeable sites.

6. The Voodoo Museum

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Those that want to explore the history of New Orleans with a focus on the mystical will find themselves at home in the New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum. The museum’s been offering fascinating tours since 1972 and it houses amazing relics and artwork.

However, the attractions spread even beyond the museum building.

Through the Voodoo Museum, you can get in touch with authentic practitioners that perform various rituals, readings, and ceremonies. The museum isn’t the direct service provider but it will rather help you contact the mystic experts.

Another popular service the museum has in stock is the walking tours to the cemetery. While the idea might sound somewhat bleak, there are many interesting features to see in the St. Louis Cemetery, also known as the City of the Dead.

7. City Park

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The expansive park has plenty to offer to visitors, whether they’re interested in art, entertainment, sports, or just taking a long relaxing walk. City Park has a unique atmosphere, and its gorgeous landscape is even more mesmerizing in the evening, when the trees, monuments, and statues become highlighted through a subtle haze.

In the park is where you can find the beautiful New Orleans Botanical Garden, filled with lush, interesting, and rare plants. Art lovers will expectedly rush to the nearby Museum of Art, but there’s also plenty to see under the open sky in the Sculpture Garden.

If you’re visiting with kids, they’ll love the amusement park and Storyland. Those interested in sports can have a try at some of the tennis courts or even the golf course. However, the most captivating feature of the park is its walking areas. Take a stroll and see the majestic oaks that are centuries old, or simply take in the serene atmosphere.

New Orleans Has Something for Everyone

The captivating atmosphere and sights of New Orleans will leave you wanting for more. Whatever your tastes are, you’ll find a way to satisfy them in the gorgeous city and leave with long-lasting memories.

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These 7 Haunted Places In New Orleans Will Give You Chills

New Orleans, a city steeped in history, rich culture, and a distinct air of mystery, is practically synonymous with the supernatural. Its long and often turbulent past, marked by epidemics, fires, wars, and dark secrets, has left behind an undeniable spectral residue. If you’re looking for a thrill, a walk through the Crescent City’s historic streets after dark is sure to give you chills.

Here are 7 of the most chillingly haunted places in New Orleans that will make your spine tingle:

1. The LaLaurie Mansion (1140 Royal Street)

Perhaps the most infamous haunted house in New Orleans, the LaLaurie Mansion holds a truly gruesome history. Owned by the socially prominent Madame Delphine LaLaurie in the 1830s, this seemingly elegant home concealed unspeakable horrors. In 1834, a fire in the mansion led to the discovery of brutally tortured and mutilated enslaved people. While Madame LaLaurie escaped, the spirits of her victims are said to remain, haunting the property with screams, groans, and unsettling paranormal activity. This privately owned residence is a popular stop on ghost tours, its dark past palpable even from the street.

2. St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 (400 Basin Street)

As New Orleans’ oldest active cemetery, dating back to 1789, St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 is a labyrinth of crumbling, above-ground tombs. Due to the city’s unique burial practices (graves are built above ground because of the high water table), this “city of the dead” is a dense collection of final resting places, many of which are said to be far from quiet. The most famous resident is the Voodoo Queen Marie Laveau, whose tomb is often adorned with offerings and “X” marks left by visitors hoping for wishes to be granted. Others report seeing full-bodied apparitions and hearing disembodied voices among the crypts. Access is typically restricted to guided tours only.

3. The Sultan’s Palace (Gardette-LePretre House, 716 Dauphine Street)

This beautiful French Quarter mansion holds a tale of unimaginable horror. Legend has it that in the mid-19th century, a wealthy “sultan” and his entourage occupied the house, indulging in lavish, wild parties. One morning, the entire household was found brutally murdered – dismembered bodies scattered throughout the house and courtyard. While some historians debate the exact details, the gruesome story has firmly cemented the Sultan’s Palace as a hotbed of paranormal activity. Visitors and residents have reported screams, the sounds of Middle Eastern music, and ghostly figures wandering the property.

4. Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop (941 Bourbon Street)

One of the oldest surviving buildings in the French Quarter, Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop is a legendary dive bar said to be haunted by the pirate Jean Lafitte himself. Built in the late 1700s, this atmospheric, dimly lit establishment (often lit only by candlelight) has seen centuries of revelry and dark dealings. Patrons and staff have reported seeing Lafitte’s full-bodied apparition lurking in the shadows, objects moving on their own, and strange whispers in the dead of night. It’s the perfect place to grab a drink and see if you can feel a chilling presence.

5. The Andrew Jackson Hotel (919 Royal Street)

Once the site of a boys’ orphanage that tragically burned down, claiming the lives of several young residents, the Andrew Jackson Hotel is now a charming boutique hotel with a lively spirit population. Guests and staff frequently report hearing the laughter and footsteps of spectral children playing in the courtyard and halls. Some even claim to have had their pillows ruffled or personal items moved. The playful yet undeniable presence of these young ghosts adds a unique, eerie charm to this historic hotel.

6. Muriel’s Restaurant (801 Chartres Street)

Located directly across from St. Louis Cathedral, Muriel’s Restaurant is housed in a building with a long and storied past. The most famous resident ghost is believed to be Pierre Antoine Lepardi Jourdan, who owned the property in the early 1800s. After losing the house in a high-stakes poker game, he tragically committed suicide on the second floor. Today, Muriel’s honors his memory by keeping a table permanently set for him in the Seance Lounge. Guests and staff have reported seeing a shimmering, sparkly light (believed to be Jourdan’s spirit) and other unexplained phenomena.

7. New Orleans Pharmacy Museum (514 Chartres Street)

This quaint, historic museum, America’s first licensed pharmacy, holds a darker secret. It’s believed to be haunted by the ghost of its second owner, Dr. Joseph Dupas, a physician with a penchant for unorthodox, often gruesome, medical experiments, particularly on pregnant women and enslaved individuals. Visitors to the museum have reported disembodied voices, objects moving on their own, and even the chilling sensation of being watched or touched. The eerie atmosphere and the unsettling history make it a truly unique and unsettling spot.

New Orleans truly embraces its spectral side, offering numerous ghost tours that delve deeper into the chilling tales and dark corners of the city. Whether you’re a skeptic or a believer, a visit to these haunted locales is sure to leave you with a newfound appreciation for the mysterious, and perhaps a shiver down your spine.

New Orleans

New Orleans’ Jazz Scene: A Music Lover’s Guide

When it comes to jazz, New Orleans doesn’t just play the notes—it lives them. The city pulses with rhythm, soul, and a kind of musical magic that floats through the air like the scent of beignets in the French Quarter. From cozy dive bars to iconic street corners, the New Orleans jazz scene is a nonstop symphony of culture, history, and toe-tapping groove. Whether you’re a seasoned jazz enthusiast or just dipping your toes into the genre, this guide hits all the high notes.

What Makes New Orleans the Home of Jazz?

Let’s not beat around the brass—New Orleans jazz isn’t just a genre. It’s a vibe. A lifestyle. A living, breathing part of the city’s DNA. Born in the late 19th and early 20th centuries, jazz in New Orleans blends African rhythms, European instruments, blues, ragtime, and good old-fashioned improvisation. It started in neighborhoods like Tremé and Storyville, and from there, it grew into a global phenomenon.

You don’t need a history degree to feel it. Just stroll down Frenchmen Street or hang around Jackson Square for five minutes and you’ll understand. This isn’t just music—it’s a conversation between generations, played out on brass, woodwinds, and whatever else folks can get their hands on.

The Best Spots to Experience the New Orleans Jazz Scene

Alright, let’s get to the good stuff. If you want to hear authentic New Orleans jazz, these are the spots you have to hit.

Preservation Hall

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Let’s start with the legend. Open since 1961, Preservation Hall is a no-frills, all-thrills venue that serves up traditional New Orleans jazz nightly. No drinks, no food—just pure, unfiltered music played by local legends in an intimate, soul-stirring setting. The line gets long, so show up early and bring cash.

Frenchmen Street

You know how Bourbon Street gets all the hype? Frenchmen is where the real magic happens—especially for jazz lovers. This strip in the Faubourg Marigny neighborhood is packed with live music venues, from the swanky vibes of The Spotted Cat to the standing-room-only energy at Blue Nile. You can literally bar-hop from jazz band to jazz band, all night long.

Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro

Looking for a more polished experience? Snug Harbor is a classy little jazz club and restaurant that’s been a staple since the ’80s. It hosts some of the best local and national talent around. Plus, the acoustics are spot-on, and the Creole cuisine isn’t too shabby either.

Tipitina’s

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Okay, so it’s not strictly jazz. But Tipitina’s is legendary in the New Orleans music scene. You’ll hear funk, soul, blues, and, yes, jazz—all under one roof. Founded in honor of Professor Longhair, a pioneer of the New Orleans sound, this venue is a rite of passage for any music lover.

Jazz in the Streets: Music on the Move

You don’t need a ticket to catch great jazz in New Orleans. In fact, some of the best performances happen where you least expect them. Jackson Square? Full of trumpet players and saxophonists making magic happen. Royal Street? You’ll stumble upon brass bands so good they’ll make you cancel your dinner reservation just to keep listening.

And don’t forget about second lines. These vibrant parades, often part of weddings or community celebrations, feature high-energy brass bands, dancing crowds, and a party atmosphere that’ll stick with you long after the music fades.

Jazz Museums and Experiences for Hardcore Fans

If you’re the kind of person who likes to go deep, New Orleans has you covered.

The New Orleans Jazz Museum

Housed in the historic Old U.S. Mint, this museum is packed with artifacts, instruments, and exhibits that trace the history and impact of jazz. It’s a must-visit for anyone who wants context with their soundtrack.

Congo Square

This sacred ground in Louis Armstrong Park was once the only place enslaved Africans could gather on Sundays. It became a birthplace of rhythm, dance, and early jazz. Today, it’s a powerful spot to reflect and sometimes even catch a live performance.

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When to Visit: Jazz Fest and Beyond

If you want the full-blown, jazz-soaked experience, plan your trip around the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival. Held annually in late April and early May, Jazz Fest features local legends and global stars alike. But honestly, any time’s a good time. New Orleans doesn’t take days off when it comes to jazz.

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Final Notes: Why Jazz in New Orleans Just Hits Different

Sure, you can hear jazz in other cities. But nowhere does it like New Orleans. The vibe here is raw, real, and ridiculously contagious. The musicians aren’t just playing songs—they’re sharing stories, history, and heart. Every solo has soul. Every street corner could be your next favorite stage.

So, if you’re planning a trip, don’t just eat your way through New Orleans (though, by all means, do that too). Tune in. Listen up. Let the rhythm find you. Because in this city, jazz isn’t just background noise—it’s the soundtrack to life.

New Orleans

New Orleans’ Haunted History: A Ghost Tour

New Orleans, the Crescent City, is renowned for its vibrant music, delectable cuisine, and unique cultural blend. But beneath the surface of jazz-filled streets and colorful balconies lies a darker, more mysterious side: a history steeped in tragedy, Voodoo, and countless restless spirits. If you’re looking for an adventure that will send shivers down your spine and ignite your imagination, a ghost tour in New Orleans is an absolute must-do!

Imagine walking through the dimly lit cobblestone streets of the French Quarter, the gas lamps casting long, dancing shadows, as a seasoned storyteller regales you with tales of centuries-old hauntings. This isn’t just about jump scares; it’s an immersive journey into the city’s past, where every building seems to hold a chilling secret.

What Makes New Orleans So Haunted?

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The city’s tumultuous history has created fertile ground for paranormal activity. From devastating fires and rampant epidemics like yellow fever to the brutal realities of slavery and violent crimes, New Orleans has witnessed its share of profound suffering. This rich, often tragic, past has left an indelible mark, and many believe the spirits of those who lived and died here still linger.

Iconic Haunted Locations You Might Encounter:

A good ghost tour will take you to some of New Orleans’ most infamous spectral hotspots. Here are a few you’re likely to hear about:

The LaLaurie Mansion (1140 Royal Street): Perhaps the most notorious haunted house in America, this grand mansion was once home to Madame Delphine LaLaurie, a wealthy socialite infamous for her horrific cruelty towards her enslaved people in the early 19th century. The tales of torture and suffering within its walls are truly unsettling, and many claim the tormented spirits of her victims still haunt the property.

St. Louis Cemetery No. 1: As the oldest cemetery in New Orleans, established in 1789, it’s a labyrinth of above-ground tombs and crumbling mausoleums. It’s the final resting place of many notable figures, including the legendary Voodoo Queen Marie Laveau. Visitors often report seeing ghostly figures, hearing whispers, and feeling an eerie presence among the ornate tombs.

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The Ursuline Convent: This imposing building, dating back to the 1750s, holds tales of mysterious deaths and sightings of ghostly nuns. It’s also famously associated with the “Casket Girls” legend – young French women who arrived with small chests, rumored to be vampires by some, though history tells a less sensational story of their belongings.

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Hotel Monteleone: This luxurious hotel has a long history and a reputation for being exceptionally haunted. Guests and staff have reported encounters with spectral children, including a young boy named Maurice who is said to roam the 14th floor, still searching for his parents.

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Muriel’s Jackson Square: This restaurant is reportedly haunted by its former owner, Pierre Antoine Lepardi Jourdan, who committed suicide upstairs after losing the property in a poker game. Diners have reported moving objects, disembodied voices, and a general feeling of being watched.

Beyond the Ghosts: A Historical Perspective

New Orleans ghost tours are more than just spooky stories; they offer a unique way to delve into the city’s complex history. You’ll learn about the origins of Voodoo in New Orleans, the impact of significant historical events, and the lives of the colorful, and often tragic, characters who shaped this remarkable city. The guides are often captivating storytellers, blending historical facts with local legends to create an unforgettable experience.

Whether you’re a skeptic or a true believer, a New Orleans ghost tour promises an evening of intrigue, history, and a touch of the supernatural. It’s a chance to see the city in a different light, to feel the echoes of its past, and perhaps, to even encounter a friendly (or not-so-friendly) spirit.