New Orleans Articles

Wondering if New Orleans is worth visiting for travelers? This question pops up frequently among those planning their next adventure. Tourism plays a crucial role in the New Orleans economy. It contributes nearly 40% to the city's operating budget. New Orleans is a cultural mosaic, seamlessly blending French, Spanish, African, and Caribbean influences into a lively tapestry of traditions and customs. This article dives into what makes New Orleans a captivating destination, highlighting its unique aspects and offering honest insights. Experience New Orleans Travelers often find themselves enchanted by the vibrant culture and atmosphere of New Orleans. The city is a melting pot of diverse influences, evident in its music, cuisine, and festivals. Take, for example, the lively streets...

Planning a romantic getaway can be both exciting and overwhelming. New Orleans offers a plethora of romantic activities that cater to couples seeking memorable experiences. This guide explores the best romantic things to do in New Orleans, providing expert tips and insights to make your trip unforgettable. Exploring the French Quarter The French Quarter is a romantic haven, blending history, culture, and vibrant energy. Stroll through cobblestone streets, savor local cuisine, and enjoy live jazz music, with each corner exuding charm and history. Jackson Square: Start your adventure surrounded by stunning architecture like the St. Louis Cathedral. This picturesque spot is perfect for people-watching and appreciating local artists' work. Café du Monde: Indulge in beignets covered in...

It doesn’t take a lot of money to dive into the real New Orleans, a place with deep culture, proud neighborhoods, vibrant street music, art, and a history unlike any other city in America. Here are 50 ways you can experience your own New Orleans without spending a penny. 1. Wander along Woldenberg Riverfront Park From Canal Street to the Moon Walk along the French Quarter, you can stroll down the riverfront and watch ships of all kinds ply the Mighty Mississippi. This scenic walk offers a serene environment to enjoy the river views, public art, and occasional street performances. Further down, Crescent Park provides stellar city views, accessible just past the French Market at Elysian Fields. You can even extend your walk all the way to Bywater, exploring the vibrant murals and unique...

Financial Health of New Orleans In a recent report by Truth in Accounting (TIA), New Orleans has been ranked 70th out of 75 in fiscal health among America's largest cities for the fiscal year 2022. Despite increased tax revenues and COVID relief funds, New Orleans faces significant financial challenges, raising concerns about its economic future and the impact on its residents. This article delves into the details of New Orleans' financial condition, its implications, and the broader economic context. New Orleans’ Fiscal Challenges Financial Shortfall The report by TIA highlights a severe fiscal shortfall in New Orleans. The city requires an additional $1.8 billion to pay its bills. This translates to a "Taxpayer Burden™" of -$18,200 per taxpayer, indicating the amount each taxpayer...

The New Orleans Saints Logo’s Story The New Orleans Saints logo is iconic, and it’s instantly recognizable for its French heritage and timeless design. Known as “le fleur-de-lis,” the emblem has been around since the early 17th century, linking it directly to a rich historical past. Today, it is a powerful representation of New Orleans, its football team, and its culture. Let's dive into the history and meaning of the New Orleans Saints logo and explore how it's changed over the years. The New Orleans Saints' logo stands for "le fleur-de-lis," meaning "lily flower" in French. It evokes a history of nobility and power. The fleur-de-lis connects the Saints to the culture of New Orleans. Early New Orleans Saints Logo Design The original New Orleans Saints logo, created in 1967, was a...

The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, commonly known as Jazz Fest, is an annual celebration of music, art, and culture rooted in New Orleans' vibrant traditions. Originally envisioned in 1970 by George Wein as “The Louisiana Heritage Festival,” the event has grown into a cultural landmark that draws visitors worldwide. Wein's vision was to create a festival that combined local music styles, arts, crafts, and evening concerts to showcase the heart and soul of New Orleans. Today, this vision has become a reality, welcoming hundreds of thousands of visitors annually where they can also enjoy over 100 food options and explore a craft bazaar featuring the work of local and regional artists. When Is Jazz Fest in New Orleans? Jazz Fest typically spans two weekends in late April and...

If you've ever heard someone mention New Orleans, chances are you've heard several versions of its pronunciation. To enlighten our beloved tourists, we came up with this guide on how to pronounce New Orleans like a local for all the folks visiting our cherished city. Although the areas in and around New Orleans have their own unique dialects, there are correct pronunciations that residents prefer, also the not so correct ways, and why it's important to get it right. Learning the Local Lingo for New Orleans So you're wondering, how DO the locals say it? This isn't just about dropping sounds; it reflects an entire cultural identity that the city is known for, where even the way you say the name can connect you more deeply with its storied history and vibrant present. In New Orleans,...

Safety is as crucial as picking the perfect destination when planning a trip. When the destination in question is as vibrant and culturally rich as New Orleans, it's understandable to question whether the city's charm outweighs its reputation for danger. Like many major cities in the US, it's safe to visit New Orleans, although it's important to learn about areas with higher crime rates, where safer safe neighborhoods are, and tips for tourists to stay secure while enjoying their visit. Here is some practical advice that will help you navigate the Big Easy more safely. Yes - New Orleans is Safe to Visit While it's true that New Orleans has been tagged with a reputation for a higher crime rate than many other US cities, this doesn't paint the full picture. Most incidents of serious...

The French Quarter, also known as the Vieux Carré, stands as the historical epicenter of New Orleans. Established by the French in 1718, the French Quarter is the oldest neighborhood in New Orleans. Steeped in history, this district reflects centuries of global influences, weaving together tales of commerce, piracy, voodoo, and even vampire lore. This neighborhood is celebrated for its stunning architectural mix of French and Spanish colonial styles, intricate ironwork balconies, and vibrant cultural tapestry. Spanning roughly one square mile, this area is compact enough to explore on foot, yet dense with historical landmarks, lively street scenes, intriguing courtyards, and the rich aromas of Creole cuisine wafting through the air. Here, the past coexists with the present in the...

Sports teams in New Orleans are more than just a collection of athletes; they are a vibrant part of the city's culture and community spirit. From the roar of the crowd at a football game to the passionate supporters of college sports, this city's love for its teams runs deep. While the primary attraction is the New Orleans Saints, with the New Orleans Pelicans also enjoying immense popularity, the Jesters and NOLA Gold Rugby captivate fans with their tenacity and fierce determination on the field. This guide dives into the heart of New Orleans' sports scene, showcasing the professional teams, college athletics, and unique sports activities that make this city a sports lover's paradise. Saints - New Orleans NFL Team The New Orleans Saints, the city's pride in the NFL, have a storied...

Exploring the historic plantations surrounding New Orleans offers a unique window into America's past, blending beauty with profound narratives of resilience and change. These estates, each with its own story, invite visitors to step back in time and experience the rich tapestry of history, culture, and architecture that defines the region. This guide delves into the best plantations to visit, providing insights into what makes each site special and offering practical advice for making the most of your tours. The journey into the heart of plantation country is a journey into the soul of the South. The plantations in this area, set against a backdrop of lush landscapes and the winding Mississippi River, offer more than just a glimpse into the antebellum world. They reveal stories of...

Exploring the historic cemeteries of New Orleans offers a unique window into the city's past, blending the eerie beauty of aged tombs with tales of those who shaped its culture. These sacred grounds tell stories of triumph, tragedy, and the everyday lives of New Orleans' former inhabitants. They stand as profound monuments to the city's culture and history. They contain the earthly remains of its residents from the late 18th century onwards, encompassing a diverse range of individuals including the wealthy and the poor, the enslaved and the free, as well as both immigrants and natives. The above-ground tombs in New Orleans' cemeteries are a direct response to the city's below-sea-level elevation, which makes traditional in-ground burials impractical due to the high water table. This...

The Battle of New Orleans stands as a pivotal moment in American history, marking the last major conflict of the War of 1812. This encounter, rich in strategy and heroism, not only determined the victor of the battle but also shaped the future of a young nation. Let's embark on a journey through time to uncover the layers of this historic event, its aftermath, and its enduring legacy. Historical Context Before we delve into the heart of the battle, understanding the backdrop of the War of 1812 is crucial. This conflict, often dubbed the "Second War of Independence," was primarily between the United States and the United Kingdom. Tensions had been brewing over issues such as trade restrictions and the impressment of American sailors into the British Navy. The stage was set for a...

Exploring the vibrant streets and rich cultural tapestry of a city teeming with life, history, and an endless array of activities can transform any trip into an unforgettable adventure. Whether it's the soulful strains of jazz that call to you, the tantalizing promise of culinary delights, or the allure of historic sites, finding the best things to do in a city famed for its unique blend of cultures is key to experiencing its true essence. This guide dives deep into the heart of New Orleans, offering a curated list of must-see attractions and hidden gems that promise to enrich your visit. 1. Explore the French Quarter The French Quarter stands as a testament to New Orleans' historical depth and cultural richness. Walking its streets, visitors are enveloped in a blend of French,...

New Orleans is one of the most unique cities in the New World. Founded amid conflict and considerable expense, its strategic location at the mouth of the Mississippi-Missouri river system—a key route into North America's fertile interior—made it a focal point in European battles for continental dominance. This rich history has cultivated a distinctive culture in New Orleans, blending diverse heritages while also celebrating the significant contributions of its African-descended citizens, notably in making the city the birthplace of jazz. Location and Topography New Orleans is situated in Southeast Louisiana, approximately 125 miles southeast of Baton Rouge. It lies at about 30.07 degrees North latitude and 89.93 degrees West longitude, nestled between the Mississippi River and Lake...

Welcome to the vibrant world of New Orleans, a city steeped in a medley of history, art, music, and culture like no other. Known for its dynamic spirit, this Louisiana gem serves up a feast for the senses, with some of the most compelling museums in the country nestled among its historic streets. Whether you’re a lifelong resident or a curious traveler, the array of museums in the Big Easy promises an unforgettable journey through the unique narrative of the city. 1. New Orleans Pharmacy Museum Off the beaten path of New Orleans’ bustling French Quarter, there lies a treasure trove of lesser-known museums that await your discovery. These charming institutions are brimming with stories and artifacts that offer a fresh perspective on the city's diverse heritage. Take for instance, the...