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North America United States New Orleans, Louisiana Do & See Garden District

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Garden District

The guide was updated: 2024-09-04

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New Orleans City Tour: Cemetery, French Quarter, Garden District

Known as the "Garden District" for its stunning gardens, canopies of live oaks, and serene vistas, this neighborhood offers a tranquil escape for visitors. A leisurely stroll reveals historic mansions and grand homes that attract both tourists and locals. Coliseum Square and Magazine Street are particularly popular among travelers.

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Address: Garden District, New Orleans

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Our travel guides are free to read and explore online. If you want to get your own copy, the full travel guide for this destination is available to you offline* to bring along anywhere or print for your trip.

*this will be downloaded as a PDF.

Price

€4,95

Purchase

French Quarter

French Quarter

The French Quarter is brimming with attractions and endless opportunities for fun-filled days. World-famous Bourbon Street is the heart of the action, offering everything from live music and jazz to the iconic "Hand Grenade" cocktail at Tropical Isle. If you’re feeling lucky, Harrah's Casino is just around the corner. Dining in the French Quarter is a culinary adventure, with a wide array of Cajun, Creole, seafood, and other cuisines waiting to be explored.

Jackson Square

Jackson Square

This beautiful park lies at the heart of New Orleans' French Quarter. Surrounded by iconic and photogenic landmarks like St. Louis Cathedral and the Cabildo, Jackson Square buzzes with vibrant street life. Painters and cartoonists display their works, while local musicians and artists infuse the air with culture and charm.

Mardi Gras

Mardi Gras

Mardi Gras and Carnival have long been the marquee events in New Orleans, with the first recorded parade taking place in 1837. Attracting hundreds of thousands of people each year, these festivities trace their origins to French traditions—Mardi Gras translates to "Fat Tuesday" in French. Carnival officially kicks off on January 6th (Epiphany) and unfolds over several weeks, beginning with elaborate, invitation-only balls hosted by krewes (private clubs), where debutantes are introduced to society. The excitement builds in the final weeks, leading up to Mardi Gras, with the famous street parades filling the city with colorful costumes, floats, and lots of music.

St. Louis Cemetery

St. Louis Cemetery

One of New Orleans' most intriguing attractions, St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 offers a unique glimpse into the city’s rich history and storied past. Opened in 1789 and accessible only through guided tours, this historic cemetery is the final resting place of notable figures like Voodoo Queen Marie Laveau and the infamous serial killer Delphine LaLaurie. This pre-booked experience provides an unforgettable opportunity to delve into the fascinating stories and historical significance of New Orleans’ oldest and most celebrated cemetery.

Swamp Boat Ride & Oak Alley Plantation Tour from New Orleans

Swamp Boat Ride & Oak Alley Plantation Tour from New Orleans

Join a full-day adventure from New Orleans which combines a boat ride through Louisiana’s swamp with a tour of a southern plantation. Begin your journey at Oak Alley Plantation, where you’ll stroll down the iconic tree-lined esplanade and gain insight into antebellum life, or explore Destrehan Plantation, once a leading producer of sugar and indigo. Afterwards, venture into the marshy swampland for an exciting boat ride, where guided commentary will enhance your experience as you spot gators, raccoons, snakes, and native birds in their natural habitat.

Food Walking Tour of the French Quarter

Food Walking Tour of the French Quarter

Savor authentic Louisiana cuisine from famous local eateries on this delicious Food Walking Tour of the French Quarter. Visit world-renowned restaurants in New Orleans and enjoy tastings from seafood gumbo, Creole brisket, and beignets. Learn about the history of fine cooking in NOLA from your guide as you walk along the city streets.

New Orleans Steamboat Natchez Jazz Cruise

New Orleans Steamboat Natchez Jazz Cruise

Step back in time to New Orleans’ vibrant past as a burgeoning port town and experience its colorful Creole culture from a historic riverboat. Set sail on the mighty Mississippi for a morning or afternoon cruise, where you get to soak in the scenic beauty of the urban shoreline, enjoy live music, and savor a delicious southern-style buffet meal.

New Orleans Premier Haunted Ghost, Voodoo, Vampire & Mystery Tour

New Orleans Premier Haunted Ghost, Voodoo, Vampire & Mystery Tour

Widely known as the most haunted city in the United States, New Orleans is full of spooky spots guaranteed to send a chill down your spine. And if you're feeling brave, why not explore the legends and history of this city embedded in mystical arts by joining the Premier Haunted Ghost, Voodoo, Vampire, and Mystery Tour? With a knowledgeable local guide, stop by the city's most eerie sites at night, such as the LaLaurie Mansion and New Orleans Pharmacy Museum, while listening to your guide's detailed stories of the paranormal and beyond.

The Cabildo

The Cabildo

Originally serving as the seat of the city council during Spanish rule, the Cabildo now marks the beginning of the Louisiana State Museum. It offers group tours that delve into Louisiana’s rich history, from the early European settlers to the Civil War.

Airboat Ride

Airboat Ride

Embark on a thrilling, family-friendly airboat ride through New Orleans’ wild bayou country, where you’ll explore the moss-draped cypress swamps near Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve. As you glide along the lush, forested shoreline, a native guide provides lively commentary, enhancing your adventure with fascinating insights into the local wildlife and the rich history of the area.

St. Louis Cathedral

St. Louis Cathedral

St. Louis Cathedral is one of New Orleans' most iconic landmarks. Overlooking Jackson Square, this stunning cathedral captivates visitors with its majestic architecture, including painted ceilings and stained glass windows. Visitors can enjoy an impromptu tour from a knowledgeable volunteer or explore at their own pace with a self-guided brochure.

Garden District

Garden District

Known as the "Garden District" for its stunning gardens, canopies of live oaks, and serene vistas, this neighborhood offers a tranquil escape for visitors. A leisurely stroll reveals historic mansions and grand homes that attract both tourists and locals. Coliseum Square and Magazine Street are particularly popular among travelers.

City Park

City Park

Just 2 miles from the French Quarter, this expansive green oasis offers a welcome escape from the city. The park features numerous attractions, including museums, lakes, fountains, sports facilities (such as a golf course), an amusement park, and the world’s largest collection of oaks. It's a favorite spot for runners, cyclists, picnickers, and boating enthusiasts. The park also hosts a variety of events, including concerts, an Easter egg hunt, and the popular Celebration in the Oaks.

New Orleans Museum of Art (NOMA)

New Orleans Museum of Art (NOMA)

Founded in 1911, the New Orleans Museum of Art (NOMA) started with just nine pieces on display. Today, it boasts an impressive collection of over 40,000 works, including paintings, drawings, sculptures, and more. NOMA is renowned for its diverse collections of French, Japanese, African, and American art, as well as photography and glass. The museum's Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden is a stunning five-acre outdoor gallery featuring some of America's most significant sculptural works. Set beneath a canopy of live oaks and Spanish moss, the garden offers a captivating experience for art lovers.

New Orleans School of Cooking

New Orleans School of Cooking

Immerse yourself in the full Louisiana dining experience with a fun and educational cooking demonstration class at the New Orleans School of Cooking. In a converted 19th-century molasses warehouse, watch a local chef prepare classic Creole dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, and pralines. As you learn the secrets of these beloved recipes, enjoy generous samples paired perfectly with local beer or a refreshing sweet iced tea.

Canal Street

Canal Street

The legendary Canal Street is often referred to as New Orleans' "Main Street." It serves as the perfect starting point for exploring the Crescent City, with scenic and historic sights just steps away. Many of Canal Street's historic buildings now house upscale hotels, such as the Ritz-Carlton, while the Shops at Canal Place offer a range of well-known brands. Canal Street also comes alive with parades during Mardi Gras and dazzles with stunning holiday lights during Christmas, making it a must-visit destination for travelers.

The National WWII Museum

The National WWII Museum

Designated by Congress as America’s National World War II Museum, this must-visit destination offers a powerful experience for locals, visitors, and all citizens. The Louisiana Memorial Pavilion houses a wealth of artifacts from the war, including exhibits on D-Day, the Home Front, and the Pacific Theater. Don’t miss Tom Hanks' exclusive production "Beyond All Boundaries," a 4-D experience at the Solomon Victory Theater. The Stage Door Canteen transports you back in time with music and entertainment from the era, while the American Sector restaurant and Soda Shop, crafted by renowned Chef John Besh, offer delicious dining options.

New Orleans Streetcars

New Orleans Streetcars

New Orleans' historic streetcars are more than just a convenient way to get around—they're an iconic attraction in their own right. Six vintage streetcars (NOT trolleys), dating back to the 1920s, currently operate across three lines, and they hold a special place in the hearts of both locals and visitors.

Jean Lafitte National Historical Park & Preserve

Jean Lafitte National Historical Park & Preserve

The Jean Lafitte National Historic Park and Preserve offers a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in Cajun culture and the natural beauty of the bayou. Named after the legendary "Gentleman Pirate" Jean Lafitte, who played a key role alongside General Andrew Jackson in defending New Orleans during the War of 1812, the park provides a rich historical experience. Visitors can also explore the Chalmette battlefield, where the pivotal Battle of New Orleans took place.

Caesars Superdome

Caesars Superdome

Home to the championship New Orleans Saints and the Tulane University Green Wave, the Caesars Superdome is one of the largest stadiums in the nation. Beyond football, the Superdome hosts world-class concerts, conventions, and exhibits. It has been the venue for seven Super Bowls and is also the site of the college football Sugar Bowl.

Audubon Zoo

Audubon Zoo

Located in the picturesque Uptown neighborhood of New Orleans, the Audubon Zoo engages guests with animals from around the world. The zoo features immersive natural habitats, including the Louisiana Swamp and Jaguar Jungle, along with lush gardens. Visitors can enjoy spectacular presentations featuring elephants and sea lions. Highlights of the zoo include rare and endangered species such as Amur leopards, whooping cranes, orangutans, the white tiger, and the elusive white alligators.

Audubon Aquarium

Audubon Aquarium

The Audubon Aquarium is adjacent to the French Quarter, right on the Mississippi River, which adds to the Aquarium's intrinsically inspiring aura. It displays, among other things, a vibrant world of Caribbean coral reef with a walk-through tunnel, sea otters and penguins engaging in play, and a 400,000 gallon Gulf of Mexico Exhibit which allows you to visit the gigantic sharks, tarpon, and rays. Guests are even encouraged to feed the parakeets, and get up close and personal with a sting ray.

New Orleans Ferries

New Orleans Ferries

New Orleans ferries offer a fantastic way to explore the city while enjoying stunning waterfront views. The ferry system is one of the busiest in the nation, with the Canal Street ferry alone making over two million trips annually. Adding to their appeal, ferry rides are free for pedestrians, making them an even more attractive option for sightseeing.

Ogden Museum of Southern Art

Ogden Museum of Southern Art

The Ogden Museum of Southern Art showcases not just Southern art, but art deeply rooted in Southern themes. Its collection includes 4,000 paintings, sculptures, and photographs spanning 15 Southern states over the past three centuries. On Thursday evenings, the museum hosts Ogden After Hours, featuring live music and various events. Visitors can also enjoy stunning views of the area from the rooftop terrace.

Backstreet Cultural Museum

Backstreet Cultural Museum

The Backstreet Cultural Museum celebrates New Orleans' vibrant street culture and rich Mardi Gras history. It showcases an impressive collection of Mardi Gras Indian costumes and a variety of musical artifacts. Visitors can delve into the city’s artistic and cultural heritage through its exhibits, as well as enjoy live music and dance performances.

Louisiana Children's Museum

Louisiana Children's Museum

Since 1986, the Louisiana Children's Museum has been a top destination for young visitors and their families. With 147,000 annual visitors, the museum offers a wealth of interactive exhibits and activities that make it a fantastic way to spend an afternoon with kids. The hands-on fun and educational experiences ensure that children are engaged and entertained throughout their visit.

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