New Orleans

The streetcars are still a way of transportation in New Orleans and a city icon.

Bruce Springsteen plays on the main Acura stage at Jazz Fest.

 

One of the many unique bars found all around the city.

The architecture is entirely all its own, and a walk through the Garden District is a great way to see some amazing residential styles. 

Brunch and cocktails at Coquette in the Garden District.

Live music is found everywhere throughout the city, inside and outside.

Before you eat the famous fried oysters, you have to shuck them.

 

Since New Orleans is built on a swamp, the (former) citizens must be buried above ground.  Mausoleums are throughout the town and are a popular tourist attraction. 

One of the most dynamic and unique cities in the United States, if not the world, is New Orleans.  History represents a major reason for this: first as a French Kingdom port, then ceded to the Spanish, followed by the United States (and the Confederacy).  The city was a major port for slavery, a battle for the War of 1812, and a scene of the Civil War.  The dynamic history and culture has provided a city that has an entirely unique culinary culture, architecture, and music scene. 

    
The city has a major African influence from slavery, and as a result has the unique Treme neighborhood.  The distinctive New Orleans jazz has its roots in the city, and is a major influence in music around the world.  Fried oysters, beignets, and creole food make up the New Orleans dining scene. 

While these distinct cultural marks exist here, many come to have fun, drink, and listen to live music.  It’s the Las Vegas of the south; people from all over travel to New Orleans just to party in the French Quarter.  Mardi Gras is the prime time of the year to witness this debauchery, but Jazz Fest is a great event at the fairgrounds to see some of the best music over two weekends. 

It’s best to visit in the fall or spring when temperatures aren’t too hot.  Early May this year was already brutally hot and humid, but it doesn’t stop people from coming out every day to have a great time.