New Orleans
New Orleans, Louisiana, is a city like no other, renowned for its vibrant culture, music, and cuisine. The French Quarter, with its ornate iron balconies and lively Bourbon Street, captures the city’s eclectic spirit. Jazz music echoes throughout the city, and live performances can be enjoyed at venues like Preservation Hall.
Food lovers will relish iconic dishes such as gumbo, jambalaya, po’boys, and beignets from Café du Monde. New Orleans also hosts world-famous festivals, including Mardi Gras and the Jazz & Heritage Festival. History enthusiasts can explore sites like the Garden District, St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, and the National WWII Museum. A steamboat ride along the Mississippi River offers a unique perspective of the city. Perfect for those seeking rich history, dynamic culture, and unforgettable experiences, New Orleans caters to diverse travel interests.
Airport
Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY)
Train Station
New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal (NOL)
Weather
Spring (February to May) for mild weather and vibrant festivals. Autumn (September to November) is also a great option with cooler temperatures.
Known For
Famous for its jazz music, Creole cuisine, and lively Mardi Gras celebrations.
Neighbourhoods
The French Quarter is the city’s historic and cultural hub, while the Garden District features grand mansions and oak-lined streets. Marigny and Bywater are trendy, artistic neighborhoods known for live music and local eateries. Uptown boasts charming residential streets and universities, and Mid-City offers a laid-back vibe with access to City Park and the New Orleans Museum of Art.
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French Quarter – The iconic heart of New Orleans with vibrant nightlife, jazz music, and historic charm.
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Garden District – Elegant mansions, oak-lined streets, and boutique shopping.
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Marigny – An artsy area with live music venues and unique local eateries.
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Mid-City – Relaxed and accessible, with City Park and the New Orleans Museum of Art.
Hotel Guide
New Orleans has hotel options as vibrant as the city itself, fitting every budget. Budget travelers can stay in cozy guesthouses and boutique inns in neighborhoods like Faubourg Marigny, offering a unique and welcoming experience. Mid-range hotels are abundant in the French Quarter and Garden District, blending charm, convenience, and local flavor. Luxury accommodations shine with historic hotels like The Roosevelt and The Ritz-Carlton, featuring elegant decor, world-class dining, and prime locations to immerse in the city’s lively music and culture.
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HI New Orleans Hostel – ★★★
A stylish, centrally located hostel offering dorms and private rooms with great social spaces.
Olde Town Inn – ★★★
A charming budget option in Marigny, perfect for travelers seeking character and convenience.
India House Hostel – ★★★
A colorful, laid-back hostel with a pool, located near Canal Street and streetcar lines.
Budget Hotel Options
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The Frenchmen Hotel – ★★★
A charming, boutique-style hotel in the Marigny district, featuring comfortable rooms and an inviting courtyard, just steps from Frenchmen Street's live music scene.
Hotel Royal – ★★★
A classic New Orleans hotel offering modern amenities with a historic twist, located in the heart of the French Quarter.
The Treme Hotel – ★★★
A laid-back hotel with bright, spacious rooms, offering a convenient location for exploring New Orleans’ rich culture and history.
Mid-Range Hotel Options
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The Roosevelt New Orleans – ★★★★★
A majestic, historic hotel offering refined rooms, a stunning rooftop pool, and world-class dining, located just steps from the French Quarter.
W New Orleans – ★★★★★
A trendy, high-end hotel with sleek rooms, an outdoor pool, and a vibrant atmosphere, conveniently located in the heart of the French Quarter.
The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans – ★★★★★
An elegant hotel with luxurious rooms, a renowned spa, and top-notch dining, offering a perfect blend of New Orleans charm and five-star service.
High-End Hotel Options
Sights and Activities
New Orleans is a city of rich history, vibrant culture, and world-famous cuisine. Budget activities include exploring the lively French Quarter, listening to live jazz on Frenchmen Street, or visiting the historic St. Louis Cathedral. Mid-range options might include a steamboat cruise along the Mississippi River or a walking tour of the Garden District's iconic mansions. For a luxury experience, New Orleans offers private tours of plantation homes, stays in elegant hotels like The Roosevelt, and fine dining at renowned spots like Commander's Palace. With its festive spirit, colorful culture, and deep-rooted traditions, New Orleans is a city for every traveler.
Jackson Square
A historic park in the French Quarter where you can admire local artists, musicians, and street performers.
Frenchmen Street
Enjoy the lively atmosphere of this music-filled street, where free performances often spill out of bars and clubs.
City Park
One of the country’s oldest urban parks, perfect for a stroll or picnic, featuring picturesque oak trees and free walking trails.
St. Louis Cathedral
Visit the iconic cathedral in the French Quarter, free to admire from the outside and welcoming donations for a peek inside.
Budget Friendly Activities
Steamboat Natchez Jazz Cruise
Sail along the Mississippi River while enjoying live jazz music and city views. Ticket price: around AUD $60.
The National WWII Museum
Explore immersive exhibits detailing America’s role in World War II. Entry fee: around AUD $45.
Garden District Walking Tour
Discover the stunning mansions and lush greenery of this historic neighborhood. Guided tours start at around AUD $38.
New Orleans School of Cooking
Learn to prepare classic Creole dishes with a fun and interactive cooking class. Prices start at around AUD $45.
Mid-Range Activities
Private Jazz Club Experience
Book an exclusive table at Preservation Hall and enjoy intimate jazz performances. Prices start at around AUD $500 for a private session.
Luxury Riverboat Dinner Cruise
Cruise the Mississippi River in style with a multi-course fine dining experience and live jazz. Prices start at around AUD $150 per person.
Private Garden District Carriage Tour
Discover the charm of the Garden District with a private horse-drawn carriage ride. Prices start at around AUD $250.
Tasting Menu at Commander’s Palace
Dine on an award-winning Creole tasting menu at this iconic fine dining restaurant. A multi-course meal starts at around AUD $150 per person.
Hi-End Activities
Please Note - All prices listed above are approximate and must be checked prior to quoting clients
Resources
Visa Requirements
ESTA required
*Note - VISA regulations change regularly. Always check official websites for the most up to date information.
Official Tourism Website
For more information explore this cities official tourism website
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Language
English (French and Spanish are also spoken)
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Currency
United States Dollar (USD)
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Population
390,000 (city proper), 1.3 million (metro area)
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Time Difference from Melb (AEDT)
- -17 hours
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