Best Of New Orleans

Some like to think that New Orleans happens to be the center of the South. And for all that there is to do there, they may as well be right! New Orleans, the second largest city in Louisiana goes by a lot of names. This city is one of the most historically rich cities in America, and one of the most famous to visit in the United States. The city of New Orleans, also known colloquially as Nola is so big and so important to U.S. history, that it is nearly impossible to fit everything in during a vacation to New Orleans. Tripio came together to fulfill this list. Combining historical landmarks, sense of adventure, unforgettable festivals, nightlife memories to be made and more. Without further adieu, here is Tripio’s list of the Best of New Orleans.  

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Café Du Monde, Best Of New Orleans

Photo by Jessica Tan on Unsplash

There is no better way to kick off our top things to do in New Orleans than with Café Du Monde. If there is one thing to do during your vacation in New Orleans, it must be to visit Café Du Monde. This centuries-old French Market has become the most popular tourist attraction in the entire city. Café Du Monde was established in 1862 and holds an immense amount of historic value in New Orleans. Rich and flavorsome coffee is served under the cabana of the outdoor seating accompanied by perhaps the best beignets (deep fried pastry) that can be tasted in the city. Café Du Monde is conveniently located on the popping street of Decatur and along the world famous Mississippi river. 

Jackson Square

Photo by Morgan Petroski on Unsplash

For history buffs, next on the list is an attraction that you will not want to skip out on while creating your custom itinerary on the Tripio App. Jackson Square is one of the most historically important destinations to the city of New Orleans. This attraction is without a doubt a bucket list activity for Nola. Roaming around the grounds of Jackson Square immediately transports travelers to the time of the 18th and 19th-centuries. Jackson Square is the notorious location where former president of the United States, Thomas Jefferson, agreed and signed the most important sale of real estate we know today as the Louisiana Purchase. In 1803, more than 530 million acres of the current United States was purchased for $15 million (approximately $0.04 an acre!).

Shops of the Colonnade (French Market)

Thanks to the heavy impact of French influence in New Orleans, today we have attractions within the city such as the Colonnade French Market. This is the best place to pick out your perfect Nola souvenir. The Shops of the Colonnade explore the traditional side of New Orleans. Here you will find local musicians busking with their instruments, farmers and grocers with goodies made locally along with a cultural experience that fits you right in with the locals. This destination is popping every day of the week. Pick a nice weekday morning to escape the heavy crowds that appear in the afternoons and weekends. 

Bourbon Street, The Best Of New Orleans

Photo by Kristina Volgenau on Unsplash

Now for the party side of New Orleans. If you are looking for a 21+ adventure in Nola (which most people are) then Bourbon Street is the place for you. Bourbon Street, otherwise known as “party street” or “night street” is the famous culture-packed nightlife attraction that brings locals and tourists together every weekend. On Bourbon Street you will find a number of bars and nightclubs. Dive bars, fancy bars, monkey bars, you name it! For those looking for a good time, look no further than the famous Bourbon Street. 

Mardi Gras Festival, The Best Of New Orleans

Photo by Edoardo Maresca on Unsplash

Tripio could not complete the page of top things to do in Nola without the mention of Mardi Gras. For Americans and world travelers, it is no doubt that seeing Mardi Gras first hand is a bucket list adventure. Mardi Gras is one of the world’s biggest and wildest festivals. If there is one time to go to New Orleans, it’s during Mardi Gras. This festival happens for nearly 3 weeks leading up to Christian feasts of Epiphany. The official date of Mardi Gras happens on the day before Ash Wednesday known as Shrove Tuesday. This seemingly endless party brings in tourists from around the world every year.

It is famous for its decorative masks and costumes, huge festive floats and the trading of Mardi Gras beads. It is an absolute party that everyone should see at least once in their lifetime. If you’re visiting Nola in the Springtime, be sure to be on the lookout for the Mardi Gras Festival and add to your custom itinerary on the Tripio App. 

New Orleans Jazz Museum

Photo by Jens Thekkeveettil on Unsplash

Often referred to as the birthplace of Jazz music, New Orleans holds a high historic value in the music scene. Jazz music is displayed all over the city and nowhere more than the New Orlean Jazz Museum. The Nola Jazz Museum celebrates and exhibits the history of Jazz music and the development of the early music scene in New Orleans. This is a must add to your custom travel itinerary for musicians and first time visitors to the city. Explore the defined history of one of music’s most complex genres with interactive exhibits and education. 

Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro 

Photo by Mana5280 on Unsplash

To wrap up Tripio’s list of best sites to see and things to do in New Orleans we have the Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro. A laid back, tasteful journey through the world of Jazz. Snug harbor is known for its authentic Creole atmosphere and cuisine. And not much goes better with Creole cuisine than live jazz music. On Frenchmen St, you can’t go wrong with Snug Harbor. Talented musicians and good food is what New Orleans is all about.

All of these activities and more available on the Tripio App

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If you liked this blog, check out our blog on: Houston, Texas: The Best Of The Best

And The Best City Escapes

-Matthew Knotek, Tripio Guru

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