New Orleans is a major port city in Louisiana on the Mississippi River,
near the Gulf of Mexico. The city is diverse and has three centuries of
history behind it. New Orleans has a French Quarter, and the oldest
African-American neighbourhood Treme, offering visitors an authentic
insight into European and Creole architecture. Music is central to the DNA
of New Orleans; the city is the birthplace of jazz and hosts a festival
dedicated to the genre. New Orleans has a buzzing nightlife, there are
umpteen music clubs, jazz clubs, casinos, burlesque and cabaret clubs.
Things to do in New Orleans
Frenchmen Street
Located in the French Quarter, the Frenchmen Street is the hub of live
music in the city with over 20 bars and restaurants across 2 blocks. No
matter which day of the week, you will always have a wide variety of music
to choose from, be it Blues, Reggae or Jazz. It is the place of choice for
locals, where you can feel the true vibe of the city. Sip on delicious
cocktails at popular venues like Snug Harbor, the Spotted Cat and the
Maison. You can also find local art and crafts at the Frenchmen Art Market.
Uptown & Garden District
Garden District is in proximity to the Uptown and is marked by beautiful
mansions. The District was developed between 1830s and 1900 and has
arguably the best preserved historic mansions in the country. Most notable
ones are - Carroll Crawford House, Commanders Palace, Stain Glass House,
Jefferson Davis House, Warwick Manor, Mayfair Manor and the Morris-Israel
House. The district is a lush green area where visitors can walk around to
appreciate Italian and Victorian Mansions in all their glory.
Jackson Square
Named after Andrew Jackson, the hero of the Battle of New Orleans, this
historic square is emblematic of the French Quarter. The landmark square is
surrounded by iconic buildings like St. Louis Cathedral, Louisiana State
Museums and the Lower and Upper Pontalba Apartments (the oldest apartment
buildings in the country). The open-air artist colony here attracts several
local artists who create caricatures and portraits and display their art on
the iron fence here.
Best Time to Visit New Orleans
The best time to book flights from Philadelphia to New Orleans is during
spring season, (February to May), when the weather is mild, and you can
enjoy the outdoor attractions and the revelry of Mardi Gras celebrations
held during this period. If you wish to avoid the crowds, you may choose to
visit in December or January. It is advised to book New Orleans flights in
advance to avoid paying more at the last minute.