United States Louisiana
New Orleans
Vibrant and culturally rich city known for its distinctive cuisine, lively music scene, and annual celebrations like Mardi Gras.
Tips from the community
Carnival 2022 Date: March 1, 2022
One of the most famous carnivals around the world has to be Mardi Gras. Carnival landed on American soil thanks to 17th century French explorers Pierre Le Moyne d’Iberville and Sieur de Bienville, who arrived in present day Louisiana on March 3, 1699. When they realized that it was Fat Tuesday (aka Mardi Gras, in French) back home, they dubbed their landing spot Point du Mardi Gras and held a party.
The Mardi Gras tradition has since grown into a million-reveler celebration, which includes everything from street parades a lá Rio, to elegant society balls like the Venetians host. While Alabama actually lays claim to the oldest Mardi Gras celebration (d’Iberville and Bienville established their first settlement near modern day Mobile), the largest and most decadent is definitely held in New Orleans.
Receiving more than 10 million visitors, this celebration isn’t just an awesome party – it’s a culture and tradition-lain festival where secret societies, beaded indian battlers, fire dancers, and flying beads fill the streets for weeks until the fall of Ash Wednesday when lent begins. If you love beads, battles, and some amazing music, you’ll need to head to New Orleans this pre-lent season.
marisamegan 2 years ago
Essence Festival 2022: TBD
For over 25 years, Essence Festival has been taking New Orleans by storm each 4th of July weekend. In 1995, the first festival popped up in the Crescent City. Dubbed as the ‘party with a purpose,’ Essence has long been instrumental in bringing millions of dollars to the city’s economy and creating a conjure of Black culture through music, food, and travel.
When Hurricane Katrina devastated New Orleans in 2004, the Essence Fest team was on the ground providing aid and helping to rebuild the city. 2004 was the only year that the festival was held outside of Louisiana (it moved to Houston temporarily). Each year, festival goers are invited to celebrate Black culture with performances from artists like Janet Jackson and Beyonce. When concerts aren’t happening, the community gathers at the convention center for celebrity panels, demos, and giveaways from brands like Shea Moisture. At Essence Fest, there is absolutely no shortage of love, pride, or “Sis, you look good” compliments.
briari 2 years ago
Locals have been making music here since the 19th century when enslaved people gathered in Congo Square on the weekends to play music and dance. Big band music traces its roots to New Orleans, where the sizable jazz ensemble and music genre were inspired by the city’s ragtime and blues. The hometown of Louis Armstrong hosts the annual Jazz Fest, a 10-day cultural festival featuring traditional and contemporary jazz plus other music genres the Big Easy is known for, including Afro-Caribbean, blues, bluegrass, Cajun, country, folk, gospel, Latin, R&B, rap, rock, and zydeco.
laurenmack 10 months ago
This vibrant city is an excellent choice for an exciting weekend getaway with your lover. An eclectic mix of rhythm and blues, mouthwatering flavor, and culture- NoLa never seeks to hypnotize travelers with its thriving city scene. Enjoy delicacies from the iconic beignets at Cafe Du Monde or chow down on authentic creole and cajun cuisine, explore multicolored streets and take in historical French architecture. We highly recommend hitting the town for a memorable nightlife experience in the city.
seeker 2 years ago
Famous for its food, music, and parties- this place speaks to my younger self. New Orleans is a city I endeavor to explore with good friends on a generously loose budget.
Why it's on my Bucket List:
New Orleans has been on my list since before bucket lists were a thing. The appeal used to be about the hedonistic parties, but now it's more about the culture for me. That doesn't mean I'm going there to behave though.
the.vagrant.optimist 3 years ago
New Orleans is famous for some of the best food in the country, old French architecture, and a lifestyle full of pizzaz, but the old roads of the city echo whispers of ghosts, witches, and scary happenings that linger to this day. Embrace the magical Halloween celebrations of New Orleans that transform the entire fall season into one of partying, tour old haunted buildings and hotels, and enjoy crispy beignets every morning at this gorgeous destination.
seeker 2 years ago
New Orleans is an ideal Valentine's Day getaway spot, filled with romance and history. Enjoy a luxurious stay in a French Quarter hotel, indulge in fine dining at a world-class restaurant, take a stroll through the scenic garden district or catch a show at one of the many jazz clubs. With its festive charm and vibrant culture, New Orleans is a perfect destination for a romantic retreat.
seeker 8 months ago
New Orleans is one of the most spectacular and vibrant cities across the USA, and the food matches perfectly. Taste freshly cooked beignets and indulge in southern comfort food, from creole cuisine to soul food, with a touch of traditional french cooking, New Orleans encompasses an eclectic mixture of culture that results in some of the most delectable and unique dishes across the world.
seeker 2 years ago
Munch on freshly baked beignets and enjoy this unique cultural experience, New Orleans is fully equipped with beautiful and lively streets, friendly people, and some of the most delicious food the US has to offer. With a rich history and cultural heritage seeping from every picturesque balcony, this sparkling destination has to be on your summer bucket list if it isn't already.
seeker 3 years ago
New Orleans is a city that captures the heart and soul of Louisiana. It is famous for its street performers, iconic jazz music, unparalleled street food and the colorful culture that is steeped in centuries of history. There's nothing like it in the world, so come and experience the unique energy of New Orleans for yourself.
seeker 8 months ago
New Orleans has long been a melting pot of culture, with extensive food culture and creative sensibility that is unique to the city. It is no wonder that so many artistically inclined individuals are drawn to the colorful southern destination, with plentiful galleries and cultural events that are sure to inspire.
seeker 2 years ago
With more than one incredible Jazz fest and other effervescent events hitting the historic streets of New Orleans- true music lovers won't want to miss this destination. New Orleans is a treasure trove of American music culture, a central destination for rhythm, blues, and jazz.
seeker 2 years ago
The next destination on my bucket list - I've never been to New Orleans so my husband gifted me beignet mix, chicory coffee, and a small voodoo doll keychain for Christmas as his way of telling me we were finally going this year.
tarahchieffi 2 years ago
Getting ready for an amazing Wanderfest day, setting up with some great women whose energy and excitement makes the cold so much easier to bear. Bundle up and come add your awesomeness to the collection!
leemullennola 2 years ago
I'm at Parasol's, a great local dive bar and restaurant, and had my first Ferdi Special, delicious!
kwalker 2 years ago
Cold and windy and well worth it to share this space with so many beautiful women
leemullennola 2 years ago
It's always a party in NOLA. Don't miss the Creole cuisine and beignets.
laurenmack 3 years ago
It’s beautiful…. ESP this time of the year when they have Jazz fest❤️
pahadi_globetrotter 2 years ago
I want visited this fascinating place for the jazz history and woodoo
ste.divita 2 years ago
Love the energy in the room with all the Wanderfest women
leemullennola 2 years ago
New Orleans Lists
Eat & Drink - HI New Orleans
hiusa (HI USA ) Must visit eateries when travelling to New Orleans! Recommendations from local HI USA Volunteers and Staff.Instagrammable spots to visit in New Orleans
seeker (Seeker Editors) New Orleans, fondly known as the Big Easy, is a vibrant tapestry of culture, music, and mouthwatering cuisine, making it a photographer's paradise at every turn. Imagine strolling through a city where every corner whispers a story, and every colorful building begs to be captured. From the iconic wrought-iron balconies of the French Quarter to the enchanting tree-lined paths of City Park, you're never far from a scene worth snapping. Whether you're looking for that perfect jazz-infused backdrop, a mural adorned with local artistry, or the lush greenery of the Garden District, NOLA's eclectic mix of Instagrammable spots is as diverse as its legendary Mardi Gras parades. So, charge up your camera, clear some space on your phone, and let's dive into the photogenic heart of New Orleans – just be ready for your feed to overflow with the soul of this unforgettable city.best vegan restaurants in new orleans
leah (Leah Fishman)All The Spots I've Been to in New Orleans
stillontheroad (Giada Matera)Arts & Culture - HI New Orleans
hiusa (HI USA ) Want to learn about New Orleans culture? Here are some places to visit when travelling to New Orleans! Recommendations from local HI USA Volunteers and Staff.Where I would like to spend my Halloween 🎃: scariest things to do in New Orléans.
ste.divita (Stefania Di Vita)Vampire's guide to New Orleans
michele (Michele Humeston) Sink your teeth into this mysterious town.New Orleans, on route 🧭🌏💖by foot 🚶🏻♀️...following the steps of the birthplace of Jazz🎺🎹🎵🎶🎙🎺
ste.divita (Stefania Di Vita)The 14 Best Brunch Spots in New Orleans
kaylee (Kaylee Giacomini) New Orleans has some of the best culinary experiences in the United States, so as expected they have phenomenal brunch options across the city. Whenever I have friends or family visiting I always take them to one of my favorite spots to enjoy a decadent, long breakfast that can last hours if done just right. From jazz buffets to bottomless vodka New Orleans does brunch exceptionally well.The Ultimate Bourbon Street Bucket List
kaylee (Kaylee Giacomini) I know, I know, Bourbon Street is touristy. That being said, I live two blocks away from this iconic New Orleans stretch featured on everything from the show “Bar Rescue” to the film “Girl’s Trip”. Love it or hate it, if you’re visiting the city you must spend a night on Bourbon to see what all the talk is about. I’ve now been to every single establishment lining the strip (no exaggeration) and can share some of the most quintessential things to do at this 14-block-long frat party. This Bucket List is also in order starting from the Canal Street corner.The 13 Best Restaurants to Visit in Walking Distance to Wanderfest
kaylee (Kaylee Giacomini) I am lucky to live in the heart of New Orleans surrounded by nightlife, culture, and of course - food. This year, Wanderfest is welcoming thousands of female travelers to New Orleans to explore the city and meet up with like minded expats. I’m a major foodie, and have plenty of restaurant recommendations to share within walking distance of the festival hub. Check out some of my top picks ranging from quaint brunch spots to extravagant dinner experiences.Bars and Rooftops in New Orleans
mustangdmv (Danielle Call) Bourbon Street gets all the attention but there are so many more great bars in the downtown area. Here are some of the best places and rooftops to grab a cocktail.A neighborhood guide to New Orleans
seeker (Seeker Editors) Get ready to dive into the vibrant heart and soul of New Orleans, a city where every neighborhood tells its own unique story. From the soulful melodies floating through the jazz-filled air of the French Quarter to the oak-lined streets of the Garden District, there's a slice of the Big Easy to satisfy every curiosity. Whether you're looking to indulge in Creole cuisine, catch a second line parade, or find the perfect venue for an unforgettable night out, our neighborhood guide is your personal roadmap to discovering the rich culture, historic charm, and lively spirit tucked away in every corner of this iconic city. So, grab your favorite pair of walking shoes, and let's stroll through the colorful tapestry that is New Orleans!New Orleans Vibrant Neighborhoods
seeker (Seeker Editors) Dive into the heart of New Orleans and you'll soon discover that its soul is stitched together by a tapestry of vibrant neighborhoods, each humming with its own unique rhythm. Imagine strolling down streets lined with Creole cottages in Marigny or catching infectious jazz melodies that float through the air in Tremé. From the boisterous revelry of Bourbon Street in the French Quarter to the laid-back, leafy enclaves of the Garden District, New Orleans beckons you to explore a rich cultural mosaic. Whether you're indulging in the decadent culinary scene of the Warehouse District or soaking up the artistic flair in Bywater, these neighborhoods aren't just places on a map; they're the beating heart of the Big Easy, inviting you to join the dance and create memories in a city that prides itself on its living history. So let's embark on a journey through some of the most iconic and lively neighborhoods that give New Orleans its irreplaceable character.2022 Dream Trip to New Orleans
tarahchieffi (Tarah Chieffi) I'm finally taking my first trip to New Orleans and these are all the spots I want to hit. Open to suggestions, too, please!The 12 Best City Tours in New Orleans
kaylee (Kaylee Giacomini) Whenever I check out a new city I like to orient myself with the local landmarks and culture by embarking on a city tour. Moving to New Orleans presented me with the conflicting identity of not necessarily being a tourist, yet not exactly being a local either. I believe that it’s important to be a tourist in your own city - to get to know it inside out and understand why it’s so beloved. Unsure how to do this? The best way to start is to take a tour. In my years living in New Orleans, I’ve had the privilege of taking quite a few; here are my favorites.Best Photo Spots in New Orleans
theblondeabroad (Kiersten Rich) Welcome to the weird, wonderful, and truly one-of-a-kind streets of the Big Easy. Even if you’ve been all over the United States, you’ve never been anywhere quite like New Orleans before. Often lost in the so-called flyover country, Louisiana is an undiscovered gem for countless tourists.10 Places to Eat Authentic in New Orleans
theblondeabroad (Kiersten Rich) A world away from California, New York, Florida and other tourist hotspots, you’ll find a place that flies under the radar. A true melting pot of so many different cultural influences, New Orleans is brimming with heart and soul...and so many tasty delights! Whether you're coming for a bit of revelry, to explore the iconic food and drinks, or you're looking to dig into the culture of the Crescent City, this New Orleans authentic food guide is the perfect way to get a taste for what NOLA has to offer.New Orleans Favorites
_kfunk (Kimberly Anne) These are my favorite spots in the Big EasyThe 10 Best Concerts, Shows, and Venues in New Orleans
kaylee (Kaylee Giacomini) It’s impossible to be bored in New Orleans. There’s always something to do, and if you don’t have set plans you can just walk outside and find something. Live music is everywhere from bars lining Bourbon to quiet streets by the riverbend. You don’t need concert or event tickets to have a good time, but if you're looking for a show New Orleans has plenty of established performances to check out ranging from seasoned jazz bands to burlesque drag queens.
New Orleans Articles
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The Best Cities in the US For Architecture Lovers
Read more...One of the most unquestionably enticing elements of travel is feasting your eyes on the buildings that populate your favorite cityscapes. Beyond New York City’s soaring skyline, San Francisco’s famous Golden Gate Bridge, and Savannah’s iconic oak trees lie city streets lined with skyscrapers, mansions, monuments, and more. Architectural enthusiasts enamored with rich histories, intricate […]
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The Blonde Abroad’s Guide to a Weekend in New Orleans
Read more...Welcome to the weird, wonderful, and truly one-of-a-kind streets of the Big Easy. Even if you’ve been all over the United States, you’ve never been anywhere quite like New Orleans. Often lost in the so-called flyover country, Louisiana is an undiscovered gem for countless travelers. A world away from California, New York, Florida and other […]
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The Best Festivals For Black Travelers in 2023
Read more...Community and Blackness go hand-in-hand. Simply put, it’s not easy living in a world where your culture is constantly appropriated and commodified without credit. As a response, we’ve collectively begun carving out spaces of boldness and Blackness designed by us, for us. While joining Black travel groups and following inspiring Black travel bloggers bring us together, […]
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10 Best Carnival Celebrations Around the World 2023
Read more...Are you ready to let loose, dance in the streets, and immerse yourself in the vibrant colors and cultures of carnival celebrations around the world? With so many festivities to choose from, it can be tough to decide which one to attend. Luckily, we’ve got you covered. In this article, we’ll take a look at […]