New Orleans

New Orleans is Louisiana's largest city and cultural heart, set along the Mississippi River and shaped by French, Spanish, African and Caribbean influences. It is widely known for jazz, Creole and Cajun traditions, its historic French Quarter and the annual celebration of Mardi Gras.

Founded by the French in 1718, the city passed between French and Spanish control before becoming part of the United States through the Louisiana Purchase in 1803. Its layered history survives in the iron-balconied buildings of the French Quarter, Jackson Square and St. Louis Cathedral, along with Garden District mansions and the city's distinctive above-ground cemeteries.

Districts such as the Marigny and Bywater are known for live music and local arts, while Uptown and the Garden District offer oak-lined streets, historic homes and quieter neighbourhoods. Major attractions include the National WWII Museum, City Park, Audubon Park and the riverfront, with the St. Charles Avenue streetcar among the city's best-known ways to explore.

As a major port and energy, tourism and convention centre, New Orleans hosts large events such as Mardi Gras, the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival and French Quarter Festival. Nightlife ranges from Bourbon Street to the music clubs of Frenchmen Street, and the local food scene features gumbo, jambalaya, po'boys, seafood and beignets.

The city appeals to both leisure and business travellers through its festivals, music, distinctive cuisine and historic character, alongside modern conference facilities and a welcoming year-round events calendar.