What are the best things to do New Orleans? That is an easy question for the 'Big Easy.' Made famous by the annual Mardi Gras festival, Southern hospitality and witchcraft, and of course, Bourbon Street and the French Quarters. But, there is much more than just these fervent New Orleans attractions.
Yes indeed, Mardi Gras is the most notable attractions in New Orleans because of the high popularity of this annual festival, and because of all that it represents regarding the rich cultural mixture and heritage of this amazing city. However, there is much more to this town than just a festival. There are many reasons to visit New Orleans and see for yourself, and if you find yourself suddenly on a trip to this great city, make sure that you add at least a few of these must-sees to your to-do list.
Mardi Gras: While I have above mentioned that this is not the only reason to visit this city, nonetheless it does remain the main attraction for many tourists. With that in mind, it still has to - without a doubt - rank as number one on the list. So if Fat Tuesday (the day prior to Lent) is the day that you mark your calendar for visiting this southern town, you can take part in one of the most famous festivals in the South. Make sure to get your beads, and make certain that you sample plenty of food and drink.
New Orleans Museum of Art: This amazing and awe-inspiring museum is one of the oldest museums in the US, where you can adore the master works of more than 40,000 paintings, created by some of the best known artists that history has ever bestowed upon society. If you travel to New Orleans, this is absolutely a must-visit location, period!
Natchez Steamboat: Perhaps the best way that you can really see everything that there is to do in when in this fine city, this restored and very luxurious steam boat offers tours that you can take on one or two day guided cruises. With three decks, several onsite restaurants and a live music nightly - and kids under the age of three can ride for no fee - if you have the time and the money, this is the best way to get in all of the sights.
Musee Conti Wax Museum: A must-see if you love rich history and you want to learn more about the south and this great state and city. Exhibits are presented in life-size wax figurines that really look real-to-life. There are few things of interest that shouldn't be overlooked when here: Haunted Dungeon, Masters of the Macabre, and the Edgar Allen Poe and Victor Hugo exhibits, just to name a few.
The Cabildo: During the initial history of this place, when the Spanish still had a play in what was going on, this building was established by their municipal government as an official building. Following the Louisiana Purchase Transfer, this building has represented mostly history. Today, you can learn about New Orleans and lots of other interesting historical facts, including being able to take a guided tour through this building and its many exhibits.
Mardi Gras World: Head to West Bank and find Algiers - just across the Mississippi River, overlooking the French Quarters - and you will happen across this awesome place on Canal Street. Here you can learn all about the history of this world famous festival, and you can even try on costumes. If you come here during the right time of the year, you may even be lucky enough to see the floats being constructed for the Mardi Gras parade.
Audubon Zoo: If you didn't know it, this zoo is actually considered to be - and is also rated by the experts - as one of the best zoos in the whole country. There are ample exhibits that make this place a must-see when you travel to New Orleans. Don't forget to see the two white tigers (some of the rarest animals on earth) and of course, the newer Mayan exhibit.
Louisiana Children's Museum: Probably the coolest place in the whole city that you can take the kids to. There are many hands-on exhibits that children will just love, including a toddler's section. Admission is cheap, and it's a great way for the whole family to learn about the rich history of this town.
Aquarium of the Americas: A more unique aquarium that truly sets itself apart from all others by offering a distinct mixture of different ecosystems from around the world. This includes North and South America, Caribbean Sea and the Amazon Rainforest. This place also is host to thousands of other animals and species, and is great for families. If you have time don't forget to stop on by and spend a few hours, you won't regret it.
Saint Louis Cemetery Number One: This cool, gothic and semi-freaky cemetery is located just on the border of the ancient French Quarters. On weekend nights many a ghost hunter has passed through this place, most of them reporting and seeing eeriness. The cemetery is populated by many tombs and historical resting places.keep a keen vigil for ghosts, they are rumored to be everywhere here.
Even after devastation by recent hurricanes and the lack of the government's response to the disaster in the days that followed, New Orleans is a town of stubbornness and might, the ability to recover without begging for indifference by the masses. This place is truly one-of-a-kind, a city that comes into its own and that is one of the oldest cities in the country. So, if you are looking for things to do New Orleans is the place to find just about anything.
Visit often to learn more information from our updated Things to Do New Orleans.
