7 Reasons New Orleans is the Best Place to Go Visit
Known as the Big Easy, New Orleans is unlike any other city in the United States. With its rich history, vibrant music, and incredible food, this Louisiana gem continues to attract travelers from around the world. If you’re planning a romantic couple’s getaway, a family vacation, or just want to experience nonstop fun, New Orleans delivers. Here are 7 reasons New Orleans is the best destination right now — proof that New Orleans is the best place for travelers seeking culture, flavor, and unforgettable memories.
1. The French Quarter – A Must-See
The French Quarter is the beating heart of New Orleans and the ultimate must-see attraction for first-timers. Its mix of Creole townhouses, wrought-iron balconies, and cobblestone streets makes this area one of the most photographed districts in the country.
Highlights of the French Quarter:
- Jackson Square: Surrounded by artists and performers with St. Louis Cathedral as the backdrop.
- Bourbon Street: World-famous for its nightlife and non-stop fun.
- Frenchmen Street: A favorite among locals, known for live jazz and intimate clubs.
This neighborhood is also home to some of the city’s top restaurants, where dishes like oysters Rockefeller and gumbo originated. Dining at the Court of Two Sisters, with its legendary jazz brunch, is a traditional New Orleans experience.
2. Mardi Gras and Parades – Colorful Celebrations
If there’s one event that defines New Orleans, it’s Mardi Gras. Each year, the city fills with energy, color, and elaborate parades featuring floats, costumes, and marching bands.
- Mardi Gras Day is the grand finale, with krewe organizations staging parades across the city.
- You’ll encounter Mardi Gras Indians, with their intricate feathered suits honoring African and Native American traditions.
- Brass bands lead second line parades, inviting everyone to dance in the streets.
Mardi Gras is more than just a festival — it’s a way to experience New Orleans culture at its boldest. Travelers planning to visit New Orleans during Mardi Gras should book reservations months in advance, as hotels fill quickly.
3. The Garden District – Southern Charm
The Garden District is another side of New Orleans that every visitor should explore. Known for its live oaks, grand mansions, and carefully preserved above-ground tombs, this neighborhood offers a quieter but equally fascinating experience.
- Take a ride on the St. Charles Avenue streetcar, one of the oldest operating in the U.S.
- Stroll down Esplanade Avenue and enjoy the historic old town feel.
- Stop into Commander’s Palace, a legendary restaurant known for its turtle soup and jazz brunch.
For those who love architecture, the Garden District is a living museum of antebellum homes and gothic churches. It’s one of the top things to do in New Orleans when you need a break from the bustle of the French Quarter.
4. Food Culture – From Beignets to Po’boys
New Orleans is frequently ranked as one of the best food cities in America. From street eats to fine dining, it delivers flavors you won’t find anywhere else.
Dishes you must try in New Orleans:
- Beignets: Fried dough dusted with powdered sugar, best enjoyed at Café du Monde.
- Po’boys from Parkway Bakery and Tavern — a local favorite for over 100 years.
- Crawfish boils and fresh oyster platters in season.
- A classic French 75 cocktail from Arnaud’s French 75 bar.
For a nola-style breakfast, try biscuits and gravy at a local diner before heading out to explore. From casual bites to multi-course meals, the incredible food scene is one of the best reasons to visit New Orleans.
5. What to See in New Orleans – Beyond the Basics
There’s so much to see in New Orleans beyond Bourbon Street and the French Quarter. The city is alive with culture, rhythm, and unique traditions you won’t find anywhere else in the world.
- Second line parades: These community-driven celebrations are led by a brass band, where locals and visitors alike join the dance. It’s a quintessential New Orleans -- experience that’s equal parts music and movement.
- Mardi Gras Indians: With dazzling beadwork and elaborate costumes, this tradition is one of the most fascinating to witness up close.
- The House of Dance and Feathers: A cultural institution that keeps Mardi Gras Indian history alive.
Each of these cultural highlights represents a deep connection to the city’s history, resilience, and artistry.
6. New Year in New Orleans – A Place to Celebrate
If you’re spending the New Year in Louisiana, few destinations compare with New Year in New Orleans. Whether you’re planning a family-friendly event or a festive night on Bourbon Street, the city offers something for everyone.
- Fireworks over the Mississippi River light up the skyline.
- Jackson Square becomes the place to celebrate New Year’s with crowds counting down.
- Hotels and restaurants host private New Year’s celebrations, while families enjoy the annual “Noon Year’s Eve” for kids.
For couples, the city is also the best place to celebrate New Year’s, combining romantic dinners, rooftop parties, and cozy venues. Simply put, ring in the New Year here and you’ll quickly see why it’s a place to go for celebrations of all kinds.
7. Visit New Orleans for Festivals and Fun
Another of the biggest reasons to visit New Orleans is its year-round calendar of festivals. No matter when you come, something exciting always takes place in New Orleans.
- Satchmo SummerFest: Celebrates the life and music of Louis Armstrong, lovingly nicknamed Satchmo, with concerts, food, and lectures.
- Southern Decadence takes place in New Orleans each Labor Day weekend. This colorful festival draws visitors from around the world and is often called the “Gay Mardi Gras.” In 2025, it runs August 31st through September 4th.
- Allstate Sugar Bowl: Held annually, it’s one of the most important college football events. Football fans flock to the city to cheer for their teams.
For families, June brings Father’s Day in New Orleans, with Sunday afternoons often dedicated to special menus and jazz brunches.
Dining and Drinking – More Reasons to Visit New Orleans
Food remains one of the top reasons to visit New Orleans. Around town, you’ll find both casual dives and fine-dining gems that let you stay in style while savoring local flavors.
Classic dishes to try:
- Crawfish étouffée or boiled crawfish in season.
- Po’boys and fried seafood from Parkway Bakery.
- Creole brunch at Commander’s Palace.
- NOLA-style cocktails like the French 75.
- A sweet ending of beignets with chicory coffee.
Food alone makes the city a top tourist destination, and with such incredible food options, you’ll quickly see why New Orleans is the best for culinary adventures.
Experiences Around the Big Easy
For unique experiences in New Orleans, look past the city center and explore its neighborhoods and natural wonders.
- Take an airboat ride through the swamps, where you’ll see an alligator sunbathing in its natural habitat.
- Tour the Lower Ninth Ward, an area that reflects both the devastation of Hurricane Katrina and the city’s ongoing resilience.
- Walk along the Mississippi River, taking in the views and hopping on the ferry to Algiers Point.
There’s truly no better way to experience NOLA than by mixing cultural immersion with outdoor adventure.
NOLA’s Musical Soul – Live Jazz Every Night
The soul of NOLA is its music. The city is globally recognized as the birthplace of New Orleans jazz, and live music is available almost every night.
- Frenchmen Street is the city’s true music hub, with clubs hosting world-class performers nightly.
- Jackson Square often has buskers playing on the corners, adding rhythm to your walk.
- Many theatrical performances include jazz elements, blending storytelling with sound.
Whether you’re enjoying a casual set or a full theatrical performance, music is one of the most memorable experiences in New Orleans.
Sports, Culture, and Special Events
New Orleans is not just about food and music. Sports and cultural events make it a year-round destination.
- Allstate Sugar Bowl: One of the biggest events in college football.
- Choctaw parades: Tied to Mardi Gras traditions and tribal celebrations.
- Southern Decadence: As noted earlier, one of the most colorful festivals in the country.
- Special concerts and art fairs often take place in the Lower Ninth Ward and throughout Esplanade Avenue.
From festivals to football fans flocking into town, there’s always something happening to keep visitors entertained.
Final Thoughts – 7 Reasons Why New Orleans is the Best
There are countless reasons to visit New Orleans, but these traditions, festivals, and cultural treasures stand out the most. Whether it’s a romantic couple’s getaway, a weekend for football, or a chance to celebrate New Year’s Eve, this city proves again and again that New Orleans is the best.
From the soul of live jazz, the taste of crawfish and oysters, to the magic of a second line parade or a quiet walk along the Mississippi River, the city offers unforgettable moments at every turn. If you’re still wondering where your next getaway should be, remember: 7 reasons New Orleans stand strong — Orleans is the best place for history, music, food, and non-stop fun.
New Orleans Official Tourism Site
