Top Rated Attractions in New Orleans

Lafayette Square is a public park that welcomes one and all. Designed by Charles Laveau Trudeau, it is renowned for the marvelous art work and sculptures installed here, such as statues of Henry Clay and Benjamin Franklin. Owing to its proximity to the government offices like USGSA Public Building Services, US Appeals Court, National Labor Relations and Federal Reserve Bank, it is packed with office workers during lunchtime. Lafayette Square also hosts concerts on a regularly that includes the popular Wednesday at the Square and Harvest the Music concert series.

Natchez Steamboat features full-service catering from the on-board galley and is docked at the back of JAX Brewery. This three-decked stern-wheeler offers two cruises daily with narration by a professional guide. For your dining and listening pleasure, there is a cocktail bar, live jazz and an optional Creole buffet. Dinner prices are not included in the cost of admission. Children under three ride free. Reservations are required, so call to confirm schedule and prices.

Hop aboard one of NOLA Gondola's tours for a romantic journey through New Orleans. These hand-crafted, Venetian Gondolas leisurely cruise through the lagoons of New Orleans while the soundtrack of romantic Italian music gently plays in the background. Crackers and cheese are provided for lovers to munch on while gliding across the water, while the champagne or wine is brought by tour-goers themselves. These private tours are the perfect way to connect with the unique vibe of New Orleans while enjoying a memorable outing with you and your special someone.

Having started out as the nation's first sugar plantation, then an urban park, and finally renamed in 1886 as Audubon Park in tribute to John James Audubon who painted many of his famed "Birds of America" in Louisiana, the 350-acre (141.64 hectares) Audubon Park and Audubon Zoo is a place one can truly and peacefully enjoy New Orleans's old-world charm: fountains, statues, gazebos, lagoons, giant oak trees, and the occasional horse-back riders and carriages. There are also a golf course, tennis courts, and a extremely popular 1.8-mile-long (2.8 kilometers) paved jogging track. Do walk along the outskirts of the park and be wowed by the historic buildings of Loyola and Tulane universities, as well as many elegant mansions.

Cajun Pride Swamp Tour is a fun and informative way to see a scenic swamp and wildlife refuge. You might see a whole zoo's worth of creatures including: alligators, bald eagles, waterfowl, owls, beavers, raccoons and even black bears. Tours generally last about an hour and a half.