The center of all cultural activities, the French Quarter is the oldest neighborhood in New Orleans. The city of New Orleans was built around the main square of what was then known as the Vieux Carré, after the city's founding in 1718. However, most of the area's buildings come from the early 19th Century, when the city was acquired in the Louisiana Purchase. Although originally settled by French Creoles, by the early 20th Century they were mostly gone from the French Quarter, and bohemian culture began to boom in the area. Architectural delights like Jackson Square and its Saint Louis Cathedral are highlights of the neighborhood. The French Quarter's single most famous landmark, Bourbon Street, is a nightlife mainstay, being the main drag of Mardi Gras celebrations. Replete with rich architectural history and cultural implications, the French Quarter truly encapsulates New Orleans' vibrant spirit.
Chickie Wah Wah located in the heart of Mid City, is the best place for all music lovers. Chickie's has organized a number of music festivals like the Wah Wah Blue Light Special, the Jazz Fest performance series and the carnival in the past. It is these extravaganzas that add up to the perennial ambiance of festivity and celebration that this place exudes. With a busy line-up of electrifying performances by some of the most talented local and international artists, this venue is house-full on concert nights with youths cheering on for more. Promising an entertaining time always, tickets for the concerts usually sell out weeks in advance. Check the website for details on bookings and schedules.
This large and lively spot on Frenchmen's street is always a good choice for a fun time out. This music hall and restaurant has three different stages, so there's always something playing and people on the dance floor. If you get hungry, the restaurant serves up delectable southern and Cajun favorites, from crawfish and gator to shrimp, grits and Po Boys.
The Peoples Health New Orleans Jazz Market is a cultural hub that offers a platform for the community to celebrate the past and present Jazz masters of the town. Offering music education to people of all ages, the performing arts venue and jazz community center invites all to experience its music culture through live jazz performances by famous musicians such as Irvin Mayfield, The New Orleans Jazz Orchestra and many other renowned artists. The Bolden Bar at the Jazz Market is open to all and offers creative cocktails that can be enjoyed with live music. The Jazz Market can also be booked for private events and celebrations.
Audubon Aquarium of the Americas is a world-class aquarium with fascinating, state-of-the-art exhibits that allow visitors both young and old to experience underwater nature first-hand. Here, visitors can immerse themselves in the major marine and submarine habitats of North and South America, including the Caribbean Sea and the Amazon Rainforest. The aquarium also features thousands of fish, reptiles, and birds native to these habitats. Kids can especially enjoy the experience of looking at colorful fish and even touching some beautiful aquatic creatures such as sting rays.