About New Orleans
New Orleans is a popular city of Louisiana, and is located along the Mississippi River in the southeastern region. It serves as a major port and is often considered as the economic and commercial hub for the Gulf Coast region. Moreover, with this New Orleans tour guide, you can learn about the city and plan your trip accordingly.
Furthermore, the city is world renowned for vibrant music, unusual dialects, delectable cuisines, and annual celebrations, including the popular, Mardi Gras. This town is also piled up with popular streets stretched along the French Quarter. Streets such as Bourbon Street are usually crowded, and portray the true colors of this place.
Population
With a total population of 383,997 according to the 2020 U.S. Census, New Orleans is the most populous city. In addition, the population of the metropolitan area is considered to be in a hike, as compared to the last years. It also anchors the Greater New Orleans metropolitan area, which has a population of 1,271,845 as of 2020. This makes it the 46th most populous city of the United States.
Geography
New Orleans is located in the Mississippi River Delta, south of Lake Pontchartrain along the coast of the Mississippi River. It is settled approx 105 miles upriver the Gulf of Mexico. The city is around 350 square miles, out of which 169 square miles is land and 181 square miles is water.
History
New Orleans or La Nouvelle-Orléans was founded in 1718 by Jean-Baptiste Le Moyne de Bienville, director of the French Mississippi Company. It was given this name after the Duke of Orleans, who was a regent in France’s kingdom.
Soon after in 1763, the city was ceded to the Spanish rulers. Plus, the port of New Orleans played an important part in smuggling of military goods and other supplies up from the Mississippi River.
Later on in 1812, the Battle of New Orleans began amongst the US army and British to win the rule of the city. However, General Andrew Jackson cobbled up a military force, with the help of the US navy, to defeat the British. This battle serves as the greatest American victory of the war.
Religion
Religion in New Orleans is different and unusual from other parts of the USA. The city is inclined more with Voodoo Catholicism than any other religion. In addition, 64.9% of the population is religious, with 36.3% Christians, 1.4% Judaism, 0.6% Islam, and 2% Jewish. Besides, New Orleans Voodoo is gaining more and more popularity and followers every year.
Culture
Being an unusual city, even the culture in New Orleans is impeccable. This distinct culture makes it the most hedonistic city of the USA. With a lesser dominance of American culture, here you will find a blend of French and Spanish cultures scattered over in the city.
Language
American English is the most spoken language in New Orleans, despite the dominance of French colonial history in the city. Moreover, French is rarely used in daily lives. However, many punctuations and expressions influence various languages spoken here. With a mix of cultures and people, French, Spanish, Creole, Cajun, and African languages are also spoken in the city.
Currency
The official currency of New Orleans is the U.S. Dollar ($, US$, USD).
Governance
New Orleans is a political subdivision of Louisiana. Considering that, the city has a mayor-council government, following a home rule since 1954. In addition, the city council consists of seven members, each selected for a single district, followed by two members elected at large. The present mayor of New Orleans is LaToya Cantrell, who is also considered as the first female mayor leading the city’s council and governmental affairs.
Climate
New Orleans covers a humid subtropical climate, with mild winters and hot, humid summers. The annual average temperature ranges from 11.9 °C in January to 28.5 °C in July. Moreover, the dew points in summers are relatively higher and the rainfall months are counted as July to September, and October being the driest month.
When to Go
The best time to visit and explore the culture of this city is around February to May, when the weather is most favorable. During this time, you can witness the annual festivities and celebrations, which elevate the distinctive side of New Orleans. Besides, visiting here in the right season will help you have a worthwhile and memorable vacation.
Travel
If you are visiting Louisiana from another country for 90 days for tourism, business, and medical purposes, an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) is required. You have to apply for ESTA at least 3 days before your scheduled departure.
Due to Covid-19, there are some travel restrictions in New Orleans. Hence, read the updated government guidelines before applying for a visa.
If you belong to one of the 40 countries part of the Visa Waiver Program, you can apply for ESTA. Additionally, you must have an e-passport to use the Visa Waiver Program. However, the purpose of your visit to New Orleans, Louisiana should be tourism, business, or medical. For other purposes, the eligibility criteria would be different.
For a trip to Louisiana for 90 days, ESTA is the quickest and easiest way to get travel permission. However, check your ESTA eligibility criteria before applying for a B1 and B2 visa.
- B1 Business Visa: If you are going to the US for a business meeting or conference.
- B2 Tourist Visa: If you are traveling to the US for tourism.
While applying for a visa, the first step is to complete the DS-160 form. Once you submit it online, schedule an interview at the US embassy or consulate in your country. You will need to provide some documents at the interview.
The ID and Documentation requirements to visit New Orleans, Louisiana varies from country to country. Furthermore, it also depends on your nationality, health status, criminal record, and purpose of the visit.
The ID and documents required to enter the territory of the US are:
- Passport with at least 6 months of validity
- You must have an electronic, biometric passport, which is equipped with an electronic chip in it and contain your biometric data.
- Your ESTA must be valid when you arrive in the US. You can’t renew your ESTA and overstay.
Arriving From Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda
- Citizens arriving in the U.S. from these countries must show a valid passport, U.S. Passport Card, a Trusted Traveler Program Card (NEXUS, SENTRI, Global Entry, or FAST), or an enhanced driver license.
- Canadian citizens can use NEXUS instead of a passport to arrive in the U.S. if departing from Canada.
Arrival From Other Countries
- Citizens from other countries must present a valid passport upon arrival.
- Both permanent residents and foreign nationals need a U.S visa.
Before traveling to New Orleans, Louisiana, you should prepare the necessary information needed for mandatory security checks to prevent delays on the Airport. To learn more about the security and customs guidelines for travel to the USA, you can check out the US Customs website and acknowledge the number of items you are carrying with you.
The prohibited items as per the US Federal Law are:
- Alcoholic beverages over 70% by volume
- Alcoholic beverages under 70% by volume
- Animal products or products of animal origin (EU destinations only)
- Batteries
- Cutting instruments
- Defense sprays
- Drones
- Dry ice
- Electronic cigarettes like vapor or e-cigarettes
- Explosives
- Firearms and ammunition
- Flammable items, liquids or solids
- Gasoline powered tools
- Hoverboards
- Marijuana
- Mobility Devices
- Lighters and Matches
- Pressurized containers/compressed gasses
- Self-heating meals
- Self-inflating life jackets
- Scissors and tools
- Smart bags
The major airport in the city is Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport(MSY), which connects the town with all other destinations worldwide. In addition, it’s owned by the city of New Orleans, being only 11 miles away from the city’s downtown district.
It is the focus city for Breeze Airways and is the second-lowest lying airport, built only 4.5 feet above sea level. Furthermore, it is operated by New Orleans Aviation Board, serving 13.1 million passengers annually.
Also, if you’re looking for an accommodation nearby you must pre-book for a hassle free experience. As a matter of fact there are several hotels available near the airport, which offer easy airport pick-up and drop-off. Besides, for a quick bite near the airport, take a cab which will take you to your destination.
Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport(MSY) Customer Support Number (24*7)
+504-303-7500
Custom and Immigration
- Location: Louis Armstrong New Orleans international Airport 1 Terminal Dr, Kenner, LA 70062, United States
- Contact Info: +1 504-303-7500
Emergency and Medical Assistance
Dial 211 from a courtesy phone, 911 from a payphone or cell phone in an emergency. For medical emergencies, professional medical assistance is available 24×7 at the airport.
Lost and Found
Contact New Orleans International Airport TSA Lost & Found at (504) 303-7790.
The most popular airlines to fly from/to New Orleans are- Delta Airlines, Spirit airlines, American Airlines, Frontier Airlines, United Airlines, JetBlue Airways, Silver Airways, Air Canada, Qatar Airways etc.
Traveling to this city might arouse a big question in your mind: how to travel in New Orleans. So here comes a list of public transport available in the city.
- Public Transport
New Orleans offers a variety of public transportations for all those who don’t wish to navigate the city by car or foot. In addition, a huge percent of inhabitants and tourists take advantage of the street cars and buses in the city. For visitors and even locals some historical streetcars are available, which includes routes covering the main attractions of the city. - Streetcars
Being an unusual mode of transport, streetcars are the most loved by visitors and even locals. It stretches to major four lines of the city’s neighborhood, and covers the top attractions you cannot miss out in New Orleans. - Buses
Offering 34 bus lines in New Orleans, riding a bus is the most convenient mode of transport for travelers. Bedies, the routes covered by buses are beyonds the parameters of a streetcar or ferry and are comparatively cheaper than other transports. You can also ride a bus to further connect with a streetcar or ferry. - Ferry
There are merely two ferry services in New Orleans. The one is offered for Chalmette and the other for Algiers. Although it is the least used public transport, you can still ride one if you’re serious about exploring the in-depths of the east side of the city. - Bikes and Pedicabs
New Orleans has its own bike-sharing system, which is available for use after you register online. Pay $8 per hour or $15 per month and enjoy bike rides in the city. Additionally, Pedicabs are very popular here. You can ride one for exploring the French Quarter and other nearby destinations. - Taxis and Cabs
If you’re planning to hail a cab in the city, then there are plenty of cabs running in the city offered by Uber and Lyft. You can simply book a cab from the mobile app and wait for the driver to pick you up. Moreover, the most popular taxi service is offered by United Cabs, and even has their own app, from where you can make a booking.
Accommodation
From luxurious and elegant hotels to affordable hostels, the city has a variety of accommodations to choose from. Now let’s look at the best hotels in New Orleans, where you can consider staying during your trip in this city.
Wyndham New Orleans
Address: 124 Royal St, New Orleans, LA 70130, United States
Contact: +1 504-529-7211
Bourbon Orleans Hotel
Address: 717 Orleans St, New Orleans, LA 70116, United States
Contact: +1 504-523-2222
The Mercantile Hotel
Address: 727 S Peters St, New Orleans, LA 70130, United States
Contact: +1 504-558-1914
Virgin Hotels New Orleans
Address: 550 Baronne St, New Orleans, LA 70113, United States
Contact: +1 833-791-7700
Quality Inns New Orleans
Address: 10020 I-10 Service Rd, New Orleans, LA 70127, United States
Contact: +1 504-373-6900
Services
When in the US, call 911 in case of any emergency. In addition, the New Orleans Emergency Medical Services Department offers medical assistance to all the residents and tourists visiting this city. Furthermore, below are the emergency contact numbers of emergency services in New Orleans.
New Orleans East Hospital
- Address: 5620 Read Blvd, New Orleans, LA 70127, United States
- Contact: +1 504-592-6600
Curahealth New Orleans
- Address: 3801 Bienville Ave, New Orleans, LA 70115, United States
- Contact: (504) 899-1555
Charbonnet Pharmacy
- Address: 7211 Regent St, New Orleans, LA 70124, United States
- Contact: +1 504-309-2449
- Timing: 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. (Monday to Friday), 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. (Saturday)
- Website: https://www.charbonnetrx.com/
All the tourists traveling to the USA should get their insurance coverage before departing from their home country. From medical to travel insurance, visitors should ensure they are completely insured.
Why is insurance necessary?
Travel insurance is necessary for unexpected losses or expenses such as missing flights, losing luggage, stolen cash, and missing passport.
Gas, Electric, Phones, Cable TV service
Contact: +1 504-358-6972
New Orleans Fire Department
Contact: +1 504-658-4700
Etiquette
- Dress Code
Despite being a fancy town, there’s no such dress code followed here. One of the fun facts about New Orleans state, is that you can dress in whichever way you like, and no one will even question it. Dress like Charlie Chaplin or wear flip flops if that’s what you prefer. However, mind your outfit before entering a chic bar at night. Many of the French Quarter restaurants, generally ask to wear a tuxedo for men and a classy dress for women. - Drinking
Drinking is 100% legal and allowed in New Orleans. You can even drink in public places without anyone batting an eye. However, use only plastic cups for drinking in a street or two. The famous French Quarter is an open evidence of drinking trends in the city. Besides, there’s a reason why this city is known as the best place to drink in the USA. - Tipping
Tipping is definitely necessary in the city. Wherever you eat, drink or party do remember to spare a tip of at least 20% of your bill if the service was average. However, for above and beyond services, a tip of 25% is good to spare. - Photography
While jotting down this New Orleans tour guide, another important thing is to learn about the photography guidelines followed here. As a matter of fact, clicking pictures is completely legal in this city even in the museums, provided that you use non-professional equipment and smartphones to click pictures. You can also take photographs of the other attractions present in New Orleans.
Neighborhood
When traveling to New Orleans, there are plenty of corners you can explore and learn about their history too. That being said, the city comprises certain neighborhoods contributing to the popularity of this city. So, let’s have a look at each of these districts, which is also considered as one of the best things to do in New Orleans.
- Algiers Point
This district feels like a small river town, considering it is nestled on the point where the Mississippi River bends sharply opposite the French Quarter. In addition, this place gets a spectacular view of the whole city, including the churches and skyscrapers. - Broadmoor
It is known as the historical district of the town and houses more than 7000 people. It is a peaceful neighborhood boasting several historical homes and ancient buildings, which attracts many tourists here. - French Quarter
Being the most popular district of New Orleans, French Quarter has gained significant fame. Be it the vibrant nightlife, bars and lounge lined with celebrations or world-class restaurants, this neighborhood will never disappoint you. - Garden District
This district is certainly a beautiful district of New Orleans. Lined up with oak trees and historic homes, this neighborhood has become the second-most popular place, the tourists love to visit in this city. If you’re traveling with your beloved, then walking down the streets of this corner is a perfect date plan for you. - Lakeview
This neighborhood is located in the northwest region of the city and is mostly surrounded by water. With surrounding water and street canals, this place is the largest sailing spot of New Orleans. - Marigny
Located just downriver from the French Quarter, you will find this amazingly beautiful neighborhood, covered with elegant buildings and bars. Besides, nights are even more exciting and thrilsome when the streets are filled with vibrant music and locals enjoying and partying. - Warehouse/CBD
The Warehouse district which inclines with the CBD is perfect deja vu of New York City. In addition, this part of the city is devoted to art and photography, which attracts young painters and photographers to live and work here.
Entertainment
Museum and Cultural Tour
Museum tour is a crucial part of the New Orleans tour guide and luckily, there are tons of museums you can explore in this city. From historical centers to popular art museums the city receives a lot of appreciation for the conservation of American culture. In addition, the city is immensely dedicated to such world renowned museums and art galleries that augment the beauty of this place and attract several tourists here.
Top Museums and Art Galleries
New Orleans Sightseeing
New Orleans Food and Wine Tour
High End Dining
If you’re thinking about the best restaurant in New Orleans, then here comes a list of all the eateries you can have a delicious bite in. Additionally, New Orleans boasts plenty of delectable restaurants that often attract tourists visiting the city.
With a decent amount of finest restaurants, this foodie town pays a considerable respect to culinary traditions of Louisiana. The creative chefs of the city are gifted with a talent to sprinkle flavors of America in each dish they prepare.
So, let’s explore the list of top-rated delectable restaurants this city has to offer. But do remember to check the latest travel restrictions in New Orleans.
Restaurant August
Address: 301 Tchoupitoulas St, New Orleans, LA 70130, United States
Contact: +1 504-299-9777
Doris Metropolitan
Address: 620 Chartres St, New Orleans, LA 70130, United States
Contact: +1 504-267-3500
Galatoire’s
Address: 209 Bourbon St, New Orleans, LA 70130, United States
Contact: +1 504-525-2021
Restaurant R’evolution
Address: 777 Bienville St, New Orleans, LA 70130, United States
Contact: +1 504-553-2277
Justine
Address: 225 Chartres St, New Orleans, LA 70130, United States
Contact: +1 504-218-8533
Casual Dining
Commerce Restaurant
Address: 300 Camp St, New Orleans, LA 70130, United States
Contact: +1 504-561-9239
LUVI Restaurant
Address: 5236 Tchoupitoulas St, New Orleans, LA 70115, United States
Contact: +1 504-605-3340
Mother’s Restaurant
Address: 401 Poydras St, New Orleans, LA 70130, United States
Contact: +1 504-523-9656
Killer PoBoys
Address: 219 Dauphine St, New Orleans,LA 70112, United States
Contact: +1 504-462-2731
Lil’ Dizzy’s Cafe
Address: 1500 Esplanade Ave, New Orleans, LA 70116, United States
Contact: +1 504-766-8687
Bars & Lounges
Bourbon ‘O’ Bar
Address: 730 Bourbon St, New Orleans, LA 70116, United States
Contact: +1 504-523-2222
Bar Tonique
Address: 820 N Rampart St, New Orleans, LA 70116, United States
Contact: +1 504-324-6045
The Carousel Bar & Lounge
Address: 214 Royal St, New Orleans, LA 70130, United States
Contact: +1 504-523-3341
Bar Marilou
Address: 544 Carondelet St, New Orleans, LA 70130, United States
Contact: +1 504-814-7711
French 75 Bar
Address: 813 Bienville St, New Orleans, LA 70112, United States
Contact: +1 504-523-5433
Spas & Wellness Resorts
The Woodhouse Day Spa
Address: 4030 Canal St, New Orleans, LA 70119, United States
Contact: +1 504-482-6652
The Waldorf Astoria Spa
Address: 130 Roosevelt Way, New Orleans, LA 70112, United States
Contact: +1 504-335-3190
Spa Isbell
Address: 1245 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70130, United States
Contact: +1 504-595-5009
The Gallery Salon & Spa
Address: 6312 Argonne Blvd, New Orleans, LA 70124, United States
Contact: +1 504-482-2219
Nola Organic Spa
Address: 3450 Chestnut St Suite 800, 8th floor, New Orleans, LA 70115, US
Contact: +1 504-722-3303
