
Best Cruise Destinations in New Orleans, United States
1. French Quarter
Historic district known for vibrant nightlife, Creole cuisine, and colorful houses with cast-iron balconies.
- Unique Architecture: Features the oldest buildings in New Orleans with a mix of French, Spanish, and American architectural styles.
- Live Music: Home to numerous music venues playing jazz, blues, and brass bands.
- Cultural Richness: A blend of cultures from its French, Spanish, African, and American influences.
2. Garden District
Affluent neighborhood known for its well-preserved antebellum mansions, Southern-style gardens, and grand live oaks.
- Historic Homes: Features numerous historic homes that are architecturally significant.
- Magnolia Trees: Home to many large, beautiful magnolia trees that line the streets.
- Tranquil Atmosphere: Offers a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere away from the bustling city.
3. St. Charles Avenue Streetcar
Iconic streetcar line offering tours of the Garden District and Tulane University.
- Historical Journey: A historic journey through New Orleans, dating back to the late 19th century.
- Convenient Transportation: Provides a scenic and efficient way to travel around the city.
- City Exploration: Allows easy access to many popular attractions, such as the Garden District and Tulane University.
4. Jazz National Historical Park
Park dedicated to preserving the history of jazz music in New Orleans.
- Musical Heritage: Provides insights into the birth and development of jazz.
- Live Performances: Features live jazz performances throughout the year.
- Educational Programs: Offers educational programs, workshops, and exhibits about jazz music.
5. Audubon Zoo
Wildlife park with a focus on conservation and education, featuring animals from around the world.
- Conservation Efforts: Devoted to the conservation of wildlife and the protection of endangered species.
- Unique Exhibits: Offers unique exhibits such as the Louisiana Swamp, the African Savanna, and the Gorilla Forest.
- Educational Programs: Provides educational programs and interactive experiences for visitors.
6. Audubon Aquarium of the Americas
Underwater zoo showcasing marine life from around the world, with a focus on conservation.
- Marine Conservation: Dedicated to the conservation of marine life and ocean ecosystems.
- Immersive Exhibits: Features immersive exhibits such as the Gulf of Mexico, the Amazon Rainforest, and the Caribbean Coral Reef.
- Interactive Experiences: Provides interactive experiences, including a touch pool where visitors can feel various marine animals.
7. National WW2 Museum
Museum dedicated to telling the story of the American experience in the World War II.
- Military History: Provides an immersive and educational experience about the history of World War II.
- Interactive Exhibits: Offers interactive exhibits, including a 4D theater, oral histories, and artifacts.
- Impactful Stories: Shares impactful stories of courage, sacrifice, and resilience during World War II.
8. Steamboat Natchez
Authentic steamboat offering dinner cruises with live jazz music.
- Historical Experience: Provides a historical experience aboard an authentic steamboat.
- Jazz Music: Features live jazz music performances during the dinner cruise.
- Creole Cuisine: Serves Creole cuisine during the dinner cruise, giving a taste of New Orleans' unique food culture.
9. Tours by Truck NOLA
Unique city tour in an open-air truck, offering offbeat and informative tours of New Orleans.
- Offbeat Attractions: Visits offbeat attractions that are often overlooked by traditional tours.
- Informative Guides: Provides knowledgeable guides who offer insightful information about the city's history and culture.
- Small Group Size: Offers small group sizes, ensuring a more personalized experience.
10. Café du Monde
Famous coffee shop serving beignets and café au lait since the 1860s.
- Historical Significance: A historic landmark in New Orleans, having served customers for over a century.
- Iconic Treats: Famous for its beignets and café au lait, creating an authentic New Orleans experience.
- 24/7 Availability: Open 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, making it a convenient spot to visit anytime.
11. Crescent City Farmers Market
Open-air market selling fresh local produce, seafood, and artisanal goods.
- Fresh Local Produce: Offers a wide variety of fresh, locally grown produce.
- Artisanal Goods: Features artisanal goods from local vendors such as baked goods, crafts, and flowers.
- Supporting Local Producers: Supports local farmers, fishermen, and artisans by providing a platform for their products.
12. Swamp Tours
Excursions into the Louisiana bayou to observe wildlife and learn about the area's ecosystem.
- Wildlife Observation: Allows visitors to observe various species of wildlife, including alligators, birds, and turtles.
- Ecosystem Education: Provides education about the Louisiana bayou ecosystem and its importance.
- Guided Tours: Offers guided tours led by knowledgeable guides who share insights about the area.
13. Mardi Gras World
Facility where floats and costumes for Mardi Gras parades are created and stored.
- Mardi Gras History: Offers insights into the history, culture, and traditions of Mardi Gras.
- Float and Costume Exhibits: Displays floats and costumes used in past Mardi Gras parades.
- Interactive Experiences: Provides interactive experiences such as costume-making workshops and parade rehearsals.
14. Preservation Hall
Venue dedicated to preserving traditional New Orleans jazz music.
- Traditional Jazz Music: Offers performances by traditional New Orleans jazz musicians.
- Rich History: A historic venue that has been promoting traditional jazz since the 1960s.
- Intimate Atmosphere: Provides an intimate, up-close experience with the musicians and music.
15. Frenchmen Street
Vibrant nightlife district known for its live music venues, bars, and restaurants.
- Live Music Venues: Features numerous live music venues playing jazz, blues, and rock.
- Local Bars and Restaurants: Offers a variety of bars and restaurants serving Creole and Cajun cuisine.
- Lively Atmosphere: Provides a lively, energetic atmosphere perfect for nightlife enthusiasts.