Movie & TV Filming Locations in New Orleans, United States
1. French Quarter
Historic neighborhood with colorful buildings and vibrant culture, famously featured in films like 'Easy Rider' and 'Double Jeopardy'.
- Architectural Variety: A blend of Spanish, French, and American architectural styles.
- Lively Atmosphere: A bustling mix of bars, restaurants, and shops to explore.
- Historical Significance: Designated as a National Historic Landmark District.
2. St. Louis Cathedral
Iconic Catholic church in Jackson Square, often seen in movies like 'Interview with the Vampire' and 'Prince of Egypt'.
- Religious Importance: The seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of New Orleans.
- Architectural History: Built and rebuilt over three centuries, it stands as a symbol of resilience.
- Scenic Location: Overlooking Jackson Square in the heart of the French Quarter.
3. Garden District
Picturesque neighborhood with well-preserved antebellum mansions, like those seen in 'Pretty Woman' and 'The Curious Case of Benjamin Button'.
- Historic Mansions: Many were built by wealthy sugar refiners in the 19th century.
- Tree-Lined Streets: Known for its beautiful oaks and wrought-iron fences.
- Exclusive Restaurants: Home to some of New Orleans' most acclaimed dining spots.
4. Oak Alley Plantation
An iconic plantation with a double row of oak trees leading to the mansion, featured in 'Django Unchained' and 'The Originals'.
- Antebellum Architecture: The Greek Revival style mansion was completed in 1839.
- Historical Significance: A working sugar plantation from the 1800s to the early 20th century.
- Nature's Grandeur: The 28 oak trees, dating back to the 1700s, create a stunning visual impact.
5. Lafayette Cemetery No. 1
City park with above-ground tombs, used as a filming location for '12 Monkeys' and 'Double Jeopardy'.
- Above-Ground Burials: A common feature in New Orleans due to the city's high water table.
- Historical Figures: Final resting place of notable Louisiana figures, including authors George Washington Cable and Grace King.
- Architectural Beauty: Wrought-iron fences surround elaborate above-ground tombs.
6. Steamboat Natchez
Iconic steamboat offering dinner cruises and river tours, seen in 'The Great Gatsby' and 'Pirates of the Caribbean: At World's End'.
- Authentic Experience: Sails daily on the Mississippi River, just as it did when steam navigation was king.
- Historical Significance: One of the last traditional steamboats still in operation.
- Dining Opportunities: Enjoy Creole and Cajun cuisine during lunch or dinner cruises.
7. Mardi Gras World
Workshop where Mardi Gras floats are designed and built, featured in 'Big Easy Express'.
- Carnival Creations: Houses the largest collection of Mardi Gras floats under one roof.
- Artistic Inspiration: Visitors can watch artists at work and even create their own float designs.
- Year-Round Attraction: Open for tours throughout the year, not just during Mardi Gras season.
8. City Park
Large urban park featuring sculpture gardens, Carousel Gardens Amusement Park, and the New Orleans Museum of Art, as seen in 'The Pelican Brief' and 'Treme'.
- Green Oasis: One of America's most expansive urban parks.
- Cultural Attractions: Home to multiple museums, gardens, and entertainment venues.
- Recreational Activities: Offers fishing, boating, golfing, tennis, and more.
9. Audubon Aquarium of the Americas
Underwater wonderland showcasing aquatic life from the Gulf of Mexico to the Amazon River, featured in 'Deepwater Horizon'.
- Marine Life Diversity: Features over 15,000 specimens representing 500 different species.
- Educational Opportunities: Offers interactive exhibits and daily animal feedings.
- Iconic Architecture: Designed by renowned architect Antoine Predock.
10. Toulouse Street Wharf
Historic wharf along the Mississippi River where many famous musicians got their start, seen in 'The Big Easy' and 'Ray'.
- Musical History: Legendary jazz musician Jelly Roll Morton lived and worked here.
- Scenic Location: Offers stunning views of the Mississippi River and riverboats.
- Artistic Vibe: A creative hub for artists, musicians, and photographers.
11. Longue Vue House & Gardens
Historic house museum with beautiful gardens, used as a filming location for 'Selena' and 'Legally Blonde'.
- Historical Preservation: Preserves the life and times of the Edward and Ruth Reed family.
- Garden Variety: Features 10 distinct gardens, including a formal French garden, a Japanese garden, and a butterfly garden.
- Art Deco Architecture: The house was designed by noted architect Eugene Bourgeois in the Art Deco style.
12. Lake Pontchartrain Causeway
Longest continuous bridge over water in the world, featured in 'A Walk to Remember' and 'True Detective'.
- Engineering Marvel: Stretches over 24 miles across Lake Pontchartrain.
- Natural Beauty: Offers stunning views of the lake, marshes, and wildlife.
- Historical Significance: Opened in 1956, it greatly reduced travel time between New Orleans and the northshore.
13. New Orleans City Hall
Gothic-style city hall with twin towers, seen in 'The Princess and the Frog' and 'Blade'.
- Architectural Grandeur: Inspired by the Palace of Westminster in London.
- Civic Center: Serves as the seat of New Orleans government.
- Iconic Skyline Element: One of the most recognizable buildings in the New Orleans skyline.
14. Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve
Collection of sites preserving the history of pirates, Creoles, and Acadians, used as a filming location for 'Pirates of the Caribbean' series.
- Historical Significance: Protects sites associated with Jean Lafitte and the Battle of New Orleans.
- Natural Beauty: Includes six distinct locations, from swamps to historic buildings.
- Educational Opportunities: Offers ranger-led programs and exhibits about the park's history.
15. St. Charles Avenue Streetcar Line
Historic streetcar line running through the Garden District and Uptown New Orleans, used as a filming location for 'Benjamin Button' and 'Confessions of a Shopaholic'.
- Transportation Experience: The oldest continuously operating streetcar system in the world.
- Architectural Tour: Offers a glimpse of historic mansions and neighborhoods along the route.
- Cultural Immersion: A unique way to experience New Orleans' vibrant culture and history.