
City’s History in Brief in New Orleans, United States
1. St. Louis Cathedral
Iconic landmark overlooking Jackson Square, dating back to the late 1700s, symbolizing the city's French-Catholic heritage.
- Architectural Beauty: Features a stunning Gothic Revival architectural style.
- Religious Significance: Serves as the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of New Orleans.
- Historical Importance: Has survived numerous disasters, including the Great Fire of 1788 and Hurricane Katrina.
2. French Quarter
Vibrant neighborhood with a mix of Creole cottages, colonial buildings, and wrought-iron balconies, dating back to the 1700s.
- Cultural Richness: Known for its rich blend of French, Spanish, African, and American cultures.
- Architectural Diversity: Showcases various architectural styles such as Creole, Greek Revival, and Victorian.
- Entertainment Hub: Home to numerous bars, restaurants, and music venues.
3. The Cabildo
Historic building on Jackson Square, serving as a symbol of the Louisiana Purchase in 1803.
- Historical Importance: Witnessed the transfer of the Louisiana Territory from France to the United States.
- Architectural Significance: Features a unique blend of Spanish and French architectural styles.
- Museum Experience: Currently houses the Louisiana State Museum, offering exhibits on the city's history.
4. Preservation Hall
Iconic jazz venue founded in 1961 to preserve traditional New Orleans jazz.
- Musical Heritage: A legendary spot for experiencing traditional New Orleans jazz.
- Cultural Preservation: Serves as a platform for preserving and promoting the city's musical heritage.
- Intimate Atmosphere: Offers an intimate, authentic experience compared to larger venues.
5. Garden District
Historic neighborhood famous for its well-preserved antebellum mansions and beautiful gardens.
- Architectural Grandeur: Showcases stunning examples of Greek Revival, Italianate, and Victorian architecture.
- Historical Significance: Many of the mansions were built by wealthy sugar refiners in the 19th century.
- Residential Area: Offers a glimpse into the lives of New Orleans' affluent residents.
6. Lafayette Cemetery No. 1
Oldest city cemetery open to the public, featuring above-ground tombs due to the city's unique geography.
- Historical Burials: Final resting place of many prominent New Orleans figures.
- Architectural Interest: Offers a unique glimpse into the city's funerary art and architecture.
- Cultural Understanding: Provides insight into New Orleans' unique burial customs and traditions.
7. The National WW2 Museum
Museum dedicated to the American experience in World War II, with a focus on New Orleans' contributions.
- Historical Insight: Offers an immersive and educational experience about WW2 history.
- Regional Perspective: Highlights the role New Orleans played in WW2, including the B-17 Flying Fortress assembly plant.
- Interactive Exhibits: Features interactive exhibits, including a flight simulator and a USS Nevada exhibit.
8. Le Moyne House
The oldest documented building in the Mississippi River Valley, dating back to 1726.
- Historical Significance: Serves as a reminder of New Orleans' colonial past.
- Architectural Rarity: Features a unique Creole architectural style.
- Cultural Preservation: Now serves as a museum, showcasing the city's colonial history and culture.
9. Tomb of Marie Laveau
Famous voodoo priestess' tomb located in St. Louis Cemetery No. 1.
- Cultural Mystique: Believed to hold mystical powers by some visitors.
- Historical Significance: Marie Laveau played a significant role in shaping New Orleans' voodoo culture.
- Tourist Attraction: Attracts visitors seeking spiritual guidance or wanting to pay their respects.
10. Beauregard-Keyes House
Historic house museum where Robert E. Lee proposed the marriage of his daughter to a New Orleans resident.
- Historical Significance: Served as a headquarters for Confederate General P.G.T. Beauregard during the Civil War.
- Architectural Beauty: Features a beautiful Greek Revival architectural style.
- Cultural Insight: Offers insight into the lives of wealthy New Orleans families during the 19th century.
11. Chalmette Battlefield
Historic site of the Battle of New Orleans in 1815, marking a significant victory for U.S. forces against the British.
- Historical Significance: Commemorates the final major battle of the War of 1812.
- Educational Experience: Offers guided tours, exhibits, and a visitor center to help visitors understand the battle's significance.
- Scenic Beauty: Located on the banks of the Mississippi River, offering picturesque views.
12. Longue Vue House and Gardens
Historic house museum showcasing a well-preserved example of the American South's plantation style.
- Architectural Majesty: Features a stunning example of French Colonial Revival architecture.
- Historical Insight: Offers a glimpse into the lives and customs of New Orleans' elite during the early 20th century.
- Botanical Wonders: Features beautiful gardens with camellias, azaleas, and other Southern plants.
13. Hermann-Grima House
Historic Creole townhouse showcasing the lives of wealthy merchants during the 19th century.
- Architectural Excellence: Features a unique blend of French, Spanish, and West African architectural styles.
- Historical Significance: Offers insight into the lives and customs of New Orleans' wealthy Creole community.
- Cultural Insight: Showcases the impact of Creole culture on the city during the 19th century.
14. Steamboat Natchez
Authentic steamboat offering sightseeing cruises and dinner jazz cruises along the Mississippi River.
- Historical Authenticity: Features a design similar to the steamboats that once dominated the Mississippi River.
- Cultural Experience: Offers a glimpse into the era of steamboat travel along the Mississippi.
- Entertainment Value: Features live jazz music during dinner cruises, enhancing the overall experience.
15. Mardi Gras World
Facility where Mardi Gras floats are designed and built, offering tours year-round.
- Cultural Experience: Offers a behind-the-scenes look at the creation of Mardi Gras floats.
- Historical Significance: Provides insight into the history and traditions of New Orleans' most famous celebration.
- Interactive Exhibits: Features interactive exhibits, including a float-building demonstration.