Exploring New Orleans: A District-by-District Guide
New Orleans isn’t just one city; it’s a collection of vibrant, distinct neighborhoods, each with its own story, its own flavor, and its own unique charm. Sure, everyone knows the French Quarter, but to really get New Orleans, you’ve got to explore beyond the usual spots. From the historic mansions of the Garden District to the colorful streets of the Bywater, and the soulful heart of Tremé, each district offers a different slice of the city’s rich tapestry. 2 This guide is your ticket to discovering the soul of New Orleans, one neighborhood at a time.
The French Quarter
The French Quarter, or Vieux Carré, is where New Orleans’ wild and wonderful story began, back in 1718. It’s like stepping into a time machine, with its stunning French and Spanish architecture, those iconic wrought-iron balconies, and hidden courtyards that hold centuries of secrets. Picture this: pirates like Jean Lafitte, who, far from being just a rogue, helped defend the city in the War of 1812. Then there’s Marie Laveau, the legendary Voodoo Queen, whose influence still lingers in the air. Literary giants like Tennessee Williams found inspiration in the Quarter’s sultry atmosphere, and their tales echo through the streets. It’s a place where history and revelry collide, and where the spirit of New Orleans is truly alive, a place where legends were made.
Where To Eat
Brennan’s: For a taste of classic New Orleans elegance, Brennan’s is a must. Their Creole cuisine is legendary, and their Bananas Foster? Pure magic.
Café Du Monde: No trip to the Quarter is complete without a stop at Café du Monde. 24/7, beignets, chicory coffee, and a slice of New Orleans life.
What To Do
Jackson Square: Wander through Jackson Square, the heart of the Quarter, and soak in the atmosphere. St. Louis Cathedral, street performers, artists – it’s a feast for the senses.
Preservation Hall: Experience the soul of New Orleans jazz at Preservation Hall. This intimate venue is a living legend, a place where the music is pure and timeless.
Pirates Alley: Though not a specific building, this alley behind St. Louis Cathedral is steeped in legend, associated with pirates like Jean Lafitte.
LaLaurie Mansion: Step into the chilling history of the LaLaurie Mansion, where opulence masked unimaginable horrors. This grand facade conceals tales of Madame LaLaurie’s cruelty, making it a site of dark fascination and rumored paranormal activity. A stark reminder of New Orleans’ complex past.
Marie Laveau’s House: Though the original structure is gone, the spirit of Marie Laveau, New Orleans’ legendary Voodoo Queen, lingers at this address. This was her domain, a place of both mystery and power. Feel the echoes of her influence, and delve into the captivating world of Voodoo in New Orleans.
Garden District
Step into a world of Southern elegance in the Garden District, a stunning contrast to the French Quarter’s lively buzz. This neighborhood bloomed in the 19th century, when wealthy Americans built grand mansions amidst lush, sprawling gardens, showing off their wealth and status. The result? A showcase of architectural masterpieces, from Greek Revival to Italianate styles, all draped in Spanish moss and surrounded by meticulously manicured landscapes. It’s a place where time seems to slow down, and where the echoes of old Southern charm resonate through the oak-lined streets. It’s also a place that has captured the imagination of authors, like Anne Rice, who called the Garden District home. Her gothic novels, filled with vampires and dark romance, were often inspired by the area’s haunting beauty, and the old world feel. This area shows a different side of New Orleans, one of wealth, beauty, and a touch of the macabre.
Where To Eat
Commander’s Palace: Indulge in refined Creole cuisine at Commander’s Palace, a Garden District icon. This restaurant is known for its impeccable service, award-winning dishes, and a setting that exudes Southern sophistication. Don’t miss their Sunday jazz brunch.
The Columns: Located in a historic hotel, The Columns offers a beautiful setting, and a great bar. This location is a great place to stop for a drink, and to admire the beautiful architecture of the area.
What To Do
Garden District Walking Tour: Embark on a leisurely walking tour to fully appreciate the district’s architectural splendor and learn about the stories behind its grand mansions. You’ll discover hidden courtyards, hear tales of the families who shaped the neighborhood, and get a feel for the area’s rich history.
Lafayette Cemetery No. 1: Wander through the hauntingly beautiful Lafayette Cemetery No. 1, a ‘city of the dead’ with above-ground tombs that tell tales of New Orleans’ past. It’s a fascinating and slightly eerie glimpse into the city’s unique burial traditions. Within its walls, you’ll find the final resting places of prominent citizens, including Confederate General Harry T. Hays, and those of the societies that shaped the city, like the early firemen. Beyond the historical figures, the cemetery holds a unique pop culture status. Anne Rice drew inspiration from its gothic beauty for her ‘Mayfair Witches’ series, and it’s also where you’ll find the now very famous, pyramid shaped tomb, that Nicolas Cage has had constructed for his future internment. It is a location that blends history, with a touch of Hollywood.
Magazine Street: Take a stroll down Magazine Street. This street runs right next to the garden district, and is full of unique shops.
Treme
The French Quarter may be better known, but Treme is the true soul of New Orleans. One of the oldest African American neighborhoods in the United States, it’s the birthplace of jazz, a crucible of Creole culture, and a living testament to the city’s complex history. Here, free people of color, enslaved Africans, and European immigrants forged a unique cultural identity, expressed through music, food, and social traditions. It’s a place where history resonates on every street corner, where the echoes of Congo Square’s drumbeats still fill the air, and where the spirit of resilience and creativity thrives. This area has produced some of the most influential people in New Orleans history.
Where To Eat
Dooky Chase’s: A true New Orleans institution, Dooky Chase’s is more than just a restaurant; it’s a cultural landmark. Leah Chase, the ‘Queen of Creole Cuisine,’ served up soul food and social change in this vibrant space. It’s a place where history and flavor intertwine.
Willie Mae’s Scotch House: For some of the best fried chicken you’ll ever taste, head to Willie Mae’s. This family-owned restaurant is a local legend, and its crispy, juicy chicken is a true New Orleans treasure.
What To Do
St. Augustine Church: Visit St. Augustine Church, a historic landmark and a symbol of Tremé’s enduring spirit. This church played a vital role in the community’s struggle for civil rights and remains a beacon of hope.
Backstreet Cultural Museum: Dive into the heart of Tremé’s cultural traditions at the Backstreet Cultural Museum. This museum showcases the history and artistry of Mardi Gras Indians, social aid and pleasure clubs, and other unique aspects of the neighborhood’s heritage.
Congo Square: On Sunday afternoons, enslaved Africans would gather here, and dance, play music, and preserve their cultural traditions. This area is considered the birthplace of Jazz.
Kermit’s Treme Mother-In-Law Lounge: Kermit’s Tremé Mother-in-Law Lounge is a true Tremé experience, owned and operated by the legendary Kermit Ruffins. This vibrant spot is a local institution, offering live music in a laid-back, authentic setting. It’s a place where you can feel the heart and soul of Tremé, where the music is real, and the atmosphere is pure New Orleans. Step inside, and you’ll find yourself immersed in the sounds and spirit of this historic neighborhood.
Faubourg Marigny
Faubourg Marigny, just downriver from the French Quarter, is where New Orleans gets its bohemian flair. Founded in the early 19th century, it’s a melting pot of Creole cottages, colorful shotgun houses, and a thriving arts scene. This is where the city’s counterculture takes root, where jazz and other musical genres mix freely, and where a spirit of artistic expression permeates the air. It’s a place where the past and present collide, resulting in a vibrant and eclectic atmosphere.
Where To Eat
The Spotted Cat Music Club: While primarily a music venue, the Spotted Cat also serves up delicious food in a lively atmosphere. It’s a great place to experience the Marigny’s music and culinary scene.
Mona’s Café: For a taste of Middle Eastern cuisine with a New Orleans twist, Mona’s is a must-try. This local favorite offers delicious and affordable fare in a laid-back setting.
What To Do
Frenchmen Street: Immerse yourself in the heart of Marigny’s music scene on Frenchmen Street. This vibrant strip is lined with jazz clubs, bars, and restaurants, offering live music every night of the week. It’s a must-visit for any music lover.
Frenchmen Art Market: Explore the Frenchmen Art Market, an open-air market showcasing the work of local artists and craftspeople. It’s a great place to find unique souvenirs and experience the Marigny’s creative spirit.
Washington Square Park: Relax and soak in the local atmosphere at Washington Square Park. This green space is a gathering place for Marigny residents, and a great place to people-watch and enjoy the neighborhood’s laid-back vibe.
Bywater
Bywater, just downriver from the Marigny, is New Orleans’s most eclectic and rapidly evolving neighborhood. Once a working-class area, it’s now a haven for artists, musicians, and free spirits. Think colorful murals, quirky bars, and a distinctly bohemian vibe. Bywater is where the city’s creative energy is palpable, where old warehouses become art spaces, and where the unexpected is always around the corner. It’s a place of constant reinvention, where the past and future blend in a vibrant and often surprising way.
Where To Eat
Elizabeth’s Restaurant: A Bywater institution, Elizabeth’s serves up creative Southern comfort food with a twist. Their brunch is legendary, and their praline bacon is a must-try.
Sneaky Pickle: For delicious and innovative vegetarian and vegan fare, head to Sneaky Pickle. This casual spot offers a creative menu and a laid-back atmosphere.
What To Do
Bacchanal Wine: Explore the local music scene at Bacchanal Wine, where you can enjoy live music, delicious food, and a lively atmosphere. Bywater has a thriving underground music scene, with genres ranging from punk to experimental jazz.
Public Art and Murals: Wander through the streets of Bywater and admire the vibrant murals and public art that adorn the neighborhood. It’s an open-air art gallery, showcasing the creativity of local artists.
Crescent Park: Stroll or bike along Crescent Park, a riverside park with stunning views of the Mississippi River and the city skyline. It’s a great place to relax and soak in the industrial-chic atmosphere of the Bywater.
Uptown/Carrollton
Uptown/Carrollton is a stretch of New Orleans that blends academic life with classic neighborhood charm. Home to Tulane and Loyola universities, this area has a youthful, vibrant energy, balanced by the grand, historic homes that line St. Charles Avenue. The iconic streetcar, rumbling along beneath ancient oak trees, sets the pace for this relaxed, residential district. It’s a place where you’ll find college students, families, and long-time locals all enjoying the unique Uptown vibe.
Where To Eat
Jacques-Imo’s Café: A true Uptown gem, Jacques-Imo’s is known for its quirky decor and its delicious, down-home Creole and Cajun dishes. Expect a wait, but it’s well worth it.
Camellia Grill: A classic New Orleans diner experience, Camellia Grill is famous for its counter service, its friendly atmosphere, and its delicious breakfast and comfort food.
What To Do
Audubon Park: Relax and unwind in Audubon Park, a sprawling green space with ancient oak trees, a scenic lagoon, and a world-class zoo. It’s a perfect place for a picnic, a stroll, or a bike ride.
Ride A Street Car: Take a leisurely ride along St. Charles Avenue on the iconic streetcar. It’s a great way to see the grand mansions, the university campuses, and the overall charm of Uptown.
Oak Street: Wander down Oak Street, a local favorite, that is full of shops, bars, and restaurants, that provide a great local experience.
Mid-City
Mid-City is a true cross-section of New Orleans, a diverse and dynamic neighborhood that blends urban living with lush green spaces. As its name suggests, it’s centrally located, making it a hub for locals and visitors alike. It’s a place where historic homes mingle with modern developments, where families and young professionals coexist, and where the city’s rich cultural tapestry is on full display. City Park, a sprawling urban oasis, is Mid-City’s crown jewel, offering a welcome respite from the city’s bustle.
Where To Eat
Parkway Bakery & Tavern: Home to some of the city’s best po’boys, Parkway Bakery & Tavern is a Mid-City institution. This casual eatery has been serving up delicious sandwiches since 1929.
Katie’s Restaurant & Bar: This neighborhood favorite offers a diverse menu of Creole and Italian dishes, with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. It’s a great place to experience Mid-City’s culinary diversity.
What To Do
City Park: Explore the wonders of City Park, a sprawling urban oasis with something for everyone. From the New Orleans Museum of Art and the Botanical Garden to the sculpture garden and the scenic Bayou St. John, there’s no shortage of things to see and do.
Bayou St. John: Kayak or paddleboard along the scenic Bayou St. John, a historic waterway that winds through the heart of Mid-City. It’s a great way to experience the area’s natural beauty and get some exercise.
Mid-City Theatre: Catch a show at the Mid-City Theatre, a local venue that hosts a variety of performances, from plays and musicals to concerts and comedy shows.
Central City
Central City is a neighborhood with a powerful history, a place that has been central to the African American experience in New Orleans. Once a hub of commerce and culture, it’s a neighborhood that has faced challenges, but also one that is seeing a resurgence of community pride and revitalization. It’s a place where the echoes of the past are strong, where the struggle for civil rights played out, and where the resilience of its residents shines through. The area holds a deep connection to the blues, and early jazz traditions.
Where To Eat
Lil’ Dizzy’s Café: A local favorite, Lil’ Dizzy’s serves up authentic Creole soul food in a casual and welcoming atmosphere. It’s a place where you can taste the heart and soul of Central City.
Central City BBQ: Enjoy some of the best BBQ in New Orleans at Central City BBQ. This restaurant is a local favorite, and it provides a great place to experience the community.
What To Do
Ashe Cultural Arts Center: Experience the vibrant arts and culture of Central City at the Ashe Cultural Arts Center.
Irish Channel
The Irish Channel, nestled between the Garden District and Uptown, is a neighborhood with a distinct working-class history, shaped by the Irish immigrants who settled here in the 19th century. It’s a place where the echoes of those early settlers still resonate, blending with a modern, evolving spirit. Think cozy neighborhood bars, shotgun houses, and a strong sense of community. While gentrification has brought changes, the Irish Channel retains its unique character, a blend of old-school New Orleans and a touch of rebellious spirit.
Where To Eat
Tracey’s Original Irish Channel Bar: A neighborhood institution, Tracey’s is a classic Irish pub serving up hearty food and cold drinks. It’s the perfect place to experience the Irish Channel’s laid-back atmosphere.
Parasol’s: Known for its roast beef po’boys and its lively atmosphere, Parasol’s is a local favorite, especially during St. Patrick’s Day celebrations.
What To Do
Celebrate St Patrick’s Day: Experience the Irish Channel’s legendary St. Patrick’s Day celebrations. The neighborhood transforms into a sea of green, with parades, pub crawls, and a general sense of revelry.
Do A Pub Crawl: Explore the Irish Channel’s many neighborhood pubs. Each has its own unique character, and they’re all great places to meet locals and experience the neighborhood’s social scene.
Lakeview
Lakeview, nestled along the shores of Lake Pontchartrain, offers a different pace of life compared to the city’s historic core. Primarily a residential area, it’s known for its family-friendly atmosphere, its beautiful lakefront views, and its strong sense of community. Rebuilt after the devastation of Hurricane Katrina, Lakeview has emerged as a vibrant neighborhood, blending suburban tranquility with easy access to the city’s attractions. It’s a place where you can enjoy leisurely strolls along the lake, indulge in fresh seafood, and experience a more relaxed side of New Orleans.
Where To Eat
Felix’s Restaurant & Oyster Bar: Enjoy fresh seafood and a lively atmosphere at Felix’s, a Lakeview favorite. Their oysters are a must-try.
Blue Crab Restaurant & Oyster Bar: With great views of the lake, this location provides a wonderful seafood experience.
What To Do
Lake Pontchartrain Lakefront: Stroll, bike, or picnic along the scenic Lake Pontchartrain Lakefront. It’s a great place to enjoy the fresh air, the lake views, and the family-friendly atmosphere.
New Canal Lighthouse: Visit the historic New Canal Lighthouse, and learn about its history, and the history of the lake. The views from the lighthouse are wonderful.
Gentilly
Gentilly is a large and diverse residential area of New Orleans, known for its strong sense of community and its blend of architectural styles. It’s a place where you’ll find everything from mid-century modern homes to classic New Orleans bungalows, reflecting the neighborhood’s evolution over time. Gentilly is a place where families have deep roots, where neighbors look out for each other, and where a spirit of resilience shines through, especially after the challenges of Hurricane Katrina. It’s a neighborhood that displays the true heart of New Orleans.
Where To Eat
Neyow’s Creole Café: A Gentilly favorite, Neyow’s serves up generous portions of classic Creole dishes in a lively, casual atmosphere. Their chargrilled oysters and red beans and rice are local hits.
Castnet Seafood Restaurant: For fresh, local seafood, head to Castnet. This spot offers a variety of seafood dishes, from fried platters to boiled crawfish, depending on the season.
What To Do
Joe Brown Memorial Park: Within Pontchartrain Park, Joe Brown Memorial Park offers a variety of recreational activities. Enjoy the playgrounds, sports fields, and walking paths. It is a great place to experience the outdoors.
Dillard University: Take a stroll through the historic Dillard University campus. The beautiful architecture and the campus grounds, provide a unique experience. This historically black university, has played a large role in the history of the city.
Algiers Point
Algiers Point, just across the Mississippi River from the French Quarter, feels like a world apart. This historic neighborhood, one of the oldest in New Orleans, offers a charming, small-town atmosphere with stunning views of the city skyline. Think cobblestone streets, Victorian-era homes, and a peaceful, residential vibe. Algiers Point provides a unique perspective on New Orleans, a place where you can escape the city’s hustle and bustle while still enjoying its proximity. It’s a place where history and community intertwine.
Where To Eat
The Appetite Repair Shop: This local favorite offers delicious comfort food and a cozy atmosphere. It’s a great place to experience the neighborhood’s friendly vibe.
Tavolino Pizza: For delicious pizza and Italian fare, head to Tavolino. This neighborhood spot is known for its friendly service and its tasty food.
What To Do
Algiers Point Riverfront: Stroll along the Algiers Point Riverfront and enjoy breathtaking views of the New Orleans skyline. It’s a peaceful spot to watch the river traffic and soak in the scenery.
Algiers Ferry: Take the Algiers Ferry across the Mississippi River to the French Quarter. This short ferry ride offers stunning views of the city and is a fun way to travel between the two neighborhoods.
