New Orleans reveals itself in many different ways: a Spanish colonial building on Jackson Square, historic collections and sculptures, expansive green spaces, jazz history and habitats along the Mississippi. As you plan your stay, you can use these highlights as a guide: history and culture sit alongside gardens, nature and culinary experiences.

Cultural History in the French Quarter

The Cabildo is a historic Spanish colonial building and a prominent landmark on Jackson Square in the French Quarter. In 1803, it was the site of the ceremonies marking the transfer of the Louisiana Purchase. Its three exhibition floors explore Louisiana’s history, culture and global connections. On view are rare artifacts, documents, paintings and other objects from the extensive collection of the Louisiana State Museum.

The New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park is also in the heart of the French Quarter. The two places represent different historical perspectives: the Cabildo marks an important moment in Louisiana’s history, while the park is dedicated to jazz.

The French Quarter Visitor Center explores the culture, nature, history and cuisine of southern Louisiana through exhibitions. It also offers ranger-led walking tours and live music performances. If you’re planning a tour or performance, check the current schedule in advance.

Gardens and Nature in the City

The New Orleans Botanical Garden covers 10 acres and is open year-round. It features more than 2,000 plant species from around the world; check seasonal access information before your visit. The garden’s design has its own history, too: it is one of the few surviving examples of public garden design from the Works Progress Administration (WPA) era and features Art Deco influences. Here, plant diversity and a historic design style come together in one place.

New Orleans City Park covers 1,300 acres. Its offerings include gardens, playgrounds, golf, kayaking and festivals, as well as free activities year-round. Couturie Forest offers a different natural highlight: Together with Scout Island, it forms a 60-acre natural area in the heart of New Orleans, with native trees, scenic waterways and diverse wildlife. At 10 acres, the New Orleans Botanical Garden is much smaller than the 1,300-acre City Park; the area formed by Couturie Forest and Scout Island covers 60 acres and brings together native trees, waterways and diverse wildlife.

Art, Music and More to Explore

The New Orleans Museum of Art has a permanent collection of more than 40,000 objects. The Besthoff Sculpture Garden offers a distinct focus: covering 11 acres, it features nearly 100 works of art around two lagoons. The collection’s size and the garden’s setting offer two different ways to experience art in New Orleans.

The Audubon Aquarium is located on the Mississippi River in central New Orleans and showcases marine habitats from near and far. The Sazerac House adds an immersive spirits experience to the cultural offerings, with complimentary tastings along the tour route. These tastings are currently available only to guests of legal drinking age; as availability and age requirements may change, check the current conditions before your visit.

Public Transit for Planning

The New Orleans Regional Transit Authority route map lists Route 48 Canal Streetcar – City Park. If you plan to use this connection for your trip, check the current schedule in advance, as routes and service may change.

For the broader travel overview: Orleans.