The largest city in Louisiana, New Orleans has it all in abundance: good music, nice food, XVIII century architecture and a number of sites of historical and cultural importance. As such, it is seen as the top visitor destination in the state. New Orleans tourism is now seen as the state's most important source of income, contributing to the prosperity of the state's economy.
A great number of tourists take New Orleans vacations with the aim of learning more about Cajun culture. It should be mentioned though, that rich Cajun culture is represented mainly in the more rural parts of the state. Food, music, traditions and the population of New Orleans are not Cajun, they are actually a mix of many cultures and blood.
Visitors have the opportunity to learn more about Creole - the main culinary tradition in the city, which is a mixture of Spanish, French and African-Caribbean influences.
Among the popular destinations of New Orleans vacations are such city-highlights as the Victorian mansions and the French Quarter, the Superdome in the Central Business District, Audubon Zoo, New Orleans Museum of Art and City Park and more. In addition to the numerous attractions, there are scores of festivals and celebrations, providing additional interest: Mardi Gras, Jazz and Heritage Festival, French Quarter Festival, Essence Festival and Southern Decadence.
Such world famous festivals as Jazz Fest and Mardi Gras are subject to many New Orleans vacations, bringing in huge crowds of tourists. The favorite activities include dancing, listening to music, eating and walking. The city has much to offer to families with children, as well as those interested in arts. The world-famous Audubon Aquarium of the Americas is home to creatures of marine life from Amazon, Caribbean, Mississippi River and Gulf of Mexico. Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve houses important examples of the cultural resources of the Mississippi River.
Art lovers shouldn't miss the opportunity to visit New Orleans Museum of Art, featuring paintings from Degas to Picasso, but specializing in Columbian art. Ogden Museum of Southern Art houses extensive collections of sculpture, painting, photography, ceramics and self-taught art. In the Conti Wax Museum you'll observe wax figures, guiding you through the history of the state. Due to damage suffered from Hurricane Katrina, the majority of museums and other attractions are now closed.
New Orleans is one of few cities in the nation where you don't have a feeling of being in America. Its numerous sites are samples of various cultures or mixture of them. Tourists on New Orleans vacations should take advantage of the suggested itineraries, designed to insure the best entertainment. Depending on the amount of time you can spend in the city, you'll be offered various tours and trips. Those having only one day in New Orleans should spend it in the French Quarter. It offers you a bit of history, as well as the grand architecture, embodied in its individual buildings.
You'll walk down Royal Street, admiring the antiques and visit some of the shops and museums. Whenever you can allow spending more than one day in the city, New Orleans will reveal much of its hidden beauty. You'll visit Audubon Park, Esplanade Avenue, St Charles Avenue, Garden District and other prominent sites.
Ever since Hurricane Katrina, New Orleans tourism is depending on tourists and visitors to help the state and the city of New Orleans rebound to its former glory. Contact the New Orleans tourism Department online for information on package trips and discounts.