Exploring The Best Of New Orleans On Google Earth
New Orleans is a city that needs no introduction. From its vibrant music scene to its delicious cuisine and rich history, there’s something for everyone in the Big Easy. If you’re planning a trip to this incredible city, you’ll want to make sure you’re well-prepared to make the most of your experience. One way to do that is to explore the city using Google Earth before you even arrive. Here’s a comprehensive travel guide that covers everything you need to know about visiting New Orleans.
Top Attractions
New Orleans is home to a wide range of attractions that are sure to keep you entertained. The French Quarter is a must-visit for anyone coming to the city, with its historic architecture, art galleries, and street performers. Other top attractions include the National World War II Museum, the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas, and the New Orleans Museum of Art.
Hidden Gems
If you’re looking for something a little off the beaten path, there are plenty of hidden gems to discover in New Orleans. For example, check out the Backstreet Cultural Museum, which showcases the city’s unique Mardi Gras Indian culture. Or visit the Tree of Life in Audubon Park, a beautiful sculpture that’s hidden away in a quiet corner of the park.
Food Scene
New Orleans is known for its incredible food scene, with everything from po’ boys and gumbo to beignets and pralines. Some top restaurants to check out include Commander’s Palace, Brennan’s, and Cochon. For a more casual dining experience, head to the Central Grocery for a classic muffuletta sandwich or grab some oysters at Acme Oyster House.
Budget-Friendly Tips
While New Orleans can be an expensive city to visit, there are plenty of ways to save money if you’re on a budget. For example, take advantage of free activities like visiting the city’s parks or exploring the French Quarter. You can also save money by staying in a hostel or Airbnb instead of a hotel, and by eating at more affordable local restaurants.
Outdoor Adventures
For those who love the great outdoors, there are plenty of outdoor adventures to be had in and around New Orleans. Take a kayak tour of the Bayou or go on a swamp tour to see alligators up close. You can also explore the city on foot by taking a walking tour or rent a bike to see the sites on two wheels.
Historical Landmarks
New Orleans is a city with a rich history, and there are plenty of historical landmarks to explore. Check out the St. Louis Cathedral in Jackson Square, which is the oldest continuously active Roman Catholic Cathedral in the United States. You can also visit the historic cemeteries, like Lafayette Cemetery No. 1, which is the final resting place of many notable New Orleanians.
Family-Friendly Activities
New Orleans isn’t just for adults – there are plenty of family-friendly activities to keep kids entertained as well. Take a ride on the historic St. Charles streetcar or visit the Audubon Zoo. You can also explore the Louisiana Children’s Museum or take a riverboat cruise on the Mississippi River.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Experiences
If you’re looking for something a little different, there are plenty of off-the-beaten-path experiences to be had in New Orleans. For example, visit the Museum of Death, which explores the macabre side of life. Or head to the New Orleans Pharmacy Museum to learn about the history of medicine.
Natural Wonders
New Orleans is surrounded by natural wonders, including swamps, bayous, and wetlands. Take a swamp tour to see alligators and other wildlife up close, or head to the Barataria Preserve to explore the wetlands on foot. You can also take a day trip to nearby attractions like the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve.
Vibrant Nightlife
New Orleans is famous for its vibrant nightlife, with plenty of bars, clubs, and music venues to choose from. Check out Frenchmen Street for live music or head to Bourbon Street for a wild night out. You can also explore the city’s craft cocktail scene or take a ghost tour to learn about the city’s haunted history.
Local Markets
New Orleans is home to a variety of local markets that are perfect for shopping and exploring. Check out the French Market for handmade crafts and souvenirs, or head to the Crescent City Farmers Market to sample local produce and artisanal foods. You can also visit the Magazine Street Art Market or the Dutch Alley Artist’s Co-Op for local art.
Beaches and Mountains
While New Orleans itself doesn’t have any beaches or mountains, there are plenty of nearby destinations that are worth visiting. Take a day trip to Gulf Shores, Alabama for some beach time, or head to the Great Smoky Mountains National Park for some hiking and outdoor adventure.
Cultural Immersion
New Orleans is a city with a rich cultural heritage, and there are plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in the city’s unique culture. Visit the New Orleans Jazz Museum or the New Orleans African American Museum to learn about the city’s music and history. You can also take a cooking class to learn how to make classic New Orleans dishes like gumbo and jambalaya.
Art and Music Scene
New Orleans is a city that’s steeped in art and music, and there are plenty of ways to explore these creative scenes. Check out the New Orleans Museum of Art for a look at some incredible works of art, or visit the Preservation Hall for some traditional jazz music. You can also explore the city’s street art scene or attend one of the many festivals and parades that take place throughout the year.
Walking Tours
One of the best ways to explore New Orleans is on foot, and there are plenty of walking tours to choose from. Take a haunted history tour to learn about the city’s ghostly past, or explore the Garden District to see some of the city’s most beautiful homes. You can also take a food tour to sample some of the city’s best eats or a cocktail tour to experience the city’s famous libations.
Architectural Marvels
New Orleans is home to some incredible architecture, from the historic buildings of the French Quarter to the grand mansions of the Garden District. Check out the St. Louis Cathedral for a look at some beautiful Gothic Revival architecture, or visit the Cabildo to see some classic Spanish Colonial architecture. You can also take a tour of the Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 to see some stunning tombs and mausoleums.
Historical Sites
New Orleans is a city with a deep and complex history, and there are plenty of historical sites to explore. Visit the Chalmette Battlefield to learn about the Battle of New Orleans, or explore the historic French Market for a look at some of the city’s oldest buildings. You can also take a tour of the Old Ursuline Convent or the Hermann-Grima House to learn about life in New Orleans during the 19th century.
Biking Routes
Another great way to explore New Orleans is by bike, and there are plenty of biking routes to choose from. Take a ride down the Mississippi River Trail to see some beautiful views of the river, or explore the Lafitte Greenway to see some of the city’s most vibrant neighborhoods. You can also take a bike tour of the city to see some of its most iconic sites.
Wellness Retreats
If you’re looking for a little rest and relaxation, there are plenty of wellness retreats to be found in and around New Orleans. Visit the New Orleans Healing Center for yoga classes and holistic wellness treatments, or head to the Belladonna Day Spa for a day of pampering. You can also explore the city’s many parks and green spaces for some outdoor relaxation.
Adventure Sports
For those who love adventure sports, there are plenty of options in and around New Orleans. Take a skydiving or parasailing tour for some adrenaline-pumping fun, or head to the Fontainebleau State Park for some hiking and mountain biking. You can also try your hand at stand-up paddleboarding or kayaking on the Bayou.
With so much to see and do in New Orleans, it’s no wonder that it’s such a popular destination for travelers from all over the world. Whether you’re interested in exploring the city’s history and culture, trying some delicious food, or just having a good time, there’s something for everyone in the Big Easy. So start planning your trip today and use Google Earth to explore all that this incredible city has to offer.