Unlock spectacular travel destinations with your Palmera Vacation Club membership.
Unlike any destination found anywhere else in the world, New Orleans is a lively hub of culinary, art, and musical genius. First founded by the French in 1718 as La Nouvelle-Orleans, the city fell into Spanish control and then back to the French once more before the Louisiana Purchase in 1803. The melting pot of customs and architectural styles throughout history ultimately produced the city that we know and love today.
Famous for the city’s Mardi Gras celebrations, visitors also travel from all corners of the world to enjoy authentic Creole cuisine and listen to live jazz in what’s considered its birthplace. That isn’t to say jazz will be the only type of music you’ll hear—rock n’ roll, blues, folk, and zydeco are a few other popular genres you’ll encounter throughout your visit.
Most of the must-do activities or sights to see in general are in and around the French Quarter. Arguably the most famous neighborhood in the city, it’s also the oldest, dating back to its founding in 1718. This neighborhood is also the second-oldest historic district in the United States after Charleston, South Carolina.
When in the French Quarter, you’ll find many activities, landmarks, and even events and celebrations in Jackson Square. On one side you’ll find the St. Louis Cathedral, a landmark seen in many postcards and artwork. On either side of the cathedral, you’ll find some of the city’s many museums including The Arsenal, The Cabildo, The Presbytère, and the Louisiana State Museum. You’ll also be surrounded by delicious eateries and places to grab a few beignets—a must when visiting New Orleans. Just down the street is the French Market, a great place to purchase souvenirs, find handmade items from local artisans, and discover more mouthwatering sweet or savory treats.
Royal Street is also a great place to find art galleries and more great shopping opportunities. If you walk one street over, you’ll find yourself on the infamous Bourbon Street. Rich in history, Bourbon spans thirteen blocks in the heart of the French Quarter and is the place to be if you’re looking for nightlife.
As you head further up from the Mississippi River, you’ll come across the Treme neighborhood. Sandwiched between Esplanade Avenue and St. Louis Street, Treme is home to some of the best jazz clubs and Creole dishes you’ll find in the city. Historically significant as it was the main neighborhood for free people of color, Treme is still an important center of Creole culture. Stop by Congo Square for live music or have a picnic in the Louis Armstrong Park. Lafitte Greenway, a 2.6-mile linear park is close by and great for a nice walk or bike ride.
Wander further up toward Bayou St. John, and you’ll encounter the beginning of City Park, a massive urban greenspace filled with endless activities and landmarks to see. Families will especially want to stop by the Louisiana Children’s Museum, Carousel Gardens Amusement Park, and Storyland. You can also hop on the City Park Train, a great way to see the park and Christmas lights during the holiday season.
Within the park itself is the New Orleans Museum of Art, Besthoff Sculpture Garden, and the New Orleans Botanical Garden. Full of sports fields, courts, a stadium, golf, and disc golf courses, the park also features an equestrian school. The Couturie Forest located in the center of City Park is a wonderful nature preserve that allows you to see diverse wildlife and take a relaxing walk in the natural landscape.
Getting around the city is a lot easier by taking public transportation. If you have a car, just know that parades can make driving and parking a bit more complicated. A favorite form of public transportation sends you back in time and is something that everyone should do at least once during their visit, and that’s riding a streetcar. Hop on the dark green St. Charles line to ride the oldest streetcar still in use.
Another great way to see the city is by taking a tour. There are a seemingly endless number of tours that will take you to view certain neighborhoods to see historic homes and mansions, groups that will take you on a spooky trek through one of the city’s famous above-ground cemeteries, and even on airboats to explore the nearby swamps.
Here are just three random examples of some of the discounted activities and tours you can find with your Quest Travel Club membership:
It’s easy to find some kind of celebration or event year-round, but nothing compares to Mardi Gras which happens mostly in February. If you’re expecting just one day of celebrations and parades to honor Fat Tuesday, you’ll be surprised to hear that New Orleans offers weeks of parades and parties. If you want to escape the crazy fun, consider planning your trip during the beginning of December or sometime in January.
As far as weather goes, those looking to skip the heat and humidity will want to plan on visiting from November to April. Remember, hurricane season begins at the beginning of June and officially lasts until the end of November. Meaning, there’s still a risk of a storm stirring up your vacation plans if you’re hoping to enjoy November’s beautiful 70-something-degree days.
The heat starts as early as April, but May can easily see temperatures in the high 80s. July and August are historically the hottest months with temperatures reaching the 90s. Add humidity to the mix and on some days, you might not even have the energy to go see the sights like originally planned.
Some people assume that you have to stay in the French Quarter to get the full New Orleans experience, but there are other districts to stay in that have just as many activities and restaurant options with a lower price tag. From luxury to historic to the haunted and oh-so-quirky, there is a hotel that will fit your needs and allow you to stay on a budget.
Make sure to check RCI for available weeks offered in The Big Easy! Here are a few examples taken from the RCI Exchange that we chose at random:
Rates/Points are subject to change.
