🛬 How to Get to New Orleans

✈️ By Flight:
Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) – The primary airport, about 20 minutes from downtown.
Transport Options from MSY:
Airport Shuttle & Rideshare: Uber, Lyft, and taxis available.
Car Rentals: Convenient for those exploring outside the city.
Public Transit: The Airport Express (E2) bus connects to downtown.

🚗 By Car:
From Baton Rouge: 1.5-hour drive via I-10 E.
From Houston: 5-hour drive via I-10 E.
From Mobile, AL: 2-hour drive via I-10 W.

🚆 By Train & Bus:
Amtrak (Union Passenger Terminal): Offers service from cities like Chicago, New York, and Los Angeles.
Greyhound & Megabus: Budget-friendly bus options from surrounding states.

🚍 How to Get Around New Orleans
New Orleans Streetcars: A scenic and historic way to travel through the city.
RTA Bus System: Public transportation covering major neighborhoods.
Rental Cars & Rideshares: Uber, Lyft, and taxis widely available.
Walking & Biking: The French Quarter and Garden District are best explored on foot.

🏨 Where to Stay in New Orleans

Luxury (5-Star Hotels):
The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans – A top-tier hotel with elegant accommodations and live jazz.
Hotel Monteleone – A historic hotel featuring the famous Carousel Bar.

Mid-Range (4-Star Hotels):
Royal Sonesta New Orleans – A lively hotel located in the heart of Bourbon Street.
NOPSI Hotel, New Orleans – A chic and modern option in the Central Business District.

Budget-Friendly (3-Star & Local Stays):
The Olivier House Hotel – A charming and affordable boutique stay in the French Quarter.
Local Inns & Airbnb Rentals: Unique Creole-style homes for an authentic experience.

🍽️ Where to Eat in New Orleans

Casual & Local Favorites:
Café du Monde – A legendary spot for beignets and café au lait.
Willie Mae’s Scotch House – Famous for serving some of the best fried chicken in the country.

Fine Dining & Special Experiences:
Commander’s Palace – An upscale Creole dining experience in the Garden District.
Antoine’s Restaurant – A historic French-Creole restaurant known for its Oysters Rockefeller.

Diverse Dining Options:
Cochon – Specializing in Cajun-style whole-hog barbecue.
Dooky Chase’s Restaurant – A historic spot serving classic Creole soul food.

🎭 Things to Do in New Orleans

🏛️ Historic Landmarks & Museums:
French Quarter: The heart of New Orleans, featuring Bourbon Street, historic buildings, and jazz clubs.
The National WWII Museum: One of the best military history museums in the U.S.

🎺 Music & Nightlife:
Preservation Hall: A legendary venue for live jazz music.
Frenchmen Street: Known for its live music clubs and vibrant nightlife.

🌿 Outdoor & Scenic Attractions:
Jackson Square: A historic park surrounded by street performers and local artists.
City Park & New Orleans Botanical Garden: A peaceful green space with walking trails and sculptures.

🎭 Festivals & Events:
Mardi Gras: The world-famous celebration filled with parades, music, and parties.
Jazz & Heritage Festival: A top event showcasing local and international jazz musicians.

🦁 Zoos & Aquariums:
Audubon Zoo: A beautiful zoo featuring rare white alligators and exotic wildlife.
Audubon Aquarium of the Americas: Home to sharks, sea turtles, and a walk-through tunnel exhibit.