1. The New Orleans Jazz Museum

Welcome to the spicy and soulful city of New Orleans, where jazz flows through the streets like hot sauce! In the heart of this vibrant city, you'll find The New Orleans Jazz Museum, a place that swings harder than a Mardi Gras parade. Prepare to be serenaded by the captivating history of jazz, where exhibits groove more than a jazz enthusiast with happy feet. Once you enter this musical wonderland, it's like stepping into the perfect harmony of Louis Armstrong's trumpet and Ella Fitzgerald's enchanting voice. Charting the birth and evolution of jazz, the museum sings the tunes of legends long gone, echoing through each display with more rhythm than a jazz drummer's solos. You'll find yourself toe-tapping and humming along as the museum unravels the relentless spirit and irresistible allure of this infectious genre. The New Orleans Jazz Museum is as lively as the Frenchmen Street on a Saturday night, with every corner buzzing with interactive exhibits and curious artifacts. From Louis Prima's hat to Professor Longhair's piano keys, this place is like a treasure chest of musical wonders, guaranteed to make you want to dance like nobody's watching. So, grab a brass instrument or just let the melodies transport you to the mesmerizing world of swing, blues, and improvisation - because in New Orleans, jazz is not just music, it's a way of life!

www.nolajazzmuseum.org

2. Garden District

Welcome to the charming and picturesque Garden District in New Orleans! Here, you'll find a delightful neighborhood full of stunning historic mansions that will make you question your life choices, but in a good way. It's like strolling through a real-life movie set, except here, you might bump into a local sipping a mint julep on their porch, casually pretending to be an extra. Prepare to be inspired by the ornate and grandiose architecture that makes you wonder if the people who designed these houses had shares in the "more is more" philosophy. The southern charm practically oozes from the perfectly manicured gardens that look like they've been straight out of a landscaping magazine. And don't be surprised if you spot a peacock or two casually strutting around, acting like they own the place – they probably do. While wandering through the Garden District, keep an eye out for the eccentricities that make this neighborhood truly unique. You might just discover a tree with mysterious Mardi Gras beads intertwined in its branches, a delightful reminder that here, even the trees party harder than most humans. So, whether you're taking a leisurely stroll or channeling your inner Southern belle or beau, the Garden District will make you feel like you've stumbled upon a hidden gem in the Big Easy.

3. St. Louis Cathedral

Nestled in the vibrant heart of New Orleans lies the illustrious St. Louis Cathedral, standing tall like a graceful grande dame, offering a dose of history and spirituality with a generous sprinkle of supernatural tales. With its intricate architecture, this "wow-worthy" cathedral may not be able to turn water into wine, but it sure can enchant visitors with its awe-inspiring beauty that is simply divine. And if you're lucky, you might even catch a ghostly jazz session from the spirits of long-departed jazz legends - just remember to bring your dancing shoes and a sense of humor!

www.stlouiscathedral.org

4. City Park

Welcome to City Park in the vibrant city of New Orleans, where you can escape the hustle and bustle of the French Quarter without losing your way in the botanical labyrinth. Known for its picturesque beauty, this park offers more than just picturesque scenery – you'll find a perplexing number of oak trees with magical powers of shade, conspiring birds playing Dixieland jazz, and statues that occasionally come to life for a game of hide-and-seek. So, grab a picnic blanket and your sense of wonder, and get ready to explore the dynamic and occasionally animated oasis of City Park.

5. Bourbon Street

Welcome to Bourbon Street, the lively heart of New Orleans, where the good times roll and the hangovers unfurl like party streamers! Prepare to be swept away by the buzzing energy, flamboyant characters, and the unmistakable aroma of debauchery that permeates the air. From raucous bars overflowing with colorful cocktails to the rhythmic beat of jazz echoing through the narrow streets, Bourbon Street is a delightful circus for the merry and mischievous. So, grab your dancing shoes, embrace your inner wild child, and let the revelry begin!

6. Mardi Gras World

Welcome to Mardi Gras World, where ordinary becomes extraordinary and floats come to life like a magical Disney parade on steroids. Nestled in the vibrant heart of New Orleans, this whimsical wonderland serves as the birthplace and sanctuary of those enchanting creatures known as Mardi Gras floats - the Kardashians of the Carnival world. Step into this carnival of creativity, where gigantic sculptures, colorful props, and sparkly sequins conspire to make you believe that you've accidentally stumbled into the factory of Willy Wonka's more flamboyant cousin.

www.mardigrasworld.com

7. Audubon Aquarium of the Americas

Welcome to the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas in the heart of New Orleans, where even the fish know how to jazz it up! Dive into a world of underwater wonders and prepare to be fin-tastically entertained. From colorful sea creatures doing their own version of a Mardi Gras parade to penguin antics that will make you giggle like a beignet fanatic, this aquarium promises an o-fish-ally good time that you won't forget. Get ready to say "Shrimply marvelous!" as you explore this aquatic gem of Louisiana.

audubonnatureinstitute.org

8. Jackson Square

Nestled amidst the lively streets of New Orleans, Jackson Square stands tall like a charming Instagram influencer trying to get the perfect shot. With its picturesque beauty, it's almost as if time decided to halt and said, "Hey, I think I'll just lay down right here." Surrounded by artists and street performers who have mastered the art of making tourists part with their money, this square is a perfect spot to experience the true essence of NOLA, alongside the frequent occurrence of jazz music and occasional psychic offering to solve all your life problems.

nola.gov

9. New Orleans Museum of Art

Welcome to the New Orleans Museum of Art, where art enthusiasts and casual visitors alike can revel in a glorious amalgamation of culture, beauty, and the occasional monkey that somehow wandered onto a canvas. This beloved institution houses an eclectic mix of artwork, ranging from classic masterpieces to modern pieces that seem to have been assembled during an intense game of "Pictionary gone wrong." While strolling through the museum's hallowed halls, brace yourself for unexpected encounters with exotic artifacts that may inspire a case of serious wanderlust or leave you questioning why someone decided to preserve an ancient toothpick.

noma.org

10. French Quarter

Welcome to the enchanting French Quarter in New Orleans, where age-old charm and lively eccentricity embrace in a delightful tango! Stroll through the cobbled streets, where the architecture is so vibrant and colorful, it's as if the buildings went through a psychedelic rebellion. Marvel at the harmonious chaos of street musicians, fortune tellers, and laissez-faire locals, eager to persuade you that wearing a feather boa is a subtle necessity for anyone with true joie de vivre!

11. Frenchmen Street

Welcome to Frenchmen Street, a vibrant and musical haven that is like a party thrown by jazz enthusiasts and whimsical crayon makers! As you step onto this dazzling street, you'll be greeted by a symphony of live music pouring out of every nook and cranny, making it impossible to resist the infectious rhythm. Prepare yourself for a whimsical journey where the cobblestone roads twist and turn like a mischievous maze, leading you past colorful art galleries, cozy cafes, and jam-packed bars that serve drinks with a side of never-ending laughter.

12. Magazine Street

Welcome to Magazine Street, where the vibrant energy of New Orleans can be felt through boulevards brimming with quirky shops, enticing eateries, and a parade of colorful characters. Stroll down this lively street and find yourself marvelling at an impressive assortment of eccentric boutiques offering everything from vintage taxidermy to Mardi Gras costumes. Don't forget to indulge your taste buds along the way — with a delicious jambalaya here, a delectable beignet there, and maybe a strong hurricane cocktail to keep you hydrated.

13. National World War II Museum

Welcome to the National World War II Museum in New Orleans, where history becomes so exciting, it'll make you want to do push-ups in your Hawaiian shirt! Prepare to dive into a war experience so immersive, you'll feel like you're dodging bullets with the grace of a clumsy penguin. From riveting interactive exhibits to mind-blowing artifacts, this museum has more WWII knowledge than your great-uncle who won't stop talking about his glory days.

www.nationalww2museum.org

14. Preservation Hall

Welcome to Preservation Hall, where time stands still and jazz flows like a never-ending stream of gumbo. Here, your ears will be tickled by the melodic notes of traditional New Orleans jazz, while your eyes will feast upon a decor that seems like it came straight from your grandmother's attic. Beware, though, as the low ceilings may give you the chance to finally appreciate what it feels like to be a tall person in a hobbit's world.

www.preservationhall.com

15. Audubon Zoo

Welcome to Audubon Zoo, where you can experience a wild adventure without the hassle of actually being chased by a real tiger. Prepare yourself for a thrilling day filled with more exotic animals than an episode of Kardashian's petting zoo. From ferocious alligators that have mastered the art of the side-eye to flamingos who strut their stuff with more confidence than a supermodel on a catwalk, Audubon Zoo is a quirky and entertaining destination for all animal enthusiasts.

audubonnatureinstitute.org

16. Swamp Tours

Welcome to the wild side of the Big Easy! Embark on an unforgettable adventure with Swamp Tours in New Orleans, where the shenanigans of the swamp critters rival the eccentricities of the city folk. Get ready to sail through the mystical marshes, where gators lurk in the shadows and mosquitoes buzz with a "je ne sais quoi" flair. Sit back, relax, and prepare to be entertained—just don't forget the bug spray and a good sense of humor!

www.tripneworleans.com

17. Oak Alley Plantation

Welcome to Oak Alley Plantation, where majestic oaks provide the perfect backdrop for history buffs and selfie enthusiasts alike. As you stroll through the grounds, you'll feel like you've stepped back in time to the era of hoop skirts and horses that couldn't handle a paved road. Don't forget to snap a photo of the oak-lined path leading to the mansion—it's a great way to prove to your Instagram followers that you have good taste in both architecture and tree species.

www.oakalleyplantation.org

18. Haunted History Tours

Welcome to the city that never sleeps, and I don't mean New York! Get ready for a chilling adventure with the Haunted History Tours in enchanting New Orleans. Prepare to walk through the spooky streets, where ghostly tales and countless spirits have decided to stick around longer than the average tourist's hangover. Join the tour guides in their hauntingly hilarious outfits and let them show you a side of the Big Easy that'll make your hair stand on end...or at least slightly mussed.

www.hauntedhistorytours.com

19. The Historic New Orleans Collection

Welcome to The Historic New Orleans Collection, where history and mischief come together for a taste of N'awlins! This place is bursting at the seams with all things New Orleans - whether it's jazz tunes, creepy ghost stories, or even the birth certificate of Mardi Gras! Explore the unique exhibits, but watch out for wandering voodoo dolls and mischievous ghosts who might just teach you a thing or two about NOLA's colorful past.

www.hnoc.org

20. Steamboat Natchez

Welcome to the Steamboat Natchez, a floating fiesta of fun on the mighty Mississippi! Step aboard this magnificent vessel and journey back in time to an era where jazz was hot, and steamboats ruled the waves. Get ready to channel your inner Mark Twain as you embark on a river adventure like no other, complete with live jazz, tantalizing Creole cuisine, and the occasional rogue seagull trying to steal your beignet!

www.steamboatnatchez.com