Culture Trip's Guide to New Orleans in Spring

Whether you’re riding streetcars along Canal Street or having a wild night in the French Quarter, there’s a unique old-world charm that makes New Orleans one of the most popular holiday destinations in America. Unfortunately, that also means there are several tourist traps set to capture the unsuspecting visitor, but fear not – this seasonal guide is to help you navigate this lively town.

The real character of New Orleans shines through in the mesmerizing French Quarter. There are usually a whole host of festivals and public events taking place here, plus a wide range of cafes, shops, and restaurants. The food here is of the highest order, ranging from quick bites to extravagantly wholesome meals. The famous Bourbon Street and surrounding areas are the place to be seen – an essential stop on any visit to New Orleans.

The incredible street party known as Mardi Gras had to be canceled last year, but that didn’t stop the locals from celebrating in style. The colorful floats that slowly travel around town were gone, so residents instead converted their own homes into uniquely decorated attractions. While the streets do fill up with curious visitors all year round, there’s a sweet spot to be found in spring. The streets won’t be too busy, the restaurants will welcome your business with open arms and the atmosphere will still be unforgettable.

One of the main reasons to visit New Orleans is the incredible variety it offers when it comes to food. There are high-end restaurants here run by the best chefs in the country, but you’re better off experiencing the real side of town with some of the more authentic creole/Cajun cuisine found in almost every corner at street level. There are plenty of breweries and microbreweries in the Garden District to help ease the intense heat of the sweltering climate, and no trip to this part of the world is complete without a stop at Café du Monde. The shop has been serving coffee and traditional beignets since 1862, earning a reputation as the place that introduced Americans to the joys of pouring a little milk in their morning brew.

This historic part of New Orleans is often overlooked in favor of areas such as downtown and the French Quarter, but it would be a shame to miss it on your next trip to Louisiana. The collection of mansions and houses dating back to the early 20th century are some of the best-preserved examples of turn-of-the-century architecture anywhere in the Southern states. The grandiose buildings are easily reached from other parts of New Orleans via streetcar routes, and the area is often part of the ghost tours that are a hugely popular outdoor activity for paranormal enthusiasts. As this is a quieter part of town that is best seen on foot, it is perfect for anyone looking to visit in the spring this year.

Looking for more accommodation options? Book one of the best hotels near the Port of New Orleans, Louisiana, with Culture Trip.