Things to Do in New Orleans
2024 Convergence: Credential Innovation in Higher Education is being held in New Orleans, LA at the Ritz Carlton New Orleans. Be sure to build a little extra time into your trip so that you can go after the day's sessions and enjoy the area.
Museums & Culture
- Backstreet Cultural Museum - Holds the world’s most comprehensive collection related to New Orleans’ African American community-based masking and processional traditions, including Mardi Gras Indians, jazz funerals, social aid and pleasure clubs, Baby Dolls, and Skull and Bone gangs.
- Mardi Gras World - An immersive attraction where visitors can experience the magic of Mardi Gras year-round, with behind-the-scenes tours of float-making and displays of elaborate parade floats.
- New Orleans Museum of Art - A premier art institution boasting a diverse collection spanning from classical to contemporary art, including works by renowned artists and a sculpture garden.
- New Orleans Jazz Museum - A dynamic tribute to the city's rich jazz heritage, featuring interactive exhibits, performances, and educational programs celebrating the evolution of jazz music.
- Preservation Hall - A legendary venue preserving the tradition of New Orleans jazz with nightly live performances by local musicians in an intimate, historic setting.
- St. Louis Cathedral - Opened in 1794, the cathedral is a historic landmark and iconic symbol of New Orleans.
- Studio Be - A thought-provoking art installation by renowned artist Brandan "Bmike" Odums, showcasing powerful murals and sculptures that explore themes of social justice and resilience.
- The National WWII Museum - A world-class museum dedicated to telling the story of the American experience in World War II through immersive exhibits, artifacts, and personal narratives.
- The Spotted Cat Music Club - A beloved venue in the heart of the Frenchmen Street entertainment district, offering nightly live music performances spanning jazz, blues, and other genres in a lively atmosphere.
Parks
- Jackson Square - A historic park in the heart of the French Quarter, featuring iconic landmarks such as St. Louis Cathedral and surrounded by vibrant street performers and artists.
- New Orleans City Park - A sprawling urban park offering a wide range of attractions, including walking trails, botanical gardens, amusement rides, and recreational activities such as boating and golfing.
- New Orleans Botanical Garden - A lush oasis within City Park, showcasing a diverse collection of flora from around the world, including tropical plants, roses, and Japanese gardens.
Food & Drink
- Antoine’s Restaurant - Circa-1840 old-world grand dame of fine French-Creole dining & birthplace of oysters Rockefeller
- Arnaud’s - Classic upscale restaurant & lounge featuring Creole cuisine, cocktails & Dixieland jazz since 1918
- Café Du Monde - Café known for café au laits, chicory coffee & beignets
- Galatoire's - Fine-dining century-old institution serving French-Creole fare in upscale space (jackets required)
- The Sazerac House - Museum and tasting venue for New Orleans’ official cocktail
Streets and Neighborhoods
- French Quarter - A historic district in New Orleans known for its vibrant nightlife, iconic architecture, and lively atmosphere.
- Frenchmen Street - A bustling cultural hub famous for its jazz clubs, live music venues, and eclectic mix of bars and restaurants.
- Garden District - A picturesque neighborhood renowned for its stunning mansions, lush gardens, and tree-lined streets.
- Magazine Street - A vibrant thoroughfare lined with boutique shops, art galleries, cafes, and restaurants, offering a diverse shopping and dining experience.
- Royal Street - A charming street in the French Quarter famed for its antique shops, art galleries, street performers, and elegant architecture.
