New Orleans is in southeastern Louisiana, on the Mississippi River. It prides itself on being the ‘Most Interesting City in the United States’. Famous for its Creole cuisine and fine restaurants, its Old French Quarter, its nightclubs and ‘Dixiland Jazz’, the city’s character is a mixture of sophistication, honkytonk and Southern hospitality.
Undoubtedly the greatest attraction for tourists is the French Quarter, which still tetains much of its original appearance of 200 years ago. Streets are narrow, buildings have exquisite wroughtiron balconics and railings; there are patios and courtyards, and many historic spots. Bourbon Street is best at night; Royal Street has some delightful shops and opens onto lovely courtyards.
The Louisiana Wildlife Museum on Royal houses an unusual collection of birds. See the Cabildo, erected in 1795, scene of the signing of the Louisiana Purchase; St Louis Cathedral; Pontalba Apartments, reputedly the first apartment house in the United States; Absinthe House, now a public bar and restaurant; the French Market. See the unusual old cemeteries in Cities of the Dead, with the highly decorated tombs of original settlers.
Museums include Isaac Delgado Museum of Art (art exhibits); Institute of Middle American Research at Tulane University (Mayan collections); Louisiana State Museum, in the Cabildo; New Orleans Jazz Museum, 300 Bourbon Street.
See City Park, in the northern part of the city with three public golf courses, many amusements and recreational facilities. The famous Dueling Oaks, where affairs of honor were once settled, are also in City Park; Audubon Park, in the southwestern part, has a zoo and aquaium.
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