French Quarter
New Orleans
Indulgent, energetic and eye-opening there’s nowhere else in America, or the world, quite like New Orleans. Let down your hair and dine, drink and dance your way around town. Tuck into delicious beignets, listen to old school brass bands or explore alligator occupied bayous, our travel guide will take you to the heart of New Orleans.
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Places to stay
From the historic to the ultra-modern, New Orleans has a diverse mix of accommodation available. To get a feel for the neighbourhood life, bed down in a B&B amongst the picturesque Garden District. If you prefer Airbnbs, areas like the historic Faubourg Tremé or the musically inclined district of Faubourg Marigny are full of homey places.
The famed French Quarter is where you’ll find boutique hotels, like The Soniat House. For galleries, restaurants and popular local bars, stay in the Warehouse District at Ace Hotel. Whether you’re visiting for a couple of days or weeks, make the most of your New Orleans adventure.
Things to do
When it comes to eating, drinking and general good times, New Orleans is the crème de la crème. Start your day right with some world-famous beignets at Cafe Du Monde. Work off that sugar high with a stroll around Magazine Street in the Garden District. While you’re there, peruse the one-of-a-kind shops, selling antiques, vintage costumes, French treats and delicious po’ boys. For those looking for a hit of culture, there are plenty of galleries and museums to explore. We suggest Studio Be, a super cool warehouse turned gallery that’s full of large-scale murals.
It may seem like New Orleans is an adults-only destination, but there’s also plenty on offer for children as well. Visit the Audubon Butterfly Garden and Insectarium, stroll through the Louisiana Children's Museum or just enjoy a ride on the famous St. Charles streetcar. There’s plenty of family-friendly activities available in New Orleans.
For some Creole and Cajun flavour, visit Compère Lapin or Dooky Chase Restaurant. The best way to end any night in the “Big Easy” is with some soul-soothing jazz. The Spotted Cat, d.b.a, Preservation Hall and Maple Leaf Bar, are mainstays and must-visits in New Orleans. Big nights, full bellies and fun-filled days out all wait for you in New Orleans.
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Where to go
Day trip
Set off from the big city and venture deep into southern country. Weave through swamps in Barataria Preserve and spot gators or learn about the sobering history of slavery at the Whitney Plantation, a restored mansion west of New Orleans. If you’re after some great food and some southern tunes, make the trip to the small city of Lafayette, which is just two-and-a-half hours west of New Orleans.
Events
When it comes to American cities, New Orleans is the life of the party. Famous for its Mardi Gras festival, the city is taken over with a sea of floats, beads and street parties in February. In April, the French Quarter Festival sees musicians flood the streets playing free sets throughout the district. From late April to May, the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival takes centre stage, bringing big acts to town.
Getting around
From the airport: The Louis Armstrong International Airport is a short 20 minute ride from downtown New Orleans. From the airport you can catch a taxi, Uber or an airport shuttle service to your hotel. You can also pre-book a private arrival transfer.
In and around the city: New Orleans’ small downtown footprint makes it a perfectly walkable city. Hundreds of restaurants, bars and attractions are within a one kilometre radius. You can also travel on an historic streetcar with various routes.
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Disclaimer: ^ Qantas Frequent Flyer members will earn 3 Qantas Points per A$1 value unless otherwise specified, for hotel stays booked through qantas.com/hotels, except Classic Hotel Rewards and Airbnb bookings. Points Club members will earn 25% more Qantas Points, and Points Club Plus members will earn 50% more Qantas Points. Qantas Points will be credited to your account at least 8 weeks after check-out. Qantas Points may be earned by the member in whose name the booking is made. Members will not be able to earn points on additional charges paid to the accommodation provider for extras (including cots, breakfasts and other incidentals) on check-in or check-out (as applicable).
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