Most of us think New Orleans when talking about Louisiana - and in turn, we equal New Orleans with good food, friendly people, Mardi Gras, and the French Quarter.

French Qarter, New OrleansFrench Quarter
The most striking feature of the French Quarter is the architecture that can be found here. But it is the atmosphere that keeps people coming back for more. There are the beautiful antique shops and museums on Royal Street, fun bars and clubs on Bourbon Street, and great entertainment on Jackson Square. One great way to take it all in is by horse-drawn carriage.

Jackson Square also offers a number of historical buildings well worth a stop: Saint Louis Cathedral, the Cabildo, which once served as city hall and later the state's Supreme Court, and not to forget the Presbytere, which today is famous for housing the Mardi Gras museum.

Garden District
Another highlight of the city is the Garden District. With its amazingly beautiful gardens and large mansions, it does not fail to impress.

Also very popular is Audubon Zoo. One of the best zoos in the US it offers very unique exhibits. Like the "Louisiana Swamp", which looks like a Louisiana bayou and comes complete with alligators. Or the "Jaguar Jungle", which offers a glimpse into jungle life with jaguars, monkeys, and even recreated Mayan ruins. And not to forget the "Dragon's Lair", where you can marvel at the world's largest lizard, the Komodo Dragon.

French Market
Another popular destination in New Orleans is the French Market. Started in 1791, this open-air market spreads across several streets and is a daily magnet for locals and visitors alike. Aside from the typical farmers market fare, the French Market now also serves as a flea market and should definitely not be missed.

Other Sights
Steamboat, New OrleansThe Aquarium of the Americas is a hit with young and old alike, as is a cruise on the steamboat Natchez along the Mississippi.

Very unique and fun is the Historic Voodoo Museum and if you are interested in history, you should visit the Old US Mint, which once functioned as a mint, but later was also used as a federal prison.

City Park is always nice for a stroll. There you can also visit the New Orleans Botanical Gardens and the Museum of Art. If you want to do some shopping, check out Riverwalk Marketplace.

And finally, to relax and unwind from all this sightseeing, stop at Cafe du Monde and enjoy an order of its famous sugar dusted beignets.

New Orleans (Eyewitness Travel Guides) author: DK Publishing asin: 0789497379