Mardi Gras Carnival

New Orleans, Louisiana

Copyright: Molly Trerotola/Shutterstock.com

DESTINATIONS united states neworleans Do & See Mardi Gras Carnival

Mardi Gras Carnival

Mardi Gras and Carnival have long been the marquee events in New Orleans, dating back to the first parade in 1827. Attracting thousands of people each year, the festivities trace their origins to the French (Mardi Gras being a bastardization of the French for "Fat Tuesday"). Carnival takes place in the early weeks of the season, signaled in with Bacchus-level balls that are invitation-only and serve to celebrate each krewe (private club) and the new debutantes. The final weeks lead up to Mardi Gras and feature the familiar street parades.

Useful Information

Do & See

New Orleans has the uncanny ability to combine fun and excitement with its endless historical elements. Mardi Gras attracts millions of people each year, and the city's famed streets and districts will fill your itinerary. The sounds of jazz seem to follow you everywhere, and so do the welcoming, wide smiles of the New Orleanians.

Mardi Gras Carnival

Mardi Gras Carnival

Mardi Gras and Carnival have long been the marquee events in New Orleans, dating back to the first parade in 1827. Attracting thousands of people each year, the festivities trace their origins to the French (Mardi Gras being a bastardization of the French for "Fat Tuesday"). Carnival takes place in the early weeks of …

New Orleans Premier Haunted Ghost, Voodoo, Vampire & Mystery Tour

New Orleans Premier Haunted Ghost, Voodoo, Vampire & Mystery Tour

Widely known as the most haunted city in the United States, New Orleans is full of spooky spots guaranteed to send a chill down your spine. And if you're feeling brave, why not explore the legends and history of this city embedded in mystical arts by joining the Premier Haunted Ghost, Voodoo, Vampire, and Mystery …

French Quarter

The French Quarter is bursting at the seams with attractions and opportunities for fun-filled days. World famous Bourbon Street is located here, providing a plethora of nightlife activity from live music and jazz to hand grenades at Tropical Isle. Harrah's Casino will be sure to test your luck, and dining in the French Quarter …

Food Walking Tour of the French Quarter

Food Walking Tour of the French Quarter

Savour authentic Louisiana cuisine from famous local eateries on this delicious Food Walking Tour of the French Quarter. Visit world-renowned restaurants in New Orleans and enjoy tastings from seafood gumbo, Creole brisket, and beignets. Learn about the history of fine cooking in NOLA from your guide as you walk along the city …

New Orleans Streetcars

New Orleans Streetcars

New Orleans' historic streetcars are not only a great way to get around town, they are an attraction in and of themselves. Six vintage streetcars (NOT trolleys) are currently in operation, dating from the 1920s, running along three lines, and they are understandably beloved by locals and tourists …

St. Louis Cathedral

St. Louis Cathedral

St. Louis Cathedral is one of New Orleans' most notable landmarks. Overlooking Jackson Square, this beautiful cathedral is majestic with its painted ceilings and stained glass windows. You can get an impromptu tour from a volunteer or buy a self-guided …

New Orleans Museum Of Art (NOMA)

New Orleans Museum Of Art (NOMA)

Created in 1911, the New Orleans Museum of Art (NOMA) originally had only nine pieces on display. Today, it houses over 40,000 paintings, drawings, sculptures, and other objects. NOMA is well known for its collections of French, Japanese, African, and American art, photography, and glass. The Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden is a …

Jackson Square

This beautiful park is the heart of historic New Orleans. Surrounded by important and extremely photogenic buildings (including St. Louis Cathedral and the Cabildo), the street life around the park is magnetic. Painters and cartoonists peddle their works and local musicians and artists fill the air with culture and …

City Park

This immense green refuge from the city just 2 miles from the French Quarter contains numerous museums, lakes, fountains, sports facilities (including a golf course), an amusement park and the world's largest collection of oaks. It is a favourite among runners, bikers, picnickers and those looking for a bit of boating on the lakes. …

Canal Street

The legendary Canal Street is often referred to as New Orleans' "Main Street." Utilized as the point of origin for any tour of the Crescent City, scenic and historic sights are never far away. Many of the street's historic buildings are now home to up-scale hotels like the Ritz Carlton, and the Shops at …

Garden District

Garden District

Christened the "Garden District" for its picturesque gardens, canopies of live oaks, and serene vistas, visitors may find peace and relaxation with a stroll through the neighborhood. Historic, grandiose mansions and homes lining the Garden District streets attract both visitors and New Orleanians. Coliseum Square and Magazine Street are also favorites for …

National WWII Museum

National WWII Museum

Ordained as America’s National WWII Museum by Congress, the Museum is a must-see for locals, visitors, and citizens in general. The Louisiana Memorial Pavilion displays artifacts of the war and D-Day, Home Front and the Pacific Theater. Watch Tom Hanks' exclusive production "Beyond All Boundaries" in the 4-D Solomon Victory Theater. The Stage Door …

Jean Lafitte National Historical Park & Preserve

Jean Lafitte National Historical Park & Preserve

The Jean Lafitte National Historic Park and Preserve is the perfect attraction for those wishing to immerse themselves in rich Cajun traditions and the bayou's natural wonders. During the War of 1812, Lafitte, known as the "Gentleman Pirate of New Orleans," joined with General Andrew Jackson to protect New Orleans from the British. Visitors …

New Orleans School of Cooking

New Orleans School of Cooking

If you want to learn the basics of Louisiana Cooking, you should head over to this New Orleans School of Cooking. The classes are taught by well-known local chefs in a fun and entertaining way. You will be treated to a wide range of local classics such as Jambalaya, Gumbo, Corn Crab Bisque and …

Mercedes-Benz Superdome

Mercedes-Benz Superdome

Home to the championship New Orleans Saints and the Tulane University Green Wave, the Mercedes-Benz Superdome is one of the nation's largest stadiums. Aside from football, the Superdome serves as a venue for world class concerts, conventions and exhibits. Seven Super Bowls have been held here, and it is also the location for college …

Louisiana Children's Museum

Louisiana Children's Museum

Louisiana Children's Museum has been one of the city’s premier attractions for children since 1986. The museum has 147,000 visitors per year. Children and families engage in interactive fun, and it can be a great way to spend an afternoon with the …

Audubon Zoo

Located in beautiful uptown New Orleans, the Audubon Zoo engages guests with animals from around the world. The zoo features natural habitats, like the Louisiana Swamp and Jaguar Jungle, and lavish gardens. The elephant and sea lion presentations are phenomenal. Guests are also invited to see treasures of the animal kingdom like the …

Audubon Aquarium Of The Americas

Audubon Aquarium Of The Americas

The Audubon Aquarium of the Americas is adjacent to the French Quarter, right on the Mississippi River, which adds to the Aquarium's intrinsically inspiring aura. It displays, among other things, a vibrant world of Caribbean coral reef with a walk-through tunnel, sea otters and penguins engaging in play, and a 400,000 gallon Gulf of …

Cabildo

The Cabildo originally served as home to the city council under Spanish rule. Now marking the beginning of the Louisiana State Museum, the Cabildo offers group tours that explore Louisiana's extensive history, from early European settlers to the Civil …

New Orleans Ferries

New Orleans Ferries

The New Orleans ferries are a fantastic way to tour the city and gain splendid waterfront views. The ferry system has a high volume of ridership, being the fourth largest in the nation. Over two million annual trips are made on the Canal Street ferry alone. Moreover, the fact that there is no charge …

Ogden Museum of Southern Art

Ogden Museum of Southern Art

The art in this museum isn't just Southern in origin, it is Southern in theme and includes 4,000 paintings, sculptures and photographs from 15 Southern states from the last 3 centuries. On Thursday evenings it also hosts Ogden After Hours, which includes live music and other events. The rooftop terrace also offers great views …

Backstreet Cultural Museum

Backstreet Cultural Museum

This museum celebrates New Orleans street culture and Mardi Gras history. It features a collection of Mardi Gras Indian costumes and plenty of musical artifacts. You can explore New Orleans' art and cultural heritage by attending collections, exhibitions, music and dance …

Please don't close or refresh the page while we are processing your submission
Please be patient, this could take a few minutes.