Often known as the birthplace of jazz, New Orleans has provided numerous cultural contributions throughout the last 300 years. Tasting a fusion of cuisines and witnessing a Mardi Gras parade lands top on anyone’s first visit, but these experiences begin to scratch the surface of the history and heritage that many guests and locals have known for decades. From battlegrounds to historic hotels, New Orleans captures the beauty and charm of its last 300 years in must-see historical sites throughout the city.
All year long, the city is brimming with vibrant displays of art, food, and culture, making the French Quarter and surrounding neighborhoods a perfect destination for history lovers.Â
1. St. Louis Cathedral
Perhaps one of the city’s most notable and recognizable historical sites in New Orleans is the St. Louis Cathedral in the French Quarter. As you step into the green of Jackson Square, it’s spectacular to observe the exquisite architecture of the country’s oldest cathedral still in use. Partake in a daily mass or join a cultural guided tour to learn about this centerpiece of New Orleans cathedrals. And best of all, the world-famous Cafe Du Monde is right around the corner for a delicious bite of New Orleans beignets.
2. Chalmette National Historical Park
With over 143 acres, the Chalmette Battlefield and National Cemetery are pivotal locations from the War of 1812. Once the battleground of the Battle of New Orleans, this site is home to the last land battle that occurred on American soil between the U.S. and a foreign enemy–the United Kingdom. Hop on the Creole Queen and travel downriver to the site by steamboat. Then, spend the day exploring the rest of the breathtaking nature in Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve.
3. St. Louis Cemetery No. 1
Established in 1789, St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 is the oldest cemetery and a prime historical site in New Orleans. The aboveground grave site is listed on the National Register of Historic Places as having a national level of significance in the areas of art and architecture. Here, you can embark on cemetery tours to visit the burial site of voodoo queen Marie Laveau, pirate Barthelemy Lafon, (supposedly) the remains of Madame Delphine LaLaurie, and other legendary notables in the 18th & 19th centuries.
4. Historic Garden District
Developed by the New Orleans elite in the late 1840s, the Garden District offered luxurious houses nestled in lush grounds on oak-lined streets. As a national historic landmark, this area is filled with grand residences that were once a number of plantations. Originally, the neighborhood only had a few homes per block, each surrounded by grand green gardens, earning the name “The Garden District.”
From the St. Charles streetcar to local gift shops, the Garden District is a must-see on your trip to New Orleans. With classics from restaurant Commander’s Palace to notable jewelry shop Mignon Faget, this captivating area is bustling with New Orleans culture.
Notable Garden District houses are:
- Walter Grinnan Robinson House – Italian-style mansion built in 1859 by New Orleans’ most famous architect Henry Howard
- Brevard House – Greek revival home built in 1857, famously housed vampire-fiction writer Anne Rice, with rumors of being haunted
- Joseph Carroll House – Cast-iron Italianate mansion from 1869, known for its wealthy owners and lavish parties that attracted author Mark Twain
5. Treme
Treme is recognized as the oldest African-American neighborhood in the U.S. and the epicenter of New Orleans culture. As a pivotal historical site in New Orleans, its founding in the 18th century served as a place of pride where free people of color could purchase property, and its influence on art, music, food, and culture has been a centerpiece for African-American history.
Visit the revered Congo Square, one of the few places in the city where enslaved people gathered to sing, play music, and dance in public. Then, stop by Bayou Road, the oldest road in the city that formed a pathway for economics, trade, and innovation. Now, its legacy continues as Black-owned businesses such as Coco Hut and the Community Book Center thrive on this historic stretch of land.
6. Preservation Hall
Originally the location as a local tavern dating back to the early 1800s, Preservation Hall is a jazz venue with humble beginnings. Since the 1950s, local jazz musicians have played in this intimate, acoustic venue, attracting fans worldwide to come and listen to the smooth notes of jazz. These sessions featured living legends of New Orleans–George Lewis, Punch Miller, Sweet Emma Barrett, Billie and De De Pierce, The Humphrey Brothers, Louis Armstrong, and more. Today, while you may catch a big-name performer playing in the hall during a late night of Jazz Fest, the charm of Preservation Hall is dedicated to nightly traditional jazz shows featuring talented local musicians.
Pay Preservation Hall a visit to celebrate the development of music in America with a commitment to honor and protect New Orleans Jazz.
7. Hotel Monteleone
As a historical landmark with modern accommodations and first-class service, Hotel Monteleone is an awe-inspiring experience and a destination in itself. Since 1886, Hotel Monteleone has been a popular stop for many prominent Southern authors. Past visitors included Ernest Hemingway, Tennessee Williams, William Faulkner, and Truman Capote, to name a few. Now, Hotel Monteleone is one of only three hotels in the United States to receive the prestigious Literary Landmark designation by the Friends of Libraries.
Experience New Orleans’s History & Timeless Luxury at Hotel Monteleone
Whether planning a family-friendly vacation, romantic getaway, or girl’s weekend, Hotel Monteleone ushers a grand welcome to all who come and go from our lively city. Located on renowned Royal Street, Hotel Monteleone is the perfect starting point for a trip to the Big Easy.
Our friendly staff will help guide you around New Orleans so that you have the confidence of a local (even if it’s your first time in town). We’d love to help you find the best attractions and historical sites in New Orleans. Our luxe guest rooms channel Crescent City’s innate charm and provide the ideal solace after a day of exploring New Orleans.
