The melange of cultures and races that built New Orleans still gives it its heart; not "easy," exactly, but quite unlike anywhere else in the States – or the world.

While the excitement of New Orleans with its music, food and culture is year-round, we invite everyone to experience Mardi Gras at least once in their lifetime. Though the surrounding areas boast malls to rival any in America, New Orleans still believes in the old-world marketplace tradition.

Attractions include the most celebrated and historic core of the city – including the Faubourg Marigny, French Quarter, Central Business District, Warehouse and Arts District, Magazine Street, Garden District, Audubon Park and Zoo and St. Charles Avenue. The origins of Mardi Gras can be traced to Medival Europe, though we have no written record of how that really transformed into the current Mardi Gras of today.

New Orleans nightlife is the neon, noise and revelry of Bourbon Street; but it is also the shadows of moonlit couples walking hand-in-hand along the Mississippi. As for lodging, the popular hotels are centrally-located just blocks from everything in New Orleans ... these hotels are ideally located within walking distance from the river, the French Quarter, and the streetcar line.