New Orleans’ population is just shy of 400,000. And for a relatively small city, its reputation looms large. The Big Easy dishes up all the things that make life worth living – eating, drinking and lighthearted pleasure. And if there is a city that epitomizes diversity it’s this french-african-spanish-american melting pot. And its cuture runs deep. You’ll be hard to find a city that has overcome tragedy and decline quite like New Orleans. But its this diverse and fascinating culture that makes it that much more special to visit. If you’re planning a trip there, here’s a comprehensive list of things you can’t miss.

1. French Quarter

   The French Quarter is the obvious choice when visiting New Orleans. And every street in this quarter is worth a stroll (with drink in hand thanks to the open container law) but the notorious Bourbon Street, where the famous Mardi Gras takes place, is the main street of the French Quarter. You’ll soon be whistling oh when the saints go marching in as street musicians gather in various street corners. And Jackson Square, home of the St. Louis Cathedral, is the city center where local artists, street musicians, psychics gather daily. You could easily spend an entire day here people watching and listening to live music, but be sure not to fall trap to the overly friendly stranger that tells you, “I bet you $10 I can guess where you got those shoes.”

   

   

   Marie Laveau’s House of Voodoo gives you some insight into this spiritual folkway and don’t leave without eating a Mufaletta at Central Grocery!

   

2. French Market

   Though technically located in the French Quarter, it’s worth its own mention. If you ask me, markets are the ideal setting for delving into a city’s culture. You’ll hear local dialect, taste regional delicacies and listen to great live music. Start off with a treat from Café Du Monde. They have been dishing out world-famous beignets since 1862. It can get busy during peak hours, but don’t worry, the line goes fast (and it’s open 24 hours a day).

   

3. Frenchmen Street

   Frenchmen Street is where you’ll spot more locals, great restaurants and, of course, jazz bars. Spotted Cat Music Club features awesome live music and cheap drinks. And Palace Market is an open air, night market where you’ll find unique handcrafted, local art.

   

   

4. Tours

   To get a feel for some of the city’s history, tours ranging from swamp tours, ghost tours and plantation tours offer great insight into the city’s history and culture. Be sure to check out Groupon for deals!

   

   Laura Plantation and Oak Valley Plantation are beautiful and the Whitney Plantation gives the tour from the perspective of slavery. Ghost tours are more historic than scary, though they definitely have a fear factor. And WWII Museum is great for history buffs.

   

5. St. Roch Market

   St. Roch Market is a southern food hall featuring a wide variety of food and drink options.  This is the perfect place to get a compilation of the best food New Orleans has to offer. You’ll find anything from coffee to gumbo and everything in between.

   

6. Parks

   If you’re looking to get away from the craziness of the city, New Orleans offers the perfect settings for picnics, walking or simply relaxing. Audubon Park and City Park are nearby all of the attractions  and are full of oak trees, lagoons, and playgrounds for the kiddos.   

7. Magazine Street

   For truly great shopping, Magazine Street is one of the cutest streets in the city, full of colorful antique shops, clothing boutiques, restaurants, and bars. Spend a few hours strolling this street and be sure to stop at District Donuts for delicious donuts accompanied by a coffee or a local beer.

8. Carousel Bar and Lounge

   Located inside the famed Hotel Monteleone, Carousel Bar and Lounge is a fun revolving bar. Be sure to stop in and take a spin in the 25-seat Merry-Go-Round!

   

9. Cemetery

   Because New Orleans is below sea level, grave stones have to be built above ground. Unless you’re used to seeing this, it’s worth making a stop (or at least driving by).

   

10. Streetcars

    Getting around New Orleans by streetcar is a great way to see the city and an easy way to get around. There are three different lines: St. Charles, Canal Street, and the Riverfront. All lines start downtown and a day pass will set you back $3. St. Charles is the oldest and takes you to French Quarter so if you have to pick just one, I recommend this one..