ROAM / Destinations / New Orleans, United States

New Orleans
United States

The most African city in America — jazz, second lines, and Creole soul.

ROAM 4.0 ★ MusicFoodHistoryCultureNightlifeCity
Best time
October-May (avoid summer heat and hurricane season)
Currency
USD
Language
English
Mid-range / day
USD 200

Safety for Black Travelers

New Orleans has a strong Black community that is warm and proud. The French Quarter and Garden District are very tourist-safe. Tremé and Seventh Ward are historic Black neighborhoods worth visiting — use common sense at night. Avoid wandering unfamiliar side streets after midnight. Uber is reliable. The energy during Mardi Gras and Jazz Fest is electrifying but crowds require extra awareness of your belongings.

Neighborhoods to Know

Tremé

Historic & soulful

The oldest Black neighborhood in America. Birthplace of jazz, home to second line culture, and pure New Orleans soul.

French Quarter

Iconic & lively

Iconic architecture, live jazz on every corner, Bourbon Street energy, and world-class Creole restaurants.

Garden District

Elegant & historic

Beautiful antebellum mansions, oak-lined streets, and upscale restaurants. Great for brunch and walking.

Frenchmen Street

Live music & local

The locals' alternative to Bourbon Street — live music every night, great bars, authentic NOLA vibes.

Must-Visit Places

Dooky Chase Restaurant Black-Owned

Restaurant · $$

The Queen of Creole cuisine. Leah Chase fed civil rights leaders here. An absolute institution of Black New Orleans.

2301 Orleans Ave, New Orleans, LA 70119

New Orleans African American Museum

Museum · $

Located in Tremé, this museum tells the rich story of New Orleans Black history from free people of color to today.

1418 Governor Nicholls St, New Orleans, LA 70116

Second Line Parade

Culture · $

The most joyful tradition in Black America. A jazz funeral procession turned street party — check local schedules for Social Aid & Pleasure Club second lines.

Various neighborhoods, New Orleans

Preservation Hall

Music & Culture · $$

Legendary jazz venue in the French Quarter. Small, intimate, and absolutely sacred. Shows sell out — book ahead.

726 St Peter St, New Orleans, LA 70116

Visa

No visa required for US citizens

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