Enveloping the undulating Mississippi River in southeastern Louisiana, New Orleans is one of the United States’ liveliest and most distinctive cities, best known for its ubiquitous jazz music, Creole and Cajun food, and larger-than-life festivals, especially Mardi Gras.

The city has fostered a swirl of cultures — French, African, Native, Spanish, Southern — since its founding in 1718, and New Orleans’ cuisines, architecture, and entertainment are as diverse as the city itself. You don’t have to go far to find musicians spilling onto the street, a packed theatre, or the brassy tones of trumpets filling the air. New Orleans’ distinctive food is an equally big draw, from sugar-coated beignets and chicory coffee to gumbo, po-boys, and jambalaya.

You can explore streets draped in Spanish moss by hopping aboard one of the city’s iconic streetcars or cruising up the Mississippi River on a paddleboat. Head to the French Quarter for its balcony-wrapped buildings and near-constant festive air, or soak up the relaxed, near-subtropical vibe of the pretty Garden District, home to historic mansions and quiet, shady streets.

The most popular time to book vacation homes in New Orleans is typically the spring, when the weather is mild and rainfall is at its lowest. This is when the city hosts many of its events and festivals, including Mardi Gras — which essentially runs from January to March — and the country’s best-known jazz festival in April. Summer in New Orleans can get very hot and humid, and afternoon thunderstorms are common. However, if you don’t mind the humidity, this can be a quieter time to take in the city’s attractions.

Fall brings cooler, drier weather conditions, making this an ideal time to wander along the streets and exploring the surrounding cities and natural attractions. Winter is characterized by atmospheric Christmas lights and festive culinary traditions like Réveillon dinners — a twist on a traditional French feast, served on Christmas Eve. Though it gets cold at night here, it rarely snows, and if you’ve layered up, you can still enjoy the outdoors.

New Orleans Jazz Museum

Learn why New Orleans is the home of jazz at this lively interactive museum set in the historic former Mint building. The museum contains more than 25,000 artifacts, including instruments belonging to famous musicians, sheet music, and photographs. All-ages musical concerts are hosted here almost every night of the year, and the museum includes a performance centre where musicians can come to record and broadcast.

Woldenberg Park

A popular spot to walk, cycle, or simply watch ships sail along the Mississippi River, Woldenberg Park is located at the water’s edge, close to the heart of the French Quarter. Paved walkways wind through the green landscape, passing many public art installations. You’ll often find street performers and musicians showcasing their talents in the park’s outdoor amphitheatre.

French Quarter

The action-packed, energetic heart of the city, the French Quarter is where New Orleans’ dining and nightlife come alive. It’s also the oldest part of the city — the entire district is a National Historic Landmark — fusing historic architecture with hip bars and galleries. Wander along Bourbon Street to find jazz clubs, storied cocktail bars, and some of the city’s best Creole cuisine.