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Experience 300 years’ worth of stories, celebrations and one-of-a-kind culture.
New Orleans knows fun—but this deeply historic and cultural city is so much more than Mardi Gras. Business is booming here, and the city is welcoming visiting professionals and organizations with open arms and numerous enhancements: A new Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport will open this fall. The New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center is undergoing many upgrades including a new arrival experience, private outdoor event space, technology enhancements and restyling of meeting and public space. And the city’s world-famous riverfront is completing a redesign of Spanish Plaza and beginning a major revitalization project that will open public access along the river well into the thriving Marigny. But what makes meeting in New Orleans truly unique are the local flavors, sounds and experiences that will inspire your attendees long after your closing session.
New Orleans Food
Home to more James Beard Award-winning chefs per capita than any other city in the country and the birthplace of the crawfish boil, New Orleans doesn’t do cookie cutter when it comes to meeting menus. To give attendees a taste of this famous food city, plan a private dinner at Justine, a brasserie tucked in the historic French Quarter. Or organize a breakout session built around Cajun and Creole cooking classes.
New Orleans Music
Locals will tell you that New Orleans—the birthplace of jazz—hosts more than 135 music festivals each year. This means that as long as your attendees are in town for three days, they’ll be able to experience one of the toe-tapping events that keep this city humming. You’ll find music and talent on almost every corner in town, so bringing New Orleans’ unique rhythm directly to your event is easy. Consider inviting a second line parade to kick off your convention or arrange off-the-clock visits to famous jazz clubs like the Apple Barrel and Spotted Cat.
New Orleans History and Authenticity
It’s no coincidence that this incredibly walkable destination is also home to more National Historic Districts than any other city in the U.S. Encourage attendees to get out and explore the neighborhoods surrounding the Convention Center during the day—the Central Business District, Vieux Carré (the French Quarter), Central City and the Lower Garden District are all nearby. Then invite them to take in full-city views during a night cruise along the Mississippi River or host a private function (of any size) at one of New Orleans’ dozens of unique and historic venues.