11 of the Most Instagrammable Places in New Orleans
New Orleans is truly one of the most magical places on the planet. Between the music, food, architecture and people, NOLA's charm and energy are one-of-a-kind. With so much to eat, see and do, it can be hard to take a second to admire all the beauty of this vibrant southern city. If you're planning a trip to the Big Easy — and if you're not, you really should be — add this little lagniappe to your itinerary and be sure to get the best shots of the Crescent City.
1. The St. Charles Streetcar
Nope, it's not a trolley, but it's one of the city's main modes of public transportation. But unlike the subways and buses that you'll find in other places, this is one way to get around town that you'll actually be excited to take a ride on — and take pictures of. While the St. Charles Streetcar is definitely not the fastest form of transportation, it'll get you where you need to go. And for only $1.25 one-way, you can't beat the views of one of the most beautiful avenues in the city.
2. Jackson Square and St. Louis Cathedral
This is quintessential New Orleans and no trip would be complete without a picture of the iconic landmark. Jackson Square is a small park in the middle of the French Quarter, and the site where Louisiana became part of the United States in 1803 as part of the Louisiana Purchase. Today, it's one of the top tourist destinations and for good reason — just look how beautiful it is. Don't forget to stop for beignets right across the street at Café du Monde (more on that later).
3. Audubon Park
There are few things better in life than a walk in Audubon Park on a gorgeous spring day. Located uptown, directly across from Tulane University, this park is an oasis and a perfect spot for an afternoon picnic — especially if you're snacking on sandwiches from St. James. Savor the moment by snapping a pic and sharing it on the gram.
4. The Bywater
The Bywater is quickly becoming New Orleans' most eccentric neighborhood, thanks in part to its quirky and colorful houses. Even though these homes have been there for years, they're becoming a go-to for anyone looking to brighten up their Instagram feed. While you're in the area, swing by Bacchanal for some wine, cheese and live music or grab some praline bacon from Elizabeth's — yum!
5. Garden District
If colorful houses aren't your thing, head down to the Garden District and soak in all of the beauty of the Big Easy's old mansions and homes. Complete with sprawling front porches and antique gas lamps, the Garden District's charm will surely rack up all of the likes. This captivating neighborhood is also home to Commander's Palace, so stop into the iconic restaurant for some turtle soup and $0.25 martinis.
6. Tipitina's
It doesn't get much better than this classic NOLA music venue. A picture at Tip's with Galactic or Trombone Shorty on stage is Instagram gold — not to mention music to your ears. As an added bonus, the venue hosts free Fridays during the summer so you can see some of your favorite bands without the usual cover charge.
7. Frenchmen Street and the Frenchmen Art Market
Aside from Frenchmen Street being one of the best places in the city to listen to live music, it's also a top spot for taking quality photos. You can't go wrong with a visit to Blue Nile, Maison, the Spotted Cat, Cafe Negril or d.b.a. Stop by the Frenchmen Art Market while you're there — the hanging lights are prime for Instagram — and pick up some fun souvenirs.
8. Bourbon Street
While there is certainly (much) more to New Orleans than Bourbon Street, it's a necessary stop while in the Big Easy. If you can, try to get access to one of the balconies — they're ideal for people watching and Instagramming. Just don't drink too many hand grenades.
9. Café du Monde
This list wouldn't be complete without Instagram's top spot in New Orleans, a place where photographers in the know are extra careful around all that powdered sugar. Our advice? Take your pictures first, then devour the fresh beignets and chicory coffee; your camera and taste buds will thank you for it.
10. Tulane University
I may be totally biased about this one — okay, I am totally biased about this one — but this is definitely the most beautiful college campus ever. Taking a stroll through the Academic Quad is like taking a trip back in time... in the best way possible. Be sure to take pictures at the Bead Tree, too.
11. Ashley Longshore Gallery
Ashley Longshore is a pop artist and gallery-owner based in New Orleans — the outspoken southerner uses fun, bright colors and attention-grabbing sayings to draw in visitors and art-buying clients alike. Her gallery is an Instagram and art lover's dream and a must-visit the next time you're in town.
Where are some of your favorite places to take photos in New Orleans? Sound off, below.
TPG featured card
at American Express's secure site
Terms & restrictions apply. See rates & fees.
| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 4X | Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year. |
| 5X | New! Earn 5X Membership Rewards® points on prepaid hotel stays booked through AmexTravel.com or the Amex Travel App. |
| 3X | Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights booked through AmexTravel.com, the Amex Travel App, or purchased directly from airlines. |
| 2X | Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points on prepaid car rentals booked through AmexTravel.com or the Amex Travel App and cruises booked and paid through AmexTravel.com. |
| 1X | Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases. |
Pros
- Valuable dining and food-related credits
- Flexible rewards with airline and hotel transfer partners
- Multiple travel and purchase protections
- No foreign transaction fees
- Access to Amex Offers for additional savings (enrollment required)
Cons
- Not as useful for those living outside the U.S.
- Some may have trouble using Uber and other dining credits
- You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
- New! Earn 5X Membership Rewards® points on prepaid hotel stays booked through AmexTravel.com or the Amex Travel App.
- Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights booked through AmexTravel.com, the Amex Travel App, or purchased directly from airlines.
- Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points on prepaid car rentals booked through AmexTravel.com or the Amex Travel App and cruises booked and paid through AmexTravel.com.
- Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
- Pay It® lets you tap in the American Express® App to quickly pay for small purchase amounts throughout the month and still earn rewards the way you usually do. Plan It® gives you the option to split up big purchases into equal monthly payments with a fixed fee. You’ll know upfront exactly how much you’ll pay.
- Updated! $120 Dining Credit: Earn up to a total of $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the Gold Card at Grubhub (including Seamless), Buffalo Wild Wings, Five Guys, The Cheesecake Factory, and Wonder. This can be an annual savings of up to $120. Enrollment required.
- $100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year at over 10,000 qualifying U.S. Resy restaurants after you pay for eligible purchases with the American Express® Gold Card. That’s up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
- $84 Dunkin' Credit: Earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at U.S. Dunkin’ locations. Enrollment required.
- $120 Uber Cash on Gold: Enjoy up to $120 in Uber Cash annually with your Gold Card. Just add your Card to your Uber account and you'll get $10 in Uber Cash each month to use on orders and rides in the U.S. when you select an Amex Card for your transaction.
- New! As an American Express® Gold Card Member, you can enjoy complimentary Hertz Five Star® Status. Enjoy benefits like skipping the counter at select locations, adding an additional driver at no additional cost*, and vehicle upgrades**. Benefit enrollment and Hertz Gold+ registration are required. *Additional drivers must meet standard rental qualifications and must be a spouse or domestic partner to qualify as complimentary. Other additional drivers subject to fees. **Benefits are subject to availability and vary by location. Additional Hertz program Terms and Conditions including age restrictions apply.
- Take advantage of a $100 credit towards eligible charges* at over 1,300 upscale hotels worldwide when you book The Hotel Collection through AmexTravel.com or the Amex Travel App **. *Eligible charges vary by property. **The Hotel Collection requires a two-night minimum stay.
- Book your travel through the Amex Travel App with added peace of mind – backed by American Express® service and support. Only for American Express® Card Members.
- Whenever you need us, we're here. Our Member Services team will ensure you are taken care of. From lost Card replacement to statement questions, we are available to help 24/7.
- No Foreign Transaction Fees.
- Annual Fee is $325.
- Terms Apply.