New Orleans is one of the most unique cities in the United States. Throughout its history the city, or the area around it, has been home to Native American tribes, Spanish Conquistadors, French pirates, and since Thomas Jefferson’s Louisiana Purchase in 1803, the good ol’ U.S. of A. All of these nationalities and cultures have blended to create a true melting pot society within New Orleans with a rich cultural heritage, vibrant music scene, and legendary cuisine. New Orleans offers countless attractions for visitors attending the Premium Cigar Association trade show in April 2025. Whether you’re coming into town a day or two early or plan an extended stay, here are a few suggestions of sights to see and experiences to treat yourself to in the Crescent City and its surroundings.
The French Quarter (Vieux Carré)
Of course, the historic heart of New Orleans, the French Quarter, is an essential first stop for any visitor. The 300-year-old neighborhood features amazing French and Spanish colonial architecture, with iconic wrought iron balconies and colorful facades. Jackson Square, the Quarter’s central plaza, serves as an open-air artist colony where local artists display their work against the backdrop of the magnificent St. Louis Cathedral. April’s mild temperatures make it perfect for a morning walking tour or an evening stroll along the gas lamp-lit streets. Better yet, check out a guided ghost tour in the evening, such as the New Orleans Haunted History Ghost Tour, which offers three daily tours (3 p.m., 6 p.m. and 8 p.m.) and begins at the Vampire Apothecary Restaurant & Bar at 725 St. Peter St. Costs begin at $30.
Garden District
A short streetcar ride from downtown, the Garden District offers a striking contrast to the French Quarter’s dense urbanity. This neighborhood showcases some of the best-preserved collections of historic mansions in the Southern United States. The area’s tree-lined streets, boutique shops along Magazine Street, and historic Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 provide excellent opportunities for photography and architectural appreciation. Many homes feature magnificent gardens that reach peak bloom in April, making it an especially rewarding time to visit.
Streetcar Tours
Speaking of streetcars, the historic St. Charles Streetcar line is the oldest continuously operating streetcar line in the world and offers a charming way to explore the city. The line runs from downtown through the Garden District and past Loyola and Tulane Universities, providing glimpses of stunning architecture and local life. The streetcars themselves are moving National Historic Landmarks, and at $1.25 per ride, they’re one of the best values in town.
National WWII Museum
Whether you’re interested in history or just want to pay tribute to your parents’, grandparents’ or, dare we say, great-grandparents’ generation, the National WWII Museum is a must-see and is one of America’s top museums. The museum’s immersive exhibits, including the “Road to Berlin” and “Road to Tokyo,” offer compelling narratives of the war through personal stories, artifacts, and interactive displays. The museum’s newest pavilion features cutting-edge technology and multimedia experiences that bring history to life. Plan to spend at least half a day here to fully appreciate the exhibits. The museum offers half-day, full-day, and 2-day itineraries and passes. Check out nationalww2museum.org to plan your visit.
Preservation Hall
New Orleans is the birthplace of jazz, a uniquely American music genre. For an authentic New Orleans jazz experience, Preservation Hall is unparalleled. Established in 1961, Preservation Hall is an intimate, no-frills environment that features nightly performances of some of The Big Easy’s finest jazz artists. While shows typically last only 45 minutes, the experience will stay with you long after you leave New Orleans. Tickets can be purchased for as little as $25 and can be found at preservationhall.com.
Bayou Tours
Maybe nature is more your thing, or you just want to stretch your legs outside the city. If so, Louisiana’s swamps and bayous offer a completely different side of local culture. Several companies operate tours through the cypress swamps, where visitors can spot alligators, herons, and other wildlife while learning about the delicate ecosystem. April’s pleasant temperatures make it an ideal time for these tours. Many operators offer pickup from downtown hotels, making it an easy half-day excursion. Check out bayouswamptours.com for more information.
Oak Alley Plantation
Another option outside New Orleans is the historic Oak Alley Plantation, which offers a profound look at both the grandeur and difficult history of Louisiana’s antebellum past. The plantation’s spectacular quarter-mile canopy of 300-year-old oak trees leads to the Greek Revival mansion. The site’s exhibits honestly address the plantation’s history of slavery while preserving the architectural and natural beauty of the grounds. April visitors will find the gardens in full bloom with comfortable temperatures for exploring the extensive grounds.
Planning your Visit
During the PCA trade show, many of these attractions will be easily accessible from the convention center or French Quarter areas. Consider purchasing a New Orleans Pass if you plan to visit multiple attractions, as it can offer significant savings. Most sites are particularly beautiful in April, when the weather is mild and spring flowers are in bloom. Make reservations for popular attractions and remember that The Big Easy is a city best experienced at a big and easy pace. Leave room in your schedule for spontaneous discoveries, whether you’re following the sound of jazz music down a side street or stopping to watch street performers in the French Quarter. These unplanned moments often become the highlights of a visit to this unique American city.
Be sure to stop by neworleans.com for a much more comprehensive list of things to do and attractions to visit.
– Photography by Zack Smith and Paul Broussard. Story by Stephen A. Ross.
This story first appeared in the PCA25 Attendee Guide. To receive a copy of this magazine you must be a current member of PCA. Join or renew today at premiumcigars.org/membership.