New Orleans is one of the most historic cities in the country. It was founded by the French in the 1700s and became a major international port. For history buffs on vacation, here are some travel tips and seven spots not to miss:
1. Chalmette Battlefield: This battlefield and national cemetery marks the site of the Battle of New Orleans during the War of 1812. It was fought in January of 1815 after the signing of a treaty in the war. A visitor center examines the war and its significance with films, exhibits, and artifacts.
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2. Preservation Hall: Music-lovers can enjoy a living history experience at Preservation Hall in the French Quarter. With shows appropriate for all ages, the New Orleans Preservation Hall has served as a venue for preserving New Orleans-style jazz since 1961. Travel tips: Buy tickets ahead for nightly performances.
3. Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve: This national park looks at the history of the Acadian people from France who would become the Louisiana Cajuns. Visitors can have the opportunity to learn about bayou life and the development of the Cajun culture at the Prairie Acadian Cultural Center. The French Quarter Visitor Center offers the opportunity learn how a small planned city turned into a major international port.
4. The Hurricane Katrina exhibit in the Louisiana State Museum: In the Presbytere on Jackson Square, this collection of first-hand artifacts and recollections of survivors of Hurricane Katrina gives a unique view of the modern history of New Orleans. At the Louisiana State Museum, the exhibit entitled "Living with Hurricanes: Katrina and Beyond" examines what the city went through during the devastating days, weeks, and months following the 2005 storm.
Travel tips: Head up to a second exhibit in the museum which showcases Mardi Gras and the evolution of the carnival, parade, and floats.
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5. St. Louis Cemetery No. 1: There are actually three Saint Louis cemeteries in New Orleans, each of which is worth a visit. The unique custom of above-ground burial alone makes these cemeteries a unique historical treasure. The first of these cemeteries was opened in 1789, and all three are the permanent resting place for many historic figures. Several tour companies provide a historical perspective on these sites.
6. 1850 House: This National Historic Landmark is run by the Louisiana State Museum and features a recreation of antebellum-era life in the New Orleans French Quarter. Travel tips: For another recreation of life in the antebellum French Quarter, visit Madame John's Legacy.
7. The Historic New Orleans Collection: This museum and research center started with a private collection. It focuses on New Orleans and southern Louisiana and has grown to include more than 1 million items, some of which can be seen in four exhibition spaces in the French Quarter. The museum offers free self-guided tours and docent-guided tours of their galleries, and gives visitors the opportunity to experience a French Quarter courtyard.
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