Overlooking the Mississippi River, New Orleans is famous for its jazz scene, laid-back, party lifestyle and Mardi Gras celebration. it is among the top 20 largest cities in the country and has an international reputation as a U.S. port, enjoying easy access to the Gulf of Mexico, which is situated about 100 miles south of the river. New Orleans also has a reputation for being one of the best cities for young entrepreneurs. In fact, it’s been named #1 in the country for its number of bars per capita, top travel destination for sports enthusiasts, and best city for single people.
Where is New Orleans located?
The city lies 80 miles from Baton Rouge, the capital of Louisiana, which is approximately a 90-minute drive along I-10. Atlanta can be reached in about 7 hours via mainly interstate roads, while Houston is a five-hour drive away (350 miles).
How big is New Orleans?
New Orleans is the largest city in Louisiana, followed by the capital city, Baton Rouge, and Shreveport. The city of Birmingham, Ala., has similar demographics. However, New Orleans has 1.5 times its population.
What is the weather like in New Orleans?
Due to its southern location, New Orleans has a subtropical, humid climate with short winters that don’t get much precipitation. It experiences average temperatures of 50°F. The summer months are wet and rainy, with average temperatures hovering around 83°F. Autumn sees less rain, and the mildest weather occurs in spring — just in time for the famous Mardi Gras celebration.