One sentence sums up the way of life in New Orleans: Laissez les bons temps rouler. Or, in English, "Let the good times roll!" Known for its great nightlife, distinctive architecture, Cajun and Creole cuisine, jazz music, and freewheeling spirit, New Orleans is one of our nation's favorite cities. Everyone grieved for it after Hurricane Katrina—but don't forget, this city has been through a LOT since it was founded in 1718. Its party continued on, through French rule and Spanish rule, the Battle of New Orleans, and a few horrible fires… and with a 2010 Saints Super Bowl win under its belt, N'Awlins is looking toward a bright future. It's already preparing for its 300th birthday in 2018.

The best-known tourist neighborhoods are the French Quarter and Bourbon Street. Have a hurricane in one of the bars, or visit the new Museum of the American Cocktail and learn the mysterious history of absinthe (a favorite spirit of New Orleans whenever it's legal). Mardi Gras is the most famous event of the calendar year, but many people prefer Jazz Fest, with its foodie focus and boldface headliners (spanning all musical genres). Another holiday New Orleans loves to celebrate is Halloween—Historic New Orleans Tours offers cemetery tours and Anne Rice tours, while people line up at the Mortuary, a former working mortuary that's been certified haunted by paranormal authorities.