| New Orleans is a city in the eastern part of the state of Louisiana. With an MSA population of 1.3 million it is an important US shipping port and tourist destination. The city was formed in 1718. It lies within the Central Standard Time Zone and New Orleans area code is 504. The city has a rich and colorful history shaped by many nationalities. New Orleans weather is warm with winter low temperatures around 43 degrees and summer highs into the mid 90s. Precipitation averages about 5 inches a month of rain. New Orleans things to do include visits to Bourbon Street and French Quarter, St. Louis Cathedral, Jackson Square, Preservation Hall, the French Market, New Orleans Mint, the New Orleans Museum of Art, Audubon Zoo, City Park, and Aquaurium of the Americas. New Orleans festivals and events include Mardi Gras. A favorite New Orleans shopping area is Magazine Street. The Times-Picayune is the area's newspaper. Local sports teams include NFL football's New Orleans Saints, NBA basketball's New Orleans Hornets. The Sugar Bowl is hosted by New Orleans annually. The Port of New Orleans is a world leader in shipping. Ochsner Health System is the area's top employer of more than ten thousand workers. Higher education facilities include Tulane University, Xavier University of Louisiana, Louisiana State University School of Medicine, Dillard University, Herzing College, and University of New Orleans. The Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport serves the area. Amtrak train service is available. |
