Rick Steves Thinks This Popular, Tourist-Favorite City Is The Most Fun In The US

Although Rick Steves usually sets his sights on reviewing the best European destinations, he sometimes can't resist singing praises for the country in which he was born and raised, the US. Unsurprisingly, however, the one city in the US that he labeled the "most fun" reflects European culture, history, and architecture — but the man knows what he likes. Truth be told, as someone who has traveled the world extensively, I have to agree with him sentiment.

Although Steves' usual suggestions reflect straying away from main tourist hubs, he'll make an exception for New Orleans since the city, in his words (from his blog "New Orleans: Where the Good Times Roll All Year Long", is "bursting with culture and a contagious love of life that seems to thrive oblivious to its many visitors."  If you're a lover of festivals, buzzing nightlife, funky jazz music, spooky history, and incredible food, this is the place for you.

Founded by French colonizers in 1718 and then taken over by the Spanish in 1762, the city's history is as unique as its architecture (and it's easy to see why one of Europe's preeminent guides finds it so fascinating). No matter the time of year, New Orleans seems to always be brimming with life and excitement, and not only in the tourist districts.  While Bourbon Street can be (according to Steves) "exhaustingly and depressingly bawdy, rowdy, and alcoholic", he suggests that "it's worth strolling just to imagine how crazy it must be during Mardi Gras." However, although New Orleans is a tourist-heavy city, spending time exploring more of what makes it unique will solidify your love and make you want to keep coming back for more.

New Orleans is a place that has something for everyone. The city's colonial architecture recalls a history as romantic as it is gruesome, making a trip through its winding alleyways a fascinating experience even to those allergic to history books. Steves has a few recommendations for how to best get a historic feel for the city.

One, he suggests heading towards Jackson Square to witness St. Louis Cathedral, and the two buildings standing next to it, the Cabildo and the Presbytere. Here, "you'll get the standard history ... including the Louisiana Purchase story, and a powerful exhibit describing the deluge of suffering and chaos that came with Hurricane Katrina in 2005." He also suggests taking a bus tour, which gives visitors a fine "once over lightly of the city". Lastly, he recommends taking a cruise down the Mississippi on the steamboat Natchez, which includes "great narration explaining the importance of the river historically as well as pointing out interesting sights along the way." 

If you have more time and are interested beyond the average history lesson, one of the coolest things about New Orleans is that it's steeped in not only French and Spanish culture but Creole as well. From a unique dialect, mouthwatering cuisine (like gumbo), and beautiful music, the influence this culture has on New Orleans is palpable. Not to mention, the city is steeped in African roots (due in part to the slave trade), and voodoo plays a large part in its culture as well. Visitors interested in the unique background of the supernatural, so to speak, can learn more about its traditions at the New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum. Ghost tours are also great ways to learn about the mysteries and legends lurking behind almost every corner of this spooky city. 

No visit to New Orleans would be complete without immersing yourself in two of the things that make this city as great as it is: cuisine and music. New Orleans isn't known as one of the top foodie destinations for nothing. If you've only got a short amount of time here, be sure to try the main staples, like beignets, gumbo, muffalatas, chargrilled oysters, jambalaya, and anything with seafood in it. Steves even mentions that he "can't remember enjoying eating anywhere in the USA as much as in New Orleans". Not sure how refined of a palate he has, but based on his other recommendations, it seems safe to say that New Orleans ranks at the top of the list when it comes to delicious, must-try food. 

Once you've filled yourself with tasty eats, it's time to hear some live music, which you can find on almost every corner of this vibrant city. Steves comments that in regards to entertainment, "there is a world of action — like Memphis and Nashville, the music scene is a mobile feast."

If you'd like to continue to stray away from busy Bourbon Street (though Preservation Hall is a must for any music lover), make your way towards Frenchmen Street, where a world of music awaits. Top picks include The Spotted Cat, Blue Nile, and D.B.A, each known to host jazz, funk, rock, blues, and brass musicians. You never know, you may come across a street band that tickles your fancy more than the ones in the clubs! While here, check out the Frenchmen Art Bazaar — a longstanding nighttime art bazaar where local artists come to share their crafts. NOLA is a place some may find a bit much, but it's hard not to fall in love.