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New Orleans Named #2 Best City in the U.S. by Travel + Leisure

New Orleans has once again captured the hearts of travelers, securing a prominent spot in Travel + Leisure's annual World's Best Awards for 2023. The Crescent City was named the No. 2 best city in the United States, a testament to its enduring appeal as a vibrant, culturally rich destination that blends history, cuisine, music, and hospitality in a way few places can match. This ranking places New Orleans just behind Charleston, South Carolina, which took the top honor, but ahead of other beloved locales like Savannah, Georgia; Honolulu; and Nashville. The recognition highlights how New Orleans continues to enchant visitors with its unique blend of French, Spanish, African, and Caribbean influences, creating an atmosphere that's both lively and deeply rooted in tradition.

The World's Best Awards are determined by reader votes, with Travel + Leisure surveying its audience on their favorite travel experiences across various categories, including cities, hotels, airlines, and more. For the U.S. cities category, voters evaluated destinations based on criteria such as sights and landmarks, culture, food, friendliness, shopping, and overall value. New Orleans excelled in these areas, earning high marks for its iconic attractions like the French Quarter, with its wrought-iron balconies and bustling streets, and the historic Garden District, known for its antebellum mansions and oak-lined avenues. The city's cultural scene, from the rhythmic beats of jazz spilling out of Preservation Hall to the colorful Mardi Gras parades and second-line processions, resonates strongly with travelers seeking authentic, immersive experiences.

Food plays a starring role in New Orleans' allure, and the ranking underscores this. Voters praised the city's culinary landscape, which ranges from classic Creole and Cajun dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, and beignets at Café du Monde to innovative fine dining at spots like Commander's Palace and Emeril's. The abundance of fresh seafood, po'boys, and pralines adds to the sensory delight, making every meal an event. Beyond eating, the city's bar scene, with legendary establishments like the Sazerac Bar and Carousel Bar, contributes to its reputation as a place where nightlife thrives, often fueled by live music and cocktails that pay homage to its cocktail heritage—the Sazerac itself being America's first cocktail.

Hospitality is another pillar of New Orleans' success in these rankings. The warmth of locals, often described as Southern hospitality with a distinctive Louisiana flair, leaves a lasting impression. Visitors frequently recount stories of friendly interactions, from street performers engaging passersby to hotel staff going above and beyond to ensure a memorable stay. This sense of community and openness is evident in events like Jazz Fest, where music lovers from around the world gather, or during the quieter moments exploring neighborhoods like Bywater or Uptown, where residents proudly share their city's stories.

The ranking also reflects New Orleans' resilience. Having weathered challenges like Hurricane Katrina and the COVID-19 pandemic, the city has bounced back with renewed vigor, investing in tourism infrastructure while preserving its soul. Recent developments, such as the expansion of the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center and enhancements to the riverfront, have made it more accessible and appealing without diluting its charm. Travel + Leisure readers noted the value aspect, pointing out that New Orleans offers high-quality experiences at relatively affordable prices compared to other major U.S. cities, from budget-friendly street food to mid-range boutique hotels in historic buildings.

In the broader context of the awards, New Orleans' position is part of a pattern where Southern cities dominate the top spots, emphasizing the region's draw for its history, cuisine, and laid-back vibe. Charleston, the No. 1 city, shares similarities with New Orleans in its historic architecture and food scene, but New Orleans stands out for its musical heritage and festive spirit. Other top-ranked cities like Santa Fe, New Mexico, and Chicago also made the list, but New Orleans' consistent presence—having appeared in the top rankings multiple times in recent years—solidifies its status as a must-visit destination.

Travel experts and locals alike see this accolade as a boost for tourism, which is vital to the city's economy. It encourages visitors to explore beyond the well-trodden paths of Bourbon Street, venturing into areas like the Tremé neighborhood for its African American history or taking a swamp tour in the nearby bayous to experience the natural beauty that surrounds the urban core. The ranking also spotlights lesser-known gems, such as the National WWII Museum, which offers world-class exhibits on American history, or the contemporary art scene at places like the Ogden Museum of Southern Art.

For those planning a trip, the awards suggest timing visits around key events to maximize enjoyment. Spring brings Jazz Fest and the French Quarter Festival, while fall offers milder weather and events like Voodoo Fest. Winter, with its Mardi Gras season, transforms the city into a whirlwind of costumes, floats, and king cake. Even in summer, despite the heat, indoor attractions and air-conditioned venues provide respite, and the city's many festivals ensure there's always something happening.

Ultimately, New Orleans' No. 2 ranking in Travel + Leisure's list is more than just a number—it's a celebration of a city that invites people to let loose, savor life's pleasures, and connect with a culture that's as resilient as it is joyful. Whether it's the sound of a brass band echoing through the streets, the aroma of spices wafting from a kitchen, or the sight of the Mississippi River at sunset, New Orleans leaves an indelible mark on those who visit, drawing them back time and again. This recognition from discerning travelers reaffirms what locals have always known: there's no place quite like the Big Easy.

Read the Full NOLA.com Article at:
[ https://www.nola.com/entertainment_life/travel-leisure-us-rankings-new-orleans/article_272f33ea-b929-4216-ae97-90b4c31aa377.html ]