11 Must-Do Black Experiences In New Orleans

Exploring the vibrant culture of New Orleans is a must for any traveler seeking an authentic experience. For Black travelers, the city offers a rich history filled with African American heritage and landmarks that are a testament to resilience, faith, and perseverance. From soulful jazz to rich cuisine, here are 11 must-do Black experiences in New Orleans that will make your visit unforgettable.

Visit Congo Square for its African American history

New Orleans is a city steeped in history, culture, and tradition. One of the most significant parts of its past is the African American history, which has left an indelible mark on the city's identity. A crucial place to visit to understand the city's African American history is Congo Square.

Located in the Tremé neighborhood, Congo Square is a small park that once served as a gathering place for enslaved and free Africans and African Americans. In the 18th and 19th centuries, the square was one of the few places in the city where enslaved people could gather and perform cultural rituals, including dance, drumming, and singing.

These gatherings played a significant role in the development of many cultural practices that are now closely associated with New Orleans. For example, the music played in Congo Square would eventually evolve into jazz, one of the most iconic American music genres. The square was also a place where people could sell goods, which helped create a marketplace for African American entrepreneurs.

As visitors walk through Congo Square, they can see the remnants of these gatherings through various markers, including a monument that commemorates the contributions of African Americans to New Orleans' culture. The park has become a symbol of African American heritage and an important stop for tourists looking to learn more about the city's past.

Beyond its historical significance, Congo Square is also a vibrant gathering place that hosts concerts, dance performances, and other cultural events throughout the year. These events celebrate the city's diverse heritage and serve as a reminder that the traditions of Congo Square continue to influence the city's culture today.

In conclusion, visiting Congo Square is a must for anyone interested in black New Orleans history. It tells the story of the city's African American past and its influence on the culture that we see today. More importantly, it is a place of remembrance and celebration of the contributions of the black community to the city's rich cultural heritage.

Go to the Backstreet Cultural Museum for a glimpse into Mardi Gras Indian culture

New Orleans is well-known worldwide for its vibrant culture, music, and traditions that have been passed down through generations. However, one often-overlooked aspect of the city's cultural heritage is Mardi Gras Indian culture. These unique traditions have been kept alive by a small but dedicated community of African American residents, who have created their own subculture within the city.

For visitors looking to learn more about Mardi Gras Indians and their culture, the Backstreet Cultural Museum is a must-visit. Located in the heart of the Treme neighborhood, the museum is dedicated to preserving the history and traditions of African American carnival organizations in New Orleans, including Mardi Gras Indians, Baby Dolls, and Social Aid and Pleasure Clubs.

At the museum, visitors can explore a variety of exhibits and artifacts that showcase the rich history of these unique organizations. One of the highlights of the museum is the Feather Room, where visitors can see elaborately beaded and feathered costumes worn by Mardi Gras Indians during their annual parades.

The museum also features a collection of photographs, artwork, and other cultural artifacts that celebrate the traditions of Black New Orleans. The exhibits provide a glimpse into the struggles and triumphs of the African American community in the city, highlighting the beauty and resilience of Black culture in the face of adversity.

In addition to its permanent exhibits, the museum also hosts a variety of events and programs throughout the year. These include workshops on Mardi Gras Indian costume-making and traditional dance performances, as well as community events celebrating the rich cultural heritage of the Treme neighborhood.

For anyone interested in learning more about Black New Orleans and the vibrant traditions of Mardi Gras Indians, a visit to the Backstreet Cultural Museum is a must. This unique institution provides a fascinating glimpse into a little-known aspect of the city's cultural heritage, and is sure to leave visitors with a newfound appreciation for the history and traditions that make New Orleans such a special place.

Have a meal at Dooky Chase's Restaurant for soulful Creole cuisine

New Orleans is a city that is known for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant music scene, and unique cuisine. One of the best places in the city to experience this incredible food culture is Dooky Chases Restaurant, located in the heart of the Tremé neighborhood. Here, visitors can sample some of the most delicious soulful Creole cuisine that the city has to offer, made with the freshest ingredients and served with all of the love and hospitality that New Orleans is famous for.

Dooky Chases Restaurant is run by the legendary chef and restaurateur Leah Chase, who is often called the "Queen of Creole Cuisine." She has been serving up her signature dishes for more than 70 years, and her restaurant has become a true institution in the city. The walls of the restaurant are adorned with colorful artwork and photographs of famous patrons, and the atmosphere is warm, welcoming, and lively.

One of the standout dishes that visitors must try at Dooky Chases Restaurant is the gumbo. This classic Louisiana dish is made with a rich, hearty roux, and filled with succulent seafood, spicy sausage, and tender chunks of chicken. It is served over a bed of fluffy white rice, and is the perfect way to warm up on a chilly day. Another must-try dish is the jambalaya, which is loaded with spicy andouille sausage, plump shrimp, and chunks of juicy chicken. These dishes are hearty, flavorful, and a true representation of the best that Creole cuisine has to offer.

In addition to the incredible food, Dooky Chases Restaurant is also a must-visit destination for anyone interested in the history of black New Orleans. The restaurant has played an integral role in the cultural life of the city for decades, and has been a gathering place for prominent African American artists, musicians, and politicians. From the Civil Rights Movement to Hurricane Katrina, Dooky Chases Restaurant has been a symbol of resilience and hope in the face of adversity.

So, if you are looking for a place to experience the best of black New Orleans and its incredible cuisine, make sure to stop by Dooky Chases Restaurant. With its warm atmosphere, flavorful dishes, and rich cultural history, it is truly one of the city's most treasured gems.

Stroll through the historic Treme neighborhood

New Orleans is a city full of history and charm. One of its most iconic neighborhoods is Treme, known for its vibrant culture and rich African American heritage. Take a stroll through this fascinating area and discover what makes it so special.

Named after the Creole musician Louis Treme, this neighborhood boasts a history that dates back to the 18th century when it was home to free people of color. Over the years, Treme has been a hub for jazz and brass music, food, and culture, making it one of the most popular attractions for tourists visiting New Orleans.

As you explore the neighborhood, you'll find yourself surrounded by brightly colored homes, historic churches, and local businesses that are deeply entrenched in the community. Take a peek inside St. Augustine Catholic Church, one of the oldest African American churches in the country, or visit the Backstreet Cultural Museum, which houses Mardi Gras Indian costumes, photographs, and artifacts.

As you walk down the streets of Treme, you'll come across several jazz clubs and bars that play live music throughout the week. The Candlelight Lounge, for example, is one such club that has been in operation for over 75 years and features some of the best local jazz and blues performers. Make sure to grab a bite at the nearby Lil Dizzy's Cafe, a family-owned establishment that serves traditional Creole dishes like gumbo, red beans, and rice.

But Treme isn't just famous for its music and food. It also played a critical role in the civil rights movement during the 1960s. The neighborhood was home to many activists who fought for desegregation and the right to vote for black Americans. Head over to the Treme Community Center to learn about the community's role in this important movement.

As you leave Treme, you'll feel like you've experienced a unique piece of New Orleans culture. The neighborhood has a vibrant spirit and a history that cannot be found elsewhere. Whether you're a history buff, a foodie, or a music lover, Treme has something to offer everyone. So take a stroll through this iconic neighborhood and discover the magic of black New Orleans.

Attend a jazz show at Preservation Hall

New Orleans is a city that is well known for its rich and vibrant culture, and it’s no secret that jazz plays a significant role in its appeal. If you’re looking for a way to immerse yourself in traditional New Orleans culture, attending a jazz show at Preservation Hall is an experience you won't want to miss.

Preservation Hall is located in the heart of the French Quarter, just a few blocks away from the lively Bourbon Street. The hall was originally founded in 1961 by Allan and Sandra Jaffe, and its mission is to preserve, perpetuate, and protect traditional New Orleans jazz. Over the years, the hall has become a mecca for jazz enthusiasts from all over the world.

The atmosphere inside Preservation Hall is unlike any other. You’ll find yourself in a small, intimate space surrounded by vintage artwork and decor, as well as jazz music that will transport you back in time. The hall is dimly lit, minimally furnished, and has no air-conditioning. However, that’s all part of the ambiance.

The musicians who perform at Preservation Hall are the true gems of the venue. They are incredibly talented and passionate about their craft, and their performances are nothing short of spectacular. They play a mix of classic and modern jazz, including popular New Orleans tunes such as “When the Saints Go Marching In.”

Attending a show at Preservation Hall is an experience of its own. There’s no talking or texting allowed during the performances, as it’s important to maintain the respectful atmosphere of the venue. Instead, you’re encouraged to sit back, relax, and take in the exceptional music.

If you’re planning to attend a show at Preservation Hall, it’s important to note that tickets are not sold in advance. Instead, they’re available on a first-come, first-serve basis. The doors open roughly 30 minutes before the show begins, and tickets are sold at the door. However, it’s important to note that lines for tickets can be long, so it’s recommended to arrive early.

In conclusion, if you’re looking to immerse yourself in traditional New Orleans culture and experience some of the best jazz music in the world, a trip to Preservation Hall is a must. From the intimate ambiance to the incredibly talented musicians, this venue truly embodies the spirit of New Orleans’ jazz scene.

Indulge in New Orleans-style gumbo and jambalaya at Tuba Fats Square

New Orleans is a classic American city that is well-known for its rich history, unique architecture, and vibrant music scene. Along with all of these characteristics, New Orleans is also famous for its distinctive cuisine. One of the most beloved dishes in New Orleans is gumbo, a hearty stew filled with sausage, chicken, seafood, and a variety of vegetables. Likewise, jambalaya, another signature New Orleans dish, is a spicy mixture of meat, vegetables, and rice. If you're looking to satisfy your craving for these flavorful dishes in New Orleans, you need to head to Tuba Fats Square.

Located in the heart of the Black community in New Orleans, Tuba Fats Square is a popular gathering place where locals and tourists alike come to enjoy live music and delicious food. You can find vendors selling all kinds of tasty dishes on any given day, but for a true New Orleans culinary experience, you'll want to try the gumbo and jambalaya.

The gumbo at Tuba Fats Square is made with a roux (a mixture of flour and fat), shrimp, sausage, chicken, and okra. The flavors blend together perfectly to create a dish that is both filling and satisfying. The jambalaya, meanwhile, is a spicy mixture of rice, sausage, chicken, and vegetables. It's not for the faint of heart, but if you like a little heat in your food, you'll love it.

In addition to the food, the atmosphere at Tuba Fats Square is lively and welcoming. You'll likely find a group of musicians playing jazz or blues music, and people dancing in the streets. It's a fun and festive atmosphere that is quintessentially New Orleans.

If you find yourself in New Orleans and want to indulge in some delicious gumbo and jambalaya, be sure to check out Tuba Fats Square. You won't be disappointed!

Take a bike tour through the Lower Ninth Ward to view the resilience and recovery efforts

The city of New Orleans has been through a lot in the last few decades, from natural disasters to political and social turmoil. Perhaps no community in the city has faced more challenges than the Lower Ninth Ward, one of the most historically significant and culturally rich parts of the city. Despite the challenges that have been faced by this community, however, there is a spirit of resilience and recovery that has taken root here, and one of the best ways to experience it is by taking a bike tour through the area.

The Lower Ninth Ward is located in the easternmost part of the city, along the Mississippi River. It is known for its historic homes, vibrant music scene, and rich cultural heritage. In recent years, however, the community has faced a number of challenges, including the devastation wrought by Hurricane Katrina in 2005, which caused extensive flooding and destruction throughout the area. In the years since the hurricane, the Lower Ninth Ward has been the focus of intense recovery efforts, as residents, community leaders, and volunteers work to rebuild and revitalize the area.

One of the most effective ways to experience the resilience and recovery efforts in the Lower Ninth Ward is by taking a bike tour through the area. There are a number of tour operators in the city who offer guided tours of the area, led by knowledgeable and experienced guides who can provide insight into the history, culture, and challenges facing the community. These tours typically last several hours and cover significant portions of the neighborhood, including areas that were hardest hit by the hurricane.

During the tour, visitors can expect to see a number of significant landmarks and sites, including the historic Holy Cross Neighborhood, the Musician's Village, and the restored Bayou Bienvenue Wetland Triangle. Visitors will also have the opportunity to meet with community leaders and residents who have been directly impacted by the hurricane, and learn about the ongoing efforts to rebuild and revitalize the area.

One of the most impressive aspects of the recovery efforts in the Lower Ninth Ward is the sheer amount of work that has been done by volunteers and community organizations. From rebuilding homes and community centers, to planting gardens and restoring parks, there is a sense of collective responsibility and dedication to the area that is truly inspiring. By taking a bike tour through the area, visitors can see firsthand the progress that has been made, and the challenges that still lie ahead.

In conclusion, if you are interested in experiencing the resilience and recovery efforts in the Lower Ninth Ward, there is no better way to do so than by taking a bike tour through the area. With knowledgeable guides, a rich cultural heritage, and a strong sense of community pride and resilience, the Lower Ninth Ward is a must-see destination for anyone interested in history, culture, and social justice. So why not book a tour today and experience this truly unique and inspiring community for yourself?

Visit Whitney Plantation, the only plantation museum in Louisiana that focuses on the lives of enslaved people

New Orleans is known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and unique cuisine. However, a darker part of its history is often overlooked – the era of slavery that occurred during the 18th and 19th centuries. If you're interested in learning more about this important part of history, a visit to the Whitney Plantation is a must-see.

The Whitney Plantation, located just outside of New Orleans in Wallace, Louisiana, is the only plantation museum in the state that focuses solely on the lives of enslaved people. Founded in 1752, the Whitney Plantation is a historic site that tells the story of the more than 350 enslaved people who lived and worked there.

One of the most moving aspects of the Whitney Plantation is the "Wall of Honor," which features the names of the enslaved people who lived there, as well as their date of birth and country of origin. Many of the people on the Wall of Honor were kidnapped from Africa and brought to Louisiana against their will.

During the guided tour of the Whitney Plantation, visitors will learn about the daily lives of the enslaved people who lived there. They worked long hours in the fields, were subjected to brutal punishments, and were often separated from their families. The tour also includes an exhibition of historic artifacts, such as slave shackles and branding irons, which give visitors a sense of the brutality of slavery.

Perhaps the most moving part of the Whitney Plantation tour is the "Field of Angels." This memorial honors the more than 2,200 enslaved children who died on the plantation before the age of 18. Visitors will see seven tall white pillars, each marked with the name, age, and cause of death of the children who are buried there.

The Whitney Plantation is an important reminder of the cruel and inhumane treatment that African Americans endured during the era of slavery in Louisiana. It is also a tribute to the resilience and strength of the enslaved people who were able to survive and ultimately triumph over their oppressors.

In conclusion, a visit to the Whitney Plantation is an educational and moving experience that will give you a deeper understanding of the history of slavery in New Orleans. It is a reminder of the importance of acknowledging and learning from our past, and of treating all people with dignity and respect. If you have the opportunity to visit New Orleans, be sure to include a trip to the Whitney on your itinerary.

Check out the New Orleans African American Museum of Art, Culture, and History

New Orleans is a city rich in culture and history, particularly when it comes to its African American community. One great way to learn all about this vibrant culture is to pay a visit to the New Orleans African American Museum of Art, Culture, and History.

Located in the historic Tremé neighborhood, the museum is dedicated to preserving and interpreting the contributions of African Americans to the city, state, and country. Founded in 1996 by the late Judge Israel Augustine, Jr., the museum occupies the building that once housed the first African American public school in New Orleans.

The museum's collection includes a wide range of artifacts, art, documents, and photographs that illustrate the struggles and triumphs of African Americans in New Orleans. Visitors can learn about the history of slavery, the Civil Rights movement, and the city's jazz heritage, as well as the contributions of lesser-known figures like free people of color and early African American business owners.

One of the highlights of the museum is the permanent exhibit, "African Heritage in New Orleans: Continuity and Change." This exhibit traces the history of African Americans in the city from its colonial beginnings to the present day, showcasing everything from traditional African masks to contemporary art by local African American artists.

In addition to the permanent exhibit, the museum also hosts a variety of temporary exhibits, as well as educational programs and events that celebrate African American culture. Visitors can take a guided tour, attend a lecture or workshop, or browse the museum's gift shop for unique souvenirs.

Overall, the New Orleans African American Museum of Art, Culture, and History is a must-visit for anyone interested in learning more about the rich history and vibrant culture of African Americans in New Orleans. It's an opportunity to take a deep dive into the city's past and present, and gain a greater appreciation for the contributions of this important community.

Listen to live music at the House of Blues or Tipitina's

New Orleans is known as the birthplace of jazz, and with its rich history and diverse culture, it's no surprise that the city is home to many great music venues. The House of Blues and Tipitinas are just two of the many places where visitors can listen to live music and experience the unique sound of New Orleans.

The House of Blues is located in the beautiful French Quarter, and it's one of the city's most popular music venues. The club features a variety of genres, including blues, jazz, and rock, and it's hosted performances by some of the biggest names in music, such as Eric Clapton, Bob Dylan, and the Black Keys. The venue also offers an extensive menu of delicious Southern food and a diverse selection of drinks, making it the perfect destination for a night out.

Tipitinas is another legendary music venue in New Orleans, known for its focus on funk, jazz, and blues. The club opened in 1977 and has since become a staple of the city's music scene. Tipitinas has hosted countless famous musicians, including the late great Professor Longhair, who played there regularly during the club's early years. Today, visitors can enjoy a range of music from local and national artists, as well as a great selection of food and drinks.

Both the House of Blues and Tipitinas are live music institutions that offer an authentic New Orleans music experience. Whether you're a fan of jazz, blues, or rock, you're sure to find something to love at these venues. So why not grab a drink and enjoy the sounds of the Crescent City? You won't regret it!

Visit the National WWII Museum to learn about African American contributions to the war effort

New Orleans has a rich history of African American contributions to the war effort, and one place where you can learn more about this important part of our collective past is the National WWII Museum.

The National WWII Museum is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in learning about the role that African Americans played in the war effort. At the museum, you can explore exhibits that detail the contributions of segregated units like the Tuskegee Airmen and the 761st Tank Battalion, as well as the ways in which the war impacted African American soldiers and the wider black community.

One of the highlights of the museum's African American-themed exhibits is the multimedia experience "Fighting for the Right to Fight," which examines the obstacles and challenges faced by African American soldiers as they fought for the freedom of others. Through interviews, historical footage, and interactive displays, visitors can gain a better understanding of the sacrifices that these soldiers made and the ways in which their bravery and dedication helped to change the course of the war.

In addition to its exhibits, the National WWII Museum also offers a variety of educational programs and events that focus on African American history and the war. These include lectures, book talks, and film screenings, as well as special tours and workshops for educators. Whether you're a student, a history buff, or someone with a general interest in the contributions of African Americans to the war effort, there's something at the museum for everyone.

Overall, the National WWII Museum is an essential destination for anyone interested in learning about the role that African Americans played in the war effort. By visiting the museum and engaging with its exhibits and programs, you can gain a deeper appreciation for the sacrifices and achievements of the generations who came before us, and honor the legacy of those who fought to make our world a better place.

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