New Orleans is truly a city like no other in the United States – or anywhere in the world. Its location on the Mississippi River makes it not just a historical trading hub, but a home for people with a broad array of backgrounds.
That diversity is reflected in its unique blend of performance, entertainment and cultural opportunities. And, of course, New Orleans is one of the best places to immerse students in music – in clinics, in performance spaces and on the street! Here’s why we have big love for the Big Easy:
The French Quarter
There’s no better way to spend a NOLA day than making your way through the French Quarter, the historic heartbeat of the city. Stunning architecture, talented street musicians and unique retail shops delight students every time. Take a guided walking tour or just follow your nose while you take in the rich history of New Orleans.

Clinics
Learn from first-class clinicians at Tulane or Loyola, then put your group’s new skills on display as you perform in Jackson Square or any number of other performance venues.
Mardi Gras World
Learn all about one of the world’s most fabulous festivals in the very spot the parade floats are made. Wander through 300,000 square feet of Mardi Gras prep space and watch artists hard at work preparing for this year’s event. It’s a great place to pick up beads, masks and other NOLA souvenirs too.
Preservation Hall
Here, your students can enjoy the rare treat of a private daytime concert of authentic jazz performed by local masters, with an educational focus and time for Q&A. Wooden floors and vintage décor will transport your students to a different time – and they’ll learn that there’s a lot more to New Orleans jazz than “When the Saints Go Marching In.”
Jazz, Yes, But So Much More
Music is always lingering in the air in NOLA. And because of its unique cultural fabric, New Orleans is a melting pot of music unlike any other city in America. Jazz rubs shoulders with blues, R&B, zydeco, swamp rock, and dozens of other sounds. There’s no shortage of opportunities to hear great music – and we’ll make sure you know exactly where to find it!

The National World War II Museum
Opened on June 6, 2000 – the 56th anniversary of D-Day – the National World War II Museum is consistently one of the top-rated attractions in the city and a hit with students. Don’t miss “Beyond All Boundaries,” the one-hour, 4-D movie produced and narrated by Tom Hanks.
Other Attractions
Get up close and personal with the alligators on the Cajun Pride Swamp Tour. Take a lunch or dinner jazz cruise with the New Orleans Steamboat Company. Return home with new culinary skills learned at the New Orleans School of Cooking. Or watch an open rehearsal of the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra. The list goes on and on!
All that and we haven’t even talked about the food?!? Come hungry for po’ boys, beignets, southern BBQ and traditional Cajun and Creole dishes.The Big Easy is a student favorite because it’s eye-opening and unforgettable. And its location makes it an easy trip from almost anywhere. Intrigued? Please reach out to us – we’d love to build a customized itinerary that’s perfect for you.