New Orleans is America's most culturally distinct city. Music: Frenchmen Street has authentic jazz (Spotted Cat, Snug Harbor, Three Muses) — locals avoid touristy Bourbon Street for music. Preservation Hall in French Quarter for traditional jazz. Food: gumbo at Commander's Palace, po'boy at Mother's, beignets at Cafe du Monde (24/7), muffuletta at Central Grocery, Creole cuisine at Galatoire's. Sights: French Quarter Jackson Square, St. Louis Cathedral, Garden District (live oaks, mansions), Lafayette Cemetery, riverboat cruise on Mississippi. Best time: October-May (avoid summer humidity). Mardi Gras (Feb-Mar) is wild but pricey.