Tremé Travel Guide

Get to know Tremé, one of the most vibrant neighborhoods in New Orleans. From historical landmarks to outdoor adventures, food and drinks to local culture and customs, here's what you need to know to make the most of your trip.


Introduction to Tremé

Tremé is a historic neighborhood in the heart of New Orleans that is known for its vibrant music scene, rich cultural heritage, and delicious food. Located just north of the French Quarter, Tremé is one of the oldest African-American neighborhoods in the U.S. and is home to several landmarks that bear witness to the city’s complex history.

Visitors will find a plethora of galleries, museums, and studios that showcase the city’s unique art and music scene. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the main attractions of Tremé, including its cultural landmarks, outdoor adventures, and bustling food and drink scene. Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, or music lover, Tremé is sure to offer something that intrigues you.

List of Places to Visit in Tremé

Here’s our guide to some of the best places to visit in Tremé:

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • The Backstreet Cultural Museum: This museum holds an impressive collection of Mardi Gras Indian costumes and memorabilia dedicated to the city’s African American community.

  • St. Augustine Church: Built in 1841, St. Augustine Church is the oldest African American Catholic Church in the U.S. The church’s interior is adorned with beautiful frescoes and stained-glass windows, making it a must-visit for art and history fans.

  • Armstrong Park: This public park is named for legendary jazz musician Louis Armstrong and is home to many iconic landmarks, including Congo Square, the Mahalia Jackson Theater, and the New Orleans Jazz Museum at the Old U.S. Mint.

Natural Attractions of Tremé: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Bayou Sauvage National Wildlife Refuge: Located just outside of Tremé, this wildlife refuge spans 24,000 acres and is home to over 300 species of birds. Visitors can explore the beautiful swampy landscape through hiking and kayaking tours.

  • Crescent Park: This 1.4-mile park along the Mississippi River offers stunning views of the city skyline and is a great place to go for a sunset walk or bike ride.

  • Pelican Greenway: This bike and pedestrian path is a great way to get some exercise while exploring the city. The path passes through several neighborhoods, including Tremé, and offers stunning views of the Mississippi River.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Tremé

If you want to explore Tremé’s natural beauty, there are plenty of hiking and biking trails to choose from. The Lafitte Greenway is a popular biking path that connects North Rampart Street to Mid-City and offers a great way to take in the city’s unique architecture and green spaces. The Bayou St. John trail offers beautiful views of the city’s waterways and is a great place to go for a leisurely walk or bike ride.

Best Things to Do in Tremé: Activities and Tours

If you’re looking for fun activities to do in Tremé, there are plenty of options. Visitors can take a jazz history tour, which will take them to all of the city’s iconic music landmarks, or explore Tremé on a bike tour. If you’re interested in New Orleans’ culinary scene, you can take a food tour and sample some of the city’s most famous dishes.

Week-Long Itinerary for Tremé

Here’s a sample itinerary for a week in Tremé:

  • Day 1: Visit the Backstreet Cultural Museum and explore Armstrong Park.
  • Day 2: Take a jazz history tour in the morning and go for a bike ride on the Lafitte Greenway in the afternoon.
  • Day 3: Visit St. Augustine Church in the morning and explore the New Orleans Jazz Museum at the Old U.S. Mint in the afternoon.
  • Day 4: Take a cooking class and learn how to make New Orleans classics like gumbo and jambalaya.
  • Day 5: Explore the Bayou Sauvage National Wildlife Refuge and go kayaking.
  • Day 6: Take a history tour of the Tremé neighborhood and learn about its unique cultural heritage.
  • Day 7: Relax and enjoy a sunset walk along Crescent Park.

Food and Drink Scene of Tremé

No visit to Tremé is complete without diving into the neighborhood’s vibrant food and drink scene. Here are some must-try dishes and local beverages:

Must-Try Dishes

  • Gumbo: This hearty soup is a quintessential New Orleans dish and is made with a dark roux, seafood or chicken, and a blend of Creole spices.

  • Red Beans and Rice: This classic dish is typically served on Mondays in New Orleans and features smoky sausage, creamy red beans, and a flavorful blend of herbs and spices.

  • Po-Boys: These classic New Orleans sandwiches are made with crusty French bread and a variety of fillings, including fried shrimp, oysters, or roast beef.

Local Beverages

  • Sazerac: This iconic New Orleans cocktail is made with rye whiskey, absinthe, bitters, and a sugar cube. The drink is typically served in a chilled glass with a lemon twist.

  • Hurricane: This fruity cocktail is made with rum, passion fruit juice, and lime juice, and is a great option for those who prefer sweeter drinks.

Where to Stay in Tremé: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

Tremé offers a variety of accommodations for visitors, including hotels, hostels, and guesthouses. The Historic Streetcar Inn is a great choice for those who want to be in the heart of the action, while the Melrose Mansion is a more upscale option that offers luxurious amenities like a pool and spa.

What to Buy in Tremé: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

When shopping in Tremé, look for local art and crafts that showcase the neighborhood’s unique cultural heritage. Some popular souvenirs include Mardi Gras Indian masks, beaded jewelry, and handcrafted pottery.

Local Culture and Customs of Tremé

As one of the oldest African American neighborhoods in the U.S., Tremé has a rich cultural heritage that is deeply intertwined with the city’s history. Visitors should be respectful of the neighborhood’s traditions and customs, which include the Mardi Gras Indian culture and second line parades.

Best Time to Visit Tremé

The best time to visit Tremé is in the spring or fall, when the weather is mild and there are fewer crowds. Summer can be hot and humid, while winter can be chilly and rainy. However, no matter when you visit, Tremé’s vibrant culture and lively music scene are sure to make for an unforgettable trip.

Do’s and Don’ts of Tremé

Do:

  • Do explore the neighborhood’s unique cultural heritage, including Mardi Gras Indian culture and second line parades.

  • Do try local dishes like gumbo and red beans and rice.

  • Do take a jazz history tour and explore the city’s iconic music landmarks.

Don’t:

  • Don’t disrespect the neighborhood’s cultural customs and traditions.

  • Don’t visit during Mardi Gras season unless you’re prepared for the crowds and chaos.

  • Don’t forget to bring sunscreen and insect repellent if you plan on spending time outdoors.

Safety and Health

Safety in Tremé

Tremé is generally a safe neighborhood, but visitors should take precautions and be aware of their surroundings, especially at night. It’s best to travel in groups, and to avoid dark and isolated areas.

Health in Tremé

Visitors to Tremé should take precautions against the heat and humidity by staying hydrated and wearing loose, breathable clothing. It’s also a good idea to bring sunscreen and insect repellent, as mosquitoes can be prevalent in the area.

Getting to Tremé: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Tremé

Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport is the closest airport to Tremé, located about 15 miles away. Visitors can take a taxi or shuttle, or rent a car to get to the neighborhood.

Bus Stations Near Tremé

The Greyhound Bus Station is located in downtown New Orleans, just a few miles away from Tremé. Visitors can take a taxi or public transportation to get to the neighborhood.

Other Options

Tremé is well-connected by public transportation, including buses and streetcars, which run throughout the city. Visitors can also rent a bike or take a taxi to get around the neighborhood.

How to Get Around in Tremé

Walking and biking are great options for getting around Tremé, as the neighborhood is relatively small and easy to navigate. Visitors can also take public transportation or a taxi if they need to travel longer distances.

Where to Go Next from Tremé: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

If you’re looking to explore beyond Tremé, there are plenty of nearby destinations and excursions to choose from. Visitors can take a swamp tour to explore the region’s unique wildlife, or visit nearby neighborhoods like the Marigny or the French Quarter.

Conclusion

Tremé is a must-visit destination for anyone interested in New Orleans’ unique cultural heritage, vibrant music scene, and delicious food. Whether you’re exploring the neighborhood’s historic landmarks or sampling local dishes, Tremé is sure to leave a lasting impression. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to Tremé today!

Historic St. Augustine Church Historic St. Augustine Church