This May 28 – June 1, the Mississippi River plays host to an impressive flotilla of ships from across the globe. Sail250 New Orleans marks the city’s role as the first port of call in a nationwide celebration of America’s 250th anniversary. You can find the vessels gracing the New Orleans riverfront from the Bywater up to the Crescent City Connection twin bridges, which spans the neighborhoods of the Bywater, French Quarter, and downtown near the Convention Center. Between the ships, find places to eat and things to do along the way.

How to Attend Sail250

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Photo credit: Sail250

Sail250 welcomes all to visit the ships for a public tour, free of charge. Ships will be stationed at wharfs along the Mississippi River in the French Quarter and downtown. Stay tuned for more details on exact location.

Other events during Sail250 include a flotilla welcome parade, fireworks at the Port of New Orleans, and a seafood cookoff featuring members of the U.S. Navy, Coast Guard, and Foreign Navy.

Learn more on the individual ships, schedule of events, and general information on Sail250 here.

Where to Stay Near Sail250

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Enjoy staying near the action during Sail250. The French Quarter offers numerous hotels, as down downtown. Check out our blog on boutique hotels here and on hotels for groups here. It’ll be summertime in NOLA, and you might want to stay in a hotel with a pool. Since Sail250 activities are free, considering splurging on a stay in a newly renovated hotelBrowse our hotel directory here for more on where to stay in NOLA.

Where to Eat Near Sail250

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Paul Broussard, New Orleans Tourism

There are plenty of places to eat in the French Quarter and downtown! Perhaps you’d like to visit a classic New Orleans restaurant like Antoine’s or try a new spot like Spicy Mango. Dig into traditional New Orleans food like gumbo, po-boys, and beignets all over town. May is a great time to visit Asian-owned restaurants bursting with globally-inspired flavors. Enjoy brunch or a night out at a splurge-worthy restaurantBrowse where to eat in NOLA here for more.

Things to Do Near Sail250

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Thinking of additional things to do during Sail250? Its prime riverfront location puts you just steps away from some of the city’s best attractions. Nature lovers will enjoy visiting the Audubon Aquarium and Audubon Insectarium. Within the French Quarter, enjoy Jackson Square, Café du Monde, JAMNOLA, and the French Market. Shoppers will enjoy Canal Place and the Riverwalk Outlets. And you can't sleep on the city's live music scene! Follow our Live Music Calendar here to see what's on tonight.

You may want to check out museums downtown like Sazerac House, The National WWII Museum, Ogden Museum of Southern Art, or the Contemporary Arts Center. Near the Convention Center downtown, enjoy a visit to Mardi Gras World, where you can go behind-the-scenes and view Mardi Gras floats. Check out our guide to indoor attractions here for more

Don't be afraid to venture out into different neighborhoods! Mid-City is full of great restaurants and things to do, including New Orleans City Park, home to several museums, gardens, restaurants, and outdoor fun. Tremé is a great place for a neighborhood walking tour or to seek out excellent Creole food. Find our guide to NOLA neighborhoods here for more.

Make sure to take a ride on the streetcar, which connects several neighborhoods. Find our Things to Do page here for more on the best of New Orleans.