New Orleans is a hugely popular tourist destination for its food, music, history and Mardi Gras.
The city's economy took a big hit after Hurricane Katrina devastated the cityscape in 2005. But since then New Orleans has rebuilt and reinvented itself.
From startups to restaurants and bars, several very cool small businesses have sprouted up in the Big Easy.
adverCar
What it is: A transit advertising and media company
Why it's cool: adverCar matches brands with regular drivers who are looking to make some extra cash. The brand pays a driver to put a decal on their car. When that person drives through different neighborhoods and regions, the brand is then broadcast to the area in a subtle yet effective way.
It is part of New Orleans Startup Fund's portfolio.
American Sector And National World War II Museum
What it is: A 1940s themed restaurant and museum
Why it's cool:Besides being America's first museum devoted to World War II, this venue features restaurants and bars that are all 1940s themed. Everything from the seating to the cocktails to the styles of the performers oozes 1940s glamour. There are even live musical performances by Big Band orchestras and tributes to 1940s icons like The Rat Pack.
The restaurant, called the American Sector, serves dishes that put a creative spin on traditional American food, like mini cheeseburgers with bacon-onion marmalade and wagyu short ribs.
Astor Crowne Plaza Hotel
What it is: A sustainable hotel
Why it's cool: This is a luxury hotel that has a ton of green initiatives. It recycles all cardboard, paper, plastic, and aluminum products.
About 90% of the hotel's lighting is energy efficient and it has a grease recycle program.
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