Everyone knows that New Orleans was the birthplace of Jazz, but do you know what else was born in this beautiful city of ours? Turns out, lots of stuff! Read on to find out if any of these things New Orleans did first are new to you. You might also see if the inventions and fun facts about New Orleans that you already knew about made the list!

1. Poker

While the exact origins of poker are hard to pinpoint, a lot of historians identify New Orleans in the early 19th century. Sailors who came in through the port are said to have loved this game... and gambling in general. Craps was also allegedly started in New Orleans.

2. Higgins Boat

The Higgins boat was the innovative naval craft that served prominently during the D-Day invasion in WWII. But did you realize that these boats were invented in New Orleans? If you have visited the WWII Museum, you probably did...and you can learn much more about them when you visit there!

3. Dental Floss

Next on our list of inventions from New Orleans is one that is probably pretty surprising. But believe it or not, dental floss was allegedly invented right here. A variety of early dental and medical innovations were started in New Orleans actually.

4. Cocktails

If you have ever attended the Tales of the Cocktail event, you have probably heard the story. The sazerac was the original New Orleans cocktail... and reportedly the original cocktail in general! And it still tastes amazing after all of these years.

5. Movie Theaters

The first Vitascope commercial movie theater opened right on Canal St. It had over 400 seats and was truly special. And it all started right in downtown New Orleans.

6. Cotton Candy

This is another one that is pretty surprising. Apparently, it was a dentist who invented it as well! Maybe he was trying to drum up more business by insisting people eat this sugary treat?

7. Upscale Restaurants

Have you ever had a meal at one of the classic New Orleans restaurants and thought wow, this is how all restaurants should be? Well, there's no coincidence there. The fine dining experience was basically invented in this town, and we are home to some of the longest running restaurants in the entire country.

8. Opera

The French Opera House in New Orleans was built in the French Quarter. It was the first place Americans ever went to enjoy opera music.

9. Cathedrals

Another first for New Orleans? Cathedrals. St. Louis Cathedral is the longest-running, still operating in the United States.

Did you know all of the things on this list were New Orleans firsts? It certainly makes us proud of our Louisiana roots! Do you know of any other things New Orleans did first that you would add to this list? Let us know what your picks would be in the comments section below. We love to read your ideas and feedback!

If you love New Orleans’ celebrations, the history behind the city’s oldest Mardi Gras Krewe will fascinate you!

If you’re still in the mood for more Louisiana adventures, take a look at this video: