Best Things to Do in New Orleans: Ultimate Guide
Welcome to New Orleans, a city where culture, history, and excitement come together. It’s a place where millions of tourists visit every year. They come to experience the amazing things to do in New Orleans.
The Big Easy is more than just a city. It’s a celebration of life. You can explore the historic French Quarter or enjoy the soulful jazz clubs. Each neighborhood has its own story, waiting for you to discover.
New Orleans is known for its live music and festivals. With over 1,300 venues and more than 1,000 festivals a year, there’s always something special happening. Whether you love history, food, music, or adventure, you’ll find something unforgettable here.
In this guide, I’ll show you the best things to do in New Orleans. I’ll share tips and places you must see. Get ready to experience a city that celebrates life with passion.
Explore the French Quarter
The French Quarter is the lively heart of New Orleans, packed with history and culture in just 78 square blocks. It draws 18 million visitors each year. They come for the stunning architecture, lively music, and deep history.
Here, you can dive into a world of experiences that show what New Orleans is all about. The quarter has over 1,200 bars and restaurants. This means endless choices for food and fun, no matter what you’re looking for.
Stroll Along Bourbon Street
Bourbon Street is alive with music and energy. It’s the heart of New Orleans’ nightlife. You’ll find:
- Live jazz performances
- Historic bars and clubs
- Unique street performances
- Nightly revelry and music
Discover Jackson Square
Jackson Square is a peaceful spot, unlike Bourbon Street. It covers 2.5 acres and is a cultural hub. The area is filled with local artists, musicians, and performers.
Visit St. Louis Cathedral
The St. Louis Cathedral is a stunning landmark in the French Quarter. It’s a symbol of New Orleans’ history. Visitors can explore its beauty and learn about the city’s heritage.
The French Quarter is a must-see for anyone looking to experience New Orleans. It offers a journey through a truly unique neighborhood.
Experience New Orleans Cuisine
New Orleans restaurants are a colorful mix of flavors. They tell the story of the city’s rich history. The food scene combines Native American, West African, French, Spanish, and immigrant traditions. This blend creates a unique taste experience that shows what New Orleans is all about.
The city’s food scene is a journey through taste and tradition. From lively French Quarter eateries to historic spots, every meal is an adventure. It’s a chance to explore the city’s culinary stories.
Indulge in Gumbo and Jambalaya
Gumbo and jambalaya are at the heart of New Orleans cuisine. Gumbo is a rich stew with seafood and andouille sausage. It shows the city’s diverse roots. Jambalaya is a flavorful dish with rice, meats, and vegetables. It highlights the region’s varied culinary influences.
- Seafood gumbo with local ingredients
- Traditional chicken and sausage jambalaya
- Creole-style preparation techniques
Savor Beignets at Café du Monde
Visiting Café du Monde is a must in New Orleans. This iconic spot has been around for 1862. It serves beignets covered in powdered sugar and chicory coffee. It’s a sweet journey into the city’s culinary traditions.
Sample Po’boys and Crawfish
Local restaurants are proud of their po’boys and crawfish. Po’boys are street food filled with seafood or roast beef. Crawfish are a must-try from late winter to early summer. They offer a true taste of local seafood.
- Classic shrimp po’boys
- Spicy boiled crawfish
- Unique local seafood preparations
Attend a Live Jazz Performance
New Orleans is alive with music, jazz being its soul. Every night, the city comes alive with sounds, rhythms, and culture.
- Over 1,000 live music venues
- 75% of tourists enjoy live music
- 130+ annual music festivals
- Jazz makes up 20% of performances
Check Out Preservation Hall
Preservation Hall is a key spot in New Orleans’ nightlife. It’s been hosting jazz shows nightly for over 50 years. The simple setting lets the music speak for itself, connecting people with true New Orleans jazz.
Explore Frenchmen Street Music Scene
Frenchmen Street is where jazz comes alive in a different way. It’s not like Bourbon Street, but a place where locals and visitors can enjoy real jazz in various styles.
| Venue | Performance Style | Average Ticket Price |
|---|---|---|
| The Spotted Cat | Traditional Jazz | $15-$25 |
| Snug Harbor | Contemporary Jazz | $20-$40 |
| Fritzel’s European Jazz Club | Traditional/Gypsy Jazz | $10-$30 |
Whether you love jazz or just want to explore, New Orleans’ music scene is unforgettable. It’s a journey through America’s most musical city.
Take a Historical Tour
New Orleans invites travelers to explore its rich history through immersive tours. These tours bring the city’s past to life. From architectural marvels to haunting legends, they offer unique insights into the city’s cultural landscape.
Discover the Garden District
The Garden District showcases New Orleans’ architectural grandeur. This two-hour walking tour reveals stunning antebellum mansions. These mansions tell stories of the city’s aristocratic past.
Visitors can admire:
- Magnificent 19th-century homes with detailed ironwork
- Lush gardens and tree-lined streets
- Historic cemeteries with unique above-ground tombs
Ghost Tours in the French Quarter
For a spine-tingling experience, the French Quarter ghost tours are perfect. These 90-minute tours blend local folklore with historical facts. They explore the city’s supernatural history.
Visit the National WWII Museum
The National WWII Museum is a highlight among New Orleans attractions. It offers a deep dive into World War II history. Visitors can explore interactive exhibits and preserved artifacts.
| Tour Type | Duration | Key Highlights |
|---|---|---|
| Garden District Tour | 2 hours | Architectural history, mansion exploration |
| French Quarter Ghost Tour | 90 minutes | Supernatural legends, historical narratives |
| National WWII Museum | 3-4 hours | Interactive exhibits, historical artifacts |
Each tour offers a unique look into New Orleans’ history. Visitors leave with a deeper appreciation for this remarkable city.
Enjoy Water Activities
New Orleans is full of water-based adventures. You can explore mysterious swamps and historic rivers. These activities offer unforgettable experiences for those looking for something special.
Swamp Tours and Alligator Sightings
Discover the wild heart of Louisiana’s ecosystem on thrilling swamp tours. You’ll see waterways surrounded by tall cypress trees and Spanish moss. These tours let you see alligators in their natural home.
- Encounter native wildlife up close
- Learn about local ecosystem preservation
- Professional guides ensure safety and education
Steamboat Cruises on the Mississippi
Feel the charm of New Orleans on the legendary Mississippi River. The Steamboat Natchez offers daily harbor cruises. Enjoy live jazz, city views, and the paddlewheel’s rhythm as you cruise.
- Daily harbor cruise options
- Evening dinner cruises available
- Authentic paddlewheel experience
These water activities show the soul of New Orleans. They connect visitors with the city’s maritime heritage and stunning natural landscapes.
Participate in Mardi Gras Festivities
New Orleans festivals hit their peak during Mardi Gras. This celebration turns the city into a colorful, musical, and lively place. It’s the heart of New Orleans culture, attracting over 1.4 million visitors each year.
The Mardi Gras season lasts from 28 to 63 days. It starts as early as February 3rd or as late as March 9th. The city comes alive with parades that get more amazing with each one.
Attend Parades and Balls
Get ready to be amazed by the city’s parade show! With over 70 parades, you’re in for a treat. Some parades you can’t miss include:
- Krewe of Endymion – Known for its massive, elaborate floats
- Krewe of Zulu – Famous for its unique coconut throws
- Krewe of Rex – One of the oldest parades dating back to 1872
- Krewe of Muses – Celebrated for its decorated shoe throws
Experience the Traditions and Costumes
Mardi Gras is more than just a parade—it’s a cultural event. The colors of purple, green, and gold are everywhere. People spend months making costumes, floats, and performances that show off New Orleans’ spirit.
Try the famous King Cake, a Mardi Gras treat. Finding the hidden baby figurine means you’re in charge of next year’s celebration. With 500,000 pounds of King Cake eaten, it’s a tradition you won’t want to miss!
Visit Local Art Galleries
New Orleans is alive with art, music, and food. Its art scene is a must-see for anyone visiting. You’ll find everything from modern art to traditional Southern pieces.
Art lovers will be amazed by New Orleans’ creative vibe. The Warehouse Arts District is a top spot for art fans. It’s filled with galleries that show the city’s artistic soul.
Explore the Arts District
The Warehouse Arts District is a hub for art. It has many galleries and places to see art. You can enjoy special events like:
- Monthly art walks on the first Saturday
- White Linen Night block party in August
- Julia Street gallery cluster
Some galleries you should check out are:
- Arthur Roger Gallery
- LeMieux Galleries
- Ferrara Showman Gallery
- Ibis Contemporary Art Gallery
Check Out Jackson Square’s Artists
Jackson Square is a lively spot for outdoor art. Local artists sell their work here, surrounded by St. Louis Cathedral. You can watch artists paint, buy unique art, and even get a portrait done.
New Orleans’ art galleries are a journey into creativity. Whether you’re a serious collector or just love art, you’ll find something special here.
Discover Unique Shopping Experiences
New Orleans offers a special shopping journey through its lively retail scene. You can find everything from historic markets to trendy boutiques. These places show off the city’s culture with their unique items and local finds.
The city has over 1,200 shops, each with its own story. Visitors can dive into a world of diverse retail experiences. These reflect the city’s deep cultural heritage.
Browse the French Market
The French Market is a historic gem for shoppers. It spans several blocks and offers:
- Over 100 local vendors
- Handcrafted souvenirs
- Fresh produce and spices
- Local artisan crafts
Visit Magazine Street Boutiques
Magazine Street is a six-mile stretch of shopping bliss with over 300 shops. You can find unique items at places like:
- Home Malone: Featuring local Southern artists’ handmade goods
- Funky Monkey: Offers eclectic fashion and vintage finds
- Scriptura: Specializes in custom stationery
- Sunday Shop: Curates sophisticated home decor
Shopping is a big draw for tourists, with 70% saying it’s their main activity. They spend an average of $1,000 per visit. New Orleans offers more than just shopping; it’s about making memories and supporting local artists.
Relax in City Parks
New Orleans has more than just lively streets. It also has peaceful parks for a break from the hustle. These parks are perfect for relaxing, exploring, and enjoying nature in the city.
City Park is a top spot for fun in New Orleans, covering 1,300 acres. It’s one of the oldest parks in the country and has the biggest live oak tree grove in the world. You can find many attractions here:
- New Orleans Museum of Art located within the park
- Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden featuring over 90 sculptures
- 11-acre sculpture garden with stunning artistic displays
Stroll Through Lafayette Cemetery
Lafayette Cemetery is a unique and spooky place in New Orleans. It has interesting above-ground tombs that show the city’s history. Walking here is a calm but interesting way to see New Orleans’ history and architecture.
Spend Time in Audubon Park
Audubon Park is a great place for fun in New Orleans, with 340 acres of green. It was started in 1898 and has lots to do:
- 1.8-mile loop for joggers and cyclists
- 18-hole golf course
- Iconic Tree of Life landmark
- Audubon Zoo designed by renowned Olmsted Brothers
New Orleans’ parks are perfect for anyone looking for peace, exercise, or culture. They offer a cool break from the city’s busy life. These parks let visitors enjoy nature’s beauty at their own pace.
Admire Historic Architecture
New Orleans is a treasure trove of architectural wonders. Every corner is filled with history. The city is a living museum, where buildings tell stories of cultural fusion and artistic expression.
The city has over 1,300 historic buildings. These buildings show a mix of cultural influences. Exploring New Orleans culture, you’ll see French, Spanish, and Creole styles come together.
Tour the Historic Vieux Carré
The French Quarter is a National Historic Landmark District. It covers 85 square blocks and is full of architectural beauty. About 80% of its buildings are historic, showing a wide range of styles.
- Spanish Colonial-style buildings with detailed wrought-iron balconies
- Colorful Creole cottages with unique architectural features
- Grand townhouses showing different architectural periods
Explore the Mansions of St. Charles Avenue
St. Charles Avenue is a stunning architectural promenade. It features beautiful mansions in various historical styles. The streetcar-lined avenue is home to many architectural gems.
| Architectural Style | Characteristics |
|---|---|
| Greek Revival | Symmetrical designs with grand columns |
| Italianate | Ornate decorative elements and tall windows |
| Queen Anne | Complex rooflines and decorative woodwork |
Architectural preservation in New Orleans brings in over $1 billion a year. The city has 23 historic districts and works hard to keep its heritage alive. It attracts architectural enthusiasts from all over the world.
Participate in Cooking Classes
Dive deep into New Orleans culture through its delicious cooking. The city’s culinary scene is a great place to learn traditional recipes. You’ll get to immerse yourself in local food traditions.
New Orleans has many cooking classes for food lovers. The New Orleans School of Cooking, in the French Quarter, has been teaching cooking for 40 years. It’s a top place for learning about local cuisine.
Learn Local Recipes
Cooking classes in New Orleans are more than just learning recipes. You’ll get to make famous dishes with expert help:
- Seafood and okra gumbo
- BBQ shrimp and grits
- Classic jambalaya
- Traditional pralines
Attend Food Festivals
New Orleans festivals celebrate the city’s food heritage. These events feature local chefs, unique dishes, and the city’s lively food culture.
| Festival Name | Highlights | Time of Year |
|---|---|---|
| New Orleans Food & Wine Experience | Top local chefs, wine tastings | May |
| Oak Street Po-Boy Festival | Unique po-boy variations | November |
| Louisiana Seafood Festival | Fresh seafood, cooking demonstrations | September |
Whether you’re new to cooking or have lots of experience, these classes and festivals are a must. You’ll learn recipes and the history behind each dish. It’s a unique way to experience New Orleans culture.
Explore Museums
New Orleans is known for its rich cultural museums. These museums are a key part of the city’s vibrant attractions. They offer a deep look into art, history, and local traditions.
The New Orleans Museum of Art (NOMA) is a standout. It has 40,000 objects, including French and American art and international pieces. The sculpture garden is a beautiful outdoor space that connects visitors with art.
Next to NOMA, the Ogden Museum of Southern Art showcases Southern Art. It has the largest collection of Southern Art in one place. This museum celebrates the region’s creative spirit.
Visitors can see everything from Mardi Gras Indian costumes to historical collections. Each museum tells a unique story of New Orleans. The World War II Museum is also a must-see, known for its historical significance.
Whether you love art or history, New Orleans museums offer a deep dive. Each exhibit adds to the city’s complex story. Exploring these museums is a key part of any visit to New Orleans.
FAQ
What is the best time to visit New Orleans?
The best time to visit New Orleans is in the fall, from September to November. The weather is mild and comfortable. You’ll avoid the summer heat and humidity. Plus, there are fewer crowds than during Mardi Gras.
This time is perfect for exploring the city’s outdoor spots. You can enjoy festivals like the New Orleans Film Festival and the Voodoo Music + Arts Experience.
How safe is New Orleans for tourists?
New Orleans is like any big city, needing basic safety precautions. Stay in well-lit, busy areas, like the French Quarter and Garden District. Tourist spots are usually safe, but stay alert and keep valuables safe.
Most visitors have a great time by being cautious and using common sense.
What is the best way to get around New Orleans?
New Orleans has many ways to get around. The historic streetcars are a fun and affordable choice. The French Quarter and many spots are walkable. Ride-sharing services are also easy to find.
For longer trips, get a NORTA transit pass. It covers streetcars and buses. Many also rent bikes to explore the city’s small neighborhoods.
What should I pack for a trip to New Orleans?
Bring lightweight, breathable clothes for the warm weather, more so in summer. Wear comfy shoes for walking in the French Quarter and other areas. Pack a light jacket or sweater for cooler evenings and air-conditioned places.
Remember sunscreen, a hat, and a small umbrella. If visiting during festivals, bring fun clothes and comfy shoes for dancing.
Is New Orleans expensive for tourists?
New Orleans can be affordable compared to other big U.S. cities. While some places are pricey, there are many affordable options. Street food, local eateries, and budget hotels offer great deals.
Many attractions like walking tours and free music performances are cheap. Visit during off-peak times for better prices and look for city passes for savings.
What are some unique cultural experiences in New Orleans?
New Orleans has amazing cultural experiences like jazz shows, voodoo tours, cooking classes, and festivals. Try a ghost tour in the French Quarter or a live jazz show at Preservation Hall.
Explore the street art scene and join local food tours. The city’s rich culture offers unique experiences beyond typical tourist spots.
How many days should I plan for a New Orleans trip?
Plan for 4-5 days to see New Orleans’ many attractions. This time lets you explore the French Quarter, take tours, enjoy music and food, visit museums, and maybe take a day trip.
If you prefer a slower pace or want to focus on certain aspects, consider 6-7 days.
