If you’re looking for exciting activities to do while in New Orleans, you’ll be happy to know that the city offers an blend of culture, history, live music, food, and a variety of family-friendly places. Wheather you’re planning your next trip or if you want to know what things to do in New Orleans today, there is an experience for all types of travellers. This article will explore 20 best things to do in New Orleans and romantic outings, places to take children, that won’t cost you anything.
20 Things to Do in New Orleans
1. The French Quarter – Things To Do While Visiting New Orleans
When you visit New Orleans, the first place to explore is the historic French Quarter. The French Quarter is the centre of the entertainment and cultural activities of New Orleans. Here are some activities you can do in the French Quarter:
Walk Bourbon Street
Walking through Bourbon Street is one of the most beautiful ways to see what New Orleans has to offer. Bourbon Street is in the centre of New Orleans French Quarter. Known as the centre of entertainment with many buildings constructed many years ago and how lively it is day or night.
Visit Jackson Square
Jackson Square is a vibrant, historic square located in the centre of the French Quarter. While there are plenty of things to do in New Orleans, you can also watch local artists art, listen to musicians playing on the streets, rest on benches and watch people go by, and see the famous St. Louis Cathedral. Jackson Square is a quick and easy way to get a feel for the arts, culture, and spirit of New Orleans – all in one spot!
Admire St. Louis Cathedral
St. Louis Cathedral is one of the oldest cathedrals in the USA and represents a major historical landmark for New Orleans.
Enjoy Local Cuisine
Be sure to try the famous local foods such as the famous beignet, the rich gumbo, the spicy jambalaya, and so on!
Listen to Live Jazz
Hear and feel Real Jazz in the atmosphere of Local Neighborhood Jazz Clubs.
Take a Riverfront Walk
Enjoy walking along the banks of the Mississippi River there are many beautiful views and relaxing environments.
The French Quarter offers a compact but immersive experience combining history, music, food, and nightlife—making it the perfect starting point for exploring New Orleans.
2. Ride the St. Charles Streetcar
One of the most iconic things to do in New Orleans is to ride the St. Charles Streetcar, which has the distinction of being the oldest operating streetcar in the world still running today. It provides a unique way of traveling through many historic areas of New Orleans at a relaxed pace.
On your journey on the St. Charles Streetcar, you will be able to:
- Travel down St. Charles Avenue, which features many beautiful homes and oak trees.
- Experience traveling using the same method as the residents of New Orleans did when this streetcar first began service; this streetcar was painted in the same bright green color as the original streetcars from the 1800s.
- Travel through lovely neighbourhood sections of New Orleans along with college town areas.
- Get a scenic, inexpensive view of New Orleans This is a great way to experience and enjoy the city’s character through a peaceful ride on the St. Charles Streetcar, photography opportunities, and seeing so many ways the old-world charm of the city exists today.
3. Discover the Garden District
The Garden District has a more sophisticated and beautiful experience than the rest of New Orleans. There are many beautiful examples of pre-Civil War houses, with their intricate wrought-iron gates, along with lush gardens.
As you explore the Garden District you will:
- Walk among some of the finest pre-Civil War mansions;
- Visit historic cemeteries such as Lafayette Cemetery No. 1;
- Walk through quiet tree-lined streets, with oak trees and flowering plants;
- Take a ride on the St. Charles Avenue streetcar to see the sights.
A visit to the Garden District provides an opportunity for leisurely walks, photography, and experiencing the upscale residential history of New Orleans away from the crowds of the French Quarter.
4. Cruise the Mississippi River
Taking a cruise along the Mississippi River provides an ideal of New Orleans. The Mississippi River gives visitors a different view of the skyline, culture, and history of the city.
When you book a cruise, you will:
- Enjoy panoramic views of the French Quarter and the riverfront
- Experience an authentic ride on an authentic steamboat, such as the Steamboat Natchez
- Listen to live bands playing jazz on the boat
- Discover about the history of the Mississippi River and its importance to New Orleans by the use of guided narration
- Enjoy amazing views of the sunset over the river
A Mississippi River cruise makes for a wonderful option for couples, families, and for the first-time visitor who wants an enjoyable and fun things to do in New Orleans.
5. Experience Live Jazz on Frenchmen Street
Frenchmen Street in New Orleans has is widely recognized as one of the most authentic live music experiences. It’s home to some of the best local musicians playing on intimate stages in a relaxed atmosphere (unlike Bourbon Street).
Here, you can:
- Hear local artists performing live jazz, funk, and brass bands
- Support up-and-coming talent
- Check out multiple venues in one night to discover various styles of music
- Discover nearby art markets and street performers
For fans of jazz, Frenchmen Street is a must-visit location to truly understand the cultural depth and soulful sounds of New Orleans.
6. Tour the National WWII Museum
The National World War II Museum is one of New Orleans’ most enjoyable and tourist places to go. As one of the premier museums in the US, the National WWII Museum offers its visitors an exceptional opportunity to explore and learn about World War II through a combination of museum exhibits, films, and multimedia presentations.
Visitors to the National World War II Museum can:
- Engage with interactive exhibits detailing the European Theatre of World War II and the Pacific Theatre of World War II.
- See authentic WWII aircraft, military vehicles, and artefacts.
- Watch impactful documentary films as well as experience 4-D Cinematic Movies based on the events of World War II.
- Learn about the personal accounts of those who fought in World War II – both soldiers and civilians, as well as those who took part in resisting the occupation of their country by Nazi Germany.
- Realise how World War II has affected the development of our world today and shaped current international relations.
If you enjoy History or are looking for a family-friendly activity or a really great cultural experience, take some time to visit the National World War II Museum when visiting New Orleans.
7. Enjoy Beignets at Café du Monde
Café du Monde is one of those venues that offers a unique culinary experience you can’t find anywhere else in New Orleans; it’s something that both locals and visitors alike share in their love for. The iconic café was founded back in 1862 and has since grown to be one of New Orleans’ most famous food destinations; the décor of the café has remained unchanged since it opened.
While at Café du Monde you will experience an establishment that embodies New Orleans culture:
- While sitting at the outdoor tables enjoying the fresh air, you’ll experience a true New Orleans tradition of indulging in hot fried beignets (light and fluffy pastries with an abundance of powdered sugar) while having the café’s chitrry coffee (a bold, slightly bitter blend that contrasts nicely with the sweetness of the beignets).
- The open-air atmosphere gives you a sense of relaxation while experiencing a historic part of New Orleans as the café is next to Jackson Square where musicians perform on the streets and artists are found around the square.
- The café is always open (24 hours) so you can stop by early in the morning for breakfast or late at night for a snack between your sightseeing ventures.
- The atmosphere that the Café du Monde has is calm, yet lively; a reflection of what daily life in New Orleans is all about.
The café is not just about delicious beignets; it is also about sharing experiences that have been going on for centuries. Whether you’re a newcomer to New Orleans or returning for yet another visit to the city, indulging in the famous beignets at Café du Monde provides an authentic taste of the culture that has thrived since the establishment of this café.
8. Visit City Park
City Park offers a calm and restorative way to escape into nature while still being located within easy reach of downtown New Orleans. With over 1,300 acres, City Park is one of the oldest urban parks in the country and provides an abundance of attractive scenery, historic oak trees, cultural, recreational and social experiences.
At City Park, visitors have numerous relaxing, enjoyable, and entertaining options available:
- Casually stroll or relax under the old oak trees covered with Spanish moss, many of which date back hundreds of years.
- Explore the Besthoff Sculpture Garden, which showcases modern sculptures encircled by water features and naturally designed gardens.
- Boating on lagoons and canals provides visitors with a safe way to enjoy the park from the water.
- Located within or near City Park, there are many cultural and recreational attractions including museums, botanical gardens, and quaint cafés.
- Take advantage of the park’s open space by enjoying a picnic, riding a bicycle, jogging, or just relaxing.
- Photography opportunities of scenic bridges, water features, and seasonal blooms abound.
City Park is ideal for families wanting to take advantage of the park’s open space, couples wanting to have a romantic walk, or travelers wanting to escape the hectic pace of a city. City Park blends together an environment of natural beauty with cultural experiences, recreation and arts.
9. Explore the Audubon Zoo
The Audubon Zoo is a fantastic destination for families that want to spend time outdoors in New Orleans while simultaneously learning about wildlife and animal care. It is located amidst the scenic beauty of Audubon Park and provides a combination of various entertainment options for everyone (particularly families with children).
Families who visit Audubon Zoo can take advantage of numerous fun activities and educational experiences, including:
- The opportunity to see a variety of animal species (for example: elephants, giraffes, lions, jaguars, reptiles, birds, and monkeys).
- A stroll through the engaging Louisiana Swamp exhibit, which exhibits native wildlife (i.e., alligators, turtles, and birds) in a naturalized environment.
- Interactive/educational exhibits meant to engage the interest and imagination of both children and adults.
- Inclusive presentations on animal feeding and keeper talks that discuss certain aspects of animal behaviour and wildlife conservation.
- Comfortable, shaded walking paths and open green spaces in which to take breaks or enjoy picnics.
- A parent-friendly design that is easy to navigate with a stroller.
Audubon Zoo is dedicated to promoting education, conservation, and animal welfare, making it easy for their guests to understand the importance of caring for animals and being good stewards of the earth. By offering educational opportunities in conjunction with entertaining activities, Audubon Zoo is not just a fun attraction—it is also a great family experience.
10. Take a Swamp Tour
A swamp tour through Louisiana’s marshes offers a one-of-a-kind swamp adventure; it takes place directly outside the city and provides visitors with an experience that cannot be imitated. The marsh is home to a wide variety of wildlife and plants, many of which are found only in Louisiana.
During a swamp tour, visitors can enjoy all the adrenaline and excitement the swamp has to offer as well as learn about the area’s unique history and traditions. Here are just a few of the many incredible sights available:
- You will see alligators, turtles, snakes, birds and other native wildlife in their natural habitat.
- You will travel through the bayous and cypress swamps on a traditional boat or high speed airboat.
- Experienced local guides provide tourists with entertaining stories and valuable insight into Cajun culture and history, as well as regional traditions.
- You may take pictures of the stunning backdrop, which features old cypress trees covered with Spanish moss. forming an amazing landscape.
- Discover how Louisiana wetlands protect against flood damage, defend against storm surges, and maintain the balance of ecosystems.
- You will develop an understanding of the ways in which people have lived, worked, and survived in these wetlands for centuries.
A swamp tour is an exciting blend of adventure and education and is the perfect way for those ten years old or younger to learn more about their environment and, at the same time, escape the big city and see some of the wild side of southern Louisiana.
11. Walk Through Royal Street
The Royal Street area provides tourists with an opportunity to discover New Orleans’ culture, art, and history at a more leisurely pace than Bourbon St., making it ideal for travelers who like to enjoy all of those elements without the hustle and bustle of a nightlife-oriented location. Royal Street runs alongside Bourbon St in the French Quarter, highlighting the refinement of New Orleans through its creativity, craftsmanship, and architectural beauty.
While strolling along Royal Street, visitors can partake in a variety of leisurely activities, such as:
- Browsing through antique shops and fine art galleries that display a variety of materials, including European antiques and contemporary local artwork.
- Visiting small gift shops that sell a variety of handmade crafts and unique jewelry;
- Enjoying an array of street performers, including classical guitarists, jazz musicians, and solo percussionists.
- Spend time in the beautiful architecture of well-maintained historic buildings, ornate wrought iron balconies, and colorful facades in the French Quarter.
- Enjoying the sense of peace and creativity that comes from being outside while walking along this lovely street.
Royal Street is best enjoyed during the daytime since the natural sunlight showcases the architectural details and well-maintained galleries during the day. It is also great for relaxing and taking in the sights and shopping at your leisure while providing an alternative to Bourbon St’s chaotic atmosphere and a chance to experience New Orleans’s timeless beauty.
12. Visit Preservation Hall
One of the best ways to experience the culture of New Orleans Jazz is to visit Preservation Hall. Located in New Orleans’ French Quarter, the hall has been a symbol of the clasic style of New Orleans Jazz and has been dedicated to keeping this music alive in its most pure and original form. Preservation Hall does not include large lights, elaborate sets, or any distractions; it simply lets the music take center stage.
A visit to Preservation Hall is an opportunity to experience something special:
- Enjoy listening to live acoustic jazz performed by legendary local musicians and experienced groups that carry on the long and rich history of the music.
- Experience the music in a small, intimate setting with very little audio equipment to interfere and a very close relationship with the performers.
- Be part of a venue rich in cultural and musical heritage with a long history of preserving Jazz through live performances instead of exhibits.
- Be inspired by the raw emotion, spontaneity, and storytelling of classic New Orleans Jazz.
- Have a quiet evening to share with your partner, perfect for couples looking for a romantic evening with meaning.
Preservation Hall is not about flashy performances or nightlife; it is about remembering and honouring the music’s heritage and experiencing the true essence of New Orleans through its sounds. For couples, music lovers and cultural tourists, Preservation Hall is one of the most popular attractions in New Orleans.
13. Explore New Orleans Museum of Art
The New Orleans Museum of Art is culturally significant and is considered one of the most popular indoor activities in New Orleans, particularly during hot, humid, or rainy days. Located in a lush area of City Park, the museum provides visitors with an elegant and peaceful atmosphere to take their time to appreciate art from all over the globe.
Visitors to the New Orleans Museum of Art will have the opportunity to:
- Learn about a variety of artistic and cultural expression through fine arts, photography, and decorative arts in several art galleries.
- View art from all over the globe, including works from ancient cultures, European masters, African and Asian cultures, and modern-day artists.
- Participate in temporary exhibitions showcasing local and regional artists, modern art movements, and well-known artists from around the world.
- Walk through the adjacent Besthoff Sculpture Garden, an outdoor garden filled with landscaped paths, water elements, and large-scale sculptures.
- Experience an air-conditioned, peaceful ambiance that encourages deep thought and exploration.
If you’re an art lover, couple, family with older children, or cultural adventurer looking to experience a more in-depth view of New Orleans than just food and music, the New Orleans Museum of Art has something for all visitors, whether they spend five minutes or five hours in the museum.
14. Attend a Festival or Parade
Participating in festivals or parades can be one of the most fun and engaging ways to see New Orleans. As one of the most festive cities in the world, there are numerous festival’s, parades and cultural events occurring every week. Because of this, any day of the week offers visitors a great selection of activities and attractions, therefore, you can always find a large festival or celebration happening somewhere in the city.
When you attend a festival or parade, you will experience the following unique experiences:
- Participate in world-known events such as Mardi Gras, where you will see extravagant floats, tons of beads and numerous masked krewes
- Attend the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival, where you will have the opportunity to listen to live performances from amazing local, regional and national musicians
- Enjoy live performances of jazz, blues, country, gospel, and brass band music at various festivals.
- Taste the incredible cuisine that is created and served at the many vendor food booths, kitchen areas and food trucks located at every festival, including the many types of Creole and Cajun dishes served
- Watch the spectacular parades; second-line parades and street celebrations that take place in all areas of the city filled with excitement, energy and tradition
- Meet with local residents and visitors to New Orleans; immerse yourself in the strong spirit of community and celebration in today’s city.
The culture of New Orleans’ festivals embodies the city’s history, creativity, and love of the arts and its passion for music and cuisine. With everything from large annual events to small neighborhood parades, there are so many festivals taking place that each trip, regardless of when you come, will feel alive, fun and memorable.
15. Walk the Crescent Park
Walking through Crescent Park is one of the most peaceful and scenic free things to do in New Orleans. You will enjoy a pleasant escape from the hustle and bustle of the French Quarter and nearby downtown areas, as the park runs along the banks of the Mississippi River. This park is modern in design with large open green spaces and unimpeded views of the river, and is a popular place for locals and out-of-town visitors.
Your time spent in Crescent Park can be used for many outdoor-related and relaxing activities:
- Walk/Bike Along the Well-Maintained Riverfront Paths that Run Parallel to the Mississippi River.
- Enjoy Panoramic Views of the Mississippi River, Ships Passing By, and the New Orleans Skyline.
- Relax- Read, Lounge, or Simply Enjoy the Fresh Air while Sitting on Benches or on Lush Grassy Areas Next to the Mississippi River.
- Capture a Beautiful Sunrise/Sunset, Great for Photos and Reflection.
- Explore the Artistic Neighborhoods Nearby (Bywater & Marigny) Filled with Colorful Architecture, Murals, and Lively Streets.
16. Take a Ghost or Voodoo Tour
Ghost Tours and Voodoo Tours are some of the most popular nighttime activities in New Orleans. You’ll learn about city’s rich history while experiencing the mysteries of Voodoo folklore and spirituality. You’ll have a chance to explore parts of New Orleans that are more come alive (haunting) more at night than during the day! There have been many changes how we view New Orleans; the first European settlers established a Roman Catholic settlement in 1718. Over the years, New Orleans has been affected by dozens of diseases, wars and fires, as well as culture change. Because of these events, New Orleans has given rise to many legends; still today these legends captivate many visitors.
Thanks to Ghost Tours and Voodoo Tours, you will be able to view the unique city of New Orleans through Story Telling while walking through Historical Sites and Landmarks. This is accomplished by visiting:
Walking Tours of the French Quarter will reveal Ghosts of Homes, Hotels and Alleyways as well as the “haunted” stories of the deceased who lived there.
Voodoo Tours will demonstrate the significance of Voodoo, including Voodoo Rituals, Voodoo Symbols, and Voodoo Beliefs about Spirituality in New Orleans History and Famous Voodoo Practitioners;
Mystical Side of New Orleans
- St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, the burial place of many noted people, including Marie Laveau.
- Generation after generation, people have recounted stories of people seeing ghosts, vampires, curses, and all sorts of strange occurrences
- An experienced local tour guide helps visitors get a better understanding of what it was like to be in New Orleans at that point in its history, using both history and legends as well as an elaborate performance style.
Touring either voodoo-themed or ghost-themed will give visitors much more than simply being an observer; they’ll engage with both types of experiences in ways that allow them to understand more about this incredible city beyond just food and music. These two types of tours will also appeal to couples who are looking for romance, to those who spend a lot of time out at night, and to people with an adventurous spirit who want to learn about a part of New Orleans’ past that has never been quite understood. As such, seeing ghosts and/or learning about voodoo is a great option when considering what to do at night while visiting New Orleans.
17. Visit Audubon Aquarium
If you want to have fun with your children while visiting New Orleans, The Audubon Aquarium is on the shore of the Mississippi River, near to the French Quarter and all other attractions in New Orleans. Not only does The Audubon Zoo provide a learning environment for children, it also provides an engaging indoor experience for people of all ages.
Things to Do at The Audubon Aquarium in New Orleans With Kids Include:
- Walking through the various tunnels designed to mirror the animals in the exhibits, where- See and learn about different species of sharks, skates and rays, jellies, sea turtles, and colourful fishes.
- Check out exhibits representing both ecosystems of the Gulf of Mexico and the Mississippi River.
- Take part in kid-friendly interactive learning experiences and activities available to all ages.
- Relax in a climate-controlled and comfortable environment while doing all of the above.
Audubon Zoo offers parents and children the opportunity to learn while having fun together. No matter when your children come to visit, they will have a fun and educational experience visiting this family-friendly New Orleans attraction that will be appropriate for any age.
18. Enjoy Local Cuisine
The culture and traditions of New Orleans over the years have led to an eclectic mix of cuisines that have been created by working with many cultures and this is demonstrated by the many different culinary influences including Creole, Cajun, African, French, Spanish, Caribbean, etc., which are blended together to make these strongly flavoured dishes from New Orleans, unlike any others in the world.
Also, as you look at the traditional types of foods associated with New Orleans, be sure to sample these classic, signature dishes that make New Orleans cuisine what it is today:
New Orleans Traditional Foods
- An authentic gumbo is a thick chowder-like dish that is made with seafood such as shrimp, crab, lobster, clams, etc. that has been cooked with various spices added to the base of the dish made from an okra and blended roux.
- Jambalaya is a stew-like, rice-based dish that has a mixture of different meats and seafoods mixed with various vegetables all cooked together with a Creole/Cajun seasoning. All the ingredients used in a gumbo are included in the Cajun version of jambalaya and the end result is a well-seasoned, delicious, and hearty meal.
- During crawfish season, it is easy to order boiled crawfish from a restaurant or cook them at home yourself, which makes it hard to resist!
- Frequently dine at smaller, locally owned restaurants/bars/taverns that serve po’boy sandwiches and other related dishes.
- Attend food festivals, farmers’ markets, and other similar events, where local chefs and food sellers will showcase their menus and allow you to try a variety of foods.
- Preserve and promote family recipes passed down through generations to highlight the rich culinary history of New Orleans.
New Orleans is known for its variety of dining options which range from small street cart vendors, open-air marketplaces to 5-star dining establishments, all of which provide a unique opportunity to experience New Orleans Cuisine as it relates to the overall lifestyle and culture of the people of the city. The experience of dining within the context of New Orleans is often regarded by many as an integral aspect of the City’s Culture, and remains one of the primary attractions for tourists visiting New Orleans.
19. Explore Magazine Street
You’ll find Magazine Street, one of the city’s most eclectic and charming streets, when visiting New Orleans. At six miles long and crossing several neighborhoods, it is an absolute must-see destination, both for the locals and tourists.
Magazine Street has a collection of quirky local boutiques that offer one-of-a-kind, handmade jewelry, vintage clothing, home decor, and art galleries. The diverse dining options, from casual eateries to fine dining restaurants, take their cues from the city’s Creole and Cajun roots. You will also hosts numerous coffee shops, bakeries and ice cream parlors to help you take a leisurely pause.
Along Magazine Street, independent bookstore chain, along with out-of-the-way shops, sell rare antiques, giftware, and oddities. Historic buildings and stunningly restored storefronts on the street give a glimpse of New Orleans’ rich history. Street music, artistic exhibits and festivals are also abundant here, and give you a true sense of New Orleans’ culture.
In essence, Magazine Street is a more laid-back, neighbourhood type of vibe than the frantic French Quarter. If you’re planning to look for a place to eat, shop or just hang out in one of New Orleans’ most enchanting areas, Magazine Street is a must-see.
20. Visit Laura Plantation
Laura Plantation is a good place to see the history of the Creole people, situated just outside the city, when you’re in the New Orleans area. Dating back to the early 1800s, the plantation house is celebrated for its well-preserved architecture and beautiful gardens.
Visitors can book a guided tour of the mansion and will hear the story of the plantation’s past, as well as the lives of the people-including the enslaved ones, who lived there.
The stunning grounds and picturesque gardens offer an opportunity to take a relaxing afternoon stroll, and the plantation’s historical significance was greatly increased by its position in the development of Creole culture. Coming from the often frenetic French Quarter, Laura Plantation’s peaceful essence makes it the perfect place to unwind in order to, as such, to gain an entirely different view of New Orleans’ history.
Final Thoughts
New orleans is a place that gives you beautiful, unforgettable memories. Whether you’re just passing through or a seasoned regular looking for a deeper dive into the city’s heart, when visiting New Orleans you’ll find that it’s a city that caters to all. Coming rushing into town? Jazz, Cajun food and a general sense of fun are guaranteed to be part of the agenda.
If you’re looking for family-friendly activities, fun dates or completely free things to do, there’s a whole lot to be had. Want something specific? Just search and you’ll find heaps of ideas for things to do in New Orleans today, this weekend, or for the kids or for couples. The city will throw something at you when you least expect it, so make sure you’re open to it.
