Things to Know About New Orleans Before You Go
Located on the Mississippi River, nigh the Gulf of United mexican states, lies the lively city of New Orleans. Oftentimes called past the nicknames the Big Like shooting fish in a barrel for its laid back like shooting fish in a barrel-going vibe, or NOLA, which stands for New Orleans Louisiana, it goes by many names and is known for many things.
And oh boy.
This city is a cool identify to visit at any time of year: whether you're coming for the jazz scene, the nightlife, or the historic landmarks, at that place'south e'er enough of things to do in New Orleans!
Nosotros've put together a comprehensive listing of information technology all, from circular-the-clock amusement to creative cuisine and the legendary jazz scene. In that location really is no other identify with New Orleans' energy.
Let's get this started!
Table of Contents Show
- Tiptop Things to Do in New Orleans
- Where to Stay in New Orleans
- Some Additional Tips for Visiting New Orleans
- FAQ on Things to Do in New Orleans
- Conclusion
Height Things to Do in New Orleans
The Large Easy is a hub of entertainment, fun attractions, and iconic sites. To fully immerse yourself in the fantastic energy and vibe, we've listed our height picks for things to do in New Orleans.
You'll find our top list below, divide into different categories. The rest is coming up correct afterwards!
The Top Thing to Practice in New Orleans
The Top Thing to Exercise in New Orleans
Ride an Authentic Louisiana Steamboat
Cruise down the mighty Mississippi in the simply accurate steamboat in the city. A live band will exist playing classic New Orleans Jazz!
Nearly Unusual Thing to Do in New Orleans
Most Unusual Thing to Do in New Orleans
Discover the Haunted Side of New Orleans
Brand the pilus on the dorsum of your neck stand up — if you're interested in the macabre, this urban center is for you!
Best Thing to Do in New Orleans at Night
Best Thing to Do in New Orleans at Night
Heed to Live Jazz Music
Visit a few favorite local clubs, enjoy a couple of drinks and discover the talents of the best local musicians.
Most Romantic Thing to Do in New Orleans
About Romantic Matter to Do in New Orleans
Take a Lesson on Creole Cooking
Take some new flavors home as you experience the fun, food, and sociology of New Orleans together.
All-time Free Thing to Practice in New Orleans
Best Free Thing to Practice in New Orleans
Explore the Metropolis's Most Enchanting Park
Miles of walking and bike paths, picturesque lagoons, and lakes where you can paddleboard on. Sounds proficient to me!
1. Feel the Uniqueness of the French Quarter
The French Quarter is the heart and soul of the city. It's a hotspot for New Orleans jazz clubs, Cajun eateries, a vibrant nightlife, and much more than!
It'southward New Orleans's oldest neighborhood, filled with many of the city's most iconic attractions. The St. Louis Cathedral, Jackson Foursquare, French Market place, and the Mississippi River can all be found inside the area.
You lot'll also find plenty of hidden gems tucked away in the quieter streets of the French Quarter. These lead to gourmet restaurants, local stores, and quirky cafes.
It's wildly popular amongst travelers, then wait to crash-land into a few people hither. Just y'all tin't visit the Big Easy without soaking in the culture, history, and architecture of the French Quarter!
Food tours in New Orleans tin can prove y'all all the best places to eat around the French Quarter.
2. Take it Piece of cake in the "Large Piece of cake"
Louis Armstrong Park pays tribute to native New Orleans trumpeter, vocalist, and jazz legend, Louis Armstrong. The park is clean and well landscaped, complete with statues and h2o features. You lot can find it within walking distance from the French Quarter.
Within the park's confines is the historic Congo Square, an area where slaves would gather on Sundays to sing, beat drums, and socialize with 1 some other, back in the solar day. The park is costless to enter and open every day.
- Entrance: Free
- Hours: 08:00-18:00
- Address: 701 Due north Rampart St, New Orleans, LA 70116, U.s.
3. Ride an Accurate Louisiana Steamboat
Journeying back in time aboard the Steamboat Natchez, the only authentic steamboat in New Orleans. You lot'll become to prowl down the mighty Mississippi River as you relax, while a alive band plays classic New Orleans Jazz.
This is how y'all bask the tastes, sounds, and sights of New Orleans.!
Visit the preserved steam engine room and larn how steam powers the boat, or stand on the transport's top deck and admire the spectacular views that environs yous. You'll likewise be able to enjoy an authentic Creole lunch, prepared fresh onboard.
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4. Mind to Live Jazz Music
Listening to jazz music should be high up on your list of things to do in New Orleans. From swing to blues to fusion to bebop to funk, here are the all-time places to telescopic out NOLA'due south jazz scene.
Preservation Hall in the French Quarter is a New Orleans Jazz order with an sometime-timey atmosphere and loftier-quality jazz music. For old-time jazz music in a historic setting, this is the place y'all want to exist.
The Spotted Cat Music Guild is another quintessential New Orleans jazz club. It's an intimate venue with a lot of dissimilar styles: from traditional jazz to funk. Information technology'south located in the Faubourg Marigny District on Frenchmen Street, a few steps from the hustle and bustle of the French Quarter.
Keep an ear to the ground for talk of any local big band funk gig, such as Grammy-nominated Hot eight Brass Ring. The fashion'south huge in NOLA and information technology's always a great vibe!
5. Crack a Cold I by the Puddle
Searching for epic hostels in New Orleans? Then you should dive directly into India Business firm Backpackers — the only hostel in the urban center with a swimming pool!
The hostel is surrounded past awesome local pubs and they offer both mixed and single-sex dorms with air con. Oh, and a stage for alive music! Because what's a trip to the world'due south jazz majuscule without a little jam session?
Do check out the open-air kitchen where they serve breakfast and low-priced evening meals. There's even another kitchen indoors that you can cook in if you're on a tight budget.
Hostels in New Orleans don't really become any more lively than this.
6. Get Behind the Scenes of Mardi Gras
Mardi Gras Globe is a place that provides guests with a behind-the-scenes expect at the city's nearly celebrated event! If you're a fan of Mardi Gras, this is your hazard to see where the floats are made and how everything in the parades comes together.
Mardi Gras represents all the all-time of New Orleans, and if you're wanting to gain more insight into this cheerful celebration, or y'all're not able to travel to the Large Easy when it'southward happening, be sure to finish by this place!
- Archway: $xiv-22
- Hours:09:00-17:thirty
- Address:1380 Port of New Orleans Pl, New Orleans, LA 70130, United states of america
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7. Notice the Existent History of Voodoo
New Orleans voodoo isn't only a marketing ploy — this tradition is embedded in the urban center's culture and heritage.
The history and credo behind this faith are set in ancient African tribal religions, and there are a couple of places in the city that are strongly associated with this culture.
Marie Laveau'south House of Voodoo is ane of them. This shop is packed full of just about anything you could possibly think of when yous think of voodoo. Swing by and buy a "magic" potion, or but stop in to admire the option of unique items.
The St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 is another popular spot connected to voodoo. Hither y'all tin find the tomb of Marie Laveau, history'south most esteemed voodoo queen. Visitors and locals go out offerings year-round in the promise of gaining her favor.
- Entrance: Free (Marie Laveau's House of Voodoo)
- Hours:10:00-23:xxx (Sun-Th), 10:00-01:30 (Fri-Saturday)
- Accost:739 Bourbon St, New Orleans, LA 70116, United States
8. Indulge in the Local Nutrient Culture
New Orleans' cuisine is one of a kind. It infuses French, Spanish, African, Cajun, and Creole flavors and creates a unique taste you lot won't find anywhere else in the earth!
The city has a large range of food staples you don't want to go out town without having a taste for yourself.
If you lot eat meat, be sure to endeavour boudin. This is a type of sausage with a mix of meat, rice, vegetables, and plenty of cajun spice inside a casing.
For something sweet, get for a beignet. This deep-fried pastry is sprinkled with powdered sugar and goes cracking with coffee, especially if you can squeeze your style into the illustrious Cafe du Monde.
For seafood lovers, nosotros highly recommend y'all indulge in a overnice seafood gumbo, made with a potent-flavored stock and what Louisianians call the "Holy Trinity" of vegetables, which is celery, bong peppers, and onions.
9. Visit the Bayous of the Louisiana Wetlands
Travel just exterior the city middle of New Orleans and migrate on a guided swamp boat through the bayous of the enchanting Louisiana wetlands.
Meet moss-draped trees and Louisiana's abundant wildlife. You'll run into a broad range of local birds, fauna, fish, and possibly even an alligator!
This is your gamble to hop aboard a typical swamp boat and explore the wonders of the southern swamps upward close — be sure to pack your best camera.
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10. Visit the Birthplace of New Orleans Jazz
The Tremé neighborhood is bursting with authentic Americana, popping colors, and archetype architecture. It's besides the birthplace of New Orleans jazz and the center of the city'southward Creole culture!
Storyville was the cerise-light district of New Orleans, from 1897 to 1917. This is where jazz music flourished and where all the jazz greats came to play. Although this surface area was bulldozed, information technology will forever deport a tie to the urban center's jazz civilisation, and several sites are still visible in the Tremé neighborhood.
Today, the neighborhood houses the St. Augustine Church, The Tomb of the Unknown Slave, and the just laundromat that made its way into the Rock and Roll Hall of Fame!
This fascinating neighborhood is a bang-up place to explore and notice the center of New Orleans jazz and Creole culture.
xi. Learn More Well-nigh Jazz
source: Jeremy Thompson (Flickr)
Casting an influence all the way to contemporary hip-hop and funk, you'll be difficult-pressed to avoid the killer live music scene in this city total of virtuosos. If yous want to learn more nearly jazz, you should visit the New Orleans Jazz Museum!
Larn about the music that defines the urban center. See the largest collection of jazz artifacts in the world, including instruments played past jazz greats similar Louis Armstrong's first cornet, and a 1917 disc of the offset jazz recording always made.
There are also photographs from the early days of jazz, recorded interviews from prominent jazz figures, and interactive exhibits! The museum is open up every twenty-four hours except Mondays and access is $8.
- Archway: $six–8
- Hours:09:00-sixteen:00 (Tuesday-Sunday)
- Address:400 Esplanade Ave, New Orleans, LA 70116, Us
12. Discover the Haunted Side of New Orleans
If y'all're interested in the macabre, New Orleans' is the metropolis for you. NOLA has a ghastly and gruesome past that will make the hair on the dorsum of your neck stand up up.
Here's what you should do if you're into this kind of stuff:
Visit the New Orleans Pharmacy Museum, known for its questionable medical practices in the 19th century; See the St. Germain House, the former residence of rumored vampire Jacques Saint Germain; Wander past the LaLaurie Firm, the abode of the wicked mistress Madame LaLaurie.
A visit to these creepy sites will allow you to all there is to discover the darker side of the city!
- Entrance: $x/person
- Hours:12:00-17:00 (Wed-Sat)
- Accost:514 Chartres St, New Orleans, LA 70130, United states of america
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xiii. Visit a Vampire Store
New Orleans is an unusual city full of foreign and spectacular sites. Among these sites is the Boutique du Vampyre, a store selling gothic curiosities ranging from jewellery and dress to voodoo dolls and incense.
Information technology's a wonderful little precious stone of a store with truly unique products you won't find anywhere else. Cease in to pick upwards some spooky souvenirs, or window shop and adore the unique vampire oddities.
The shop also offers tarot, tea, and palm readings!
14. Sightsee on a Bike Ride
Learn about the history of New Orleans in a unique way as you lot pedal past the city's nigh iconic sites. Forget walking — biking can take you lot farther and information technology'due south way more fun!
New Orleans is a very bike-friendly city, and there are plenty of parks and paths to ride through. Moreover, the fact that there are barely any hills in the metropolis makes it a breeze for pretty much anyone who'due south down to ride.
Cruise along the Mississippi River and the seven unlike districts of the city every bit you bask the fresh open air and a chip of exercise, NOLA sightseeing on a bike ride is a swell manner to see it from a unlike perspective!
15. Accept a Drink at Ane of the Oldest Confined in the US
Lafitte'southward Blacksmith Shop is one of the oldest bars in the United states. It was established as a bar in 1772, however, information technology's housed within a building dating all the way to 1720.
The bar sits at the far end of Bourbon Street in the French Quarter. The brick masonry is exposed, the floorboards creak, the windows shutters lay beveled, and candles lite upwardly the building after dark.
Oh, and yes, the building is supposedly haunted past residents of the French Quarter — at least that'south what they say. This quaint and historic bar is a piece of history that perfectly personifies NOLA'southward unique quality.
- Entrance: Free
- Hours:x:00-03:00
- Address:941 Bourbon St, New Orleans, LA 70116, United states
xvi. Discover New Orleans' Mannerly Garden Commune
The New Orleans Garden Commune is the metropolis's lovely, quiet neighborhood. From oak-shaded streets and magnificent crepe myrtles to lavish mansions with sweeping front porches, this surface area represents quintessential up-calibration southern living.
Many prominent authors, poets, flick stars, artists, and sports legends accept all put down roots in the Garden District. Yous'll find it to be a shopping mecca, besides, with high-terminate boutiques, antique shops, and local stores sitting alongside fine-dining restaurants, cozy cafes, and local eateries.
You should really visit the city's oldest municipal cemetery, Lafayette #1! Information technology'south a historic graveyard that has been used to shoot several movies and TV shows, and information technology's god damn beautiful on the inside.
17. Go See a Midnight Film
source: Infrogmation of New Orleans (Flickr)
Built in 1914, The Prytania Theater is the oldest movie theatre in New Orleans. This unmarried-screen cinema shows everything, from Hollywood hits and smashing classics to kids' films and indie flicks.
Almost of them are shown throughout the day, but they host regular late-night screenings with popular cult classics, too — night owls, unite!
This quaint movie theatre is decorated with old classic decor. On the phase, you lot can withal see the organ that was used in silent films.
- Entrance: $5-seven
- Hours:11:00-23:00
- Address:5339 Prytania St, New Orleans, LA 70115, United States
18. Explore New Orleans' About Enchanting Park
Urban center Park is a 1,300-acre urban expanse in the centre of the city. In that location are enough of activities that can be enjoyed here: miles of walking and bicycle paths, picturesque lagoons, and lakes where you tin paddleboard on.
Moreover, if y'all're looking for New Orleans activities to enjoy with children, the park also has a playground and plenty of green space to run effectually in.
It includes the largest collection of live oak trees in the globe, with some of them dating back 600 years! Information technology's a bully place to savor a break from the hustle and hurry of the city, and it's open every day of the yr.
- Entrance: varies
- Hours:08:00-17:00
- Accost:1 Palm Dr, New Orleans, LA 70124, United States
19. Rub Shoulders With the Locals at the French Market
The French Marketplace spans six blocks in the French Quarter of New Orleans. This open up-air and charismatic market place is free to visit and total of New Orleans souvenirs and food vendors.
If you're hungry, sit down counter-side at a restaurant and enjoy the lively atmosphere from the market. Or, pick something to go from a food stall and simply wander around. From vegan options to weird shit like an alligator on a stick, yous've got everything you may exist into.
There are plenty of stalls offering local handicrafts and clothing, besides!
- Entrance: Free
- Hours:08:00-17:00 (Thursday-Monday)
- Address:700-1010 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70116, United States
20. Relax in a Peaceful Sanctuary
St Louis Cathedral is the oldest catholic cathedral in continual utilise in the U.s.a.. Information technology dates dorsum to the 1700s and is nestled within the cluttered Jackson Square. And no need to be religious to appreciate the history and beauty housed within these walls!
The church represents an impressive blend of Old World compages, including Renaissance, Gothic Revival, and Spanish Colonial. Travel within and view the elaborate woodwork, stained drinking glass windows, and imposing sculptures.
Stop in for a peaceful reprieve on your trip to New Orleans. The entrance is costless!
- Entrance: $1 donation
- Hours:08:xxx-16:00 (Monday-Friday), 17:00-18:00 (Saturday), 09:00-12:00 (Sunday)
- Accost:615 Pere Antoine Aisle, New Orleans, LA 70116, United States
21. Travel Around. The One-time Fashioned Style!
New Orleans streetcars take been around since 1835. And even though the city'due south bus organisation has kind of replaced these old routes, you lot can however hop aboard and savor a historic NOLA experience.
And they'll get you through a lot of New Orleans attractions, too.
There are 5 operating lines, and a ane-way ticket will come out at just $1.25 — a total bargain! Be sure to accept verbal change when purchasing a ticket, because the drivers won't give yous any alter.
Klook.com22. Immerse Yourself in the History of WWII
Learn about WWII through a large collection of WWII artifacts, including boats, documents, uniforms, weapons, and fully restored aircraft.
Don't miss the climactic 4D theater experience, narrated by Tom Hanks and complete with imitation gunfire, moving seats, and artillery explosions. It'southward admittedly insane, that much I tin can tell you!
The museum is massive and housed in 4 buildings. Each room is thoughtfully organized around a different primal theme, so you can really spend some time exploring around.
- Entrance: $7-28.50
- Hours:09:00-17:00
- Address:945 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70130, United States
23. Take a Lesson on Creole Cooking
Discover the truthful essence of southern cuisine as yous sit back, relax and learn the basics of cajun and creole cooking. Lookout a chef set NOLA'southward food staples right in front of you, and learn the fascinating history of how the civilisation and cuisine of New Orleans came to be.
After the trip, you'll get to get dwelling house a master of all the secret techniques behind cooking creole specialties like gumbo, jambalaya, and pralines.
24. Visit an Sometime Time Attraction
The Carousel Gardens Amusement Park is a seasonal amusement park open from June to Nov. It's located within New Orleans' City Park and features old fashioned rides including a Ferris wheel and carousel.
Since 1906 this historic park has been mannerly visitors with its fun attractions, including bumper cars, the scrambler, tilt-a-whirl, a 40-foot fun slide, and more! Admission is $5, each ride is about $four, or you can purchase an unlimited wristband ride ticket for 18 bucks.
- Entrance: $5
- Hours:currently closed
- Address:7 Victory Ave, New Orleans, LA 70124, United states of america
25. People Lookout man in Jackson Square
Jackson Square is 1 of New Orleans' about recognizable landmarks. Located correct in the center of the French Quarter, this lively hub has a lot going on! And sometimes yous might but feel similar watching information technology all unfold.
An open-air creative person customs thrives in the square, who utilize information technology as their studio. Wander the foursquare and see the artists at work for yourself, sit down for a moment, or simply admire the work they have on display.
Street performers love to entertain in the square. From dancing to jazz music and magic shows, this square is prime for people watching!
- Entrance: Free
- Hours:08:00-18:00
- Accost:701 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70116, United States
Where to Stay in New Orleans
Looking for a specific place to stay? These are our highest recommendations for places to stay in New Orleans.
Nosotros've prepared a summary of our highest recommendations for the best hostel, best Airbnb, and best hotel in town. If y'all're looking for a unique or luxury vacation rental in New Orleans, check out our separate guide on this.
All-time Airbnb in New Orleans: Townhome in the Heart of NOLA
Smack dab in the eye of the French Quarter; you can find this hidden gem apartment with a pool and many other amenities. It'southward in an authentic historic Lousiana building that actually gives you that feeling you look when visiting a timeless city. You tin can everywhere from here, which is smashing for getting to know the urban center!
All-time Hostel in New Orleans: Auberge NOLA Hostel
The Auberge NOLA Hostel is centrally located in New Orleans. Information technology is close to cafes, shops, eateries, and more. It has individual and dorm-way accommodations, large common rooms, and a shared kitchen and bar. All of this combines to make this our recommendation for the best hostel in New Orleans.
Best Hotel in New Orleans: Melrose Mansion Hotel New Orleans
The Melrose Mansion is bursting with amuse, elegance and class. This great three-star hotel is centrally located and it's only a brusk walk to the lively Bourbon Street. Information technology has a fettle center, outdoor pool, and great art deco décor. Everything you could expect from a nice hotel, and a great bang for your buck.
Some Boosted Tips for Visiting New Orleans
At that place you go! By at present, you've probably got quite the list of things to practise in New Orleans. Before you lot set off on your journey, though, nosotros have simply a few actress tips that might come up in handy while planning:
- Unsure about the atmospheric condition? Program your New Orleans itinerary and detect out the best time to visit this wonderful city.
- From the budget bed and breakfasts in town to the top luxury lodges, there is non a shortage of excellent places to stay in New Orleans.
- Bring a good water canteen with you and avert buying single-use plastic ones!
- Wondering if New Orleans is safe? The curt answer is, it depends on where you lot go and how you carry yourself. Read our condom guide so you can ease your listen during your trip!
- Feeling actress fancy? Have your trip to the side by side level and book a stunning hotel in the center of New Orleans.
- Invest in travel insurance! You never know what may happen on the road.
- Detect cheap flights . Every in one case in a while, a killer deal pops up.
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FAQ on Things to Practice in New Orleans
Hither are some quick answers to common questions about what to do and see in New Orleans.
Decision
We hope you enjoyed our guide to the absolute best things to do in New Orleans. We've fabricated sure to include all of the city's virtually famed attractions, equally well as to add some subconscious gems and a few weird ones to the mix.
Each of them will allow you to have in the city's exuberant temper in a unlike way, so y'all can get to know all of its intricacies.
New Orleans has and so much to offering to travelers. From lively jazz music to haunted attractions, and everything in between, this fun-loving metropolis but knows how to please!
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