New Orleans offers world-class attractions, indulgent parties, and incredible food. It is steeped in history and culture, so let’s go over the best things to do in New Orleans to ensure you experience the best the city offers!
Bourbon Street
Bourbon Street is in the heart of the French Quarter, which is the city’s oldest neighborhood, featuring gorgeous architecture, a wealth of food and music, talented street performers, and heaps of interesting people.
This street is one of the more popular streets in the Quarter, and it’s a must-see if you’re visiting New Orleans for the first time! It embodies the life of a party town, being lit up by neon lights and decorated with dangling beads. Music is its heartbeat!
On this street, you’ll find iconic bars, live jazz, and constant celebrations.
City Park
Better suited to the quiet traveler, City Park is a beautiful 1300-acre green space. It is filled with giant oaks, beautiful walking paths, the Big Lake, and the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park for the kids!
Our favorite activity in City Park is renting a swan boat and going for a ride in the lake. It’s a wonderfully serene and relaxing experience.
Cafe du Monde
Situated in the French Quarter, Cafe du Monde is always filled to the brim with people eager to get their hands on a fresh beignet. It’s a little French pastry covered in powdered sugar, and believe us when we say you’ll need to order three!
Algiers Ferry
Hop on to Algiers Ferry for an amazing view of the city! It’s a commuter ferry taking you to Algiers Point. While the ride is only a few minutes long, you’re given the opportunity to explore the neighborhood on the other side.
You can see cute homes on oak-lined streets and visit a cafe or bar while you’re there.
Tipitina’s
New Orleans is a city famous for its iconic music venues, and Tipitina's is a stand-out. It’s an Uptown joint, giving you a good dose of New Orleans funk and other local acts.
The venue was founded in 1977 and is now owned by a local band that continues the tradition of hosting artists such as Professor Longhair and the Neville Brothers, among other up-and-coming local talents.
New Orleans Jazz Museum
New Orleans is famous for its contribution to the jazz genre, so it only makes sense to visit the New Orleans Jazz Museum. In our opinion, this activity is a must for anyone new to New Orleans. And if you’re lucky, you may even catch a free jazz concert here.
The museum boasts a comprehensive collection of artifacts from the 20th century, allowing you to see and hear the history of jazz.
Sazerac House
The Sazerac is the most famous cocktail to come out of New Orleans. It’s on almost every bar menu, has its own museum, and has been designated the city’s official cocktail.
Where better to experience it than at Sazerac House, the first location to ever serve it? The location even offers immersive chats with virtual bartenders, giving you the opportunity to learn about the history of the drink and have a unique bar experience.
Mardi Gras World
New Orleans is the home of the Mardi Gras celebration, and we’ve found a way for you to experience it even if you’re not in town around the time of the official carnival.
Mardi Gras World is run by Blaine Kern, also known as Mr. Mardi Gras. He builds the floats for the carnival and offers tours that take you into the heart of the celebration.
Explore The Best New Orleans Has To Offer
New Orleans is a deeply cultural city with heaps of activities on offer. Whether you prefer a quiet setting or a party, there are loads of things to do in New Orleans.
Our list of best things to do in New Orleans is only the beginning! Once you’re there, take a walk and you’ll discover delicious food, interesting people, and vibey music on almost every corner.
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