Top Things to Do in New Orleans

New Orleans, United States

About the City

New Orleans, a city that dances to the beat of jazz, is an explosion of culture, food, and history. Colorful buildings with wrought-iron balconies line the streets of the French Quarter, where the scent of beignets and chicory coffee fills the air. Street performers and brass bands provide an impromptu soundtrack, ensuring there's never a dull moment. The city's Mardi Gras celebrations are legendary, with exquisite masks and bead necklaces thrown from elaborate floats. Yet, this festivity comes with a caveat: the aftermath often leaves streets in need of a good clean. And while the nightlife on Bourbon Street can be exhilarating, it can also present a less savory side when the revelry spills over. Culinary adventurers rejoice in creole and cajun delights, from succulent shrimp gumbo to spicy jambalaya, while acknowledging that the indulgence might warrant extra gym time later. New Orleans' weather swings from balmy to almost unbearably humid, challenging even the most heat-tolerant souls. Despite occasional natural adversities, such as hurricanes, this city is resilient. Its people embrace their heritage with pride, rebuilding and celebrating life with a gusto that's both inspiring and contagious. New Orleans is not just a city; it's a living, breathing performance, with each day offering a new act.

Things to Do in New Orleans

Shrimp and Grits Delight

Food & Drink

This Southern classic is transformed into a culinary masterpiece in New Orleans. Dive into a dish filled with creamy grits topped with juicy, succulent shrimp seasoned to perfection. It's comfort food...

Lafayette Cemetery Scavenger Hunt

Outdoors

Unearth the secrets of one of New Orleans' most iconic cemeteries with a fun and intriguing scavenger hunt! Founded in 1833, Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 is a historic wonder filled with elaborate tombs a...

St. Joseph’s Altars Pilgrimage

The Unexpected

A culinary and cultural experience you might not expect! Every March, the Italian-American community in New Orleans displays ornate altars filled with food, flowers, and symbolic items in honor of St....

Honey Island Swamp Wildlife Search

The Unexpected

Trade the bustling urban streets for a peaceful glide through the mysterious Honey Island Swamp. This isn't your run-of-the-mill swamp tour; it involves spotting wildlife that seems plucked right out ...

Float Through the Jazz Crawl

The Unexpected

New Orleans may be the birthplace of jazz, but have you ever effortlessly floated through the heart of it? Join a hidden jazz parade and follow the tantalizing tunes that lead you through backstreets ...

Voodoo Queen Encounter

The Unexpected

Ever wanted to delve into the mystical and slightly eerie side of New Orleans? Meet a true Voodoo Queen and learn about the fascinating history and cultural significance of Voodoo in this vibrant city...

Peaceful Picnicking

Outdoors

Pack a basket full of Louisiana goodies and head out for an idyllic picnic! Find your favorite scenic spot in the heart of New Orleans. Indulge in delicious snacks and refreshing lemonade to the tunes...

NOMA Sculpture Garden Stroll

Outdoors

Step into a world where art meets nature at the New Orleans Museum of Art's Sculpture Garden. Spanning eleven acres within City Park, the beautifully landscaped grounds are decorated with modern and c...

Bayou Sauvage National Wildlife Refuge Hike

Outdoors

Discover the wild side of New Orleans with a hike through the Bayou Sauvage National Wildlife Refuge. As the largest urban National Wildlife Refuge in the United States, it's a paradise for nature lov...

Moonlit Paddle on Bayou St. John

Outdoors

Experience the magic of New Orleans under the moonlight as you paddle your way through Bayou St. John. This serene waterway offers a tranquil escape from the lively French Quarter, revealing a differe...

Turtle Soup Expedition

Food & Drink

Turtle soup is a culinary tradition in New Orleans that harks back to the early days of the city. You'll find bowls brimming with rich broth, tender meat, and an aromatic blend of spices. It's a dish ...

Preservation Hall Pass

Sights

Listen real close: can you hear that unmistakable sound of a trumpet blaring out a jazzy tune from yonder? Preservation Hall is where jazz aficionados and newbies alike gather to bask in the soulful m...

Algiers Point Adventure

Sights

Hop on a ferry and sail over to Algiers Point, one of New Orleans’ best-kept secrets! This historic neighborhood across the Mississippi River offers stunning views of the city skyline, picturesque str...

Bywater Exploration

Sights

Just downriver from the usual tourist spots lies Bywater, a neighborhood brimming with hipster vibes and historic charm. This vibrant area exudes a sense of local artistry and authentic experience. Di...

Faubourg Marigny Meander

Sights

Get ready to groove through New Orleans’ Faubourg Marigny, a district beloved for its vibrant nightlife and quirky charm! Wander along Frenchmen Street, where live music spills out from every corner, ...

Treme Trot

Sights

Step into the heart of New Orleans’ rich cultural tapestry by exploring the historic Treme neighborhood, the birthplace of jazz and a hub of African-American culture. Enjoy charming streets lined with...

Turtle Soup Tasting

Food & Drink

Dive into a bowl of traditional Creole turtle soup, a dish steeped in history and unique flavors! This savory soup is a delightful blend of turtle meat, veggies, and spices, often topped with a splash...

Boudin Bonanza

Food & Drink

Sink your teeth into boudin, a sausage filled with a spicy mix of pork and rice. This hearty snack hails from the rural parishes of Louisiana, but you can find it right in New Orleans! Whether you're ...

Praline Party

Food & Drink

Indulge your sweet tooth with the rich, nutty delight that is the praline! New Orleans' pralines are a sugary treat unlike any other, made with a divine combination of sugar, butter, and pecans. Wheth...

Museum of the American Cocktail Mix-Off

The Unexpected

Shake up your trip with a mixology lesson amidst the storied spirits and colorful concoctions at the Museum of the American Cocktail! Take an engaging walk through the history of cocktails, and expand...

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