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Things to Do in New Orleans

Things to Do in New Orleans

New Orleans Louisiana, USA Travel Guide

Outdoor Adventures

New Orleans’ natural surroundings afford unique outdoor activities. Experience the wetlands and waterways.

Land & Water Exploration

Hiking & Trekking

Jean Lafitte National Historical Park offers easy, flat boardwalk trails through swamps. Suitable for all fitness levels.

Water Sports & Activities

Kayaking/Paddleboarding on Bayou St. John. Rentals available for a peaceful urban water experience.

Mississippi River Cruises

Steamboats like the Natchez offer scenic daytime and evening jazz cruises. A relaxing way to see the city from the water.

Wildlife & Cycling

  • Wildlife Encounters: Swamp tours are the main way to see alligators, snakes, turtles, birds.
  • Audubon Zoo & Aquarium: Curated wildlife viewing, suitable for families.
  • Cycling Routes: Paved paths in City Park and Audubon Park. Lafitte Greenway is an urban bike trail.
  • Mountain Biking: No significant trails near New Orleans due to flat terrain.

Adventure Sports

  • Adventure sports are limited within the city.
  • The flat landscape restricts some activities.
  • Airboat swamp tours offer a thrilling experience.
  • A good choice for faster-paced outdoor adventure.

Tour Operators

  • Numerous operators offer boat tours into bayous.
  • Knowledgeable guides help spot animals.
  • Find Airboat & Swamp Tours
  • Kayak and paddleboard rentals are available.

Enjoy the Outdoors

  • Explore parks for relaxation or activity.
  • Boardwalks allow swamp experience without mud.
  • River cruises give an unique city view.
  • The flat terrain suits leisurely cycling.

Safety Alert: Alligators

Alligators are wild animals. Maintain a safe distance and never feed them.

Cultural Immersion

New Orleans offers many ways to immerse yourself in its culture. Learn, dance, and celebrate.

Workshops & Classes

  • New Orleans School of Cooking: Hands-on Creole/Cajun cooking classes.
  • NOLA School of Mixology: Cocktail making classes for classic New Orleans drinks.
  • Art Workshops: Local galleries and studios offer painting, pottery, jewelry making.
  • Music Lessons: Opportunities for brass band workshops or individual lessons.

Cultural Performances

Live Jazz

Frenchmen Street (Marigny) for live jazz, blues, funk. Preservation Hall in the French Quarter for intimate, traditional New Orleans jazz.

Gospel & Parades

Gospel music in historic churches, often Sundays. Second Line Parades are spontaneous or organized street parades with brass bands.

Burlesque Shows

Various venues offer burlesque shows, often with an unique New Orleans twist.

Community-Based Tourism

Some tours focus on neighborhoods like Tremé or Bywater. Often led by local residents, they offer insight into community life and history.

Language Learning

No specific formal language learning programs exist for short-term visitors. Interacting with locals offers chances to learn local slang and phrases.

Cultural Festivals

New Orleans is famous for its numerous festivals. Plan your visit around one for a full cultural experience. Mardi Gras, Jazz Fest, French Quarter Festival are highlights.

Relaxation & Wellness

Find ways to relax and rejuvenate in New Orleans. Recharge amidst the city's energy.

Spa & Tranquility

  • Spa & Wellness Centers: Many luxury hotels have full-service spas (The Roosevelt, The Ritz-Carlton).
  • Yoga & Meditation: Several yoga studios offer drop-in classes for visitors.
  • Traditional Healing: Some local practitioners offer spiritual readings or Voodoo-inspired healing.
  • Natural Therapy: No natural hot springs exist in the New Orleans area.

Water & Serenity

Beach & Pool Clubs

Some hotels offer day passes to their pools. This a good way to cool off in summer. No natural beaches exist in New Orleans.

Quiet Zones

Escape the bustle in Audubon Park or City Park. These green spaces offer peaceful walking paths and tranquil lagoons for quiet reflection.

Riverfront Serenity

Woldenberg Riverfront Park along the Mississippi River. Pleasant views of river activity and steamboats. A relaxing spot for a stroll.

Wellness Resources

Yoga Studio Finder

Search "yoga studios New Orleans" to find local options for drop-in classes.

Spa Directories

Consult local directories or hotel websites for spa services and bookings.

Outdoor Recreation

Utilize the city's parks for walks, runs, or quiet moments in nature.

Entertainment & Nightlife

New Orleans comes alive at night. The city offers diverse entertainment. Find music, theater, and dancing.

Live Music Venues

  • Frenchmen Street (Marigny): Clustered clubs for jazz, blues, funk, R&B every night.
  • Preservation Hall (French Quarter): Intimate venue for traditional New Orleans jazz.
  • Tipitina's (Uptown): Legendary venue hosts local and national acts, known for funk/R&B.
  • Maple Leaf Bar (Uptown): Long-standing venue for funk and jazz, local neighborhood feel.

Theater & Nightclubs

Theater & Performance Spaces

Saenger Theatre: Broadway shows, concerts. Mahalia Jackson Theater: Opera, ballet. Le Petit Théâtre du Vieux Carré: Community plays.

Nightclubs & Dancing

Bourbon Street: Numerous bars, clubs, live music for a party atmosphere. Frenchmen Street: Clubs with dance floors, local crowds. Warehouse District: Modern clubs.

Late-Night Options

Many bars and music venues stay open late, often past 2 AM on weekends. Entertainment lasts well into the night.

Bar Districts & Pub Crawls

  • Bourbon Street: Most famous party street.
  • Frenchmen Street: Live music, local vibe.
  • Magazine Street (Uptown): Scattered, relaxed bars.
  • Guided pub crawls often have historical themes.

Ghost & History Tours

  • Many tours combine nightlife with historical tales.
  • Explore haunted locations and dark histories.
  • Often family-friendly in early evening.
  • Adds an unique dimension to your night.

Safe Transport

  • Utilize ride-shares (Uber/Lyft) or taxis.
  • Public streetcars run late in some areas.
  • Avoid walking alone in unfamiliar areas at night.
  • Plan your return transport in advance.

Nightlife Tips

Open Container Laws
  • Open container laws allow carrying drinks in plastic cups.
  • This means you can walk with your beverage in the French Quarter.
  • Drink responsibly and be aware of your surroundings.
Frenchmen vs. Bourbon
  • Bourbon Street for the classic party atmosphere.
  • Frenchmen Street for serious live music and local vibes.
  • Experience both for a full New Orleans nightlife picture.

Consider a Guided Night Tour

Guided tours provide structure and safety for exploring the city's nightlife, especially for first-time visitors.

Activity Planning Summary

Before You Go

  • Research festivals and events that align with your travel dates.
  • Book popular tours or classes in advance, especially during peak season.
  • Map out attractions by neighborhood for efficient sightseeing.
  • Pack comfortable footwear for walking on uneven surfaces.

During Your Stay

  • Stay hydrated, especially during warmer months.
  • Utilize public transportation or ride-shares for longer distances.
  • Engage with locals for authentic recommendations.
  • Embrace the spontaneity and charm of New Orleans.