New Orleans is a city like no other. Known for its rich history, soulful music, diverse culture, and mouth-watering cuisine, it offers a sensory experience that stays with you long after your visit. Whether you’re here for a weekend or a week, there’s no shortage of things to do in New Orleans. From lively street performances to iconic dishes and historic landmarks, this guide walks you through the essential experiences that define the Crescent City.
Explore the Historic French Quarter
Walk Along Bourbon Street
One of the most famous streets in America, Bourbon Street is the heartbeat of the French Quarter. Lined with jazz clubs, bars, and vibrant nightlife, this iconic stretch comes alive, especially at night. For those looking for festive things to do in New Orleans, Bourbon Street delivers unforgettable moments with its colorful atmosphere and impromptu parades.
Visit Jackson Square and St. Louis Cathedral
A short walk from Bourbon Street leads you to the beautiful Jackson Square, a bustling park framed by artists, performers, and local vendors. Overlooking the square is the St. Louis Cathedral, the oldest cathedral in North America, offering stunning architecture and spiritual serenity amid the city’s excitement.
Savor the Flavors of New Orleans
Try Iconic Dishes
New Orleans is a food lover’s paradise. You can’t visit without trying classics like gumbo, jambalaya, crawfish étouffée, and po’boys. For dessert, indulge in beignets dusted with powdered sugar from the world-famous Café du Monde. Exploring local cuisine is one of the top things to do in New Orleans and will leave you craving more.
Visit Local Restaurants and Food Markets
Experience authentic Creole and Cajun flavors at restaurants like Commander’s Palace or Coop’s Place. For a more casual vibe, check out French Market or St. Roch Market, where you can sample dishes from local chefs while soaking in the city’s community vibe.
Dive Into the Music Scene
Discover Live Jazz
New Orleans is the birthplace of jazz, and live music pulses through its streets. Head to Frenchmen Street for an authentic, less commercialized musical experience. Bars like The Spotted Cat Music Club and d.b.a. offer nightly performances by some of the city’s best musicians.
Attend a Second Line Parade
Second Line parades are a true New Orleans tradition. These community-led brass band processions happen frequently and are often associated with weddings or funerals. Dancing behind the main line, locals and tourists alike join the joyous celebration of life—one of the most unique things to do in New Orleans.
Experience the Culture and Heritage
Visit the National WWII Museum
Rated as one of the best museums in the country, the National WWII Museum offers an immersive experience into one of history’s most significant conflicts. Exhibits are deeply engaging, making this stop both educational and emotionally impactful.
Tour the Garden District
For a glimpse of Southern charm, the Garden District features well-preserved mansions, oak-lined streets, and historic cemeteries. Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 is a must-see, with its iconic above-ground tombs and cinematic appeal—it’s been featured in many movies and TV shows.
Celebrate with Festivals
Mardi Gras
Perhaps the most famous of all New Orleans traditions, Mardi Gras is more than a party—it’s a cultural phenomenon. Parades, floats, beads, and music turn the city into a living celebration. Planning your trip during this season? You’ll find no shortage of things to do in New Orleans that showcase its wild, yet organized, revelry.
Jazz & Heritage Festival
Every spring, locals and tourists gather for the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival. It’s a melting pot of music genres, food vendors, and local art, giving you a true taste of the city’s soul in one vibrant event.
Take in the Natural Beauty
Cruise the Mississippi River
A river cruise on a historic steamboat like the Natchez offers a unique view of New Orleans’ skyline. As you float along the Mississippi River, enjoy live jazz music, Creole cuisine, and stories from the past.
Explore City Park
Larger than New York’s Central Park, City Park is a green oasis with walking trails, a botanical garden, and the New Orleans Museum of Art. It’s perfect for a peaceful afternoon or a family outing away from the city’s hustle and bustle.
Discover Haunted History
Ghost and Voodoo Tours
New Orleans has a spooky side rooted in its long history of voodoo, pirates, and paranormal lore. Join a walking ghost tour in the French Quarter, or visit the Voodoo Museum to learn about the mystical traditions that are still practiced today.
Visit Haunted Cemeteries
Explore famous cemeteries like St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, home to the tomb of voodoo queen Marie Laveau. These above-ground graves offer a hauntingly beautiful reflection of the city’s complex history and traditions.
Shop for Local Treasures
Browse Art and Antiques
Royal Street is a haven for antique lovers and art enthusiasts. Its galleries and boutiques offer everything from 18th-century furniture to contemporary artwork by local artists. Shopping here is not just retail therapy—it’s a cultural experience.
Pick Up Souvenirs at French Market
Established in 1791, the French Market is the oldest public market in America. With local crafts, handmade jewelry, and regional delicacies, it’s a great spot to find unique gifts and souvenirs that capture the spirit of New Orleans.
Conclusion: New Orleans Awaits
New Orleans is more than a destination—it’s a vibe, a rhythm, and a story told through its streets, food, music, and people. Whether you’re indulging in gumbo, dancing to live jazz, or discovering the city’s haunted corners, there’s an endless list of things to do in New Orleans that cater to every kind of traveler.
From iconic neighborhoods like the French Quarter and Garden District to lively celebrations like Mardi Gras and Jazz Fest, the city invites you to be part of something unforgettable. So pack your bags and get ready to fall in love with the Big Easy—because once you’ve been, it’s hard to stay away.