New Orleans is a city that lives in the senses. From the smell of fried dough at a historic cafe to the brassy sounds of a second-line parade echoing through the streets, there is never a shortage of things to do. Whether you are a history buff looking to explore 18th-century architecture, a nature lover wanting to see the bayous, or a family seeking educational fun, the city offers a diverse array of activities that blend Caribbean, French, and American influences.
Historic Exploration in the French Quarter
The French Quarter is the historic heart of the city, and a walking tour here is a must for any visitor. Start at Jackson Square, where you can admire the St. Louis Cathedral, the oldest continuously active cathedral in the United States. The surrounding streets, such as Royal and Chartres, are lined with colorful buildings featuring intricate wrought-iron balconies and hidden courtyards. You can spend hours browsing through antique shops, art galleries, and voodoo boutiques that tell the story of the cityâs complex spiritual and colonial history.
For a different perspective, walk along the Moonwalk riverfront park to watch the massive barges and steamboats navigate the Mississippi River. The architecture here is a blend of Spanish and French styles, rebuilt after major fires in the late 1700s. Don't forget to visit the French Market, a trading hub that has existed in some form for over 200 years, where you can find everything from local crafts to fresh alligator tail and pralines.
Outdoor Adventures and Wildlife
While the city is famous for its urban sprawl, the natural beauty of Louisiana is just a short drive away. A trip to the Barataria Preserve, part of the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve, offers a chance to walk along wooden boardwalks through marshes and swamps. Here, you can spot American alligators basking in the sun, turtles, and a wide variety of migratory birds. The moss-draped cypress trees create a hauntingly beautiful landscape that feels worlds away from the neon lights of the city.
If you prefer to stay closer to the city center, City Park is a massive green space that is larger than New York's Central Park. It is home to the worldâs largest collection of mature live oaks, some of which are over 800 years old. You can rent a swan-shaped pedal boat on Big Lake, explore the botanical gardens, or wander through the Besthoff Sculpture Garden, which features dozens of modern works set among winding paths and lagoons.
Jazz and Live Music on Frenchmen Street
While Bourbon Street is famous for its party atmosphere, locals and music aficionados head to Frenchmen Street in the Faubourg Marigny neighborhood for authentic live jazz. This three-block stretch is packed with venues where music spills out onto the sidewalk every night of the week. You can find everything from traditional Dixieland jazz and brass bands to blues, funk, and reggae. Most clubs allow you to walk in and listen, though some may have a cover charge during peak hours.
Listening to music in New Orleans is a communal experience. Do not be surprised if a brass band starts an impromptu parade in the street, known locally as a "second line." This tradition is a cornerstone of the city's cultural identity. For a more formal experience, consider booking a show at Preservation Hall, a historic venue dedicated to protecting the heritage of traditional New Orleans jazz in an intimate, acoustic setting where the history of the music is palpable in every note.
Family-Friendly Learning and Fun
New Orleans is an excellent destination for families, offering educational experiences that are genuinely engaging. The Audubon Nature Institute operates several top-tier attractions, including the Audubon Zoo in Uptown and the Aquarium of the Americas near the riverfront. The aquarium is particularly popular for its walk-through tunnel in the Gulf of Mexico exhibit, where sharks and stingrays swim overhead. The Louisiana Children's Museum in City Park is another highlight, featuring indoor and outdoor play areas that focus on the ecology of the Mississippi River.
For a unique educational experience, the National WWII Museum is a world-class institution located in the Warehouse District. It uses immersive exhibits and personal oral histories to tell the story of the American experience in the war. Children and adults alike will be fascinated by the restored aircraft and tanks on display. Another great family activity is riding the historic St. Charles Streetcar, the oldest continuously operating street railway system in the world, which provides a scenic and affordable tour of the city's grandest mansions.
Rainy Day Refuges and Art
New Orleans is known for its sudden rain showers, but the city has plenty of indoor options to keep you entertained. The New Orleans Museum of Art (NOMA) features an impressive collection ranging from French and American art to African and Japanese works. For a more niche experience, the New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum or the Museum of the Southern Jewish Experience offer deep dives into the diverse cultural threads that make up the region's social fabric. You can also explore the many indoor stalls at the French Market or take a guided tour of one of the historic house museums.
Shopping is another great rainy-day activity, particularly along Magazine Street, which stretches for six miles through the Garden District and Uptown. This area is filled with independent boutiques, bookstores, and cafes. If the rain persists, head to a cooking school for a demonstration on how to make classic dishes like jambalaya or Bananas Foster. These sessions often include a full meal and a wealth of stories about the origins of Creole and Cajun cooking, providing a warm and dry way to spend an afternoon.