As a city that’s famous for its wide variety of food, music, and culture it can be difficult to narrow down a short trip to the Big Easy. The first time tourist will want to check these top 10 things to do in New Orleans off their list.
The delicious French donut: a perfect mixture of fried dough and sweet powdered sugar. Whether you visit the illustrious Café Du Monde in Jackson Square or Morning Call Café in lovely City Park, beignets are a staple breakfast, snack, or dessert of New Orleans. Pair them with a delicious café au lait you’ll be set!
The most historical section of New Orleans! Here you’ll find gorgeous architecture, street artists, and some of the most interesting shops and boutiques. Spend an afternoon wandering the streets, window shopping, and make sure to visit the St. Louis Cathedral located just behind Jackson Square. Looking for family friendly things to do in New Orleans? Try a guided tour of the French Quarter.
Known for its lively clubs and famous “hand grenade” drinks; Bourbon Street is a place no visitor should miss out on. Explore the sights and shops during the day and enjoy the unique and upbeat atmosphere in the evening!
Explore the city on the big red double decker tour busses, traveling throughout the French Quarter and Garden District. The busses have 18 stops to explore, take guided walking tours, and worry free transportation. Running from 10am to 5pm, Hop on and Hop off as thebusses stop every 30 minutes at such famous locations as Mardi Gras World, The French Market, Jackson Square, and Magazine Street.
In the unfortunate occasion that you find yourself visiting New Orleans outside of Mardi Gras season, you’ll be pleased to know that you can still see and experience the gorgeous and elaborate floats all year round! Mardi Gras World [link], located right along the Mississippi river, is a large warehouse where floats are constructed and housed. Here you’ll be able to tour the beautiful facilities, experience the magic of Mardi Gras, and if you arrive by the City Sightseeing Tour you’ll receive a discount.
Why just walk on the streets passing the Mississippi when you can experience a river cruise on the beautiful Paddlewheeler Creole Queen? Enjoy a historic cruise during the day, visiting the sights of the Chalmette Battle Field and learn about the historic battle of New Orleans during the War of 1812. Eat like royalty in the evening as you enjoy live jazz and a fantastic creole meal as the sights and sounds of the city pass you by.
What’s visiting an old and historic city without going on a ghost tour? Setting New Orleans apart from any other ghost tour you’ve been on is the presence of the Haitian Voodoo religion! Take a guided tour of St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, and visit the final resting place of the Voodoo Queen Marie Laveau or visit the sights of murder along the streets of the French Quarter.
Did you know that the average elevation of the city of New Orleans is just between one and two feet about sea level, and the city itself is surrounded by swamp and marshlands. Explore the beauty of the bayous that surround the city on a Jean Lafitte Swamp Tour or airboat adventure. Be guided through the untamed wilderness by a native Cajun guide and witness live gators in their habitat.
If you’re looking for a great hangout away from the typical “touristy” sights, go where the locals go: Frenchman! Live music, bars, food, and a good time. Located just on the edge of the French quarter it’s one of the best places to visit and experience New Orleans like a local.
Located in Uptown New Orleans this park sits on 350 acres of historic plantation land and once held host to the World’s Fair. Here you can enjoy the beautiful fountains, native birds, and the illustrious golf course all an easy streetcar ride from the French Quarter.