What is the Best Thing To Do in New Orleans?
New Orleans is a vibrant, exciting and historic city with a unique culture and tons of interesting attractions. From live music and delicious food to beautiful architecture and fascinating heritage, New Orleans offers something for everyone. With so many things to do in the city, it can be difficult knowing where to start. Here is our guide to the best things to do in New Orleans.
Explore the French Quarter
One of the must-see attractions in New Orleans is the French Quarter, a vibrant 18th century neighborhood filled with cobblestone streets, quaint cafes and bars, boutiques, art galleries, and plenty more. Many of the city’s most iconic sites are located here, including Jackson Square, Bourbon Street, Pat O’Brien’s bar, and Café Du Monde where you can enjoy delicious beignets.
Enjoy Live Music
New Orleans is known for its rich musical heritage, and the city offers ample opportunity to experience this culture firsthand. Whether you’re looking for some toe-tapping jazz at Preservation Hall or upbeat blues at one of the local clubs, New Orleans is the perfect place to enjoy live music.
Visit Mardi Gras World
Mardi Gras is one of the biggest events of the year in New Orleans, and Mardi Gras World is the ideal place to experience it. At Mardi Gras World, visitors can get an up close and behind-the-scenes look at how the parades are constructed and designed each year.
Take a Tour
If you want to learn more about the city’s history and culture, there are plenty of guided tour opportunities available. Whether you’d prefer a guided walking tour of the Garden District, a narrated boat tour along the Mississippi River, or a full-day tour exploring the French Quarter and other nearby attractions, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
Taste Authentic Cajun Food
No trip to New Orleans would be complete without trying authentic Cajun food. Some of the most popular dishes include gumbo, jambalaya, po’ boys, and of course the famous beignets. Whether you visit one of the city’s many stellar restaurants or grab some tasty grub at a local food cart or stand, you won’t be disappointed.
Experience World Class Museums
For those looking for a more educational experience during their visit to New Orleans, there are plenty of excellent museums to explore. At The National WWII Museum visitors can learn about the contributions of American soldiers on the battlefield during WWII. The Ogden Museum of Southern Art offers a comprehensive look at art from throughout the southern United States. And the Louisiana State Museum features artifacts from thousands of years of history from all over Louisiana.
When it comes to deciding what to do in New Orleans, there are countless possibilities for exploration and enjoyment. From nightlife and music to food and museums, this vibrant and historic city offers something for everyone. So next time you find yourself in New Orleans, be sure to check out these amazing attractions and get ready for an unforgettable experience.
Visit neworleansonline.com for more information about things to do in New Orleans.
The Insider’s Guide to New Orleans
New Orleans, Louisiana is a vibrant city that is famous for its amazing food, vibrant music scene, Mardi Gras celebrations, and rich history. If you’re planning a trip to the Big Easy, you’ll want to know what to do and where to go. Here is an insider’s guide to New Orleans that will help make your trip unforgettable.
Top Attractions in New Orleans
1. French Quarter: This historic district is the heart of New Orleans and home to iconic landmarks like Jackson Square, St. Louis Cathedral, and Bourbon Street. Take a stroll down the cobblestone streets, listen to live music, and indulge in local cuisine.
2. Audubon Zoo: Located in Uptown New Orleans, the Audubon Zoo is home to over 2,000 animals and is a great place to spend an afternoon. Highlights include the Louisiana Swamp exhibit, the elephant habitat, and the sea lion exhibit.
3. The National WWII Museum: This world-class museum tells the story of the American experience during World War II. Exhibits include interactive displays, artifacts from the war, and personal stories from veterans.
4. Garden District: Take a streetcar down St. Charles Avenue to explore this charming neighborhood of historic homes and gardens. Stop by Lafayette Cemetery No. 1, where many notable New Orleanians are buried.
Where to Eat in New Orleans
1. Commander’s Palace: This iconic restaurant has been serving up Creole cuisine since 1880. Don’t miss the famous turtle soup or the bread pudding souffle.
2. Domilise’s Po-Boy and Bar: Locals flock to this Uptown dive for po-boys stuffed with everything from oysters to roast beef.
3. Cochon: This award-winning restaurant serves up modern Cajun cuisine with a focus on fresh, local ingredients. Don’t miss the cochon (a slow-roasted pork dish) or the fried alligator.
4. Cafe du Monde: No trip to New Orleans is complete without a stop at this iconic cafe for beignets and cafe au lait. Located in the French Quarter, it’s open 24 hours a day.
Cultural Experiences in New Orleans
1. Preservation Hall: This historic music venue in the French Quarter hosts nightly jazz concerts. It’s a must-visit for music lovers.
2. Second Line Parades: Join a second line parade to experience a unique New Orleans tradition. These parades typically take place on Sundays and feature brass bands and dancing.
3. Mardi Gras: If you’re planning a trip to New Orleans in February, you won’t want to miss Mardi Gras. This festival, which culminates on Fat Tuesday, features parades, masked balls, and plenty of debauchery.
Local History in New Orleans
1. The Historic New Orleans Collection: This museum and research center in the French Quarter is dedicated to preserving the history and culture of New Orleans. The collection includes over one million items, including photographs, manuscripts, and artifacts.
2. The St. Louis Cathedral: This iconic cathedral, located in Jackson Square in the French Quarter, is the oldest continuously active cathedral in the United States. It’s a must-visit for history buffs.
Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions in New Orleans
1. Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve: This park, located just outside of the city, offers the chance to explore swamps and bayous, and learn about the history and culture of Louisiana’s Cajun country.
2. Bywater: This eclectic neighborhood, located just outside of the French Quarter, is home to an artistic community of musicians, artists, and writers. Take a stroll down St. Claude Avenue to explore galleries and cafes.
New Orleans offers a wealth of experiences that are sure to delight tourists of all stripes. Whether you’re interested in history, food, music, or culture, there’s something to delight you in the Big Easy. Use this insider’s guide to plan an unforgettable trip.
Table of Contents