Things to do in New Orleans
Discover the best attractions and experiences New Orleans has to offer
Historic Monuments
Discover New Orleans' storied past through its landmark plazas and historic buildings.
Jackson Square
A lively historic square in the French Quarter framed by St. Louis Cathedral and artists, musicians, and street performers.
The Cabildo
A former seat of colonial government turned museum, highlighting Louisiana's Spanish and American eras.
Old U.S. Mint
A 19th-century National Historic Landmark that chronicles the city’s early federal era.
Museums
World-class museums span war history, Southern art, and the city’s dynamic culture.
National WWII Museum
A comprehensive museum with immersive galleries about World War II.
The Historic New Orleans Collection
A premier repository and museum presenting Louisiana’s past through artifacts and displays.
New Orleans Museum of Art (NOMA)
An expansive collection set in City Park with diverse works and sculpture gardens.
Ogden Museum of Southern Art
A leading collection of contemporary and historical Southern art.
Religious Monuments
Architectural grandeur and sacred spaces anchor New Orleans' faith traditions.
St. Louis Cathedral
One of the oldest continuously active cathedrals in the U.S., a symbol of the city.
St. Louis Cemetery No. 1
Historic burial ground famed for above-ground tombs and storied past.
St. Augustine Catholic Church
A historic Black Catholic parish with deep roots in Tremé.
National & Theme Parks
Natural landscapes and themed experiences near New Orleans.
Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve
Explore Barataria Preserve and learn about bayou ecology and Cajun culture.
Carousel Gardens Amusement Park
A small, family-friendly amusement area in City Park with classic rides.
Bayou Sauvage National Wildlife Refuge
A vast marshland refuge offering wildlife viewing near the city.
Neighborhoods
Each district has its own flavor, music, and food scene to explore on foot.
French Quarter (Vieux Carré)
Historic core with balconies, music, and colorful streets.
Garden District
Elegant mansions, shaded streets, and grand cemeteries.
Faubourg Marigny
Bohemian neighborhood known for live music and quirky cafes.
Tremé
Historic cradle of jazz with cultural sites and vibrant streets.
Bywater
Creative, artsy district with colorful murals and independent eateries.
Free Things to Do
Enjoy the city without spending a dime with these easy options.
Jackson Square (free to wander)
Watch street performers, admire the architecture, and soak in the atmosphere.
Mississippi Riverfront Moon Walk
Stroll along the riverfront for views of passing ships and skyline.
French Market stroll
Wander through stalls and watch local life unfold.
Gastronomy
Savor iconic Creole and Cajun flavors that define the city.
Cafe du Monde
Iconic cafe for beignets and chicory coffee.
Commander’s Palace
Legendary Garden District restaurant offering classic Creole cuisine.
Dooky Chase's Restaurant
Historic eatery famed for Creole cooking and civil rights-era history.
Central Grocery & Deli
Origin of the muffuletta sandwich and a true neighborhood staple.
Nightlife
Jazz-filled streets and iconic bars define New Orleans after dark.
Frenchmen Street
Live music bars and a more intimate vibe than Bourbon Street.
Bourbon Street
Famous nightlife strip with lively bars, music, and crowds.
Preservation Hall
Historic venue featuring traditional New Orleans jazz.
Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro
Intimate venue hosting top-tier jazz performances.
Entertainment
The city’s theaters and venues showcase music, drama, and performance art.
Orpheum Theater
Historic venue hosting concerts, comedy, and cinema events.
Saenger Theatre
Grand performing arts venue with touring productions and shows.
House of Blues New Orleans
Venue for live music, dining, and cultural experiences.
Sports
Cheer on local teams or tee off at top-area courses.
Caesars Superdome
Home to the New Orleans Saints and big-city sports energy.
Smoothie King Center
Venue for Pelicans basketball and other events.
TPC Louisiana
Premier golf course with challenging layouts near the city.
Off the Track
Delve into quirky, lesser-known experiences that reveal a different side of New Orleans.
Lafitte Swamp Tour
Explore the bayou with a guide, spotting wildlife and cypress forests.
French Quarter Ghost Tour
Spine-tingling strolls through haunted corners of the Quarter.
Mardi Gras World
Behind-the-scenes look at float-building and Mardi Gras culture.