New Orleans isn’t just a city—it’s a vibrant, soulful experience wrapped in jazz, spice, and Southern charm.
From the lively beats of Frenchmen Street to the haunting beauty of the Garden District, this place knows how to keep visitors hooked.
Whether you’re a foodie, history buff, or just here to soak up the good vibes, NOLA has something unforgettable for you.
Ready to dive into the magic? Here are the 12 best things to do in New Orleans, packed with must-see spots, hidden gems, and local secrets that’ll make your trip legendary. Let’s get into it!
1. Stroll Through the French Quarter
No visit to New Orleans is complete without wandering the iconic French Quarter. With its colorful Creole townhouses, cast-iron balconies, and lively energy, this historic neighborhood is the heart of the city.
Snap pics of Jackson Square, where street performers and artists bring the plaza to life, or pop into quirky shops selling everything from voodoo charms to handmade jewelry.
Don’t miss Café du Monde—yes, the line’s long, but those powdered beignets are worth every second. Pro tip: Visit early morning or late evening to dodge the biggest crowds.
And if you love history, take a self-guided walking tour to admire the Quarter’s Spanish and French architecture. Every corner here has a story—so keep your eyes peeled.
2. Listen to Live Jazz on Frenchmen Street
Forget Bourbon Street’s touristy chaos—Frenchmen Street is where the real New Orleans music scene thrives.
This strip is packed with intimate jazz clubs like The Spotted Cat and Snug Harbor, where world-class musicians jam nightly. The vibe? Unpretentious, electric, and pure NOLA.
Grab a seat, order a drink (or a mocktail), and let the smooth saxophones and bluesy vocals sweep you away. If you’re lucky, you might stumble upon a brass band parading down the street. This is the soul of the city—raw, unfiltered, and unforgettable.
3. Explore the Garden District’s Stunning Mansions
Step into a postcard-perfect scene in the Garden District, where antebellum mansions, towering oak trees, and lush gardens make you feel like you’ve time-traveled.
This neighborhood is a dream for architecture lovers—think grand Greek Revival homes and intricate Victorian details.
Hop on the St. Charles streetcar (the oldest operating one in the world!) for a scenic ride, then wander down Magazine Street for cute boutiques and cozy cafés.
Pro tip: Snap a pic outside the Buckner Mansion—it’s the one from American Horror Story: Coven.
4. Savor a Po’Boy at Parkway Bakery & Tavern
You haven’t truly eaten in NOLA until you’ve had a po’boy. And Parkway Bakery & Tavern serves some of the best.
This local institution piles their sandwiches high with crispy shrimp, roast beef, or even fried green tomatoes (for the veggie lovers). The bread? Perfectly crusty yet pillowy.
Pair it with a side of gumbo or crispy sweet potato fries, and you’ve got a meal fit for a king. Trust us—your taste buds will thank you.
5. Take a Spooky Ghost Tour
New Orleans is one of the most haunted cities in America, and a ghost tour is a must for thrill-seekers.
Wander through the shadowy alleys of the French Quarter as guides share eerie tales of voodoo queens, vengeful spirits, and unsolved mysteries.
Companies like Haunted History Tours offer chilling walks that uncover the city’s dark past. Whether you believe in ghosts or not, the stories are fascinatingly creepy.
6. Cruise the Mississippi on a Steamboat
Channel your inner Mark Twain with a steamboat cruise along the mighty Mississippi. The Steamboat Natchez offers daytime jazz brunches and sunset dinner cruises, complete with live Dixieland bands.
As you glide past the skyline, you’ll get a whole new appreciation for NOLA’s riverfront history. Bonus: The views at golden hour are chef’s kiss.
7. Get Lost in the Artsy Bywater Neighborhood
For a hip, off-the-beaten-path vibe, head to Bywater. This artsy district is a treasure trove of murals, indie galleries, and funky cafés.
Grab a coffee at Satsuma Café, browse vintage finds at Buffalo Exchange, or snap Instagram-worthy shots at the “Music Box Village”—a whimsical outdoor art installation.
This is where the cool locals hang, so soak it all in.
8. Chow Down at the Historic Café Reconcile
For a meal with a mission, visit Café Reconcile. This nonprofit restaurant trains at-risk youth in the culinary arts, and the food? Absolutely delicious.
Their smothered pork chops and vegan red beans & rice are legendary.
Every bite supports a great cause—now that’s soul food in every sense.
9. Bike Through City Park
City Park is 50% bigger than Central Park, and biking through it is a blissful escape. Pedal past century-old oaks, serene lagoons, and the stunning Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden.
Rent a bike from Bayou Bikes, then stop by Morning Call for more beignets (because why not?).
10. Visit the New Orleans Museum of Art (NOMA)
Art lovers, NOMA is your sanctuary. With over 40,000 pieces—from Renaissance paintings to contemporary works—it’s a cultural powerhouse.
The sculpture garden outside is just as impressive, blending nature and art seamlessly.
11. Shop & Snack at the French Market
This open-air market has been around since 1791, and it’s still the best spot for souvenirs, spices, and local treats. Grab some pralines, hot sauce, or handmade crafts—it’s a sensory delight.
12. Dance at a Second Line Parade
If you see a brass band leading a dancing crowd, join in! Second line parades are spontaneous street parties celebrating life, love, and NOLA culture. Don’t worry about looking silly—just move your feet and feel the joy.
Final Thoughts: Let the Good Times Roll!
New Orleans isn’t just a destination—it’s a feeling. Whether you’re devouring po’boys, swaying to jazz, or uncovering ghost stories, this city stays with you long after you leave.
So what are you waiting for? Book that trip, pack your walking shoes, and get ready to live it up in NOLA. The adventure of a lifetime is calling—will you answer?