New Orleans is a vibrant city of many names – NOLA, the Big Easy, the Crescent City, and Crawfish Town, to name a few – and of many experiences. It’s a destination found on bucket lists and travel blogs. And for good reason: The city is brimming with rich culture, fascinating history, iconic architecture, and flavorful cuisine.
There’s something for everyone in New Orleans, from strolling neighborhood streets to exploring nature or taking in live music. If you’ve extended your trip to AAHOACON by a few days – or left some time to explore the area – here are the top 10 things to do while you’re in town.
1. TOUR THE FRENCH QUARTER
Take in wrought iron balconies, find hidden courtyards, and wonder at shotgun houses as you wander the French Quarter, the heart of New Orleans and its oldest neighborhood. While Bourbon Street garners the most attention, Royal Street offers plenty of spaces to explore, including antique shops, galleries, and cafés.
2. TUNE IN TO LIVE JAZZ MUSIC
New Orleans is the birthplace of jazz, and there’s no better place to catch a show than Frenchmen Street. Lined with jazz clubs – including the iconic Spotted Cat Music Club – Frenchmen Street is also filled with talented street performers.
3. CRUISE ALONG THE MISSISSIPPI
There’s no better way to take in scenic views of the New Orleans skyline – and get a sense of the city’s rich history – than a riverboat cruise on an authentic steamboat.
4. SAVOR A BEIGNET
These French pastries are deep-fried and dusted in powdered sugar. Be sure to stop at Café du Monde, the oldest and most iconic beignet shop in the city, and order a beignet and café au lait.
5. STROLL THROUGH THE GARDEN DISTRICT
Known for its opulent mansions and whimsical cottages, the Garden District boasts plenty of shops and restaurants alongside its architecture. There are multiple ways to explore: Take a ride on the St. Charles Avenue streetcar or stroll the district’s streets, shaded by stately oak trees.
6. SAMPLE THE LOCAL CUISINE
New Orleans’ unbeatable food scene is heavily influenced by French, Spanish, Caribbean, Native American, and African culinary traditions. Try gumbo – Louisiana’s official state cuisine – jambalaya, crawfish etouffee, or a muffuletta, a sandwich made famous by NOLA.
7. VISIT THE NATIONAL WORLD WAR II MUSEUM
Ranked as one of the best museums in the country, the National World War II Museum offers immersive exhibits and collections that cover the U.S.’s contributions to the war.
8. ADVENTURE WITH ALLIGATORS
New Orleans is built on and surrounded by swampland and marshes. Venture just 30 minutes outside the city to the bayou, where you can explore the swamps and waterways by airboat, even spotting alligators up close.
9. PAY YOUR RESPECTS
Considered the most haunted city in the country, New Orleans is known for its cemeteries. While a bit of a macabre destination, they’re filled with above ground tombs and mausoleums marked by elaborate gothic edifices. Pay your respects on your own or take a guided tour to learn about the city’s history.
10. AMBLE THROUGH CITY PARK
A natural oasis, City Park is home to oak trees, museums, cafes, and lush green spaces to relax in. Visit the New Orleans Museum of Art and its sculpture garden and walk through the Couterie Forest, exploring its eight different ecosystems.
Image: f11photo/stock.adobe.com
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