65 Best Things to do in New Orleans!

Welcome to the vibrant city of New Orleans, in Louisiana! Located along the Mississippi River, this city is renowned for its rich cultural heritage, distinct music scene, and delectable cuisine. Whether you’re drawn to the lively jazz clubs of Bourbon Street, the historic architecture of the French Quarter, we showcase the best things to do in New Orleans during your visit to Louisiana.

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1. Historic Attractions

French Quarter

Started in 1718, French Quarter is also known as the Vieux Carré or “Old Square,” is the most historic area in New Orleans. The streets were laid out in a grid pattern, and many of them are still named after French royalty and saints. Even though it’s called the French Quarter, much of the area’s design and buildings were shaped during the time when Spain controlled the city. Many buildings show that history, with open courtyards, iron railings, and brick walls that reflect its past. Bourbon Street is one of the busiest streets in the neighborhood, filled with music, bars, and people enjoying the nightlife.

Garden District

The Garden District is located in the Uptown part of New Orleans and is surrounded by Magazine Street, St. Charles Avenue, Jackson Avenue, and Louisiana Avenue. The area was first developed in the 1800s, mostly between 1832 and 1900, and many of the houses were built by wealthy families who moved away from the French Quarter. The streets are lined with oak trees, and visitors often walk through the neighborhood to see the mix of old mansions and smaller homes. One well-known spot in the district is Commander’s Palace, a restaurant that has been serving local food since the late 1800s.

The Historic New Orleans Collection

The Historic New Orleans Collection is a museum and research center in the French Quarter that focuses on sharing the history and culture of New Orleans and the Gulf South. It features exhibits with photos, objects, and documents that highlight local traditions, major events, and the city’s growth over time. The museum hosts events like lecture talks that focus on Mardi Gras traditions and how people celebrate their holidays. The Williams Research Center offers books, and materials for people doing deeper research. Visitors can also stop by the museum’s café and gift shop during their visit.

New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park

Started in 1994, New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park is run by the National Park Service and offers exhibits, maps, and information about events, while live music performances, talks, and tours happen to highlight the history and culture behind jazz. One key site is Perseverance Hall No. 4 in Louis Armstrong Park, a historic hall that now hosts live shows and learning programs. Visitors can enjoy concerts, hear stories about early jazz musicians, and learn how their work shaped the city. The staff includes musicians who also teach and perform, helping visitors connect deeply with spirit of jazz.

Hermann-Grima House

Built in 1831, Hermann-Grima House shows what life was like in the 1800s for both the wealthy family who lived there and the enslaved people who worked on the property. The house has a Federal-style front, an open-hearth kitchen, and slave quarters, which are rare to find in the city today. Visitors can take guided tours that explain how daily life looked during that time, with a focus on urban slavery and how it was different from life on rural plantations. The Urban Enslavement Tour helps people understand the roles enslaved people played in city homes and how their work shaped New Orleans.

Old Ursuline Convent Museum

Construction began in 1745 and finished around 1753, Old Ursuline Convent Museum was serving as a convent, girls’ school, and orphanage run by the Ursuline nuns. Over the years, the building was also used by the Louisiana Legislature and became the home of New Orleans’ Archbishops. Today, it operates as a museum that shares stories about the Catholic Church’s history and the important work of the Ursuline nuns in education and care. Visitors can explore the building through guided tours and see rooms, exhibits, artifacts and a pleasant courtyard that reflect life during early times in the city.

The Cabildo

The Cabildo is a historic building built somewhere between 1795 and 1799, during the period when Spain still ruled the city. It was first used as the seat of the Spanish city government and later became the site of the Louisiana Purchase transfer in 1803, when the United States took control of the Louisiana Territory. Over the years, it also served as a courthouse and was where the famous Plessy v. Ferguson case began in the late 1800s. The Cabildo is now a part of the Louisiana State Museum system and shares the story of the state through displays about its people, culture, and major events.

Beauregard-Keyes House and Gardens

Built in 1826, Beauregard-Keyes House and Gardens is a historic home known for its mix of Creole and American styles. Confederate General P.G.T. Beauregard stayed there for a short time after the Civil War, and years later, author Frances Parkinson Keyes lived in the home and worked to protect it. The house allow visitors to take guided tours to learn about the different people who lived and worked there, including enslaved individuals, immigrants, and others connected to the property’s long history. Inside, the rooms are filled with antique furniture and personal artifacts from past residents.

The Pitot House Museum

Built in 1799, The Pitot House Museum is the only Creole colonial country house in the city that is open to the public. The house was once home to James Pitot, who served as the first American mayor of New Orleans from 1804 to 1805. Over the years, the house had many owners, and was even moved from its original spot to save it from being torn down. Today, the house is managed by the Louisiana Landmarks Society, which also uses it as its office. Visitors can take guided tours to learn about the people who lived there and see rooms filled with early 1800s Louisiana and American furniture.

Buckner Mansion

The Buckner Mansion is a large historic home in the Garden District, built in 1856 by Henry Sullivan Buckner, a cotton businessman. He wanted the house to be bigger and more impressive than his former business partner’s home in Mississippi. The mansion is 20,000 square feet and is also known for being used in the TV show American Horror Story: Coven, where it was shown as Miss Robichaux’s Academy. Some people say the mansion is haunted, and stories have been told about a ghost named Miss Josephine, who was once a servant in the house and stayed with the family after the Civil War.

Fort St. John

The Spanish Fort, also known as Fort St. John, is a historic place found where Bayou St. John meets Lake Pontchartrain. The French first built a fort there in 1701 to protect the trade route, even before New Orleans officially became a city. When Spain took over Louisiana, they replaced it with a larger brick structure named San Juan del Bayou. Later, when the United States gained control, the fort continued to be used until 1823, after which it was closed and sold. The land later became a resort and by the late 1800s turned into a busy amusement park and became a popular summer spot for families.

Destrehan Plantation

Built between 1787 and 1790, Destrehan Plantation first grew indigo and later became known for sugarcane farming. The house was crafted in the French Colonial style with Greek Revival features, including wide porches and tall columns. The plantation expanded under Jean-Noël Destréhan, a former U.S. Senator who played a big role in its growth. Guided tours take visitors through the main house and buildings that show what life was like on a large plantation. During the tour, visitors learn about the 1811 slave revolt, which was one of the biggest uprisings of enslaved people in United States.

2. Outdoor Adventures

New Orleans City Park

The New Orleans City Park is a huge green space in the city, stretching across roughly 1,300 acres, and is considered one of the largest public parks in a U.S. city. Opened in 1854 and is home to some of the oldest live oak trees in the world, with a few more than 600 years old. Visitors come to walk, jog, bike, or enjoy one of the many outdoor spots across the park. It includes golf courses, tennis courts, and horse riding areas, along with picnic spaces, playgrounds, and wide open fields. Kids love the Storyland play area and Carousel Gardens Amusement Park, while adults enjoy many outdoor activities.

Swamp Tours

In New Orleans, swamp tours give people a chance to explore the wetlands just outside the city. These tours take visitors through bayous and swamps where they can see animals like alligators, turtles, birds, and raccoons in their natural home. Many tours like Bayou Swamp Tours and New Orleans Swamp Tours are led by local guides, offer both group and private trips. There are also kayak tours for people who want a quiet and close-up look at the swamp. Most tours are beginner-friendly and along the way, guides talk about how swamps help protect the land from floods and support wildlife.

Airboat Rides

Airboat rides give people a fun way to explore the swamps and bayous just outside the city. These tours take visitors through waterways where they can see alligators, birds, turtles, and other animals in their natural home. Companies like Cajun Encounters Tours and New Orleans Airboat Tours offer trips on private land, which means fewer crowds and more chances to see wildlife. Many swamp tours last between 1.5 to 2 hours and are guided by locals who explain the area’s swamps history during the ride. Airboats come in different sizes, from small boats for six people to larger ones for groups.

Kayaking & Canoeing

Kayaking and canoeing give people a pleasant way to explore the New Orleans’s nature. Bayou St. John is a popular spot right in town, with slow-moving water that’s great for beginners. New Orleans Kayak Swamp Tours and Wild Louisiana Kayak Swamp Tours offer rentals and tours along this bayou. For those who want to go farther out, Bayou Bienvenue and Bayou Sauvage are peaceful places with lots of birds and quiet water. Guided tours by Crescent City Kayak and Hidden Adventure Tours also offer trips through swamps and marshes, with options for both guided and self-guided outings.

Streetcar Lines

The Streetcar lines are a simple and fun way to move around New Orleans. There are four main lines, and each one starts near downtown. The St. Charles Avenue line is the oldest streetcar line in the world and has been running since the 1800s. It uses green cars and travels through Uptown, passing by big trees, old homes, and places like Audubon Park and Tulane University. The red streetcars running along Canal Street follow two paths — one heads to City Park and stops by the New Orleans Museum of Art, while the other travels along City Park Avenue and goes toward the old cemeteries.

Steamboat NATCHEZ Cruise

The Steamboat NATCHEZ offers a two hours ride along the Mississippi River, giving people a chance to see New Orleans from the water while enjoying live jazz and learning about local history. The boat leaves from French Quarter and is one of the few remaining true steamboats still in use. Visitors can explore the engine room, listen to the steam calliope before boarding, and enjoy indoor or outdoor seating during the trip. Passengers can choose to buy a meal featuring local dishes like jambalaya and bread pudding. The boat’s paddlewheel and steam power make the ride feel like a step back in time.

Hiking & Nature Trails

New Orleans has several hiking and nature trails places where people can walk, enjoy nature, and take a break from the busy city. Within City Park, you’ll also find Couturie Forest, an area filled with small paths, gentle slopes, and a mix of trees and small ponds. It’s also home to the highest point in the city, called Laborde Mountain, which stands at 43 feet. Nearby, Bayou Sauvage National Wildlife Refuge offers a serene outdoor setting, with wooden walkways and many different kinds of birds often seen along the way.

The Lafitte Greenway is a paved path that runs from the French Quarter to Mid-City, passing through neighborhoods. The Woodlands Conservancy in Belle Chasse has longer trails through forests and near canals, and it’s a good place to see local animals. Audubon Nature Center in New Orleans East has boardwalk and dirt trails, along with a small indoor center that teaches about local wildlife. Sankofa Wetland Park and Nature Trail in the Lower Ninth Ward offers a short walk near wetlands and is a good place to learn about the area’s natural history.

Fishing Charters

Fishing charters give people a chance to enjoy the outdoors and catch fish in the nearby marshes, lakes, and bays. Many charters are located just 30 to 45 minutes from the city and offer half-day or full-day trips. St. Bernard Fishing Charters is one option that runs guided trips in the southeast Louisiana marshes. SaltWater Therapy Charters and Get’n Hooked Inshore Adventures are also popular, with local guides who know the best fishing spots. Some even offer hotel pickup, which makes it easy for visitors. Boats come in different sizes, and many trips are good for families, friends, or small groups.

Golfing Courses

In New Orleans, one popular spot is Bayou Oaks at City Park, which has two courses — the North Course and South Course. The South Course is newer and more challenging, while the North Course is shorter and easier to walk. Another public choice is the Joseph M. Bartholomew Municipal Golf Course, offering an 18-hole layout along with areas for practicing, including a driving range. It’s run by the city and offers affordable rates. Lakewood Golf Club has hosted many PGA events in the past and has wide fairways well-known for its peaceful setting.

The Golf Club at Audubon Park is a smaller course in Uptown, surrounded by oak trees and close to the zoo. English Turn Golf and Country Club is a private course designed by Jack Nicklaus, with water on almost every hole. It’s known for its tough layout and quiet setting. TPC Louisiana, located in nearby Avondale, is part of the PGA Tour and open to the public. It has hosted the Zurich Classic and is one of the top-rated courses in the area.

Audubon Riverview Park

The Audubon Riverview Park, known locally as “The Fly,” is a peaceful riverside area located behind Audubon Zoo in New Orleans, offering wide lawns, clear views of the Mississippi River, and space to relax outdoors. As part of the larger Audubon Park, it’s a favorite gathering spot for locals who come to picnic, play, or just enjoy the breeze by the water. The open green space is great for tossing a frisbee, reading under a tree, or watching the sunset in the quiet. Its nickname comes from a butterfly-shaped shelter that once stood there in the 1960s, and though the structure is gone, the name stuck.

New Basin Canal Park

The New Basin Canal Park offers a peaceful path that runs where a canal was first dug in the 1830s to connect Lake Pontchartrain with downtown. Irish immigrants did most of the work on the canal, and many of them lost their lives due to harsh conditions, which is why a large Celtic cross was placed there in 1990 to honor them. The park runs along Filmore Avenue between West End and Pontchartrain Boulevards and gives people a place to walk, ride bikes, or just relax. Though the canal was mostly filled in during the 1950s, a small section still exists near the lake and is now used as a marina.

Woldenberg Park

The Woldenberg Park was built in the late 1980s on land that once held old docks and warehouses. The park stretches from Canal Street to Jackson Square and connects with the Moon Walk, a riverside path where people enjoy walking and watching boats. It’s also a spot where local musicians sometimes play, and small festivals or events are held. One highlight is the New Orleans Holocaust Memorial, a sculpture that shows different images depending on where you stand. There’s also a statue called the Monument to the Immigrant, which honors people who came to the city from other countries.

Lafreniere Park

Covering 155 acres, Lafreniere Park is a large public park, opened in 1982 on land that once held the old Jefferson Downs Racetrack, which was damaged by Hurricane Betsy in 1965. The park has wide open spaces, walking and jogging paths, and a man-made lagoon with small islands. One of the islands has a big pavilion, and another has marshland with a wooden walkway where people can see birds and animals. There are two playgrounds for kids, a carousel, and areas for sports like soccer and baseball. A new food pavilion called The Pointe is being planned to offer snacks and meals for visitors.

Lakeshore Park

Located along Lake Pontchartrain, the Lakeshore Park is a peaceful spot where people come to enjoy scenic views and quiet time outdoors. The park has wide green spaces, simple walking paths, and benches where visitors can sit and watch the lake. It offers plenty of time for a short walk, a picnic, or just relaxing by the water. Locals often visit to enjoy the breeze, take photos, or watch boats pass by. One feature of the park is the Mardi Gras Fountain, which used to have colorful lights and moving water, though it no longer works as it once did. But still, it remains a part of the park’s original charm.

Brechtel Park

The Brechtel Park is a green space in the Algiers area, covering about 120 acres and offering a break from the city. It opened in 1971 and has walking paths, picnic tables, and open shelters where people can relax or gather with others. It’s also part of the America’s Wetlands Birding Trail, with many birds like herons, owls, egrets, and woodpeckers passing through during their migration along the Mississippi Flyway. Families enjoy the shaded trails, two playgrounds, and open fields for play or rest. There are eight shelters for rent, and some are close to the children’s play areas or the sports field.

3. Iconic Landmarks

New Orleans Museum of Art (NOMA)

The New Orleans Museum of Art, also known as NOMA, is the city’s oldest fine arts museum, opening in 1911. It started with only a few pieces and now has nearly 50,000 works, including paintings, sculptures, photos, and items from Europe, Asia, Africa, and Americas. The museum is well known for its French and American art collections and has Japanese prints, African masks, and glass pieces. Outside, there’s a Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden, which has over 90 sculptures placed among paths and small ponds. The museum also includes a café and a gift shop for food and souvenirs.

Jackson Square

In the heart of the French Quarter, Jackson Square is a popular park, first laid out in 1721 and was called Place d’Armes during the French and Spanish colonial periods. In 1803, the square was the site of the Louisiana Purchase transfer, when the United States took control of the territory. It was renamed to honor Andrew Jackson, who led U.S. troops during the Battle of New Orleans in 1815. At the center of the square stands a statue of Jackson on horseback, placed there in 1856. The square is known for its open-air artist community, where local artists display and sell their work along the iron fence.

St. Louis Cathedral

Built in 1718, St. Louis Cathedral holding the title of being the oldest Catholic cathedral in the U.S. that’s still active today. The cathedral is named after King Louis IX of France and has been the center of Catholic life in the city for over 280 years and is still active today. Inside, visitors can see stained glass windows, paintings, and a large altar. Visitors can join a guided tour from Monday to Saturday at 9 a.m., which takes place before the doors open to the public. This historic church continues to bring people from all over the world and plays an important role in local culture and heritage of the city.

The National WWII Museum

Opened in 2000, The National WWII Museum tells the story of America’s role in World War II and was first called The National D-Day Museum. It helps visitors understand how the war happened, why it was important, and how its effects are felt in the world today. The museum includes Louisiana Memorial Pavilion, the Campaigns of Courage Pavilion, and the US Freedom Pavilion. Guests can see planes, tanks, and a restored PT-305 boat that was built in New Orleans. One of the highlights is the 4D movie “Beyond All Boundaries,” which uses sounds, lights, and other effects to help tell the story.

Mardi Gras World

The Mardi Gras World let visitors to see how the large, colorful floats used in the Mardi Gras parades are built. Visitors can walk through the working warehouse, view props up close, and learn about the people who create them. The building is run by Kern Studios, which has built parade floats since 1947. Guests can take a guided tour that includes a short video about the history of Mardi Gras and a walk through the large workshop where artists build and paint floats. During the tour, visitors get to see up-close how the decorations are created and even try on costumes or take pictures with props.

New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum

The New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum has been open since 1972 to share the story of Louisiana Voodoo. Inside, visitors walk through two rooms filled with displays like altars, handmade objects, paintings, and masks that show how Voodoo has been practiced in local life. People stop to see the main altar, where guests often leave notes or small items. Some exhibits include pieces linked to Marie Laveau, a famous Voodoo figure, and artwork made by local artists. The museum lets people go on self-guided tours or join walking tours to nearby places like Congo Square or Marie Laveau’s tomb.

New Orleans Jazz Museum

The New Orleans Jazz Museum sits inside the old U.S. Mint building, that tells the story of how jazz began and grew in the city. Visitors can walk through displays showing instruments, old photos, and personal items from both early and modern jazz musicians. The museum also has a stage on the third floor where live music, talks, and special programs happen throughout the year. It works with schools and families too, offering lessons, tools, and field trips to help kids learn about jazz. Visitors can also enjoy exhibits that change during the year, featuring artists and themes linked to local culture.

The Presbytère

The Presbytère was planned to build in 1791 to look like the Cabildo, which stands next to it nearby the cathedral. It was fully completed in 1813 and now serves as a museum. Though it was first meant to house church leaders, it was never used for that. Instead, it served as a courthouse and later became part of the Louisiana State Museum in 1911. Today, it holds two main exhibits. One tells the story of Hurricane Katrina and how people in Louisiana responded and rebuilt after the storm. The other exhibit is about Mardi Gras, showing costumes, parade floats, and the history of this celebration.

The Sazerac House

The Sazerac House is a working distillery that shares the story of the Sazerac cocktail and also has tasting stations where adults can sample small sips of different spirits. On the top floor of the museum, people learn about the early days of cocktails in New Orleans, including the story of Peychaud’s Bitters and how the Sazerac drink came to be. The second floor focuses on how spirits are made, with displays about rum, whiskey, and other drinks, plus a look at the tools and steps used in the process. The first floor has a micro-distillery where visitors are allowed to see how Sazerac Rye is produced.

Backstreet Cultural Museum

The Backstreet Cultural Museum is a small museum in the Tremé neighborhood of New Orleans that tells the story of African American traditions like second line parades, jazz funerals, and Mardi Gras Indian culture. It was started by Sylvester Francis, who began by filming parades and collecting costumes and photos, and his work grew into a full museum. Inside, visitors see colorful suits, parade photos, and other handmade items that show the community’s creative spirit. It also shares the role of Social Aid and Pleasure Clubs, groups that help plan many local events and support families in need.

New Orleans African American Museum

The New Orleans African American Museum showcase the lives, creativity, and traditions of African Americans in New Orleans and throughout the African Diaspora. It is housed in the Meilleur-Goldthwaite House, built in the 1820s. The museum includes many buildings, including former slave quarters, which are now used for exhibits. One key exhibit is the Louisiana-Congo collection, which includes items like masks, handmade beads, and instruments that come from the Democratic Republic of Congo. Visitors can walk through the rooms and learn about the lives of enslaved and free people of color.

The Jackson Barracks Military Museum

The Jackson Barracks Military Museum shares the long history of the Louisiana National Guard and its role in both war and peace. The museum is part of the Jackson Barracks, a military post that dates back to the 1830s and was named after President Andrew Jackson. Inside, visitors can see uniforms, weapons, and equipment used by soldiers from the early 1700s to today. Some of the displays include a British cannon from the Battle of New Orleans, a 27 star flag from the Mexican War, and a letter written by General Robert E. Lee during the Civil War.

There are also tanks, planes, and other large items from World War I and World War II, including a Stuart Light Tank and a Norden Bombsight. One part of the museum lets visitors sit in the cockpit of an F-4 jet to see what it’s like to be a pilot. Visitors also learn about some current topics such as the impact of Hurricane Katrina and the roles of local people in the wars in Iraq and Afghanistan. Outside, there are more exhibits with military vehicles and equipment.

Southern Food and Beverage Museum

Opened in 2008, Southern Food and Beverage Museum shares the story of food and drink across the Southern United States. Inside, visitors can explore exhibits about different Southern states, each showing local food, cooking tools, and stories from the past. One of the highlights is the Museum of the American Cocktail, which explains how cocktails became part of American life, especially in New Orleans. There’s also a special section about absinthe, showing old bottles, posters, and glassware. Visitors can also take part in cooking classes, food talks, and tasting events held throughout the year.

New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center

The New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center is a large event space opened in the 1980s, and has grown to become one of the biggest convention centers in the country, with over 1.1 million square feet of exhibit space on one level. The center also has 140 meeting rooms, a 4,000 seats theater, and several ballrooms for different types of events. It hosts trade shows, business meetings, public events, and support large and small gatherings. The center recently added a new venue called The Ware house, which can hold up to 6,500 people and is used for private events and cultural programs.

4. Family-Friendly Activities

Audubon Zoo

Opened in 1914, Audubon Zoo is part of the Audubon Nature Institute, covering 58 acres with over 2,000 animals from around the world. It features areas like the Louisiana Swamp, Jaguar Jungle, and African Savanna, each showing animals in their natural habitats. Visitors can see animals such as white alligators, giraffes, orangutans, and leopards. River’s Edge is one of the newer parts of the zoo, home to animals such as tapirs, and capybaras, in areas that look like their natural-style setting. There are also daily feeding times and animal talks by staff to help visitors learn more about the zoo’s animals.

Audubon Aquarium

Opened in 1990, Audubon Aquarium is part of the Audubon Nature Institute, and has over 3,600 animals from more than 250 species, including sharks, rays, and penguins. Visitors can walk through a tunnel surrounded by a Caribbean reef tank and see fish swimming all around. There are also exhibits that show life in the Amazon Rainforest, the Gulf of Mexico, and the Mississippi River. Visitors can touch stingrays, watch penguins, and learn about animals through hands-on displays. There are special programs like the Penguin Party and Maya Snorkel, where people can get closer to the animals.

Audubon Insectarium

The Audubon Insectarium has over 50 live exhibits and displays that help people learn about bugs and their role in nature. Visitors can walk through a butterfly garden filled with free-flying butterflies and enjoy views of the river. There are also live insects like beetles, ants, and stick bugs, along with hands-on exhibits where visitors can learn by touching and watching. One of the most talked-about spots is Bug Appétit, where people can try snacks made with edible insects. The museum uses simple displays to explain how insects help plants grow, clean the environment, and support other animals.

Louisiana Children’s Museum

The Louisiana Children’s Museum is located at New Orleans City Park and has 8.5 acres of indoor and outdoor space designed for children and families to explore and learn through play. It features hands-on exhibits focused on reading, art, health, science, and nature, with areas where kids can splash in water, pretend to shop, build things, make music, and more. Outside, there are well-kept gardens, walking paths, and a floating classroom for learning about the environment. The museum also offers birthday party packages and school field trip options, making it a popular choice for special events.

Nola Pedal Barge — Swamp Tour Party Boat

The Nola Pedal Barge is not like the usual swamp tour — it’s also a party boat where people can bring their own drinks, listen to music, and enjoy the ride. The boats have sound systems, bathrooms, and even a tiki bar on board. Some boats are allowing guests to celebrate their birthdays, bachelorette parties, or just a day out with friends. The tours last about 2 hours and guests can see the swamp, spot wildlife like birds and maybe even alligators, and enjoy views of the city skyline. The boats are pedal-powered, but they also have motors, so guests can relax and dance if they don’t want to pedal.

Vue Orleans Observation Deck

Nearby Four Seasons Hotel, Vue Orleans is an indoor and outdoor observation deck, and it offers a full 360-degree view of the city from 34 floors up. Visitors can see the Mississippi River, and other city landmarks from both the open-air terrace and the glass-covered indoor space. The deck has touchscreen displays and telescopes that help people learn about what they’re seeing. visitors move through displays that tell easy-to-understand stories about the city’s traditions, food, music, and highlights. One fun part includes a virtual second-line parade where visitors can dance along and listen to jazz.

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Caesars Superdome

The Caesars Superdome is a large indoor stadium, opened in 1975 and was first called the Louisiana Superdome. Over time, it has had different names, including the Mercedes-Benz Superdome, before becoming Caesars Superdome. Covers 13 acres, it can hold over 73,000 people for football games and even more for concerts and other big events. The Superdome is home to the New Orleans Saints football team and hosted major events like Super Bowls, college football championships, and concerts. Each year, the stadium hosts the Sugar Bowl, a major college football event that bring big crowds.

Sky Zone Trampoline Park

The Sky Zone Trampoline Park is an indoor play spot where both kids and adults can jump and move around in a safe, fun space. It has many activity zones, like freestyle trampolines, foam pits, a ninja course, and SkySlam basketball hoops where you can try slam dunks. There’s also a SkyJoust platform and a zip line for those who want a bit more excitement. Visitors can join games of dodgeball or try the trapeze and climbing features. Sky Zone is popular for birthday parties and group events, with packages that include setup and offering a simple way for families to spend active time together.

Treasure Chest Casino

Located along the Lake Pontchartrain, Treasure Chest Casino was first opened in 1994 as a riverboat casino and has been run by Boyd Gaming since 1997. It offers slot machines, table games, and a FanDuel Sportsbook where guests can place bets and watch games on large screens. It offers a fun-filled spot where both tourists and locals come to enjoy games and entertainment. Treasure Chest hosts live shows and special events throughout the year, including tribute concerts and sports viewing parties. The casino is part of the Boyd Rewards program, which gives points and perks to regular players.

5. Natural Attractions

New Orleans Botanical Garden

Located inside City Park, New Orleans Botanical Garden covers about 10 acres filled with plants from around the world. Opened in 1936, the garden let visitors walk through paths lined with flowers and shrubs, and see special areas like the rose garden and tropical greenhouse. One part of the garden is known as the Conservatory of the Two Sisters, which has displays that teach visitors about old plant species and the natural life found in rainforests. There’s also a sculpture garden with works by Enrique Alférez, and a train garden that shows small models of New Orleans buildings and streetcars.

Longue Vue House & Gardens

The Longue Vue House & Gardens is a historic estate, built in 1939 as the home of Edith and Edgar Stern and now open to the public. The house has 20 rooms spread over three floors and still holds much of its original furniture, giving visitors a look into life from that time. The surrounding gardens cover 8 acres and were designed by well-known landscape expert Ellen Biddle Shipman, with different gardens on each side of the house. Guests can walk through flower paths, tree-lined areas, lawns, and can also visit the Discovery Garden, which is designed for kids to explore and learn about nature.

Louis Armstrong Park

Covers about 32 acres, Louis Armstrong Park is named after the famous jazz musician Louis Armstrong, who was born in the city. The park includes Congo Square, a historic spot where enslaved and free people of color once gathered on Sundays in the 1800s to play music, dance, and sell goods. Today, Congo Square is still used for cultural events and music performances. Visitors will find walking paths, duck ponds, and several statues honoring jazz legends like Louis Armstrong, Sidney Bechet, and Buddy Bolden. It has hosted several festivals like Jazz in the Park and the Treme Creole Gumbo Fest.

Audubon Louisiana Nature Center

The Audubon Louisiana Nature Center covers 86 acres of forest and wetlands, offering boardwalk trails, dirt paths, and a planetarium for learning and exploring. It’s part of the Audubon Nature Institute and gives visitors a calm place to walk and enjoy nature without leaving the city. Visitors can walk through bottomland forest, see turtles and birds, and stop at the butterfly garden or picnic areas. The center has signs along the trails to teach people about plants and animals in the area. Free programs are offered on Saturdays and include nature walks, hand crafts, and short discussions led by staff.

Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve

The Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve is a group of sites in and around New Orleans that help people learn about the area’s nature, history, and culture. The park is named after Jean Lafitte, a pirate who lived in Louisiana in the early 1800s. One of the highlights is the Barataria Preserve, it has boardwalks and waterways where visitors can see swamps and marshes. One important spot in the park is the Chalmette Battlefield and National Cemetery, the site of the 1815 Battle of New Orleans. People can walk the grounds and learn about the fight that helped shape the country’s future.

Bayou Sauvage National Wildlife Refuge

Located in eastern New Orleans, Bayou Sauvage National Wildlife Refuge is known as the biggest urban wildlife refuge in the whole country. It covers about 23,000 acres and includes marshes, lagoons, canals, and forested areas. Visitors can walk on boardwalk trails, go birdwatching, fish, paddle, or take photos of the landscape and animals. Founded in 1990, the area is home to many birds, including pelicans, egrets, and ducks, and is part of the Mississippi Flyway, a major path for migrating birds. The refuge also offers nature programs for schools and families to learn about the land and animals.

Bayou Segnette State Park

Covering nearly 700 acres, Bayou Segnette State Park provide visitors a chance to enjoy both swamp and marsh environments in one place. The park has many outdoor activities like fishing, boating, hiking, and camping. Because of its location, people can fish in both saltwater and freshwater, with common catches including bass, catfish, redfish, and trout. There’s a boat launch for easy access to the water, and the park also has nature trails, picnic spots, and playgrounds for families. The park also has floating cabins that sit on pontoons, offering a unique place to stay overnight right on the water.

Bayou Sauvage Urban National Wildlife Refuge

The Bayou Sauvage Urban National Wildlife Refuge is the largest urban wildlife refuge in the U.S, covering more than 23,000 acres of marshes, canals, and forested land. Founded in 1990 and it is managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to help care for wild animals and keep natural ecosystems safe. The refuge is home to over 340 kinds of birds, including herons, egrets, and even alligators. The Ridge Trail and boardwalk offer short and easy walks where visitors can see birds and wetland views up close. School and local nature programs are held to teach about plants and animals in the area.

6. Day Trips & Excursions

Oak Alley Plantation

Start a day trip from New Orleans and drive for 1.5 hours to reach Oak Alley Plantation and is known for its long row of oak trees that lead to the main house. The house was built in the 1800s and shows what life was like on a sugar cane plantation before the Civil War. Visitors can walk through the house with a guide and see rooms filled with old artifacts from that time. Outside, there are signs and exhibits that talk about the people who lived and worked there, including those who were enslaved. Most tours also include time to walk the grounds, take some photos, and visit the small café and gift shop.

Grand Isle

From New Orleans, a day trip to Grand Isle takes nearly 2.5 hours and is a great way to enjoy the coast and see a different side of Louisiana. Grand Isle is a barrier island on the Gulf of Mexico and is known for its long beach, fishing spots, and birdwatching areas. Grand Isle State Park is a good place to start, with a beach for walking, picnic tables, and a pier for fishing. The park also has short trails and places to sit and enjoy the view. People bring their own food or stop at small local places for seafood. The island is part of the Louisiana Birding Trail and is a good spot to see birds during migration seasons.

Whitney Plantation

Taking a day trip to Whitney Plantation takes roughly an hour drive from New Orleans, and is the only museum in the state that focuses mainly on slavery. The site includes preserved slave cabins, memorials, and the Big House, which is one of the oldest raised Creole cottages in the area. Visitors can walk through the grounds and listen to stories told through exhibits and recorded voices based on real accounts. Many tours include round-trip transportation from New Orleans, making it easy for people without a car. The whole visit usually lasts about five hours, with two hours spent at the plantation.

Biloxi, MS

From New Orleans, a day trip to Biloxi in Mississippi takes around 2 hours drive, covering around 90 miles along I-10. Once in Biloxi, visitors can walk along Beach Boulevard, visit the Biloxi Lighthouse, or stop by the Maritime and Seafood Industry Museum to learn about the area’s fishing history. There are also small casinos, shops, and places to eat near the water. People enjoy trying local seafood like shrimp or oysters at small restaurants. The town has a quiet feel, and it’s easy to get around by car or on foot. Visitors also stop in Gulfport on the way, which has a few parks and a small downtown area.

Baton Rouge

Planning a day trip to Baton Rouge takes roughly 1.5 hours drive from New Orleans along I-10 route. One of the main stops is the Louisiana State Capitol, which is the tallest capitol building in the country and has an observation deck with views of the city. Nearby is the Old State Capitol, a historic building that looks like a castle and has exhibits about Louisiana’s past. Visitors can stop by the Capitol Park Museum to learn more about the state’s culture, music, and people. For those who enjoy walking, the downtown area has a riverfront with paths, sculptures, and restaurants that serve local dishes.

Lafayette

Taking a day trip to Lafayette takes approximately 2.5 hours drive from New Orleans, and is a good way to learn about Cajun culture. Visitors can stop at places like Vermilionville, a historic village that shows how people lived in the 1700s and 1800s. The village has antique houses, music played live, and people wearing clothes from past centuries, giving a feel of the old days. Nearby, Acadian Cultural Center shares stories about the Acadian people and their move from Canada to Louisiana. Downtown Lafayette has local shops, small museums, and places to eat Cajun food like gumbo and boudin.

How to Reach New Orleans

Traveling to New Orleans is simple, whether you’re flying in, taking the train, or driving by car. The main airport, Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY), is located about 11 to 15 miles from downtown and has direct flights from many major U.S. cities like Seattle, Miami, and Boston, as well as some international destinations. The airport serves daily flights through various airlines, and once you arrive, it’s simple to get into the city using taxis, ride-shares, airport shuttles, or rental cars.

If you prefer traveling by train, Amtrak runs three routes to New Orleans — City of New Orleans from Chicago, Crescent from New York City, and Sunset Limited from Los Angeles — with all trains arriving at Union Passenger Terminal near downtown. This terminal also serves long-distance buses like Greyhound and Megabus with routes from cities such as Houston, Atlanta, and Mobile. For those driving, New Orleans is connected by major highways including I-10, I-55, and I-59, which makes getting to the city from nearby states straightforward and easy.

Local Transportation

Getting around New Orleans is simple, thanks to several easy-to-use public transportation options. The city’s Regional Transit Authority (RTA) runs buses, streetcars, and ferries that connect many neighborhoods. Buses cover most areas and run often, with nearly 40 routes linking places like Uptown, Mid-City, and the French Quarter. Streetcars are a popular way to travel and also a fun part of the city’s history. The St. Charles line is the oldest and takes riders past oak trees, old homes, and local schools.

Other lines run along Canal Street, Rampart Street, and to City Park. Public transport like bus and streetcar rides are $1.25 each, or you can choose a Jazzy Pass for unlimited trips, priced at $3 for one day or $9 for three days, with longer options available too. Passes can be bought on board, at vending machines, which also helps plan trips and track vehicles in real time. Ferries offer a guided ride over the Mississippi River, linking downtown with Algiers Point and giving travelers a scenic view along the way.

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FAQ (Frequently Asked Questions)

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