New Orleans, affectionately known as NOLA, The Big Easy, and The Crescent City, is a beloved gem in Louisiana with a wealth of character.
It is famous for its delicious Creole and Cajun cuisine, vibrant jazz music, stunning historic architecture, mystical voodoo practices, and numerous festivals. With so much to explore, you’re in for an unforgettable experience!
For first-timers, I’ve curated a list of must-see attractions to help you make the most of your trip.
However, be warned: you will quickly fall in love with the city’s captivating atmosphere, delicious food, and rich culture, and you’ll likely want to come back for more!
Know Before you Go
– New Orleans is a very laid-back city where it’s legal to drink on the street; just make sure it’s not in a glass container.
– Wear comfortable shoes as walking is the best way to explore New Orleans!
– New Orleans is considered below sea level and it’s surrounded by water, so check the weather reports before visiting, especially if traveling during hurricane season (June to November).
When to Visit
The busiest times to visit are from February to May when you can enjoy big events like Mardi Gras (typically around February or March), Jazz Fest, and the French Quarter Fest. However, be prepared for larger crowds and higher prices during this time.
If you prefer to visit with fewer crowds and cooler weather, consider going during the shoulder season from October to January.
The low season is during the summer, but the heat can be intense in the afternoons, and it’s quite humid. Personally, I tend to avoid visiting during this time, but If you’re feeling adventurous, I’m sure it’s doable! If you’re set on visiting June to August, make sure to pack light, breezy clothes to stay comfortable.
Where to Stay
The French Quarter is the most popular area to stay since it is close to all the famous attractions. If you’re into the hustle and bustle, The French Quarter is the place to be. It’s super close to all the cool attractions, so you can walk to most of them.
If you prefer a quieter vibe, consider the Warehouse District. It’s still close to everything but offers a more peaceful atmosphere.
During my last visit, my friend and I stayed at The Old No.77 Hotel in the Warehouse District, and had a fantastic time. Plus, it was really close to some great restaurants.
Here are my favorite things to do in New Orleans!
1. Explore the French Quarter
The French Quarter is full of rich history, it is New Orleans’s oldest neighborhood founded in 1718 by the French. It acted as the town center and a major trade hub.
Walk around the neighborhood to admire the beautiful cast iron balconies, stunning architecture, and charming courtyards.
If you’re looking for a fun party vibe, check out Bourbon Street’s nightlife. For something a bit more elegant, head to Royal Street to wander through the beautiful streets and pop into the art galleries and antique shops.
2. Try the Local Food
New Orleans has been voted as the #1 domestic food focused destination many times. I’m a big foodie, so you’ve got to try some of the local food during your visit.
Getting beignets may be touristy, but getting beignets and a coffee from Café Beignet is a must-do during your New Orleans visit.
Some of the must-tries include: beignets, muffuleta sandwiches, red beans and rice, po-boy sandwiches, gumbo, and crawfish (if you love spicy food and seafood). Enjoy!
3. Wander Jackson Square
Stroll through Jackson Square to admire the work of local street artists and listen to live jazz music and other street performers.
You’ll also find the St. Louis Cathedral, which is the oldest Catholic cathedral in the United States still in use today. It’s one of the most recognizable structures in the French Quarter and has been featured in many movies and TV shows.
4. Explore the Garden District
The Garden District is filled with beautiful oak-lined streets and it’s such a lovely place to take a stroll and admire the beautiful cottages and mansions with their charming southern vibe. You can wander around at your own pace or join a tour if you like.
Unfortunately, the famous Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 is temporary closed for repairs, but it’s worth a visit once it reopens.
If you’re looking for souvenir shopping and delicious dining options, head over to Magazine Street. It’s a wonderful area to explore!
5. Ride a Streetcar
If you decide to take my recommendation and visit the Garden District, you can hop on the St. Charles Streetcar from the French Quarter to get there. The streetcars are iconic to New Orleans, so you should try to take a ride at least once during your trip!
Make sure to have the exact change ready, as the drivers do not give change. The fare is $1.25 for a one-way trip, or you can purchase a Jazzy Pass online.
6. Get a Taste of New Orleans Classic Drinks
New Orleans is a very chill city and it’s legal to drink on the street as long as it’s not in a glass container. Some restaurants and bars will even give you a to-go cup.
You’ve got to try the classic New Orleans drinks like the Pimm’s Cup, Sazerac, and the Hurricane cocktails. Pat O’Brien’s bar sells the famous Hurricane drinks, which is a must during your trip.
7. Listen to Live Jazz
Did you know that New Orleans is the birthplace of jazz? If you’re a music lover, you’re in for a treat! You’ll have so many opportunities to soak in the city’s vibrant atmosphere and enjoy the incredible sounds of the city.
From lively street performers to cozy music venues, there’s something for everyone. Be sure to check out Preservation Hall, and don’t miss the other great spots on Frenchmen Street. If you’re visiting on a Sunday, some restaurants even offer jazz brunches!
8. Visit the French Market
If you’re looking for a lively open-air market with unique shops and food stalls, the French Market is the place to visit. It’s the perfect spot to browse and savor fantastic New Orleans cuisine.
And if you’re in the mood for something sweet, you absolutely have to try the savory praline-filled beignets at Loretta’s Authentic Praline – they’re simply chef’s kiss!
9. Catch a Festival
New Orleans is always bustling with festivals, including food, music (I attended Voodoo Fest in 2019), and cultural festivals.
Make sure to check the festivals and events calendar if you plan on attending any of these fun New Orleans experiences!
The most famous festival is Mardi Gras where the streets are filled with people celebrating, parades, floats, music, costumes and marching bands, along with the customary plastic Mardi Gras beads.
10. Learn about Voodoo
NOLA is considered to be one of the most haunted cities in the country due to the city’s voodoo roots. Louisiana voodoo, or New Orleans voodoo, is steeped in African religious traditions brought to America by enslaved people and has significantly shaped the city’s culture.
As you explore the city, particularly the French Quarter, you’ll encounter a variety of voodoo shops, tarot reading venues, and even voodoo tours.
For a deeper understanding of the city’s voodoo culture and spiritual history, consider visiting The New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum in the French Quarter. Here, you can view artifacts used in voodoo practices and gain insight into this fascinating religion.
Another option is to embark on a voodoo tour that will lead you through the French Quarter and its cemeteries. You’ll also learn about the legendary Marie Laveau, the most famous voodoo queen, who rests in St. Louis Cemetery No. 1.
Where to Eat & Drink
Napoleon House– Their food is delicious, and you have to try their muffuletta sandwiches! If you can, grab a seat in their lovely courtyard.
The Court of Two Sisters – Don’t miss their Jazz Brunch.
Mother’s Restaurant – They serve up some great po-boy sandwiches and delicious ham.
Brennan’s – Treat yourself to some fine dining Creole food here. And make sure to try the World Famous Bananas Foster!
Café Beignet & Café du Monde – You can’t go wrong with either of these options for amazing beignets. My favorite is Café Beignet, but you should check out both!
Pat O’Brien’s – It’s a bit touristy, but it’s worth a visit to Bourbon St. for their famous “hurricane” drinks.
French Market – Don’t miss the food stalls, especially Loretta’s Authentic Praline for their praline-filled beignets – they’re a real treat!
French Truck Coffee– Good place for a quick cup of coffee.
I have been to New Orleans and the food is my main attraction !!
New Orleans has such a great food scene. Do you have a favorite dish or restaurant from your visit?