Things to Do in New Orleans in August: Your Complete 2025 Guide

August in New Orleans isn't for the faint of heart – it's hot, humid, and absolutely electric with energy. Sure, you'll sweat a little (okay, maybe a lot), but you'll also catch some of the city's most unique festivals, score great deals on hotels, and experience the Big Easy when locals are out celebrating summer in full swing. From air-conditioned museums to rooftop pools, early-morning streetcar rides to late-night jazz sessions, August offers the perfect mix of indoor escapes and outdoor adventures. Here's everything you need to know to make the most of your summer trip to New Orleans.

What to Expect in New Orleans in August

August brings the heat – we're talking average highs around 91°F with humidity that makes it feel closer to 100°F. Afternoon thunderstorms are common, usually rolling in around 2-4 PM and cooling things down for about an hour before the steam rises again. Pack light, breathable clothing, a good water bottle, comfortable walking shoes, and definitely bring an umbrella or rain poncho.

The upside? August is technically off-season, which means better hotel rates and fewer crowds at major attractions. The key to enjoying August is timing – plan outdoor activities for early morning (before 10 AM) or evening (after 6 PM), and save the afternoon hours for museums, shopping, or lounging by a pool. For the most current weather forecasts and monthly averages, check NOAA's New Orleans weather data.

August Festivals and Events You Can't Miss

Red Dress Run (Second Saturday of August)

The Red Dress Run is exactly what it sounds like – thousands of people wearing red dresses (yes, everyone, regardless of gender) running and walking through the French Quarter and beyond. This charity event raises money for local causes while creating one of the most photographed and fun spectacles you'll see all year. The crowd is friendly, the atmosphere is festive, and even if you don't participate, watching from a balcony or sidewalk café is entertainment enough. It's perfect for anyone who loves quirky local traditions and doesn't mind a little organized chaos. Check out all the details at nolarunning.com/red-dress-run.

Satchmo SummerFest (Early August)

This three-day festival celebrates Louis Armstrong's legacy with live jazz performances, educational panels, and local food vendors at the New Orleans Jazz Museum in the French Quarter. You'll hear everything from traditional jazz to contemporary interpretations, plus learn about Satchmo's life and impact on music history. The indoor venue provides blessed air conditioning between outdoor performances, making it ideal for music lovers who want to dive deep into New Orleans' jazz roots without melting in the heat. Find the full lineup and tickets at satchmosummerfest.org.

White Linen Night (First Saturday of August)

White Linen Night transforms the Warehouse District into an elegant street party where everyone wears white and gallery doors swing open for special exhibitions, live music, and cocktails. Julia Street becomes a pedestrian paradise filled with art lovers, locals, and visitors exploring contemporary galleries while sipping wine and enjoying the (slightly) cooler evening air. It's sophisticated but not stuffy – think art opening meets block party. Perfect for couples, art enthusiasts, or anyone wanting to see New Orleans' creative side. Get all the details at cacno.org.

Dirty Linen Night (Weekend after White Linen Night)

Consider this the rebellious younger sibling of White Linen Night. Dirty Linen Night happens on Royal Street in the French Quarter, where the dress code is more relaxed and the vibe is quirkier. Gallery owners stay open late, street musicians perform on corners, and the whole scene feels more spontaneous and local. It's great for solo travelers, couples, or anyone who prefers their art scene with a side of French Quarter charm. Check royalstreetartdistrict.com for participating galleries and special events.

COOLinary New Orleans (All Month Long)

August means COOLinary – the city's month-long dining promotion where upscale restaurants offer prix-fixe lunch and dinner menus at reduced prices. This is your chance to try places like Commander's Palace, GW Fins, or Emeril's without breaking the bank. Restaurants get creative with their offerings, and you'll often find dishes that aren't on the regular menu. It's perfect for foodies, special occasions, or families wanting to experience fine dining together. Make reservations early and browse all participating restaurants at coolinaryneworleans.com.

Best Outdoor Activities for Mornings and Evenings

The secret to enjoying New Orleans outdoors in August is all about timing. Early morning (before 10 AM) and evening (after 6 PM) offer the most comfortable temperatures for walking, sightseeing, and outdoor dining. Here are the best ways to experience the city when the heat isn't quite so intense.

1. St. Charles Avenue Streetcar Ride: Catch the streetcar early in the morning for a breezy ride through the Garden District. The historic streetcars have open windows that create a nice breeze, and you'll see beautiful mansions, Tulane University, and Audubon Park without the midday crowds. The entire round trip takes about 90 minutes, and you can hop off at Magazine Street for shopping or at Audubon Park for a shaded walk.

2. City Park Morning Stroll: Head to City Park around 8 AM when the massive oak trees provide natural air conditioning and the morning light filters beautifully through Spanish moss. The sculpture garden, botanical garden, and walking paths offer plenty to explore, plus you might catch locals doing tai chi or walking their dogs. If you're staying near the French Quarter, take the Canal streetcar to get there.

3. Steamboat Natchez Evening Jazz Cruise: Nothing beats being on the Mississippi River at sunset with live jazz music and a cool breeze. The two-hour cruise includes dinner options and gives you incredible views of the New Orleans skyline as the sun goes down. Book tickets in advance through their website, and consider the dinner cruise if you want to skip the restaurant hunt afterward.

4. Frenchmen Street After Dark: Once the sun sets, Frenchmen Street comes alive with live music spilling out of clubs and bars. The street itself becomes a party, with local musicians, artists, and food vendors creating an outdoor festival atmosphere. Start around 8 PM when it's cooler, and you can bar-hop between venues like The Spotted Cat, d.b.a., or Blue Nile.

5. French Market Early Bird Visit: Get to the French Market by 9 AM to browse local vendors, grab coffee and beignets, and shop for souvenirs before the crowds and heat arrive. The covered market provides shade, and you'll find everything from local art to hot sauce to handmade jewelry. It's also a great spot to pick up snacks and drinks for the day ahead.

Indoor Attractions to Escape the Heat

When the afternoon sun gets too intense, New Orleans has plenty of world-class indoor attractions that'll keep you cool and entertained.

1. New Orleans Museum of Art: NOMA houses an impressive collection spanning 5,000 years, from ancient artifacts to contemporary works. The museum's air-conditioned galleries provide a peaceful escape, and the sculpture garden (best visited early morning or evening) features works by artists like Henry Moore and Barbara Hepworth. Don't miss the photography and glass collections, which are among the finest in the South. Check current exhibitions and hours at noma.org.

2. The National WWII Museum: This world-renowned museum offers an immersive experience through interactive exhibits, personal stories, and artifacts from the war. Plan to spend at least half a day here – the air conditioning is excellent, and you'll be completely absorbed in the exhibits. The 4D theater experience and submarine tour are highlights, and the museum restaurant provides a good lunch break. Get tickets and plan your visit at nationalww2museum.org.

3. Mardi Gras World: Ever wondered how those massive Mardi Gras floats are made? This working warehouse gives you behind-the-scenes access to float construction, plus you can try on costumes and learn about the history of New Orleans' most famous celebration. The guided tour includes king cake samples, and the warehouse stays cool year-round. It's fascinating for all ages and gives you serious appreciation for the artistry behind Carnival. Book tours at mardigrasworld.com.

4. New Orleans Pharmacy Museum: This unique museum in a restored 1823 apothecary shop showcases the history of medicine and pharmacy in New Orleans. You'll see everything from 19th-century surgical instruments to voodoo potions, all in a beautifully preserved Creole townhouse. The small size makes it perfect for a quick, cool break while exploring the French Quarter. Learn more at pharmacymuseum.org.

5. Vue Orleans Observation Deck: Located on the 33rd floor of the World Trade Center, this observation deck offers 360-degree views of the city, river, and surrounding areas. The air-conditioned space includes interactive exhibits about New Orleans history and geography. It's especially beautiful at sunset, and you can spot landmarks you've visited from above. If you're staying at Hotel Perle's, you'll appreciate seeing the city from an even higher perspective. Check hours and tickets at vueorleans.com.

Family-Friendly Things to Do in August

August is actually great for families since many attractions offer indoor alternatives, and kids love the summer festival atmosphere. Here are the best family spots that balance fun with comfort.

1. Audubon Aquarium of the Americas: Recently renovated and better than ever, the aquarium features a walk-through tunnel surrounded by sharks, rays, and tropical fish. The penguin exhibit is always a hit with kids, and the interactive touch tanks let little ones get hands-on with sea creatures. The entire facility is air-conditioned, and you can easily spend 2-3 hours here. Combine it with a visit to the nearby Insectarium for a full day of indoor exploration.

2. Audubon Insectarium: Reopened in 2023 after extensive renovations, this unique museum lets kids (and adults) get up close with butterflies, beetles, and other fascinating insects. The butterfly garden is magical, and the interactive exhibits teach kids about the important role insects play in our ecosystem. It's educational, air-conditioned, and genuinely entertaining for all ages.

3. Louisiana Children's Museum: Located in City Park, this hands-on museum encourages kids to learn through play. Exhibits cover everything from water play to space exploration, and there's a special area for toddlers. The museum is fully air-conditioned, and City Park offers shaded playgrounds and the Besthoff Sculpture Garden for when you want to venture outside.

4. Riverwalk Marketplace: This indoor shopping center along the Mississippi River offers shopping, dining, and entertainment all under one air-conditioned roof. Kids love the carousel and arcade games, while parents can browse local shops or grab a meal with river views. The food court has options for picky eaters, and you can walk outside to see the river when the weather cooperates.

5. Café du Monde: No New Orleans trip is complete without beignets and café au lait. The original location has both indoor and outdoor seating, so you can escape the heat while still experiencing this iconic spot. Go early in the morning or later in the evening for the most comfortable experience, and don't worry about the powdered sugar mess – it's part of the fun.

Where to Eat & Drink to Cool Off

August dining is all about finding places with excellent air conditioning, refreshing drinks, and cool treats that help beat the heat.

Cool Dessert Spots

1. Angelo Brocato's: This century-old Italian ice cream shop serves gelato, Italian ice, and cannoli in a charming, air-conditioned setting. The lemon ice is particularly refreshing on hot days, and the gelato flavors change seasonally. It's a local institution that feels like stepping back in time, and the cool treats are exactly what you need after walking around the city.

2. Drip Affogato Bar: Specializing in affogatos (espresso poured over gelato), this modern spot offers creative combinations that are both caffeinated and cooling. Try the salted caramel affogato or go for straight gelato if you prefer. The minimalist interior provides a cool, calm atmosphere perfect for an afternoon break.

3. Willa Jean: Known for excellent brunch and baked goods, Willa Jean also serves house-made ice cream and frozen treats. Their soft-serve flavors rotate regularly, and the air-conditioned dining room makes it a great spot for a leisurely meal or quick dessert stop.

A/C-Friendly Restaurants

Don't forget that August is COOLinary month, so many upscale restaurants offer special prix-fixe menus at reduced prices. Commander's Palace offers jazz brunch in elegant, air-conditioned dining rooms, while Mother's provides casual comfort food perfect for families. Dat Dog has multiple locations with A/C and kid-friendly options, making it easy to grab a quick, cool meal between attractions.

Day Trips from New Orleans

Sometimes you need a change of scenery and a break from city heat. These day trips offer air-conditioned transportation and cooler environments.

Swamp Tours: Companies like Cajun Encounters offer air-conditioned bus transportation to shaded swamp areas where boat tours provide natural cooling from the water and tree canopy. You'll see alligators, birds, and learn about Louisiana's unique ecosystem while staying relatively comfortable. Most tours include hotel pickup and last about 4 hours total.

Plantation Tours: Oak Alley and Laura Plantation offer guided tours of historic properties with massive oak trees providing natural shade and air-conditioned visitor centers. The history is fascinating, the grounds are beautiful, and you'll learn about Louisiana's complex past while staying cool under centuries-old trees. Both plantations are about an hour from New Orleans and offer different perspectives on antebellum history.

Abita Springs: This small town about an hour north of New Orleans offers the Abita Brewery tour (air-conditioned facility with cold beer samples) and a charming downtown area with local shops and restaurants. The slightly higher elevation and tree cover make it feel a few degrees cooler than New Orleans, and it's a nice change of pace from city sightseeing.

Travel Tips for Visiting in August

Staying hydrated is crucial – carry a water bottle and refill it frequently at restaurants and attractions. Most places are happy to provide ice water, and many hotels offer complimentary water bottles. Book accommodations with reliable air conditioning and consider properties with pools or rooftop areas for evening relaxation. Hotel Perle's rooftop pool becomes especially valuable during August heat waves, offering a cool retreat after days of exploring the city.

Plan for afternoon rain by carrying a compact umbrella or poncho, but don't let brief showers derail your plans – they usually pass quickly and actually provide welcome relief from the heat. Use ride-sharing services or the air-conditioned streetcar system instead of walking long distances during peak heat hours. Book museum tickets and festival reservations in advance, as locals and tourists alike seek indoor entertainment during the hottest parts of the day.

Final Thoughts

August in New Orleans rewards travelers who embrace the heat with incredible festivals, amazing food deals, and a chance to experience the city when it's most authentically itself. The locals are out celebrating summer, the music is everywhere, and the hospitality is as warm as the weather. Yes, you'll sweat, but you'll also create memories that last a lifetime in one of America's most unique cities. For group trips looking to experience New Orleans' summer energy, Hotel Perle's spacious suites and prime St. Charles Avenue location make it the perfect home base for exploring everything August has to offer. Book your trip and get ready to fall in love with the soulful, sweaty, spectacular side of New Orleans this August!

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