Things to Do in New Orleans: Your Complete Guide to Exploring the Big Easy

New Orleans isn't just about Mardi Gras beads and Bourbon Street shots (though those have their place). This city serves up an incredible mix of experiences that'll satisfy every type of traveler. Whether you're a foodie ready to eat your way through the French Quarter, a music lover chasing the perfect jazz set, or a group of friends looking for the ultimate weekend getaway, the Big Easy has something special waiting for you.

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The best part? You don't need months to plan the perfect trip. Some of the top things to do in New Orleans happen spontaneously—like stumbling upon a second line parade or discovering your new favorite spot. 

A Group Getaway with Rooftop Views

There's something magical about exploring New Orleans with your favorite people. The city practically begs you to share experiences—whether you're all trying chargrilled oysters for the first time or laughing together during a ghost tour. Group travel here works because everything is designed for sharing: family-style restaurants, spacious streetcars, and plenty of activities that are more fun with a crowd.

Start Your Day with Beignets at Café du Monde

No New Orleans trip is complete without the powdered sugar ritual. Head to Café du Monde early (before 9 AM if possible) and grab a table overlooking the Mississippi River. The original location has been serving the same recipe since 1862, and watching the beignet makers work is part of the experience.

Insider tip: Order your beignets "extra crispy" if you like them less doughy, and always get the café au lait—it's made with chicory and perfectly complements the sweet beignets. 

If the original location is packed, try the Café du Monde in City Park—same beignets, fewer tourists, and you can walk them off in the beautiful Besthoff Sculpture Garden afterward.

Take the St. Charles Streetcar Through the Garden District

Hop on the historic streetcar for one of the most scenic rides in America. These green streetcars have been running since 1835, making this the oldest continuously operating street railway system in the world. The Garden District mansions will have you snapping photos left and right, and the $1.25 fare makes this one of the best bargains in town.

Insider tip: Board at Canal Street and grab seats on the right side (river side) for the best mansion views. The conductor often shares stories about the houses—listen for tales about Anne Rice's former home on First Street or the house that inspired "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button." Get off at Washington Avenue to explore Lafayette Cemetery No. 1, where above-ground tombs tell stories of yellow fever epidemics and prominent New Orleans families.

The streetcar runs every 15-20 minutes, so you can hop off at Magazine Street for shopping and antique browsing, then catch the next one back. Magazine Street stretches for six miles and offers everything from vintage clothing to local art galleries.

Cool Off at Hotel Perle's Rooftop Pool

After a day of walking around the city in Louisiana heat, nothing beats taking a dip while watching the New Orleans skyline. Hotel Perle's rooftop pool offers the perfect spot to relax with your group, grab a drink, and plan your evening adventures—all while staying cool and enjoying panoramic city views that stretch from the French Quarter to the Mississippi River bend.

Insider tip: The pool area is especially magical during golden hour, when the setting sun casts a warm glow over the historic buildings. It's also the perfect spot to pregame before heading out to Frenchmen Street or to decompress after a long day of festival-going.

Book a Group Ghost Tour or Cooking Class

New Orleans loves a good story, and ghost tours deliver some of the best ones. The city's above-ground cemeteries, centuries-old buildings, and colorful history create the perfect backdrop for spine-tingling tales. French Quarter Phantoms and Haunted History Tours both offer group rates and guides who know how to balance scares with historical facts.

Insider tip: Book the 8 PM tour rather than the later ones—you'll get better photos in the twilight, and the guides are usually more energetic earlier in the evening. Ask your guide about Marie Laveau's tomb in St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, but don't believe everything you hear—some of the best ghost stories are creative interpretations of history.

For something more hands-on, book a group cooking class at the New Orleans School of Cooking or Langlois Culinary Crossroads. You'll learn to make jambalaya, gumbo, or bananas foster from scratch, plus you get to eat your creations. Classes typically last 2-3 hours and include recipes to take home. The instructors are usually local chefs who share stories about New Orleans food culture along with cooking techniques.

Plan a Group Bar Crawl with Local Favorites

Skip the crowded Bourbon Street bars and create your own crawl through neighborhoods where locals actually drink. Start at Cane & Table in the French Quarter for rum cocktails and small plates, then head to Compère Lapin for innovative takes on Caribbean-Creole cuisine and craft cocktails.

End your night at The Sazerac Bar in the Roosevelt Hotel, where the Sazerac cocktail was invented. The bar's murals and Art Deco design make it feel like stepping back in time, and the bartenders know how to make a proper Sazerac with Peychaud's bitters and an absinthe rinse.

Best Things to Do in New Orleans for Food Lovers

If you came to New Orleans hungry, you picked the right city. This place takes food seriously, from corner po'boy shops run by third-generation families to white-tablecloth Creole restaurants that have been perfecting their recipes since before the Civil War. The food scene here isn't just about eating—it's about understanding the cultural mix that makes New Orleans unique.

Start Your Morning at The Ruby Slipper Café

Skip the hotel continental breakfast and head to Ruby Slipper for their famous pain perdu (New Orleans-style French toast) or eggs Benedict with fried green tomatoes. The portions are generous, and you'll need the fuel for all the walking ahead. This local chain started in New Orleans and focuses on Southern breakfast and brunch classics with creative twists.

Insider tip: The BBQ shrimp and grits is their signature dish—it's messy, buttery, and absolutely worth getting your hands dirty. If there's a wait (there usually is on weekends), put your name in and walk around the neighborhood. The Magazine Street location has several coffee shops and boutiques nearby to browse while you wait.

Try the bananas foster pain perdu if you want dessert for breakfast, or go savory with the cochon de lait Benedict topped with slow-roasted pork. Their Bloody Marys are made with local ingredients and pack enough spice to wake you up properly.

Explore the French Market for Local Snacks

The French Market has been feeding New Orleans since the 1700s, evolving from a Native American trading post to today's mix of local vendors and tourist shops. The covered market stretches for several blocks along the Mississippi River, and the food vendors offer some of the best casual eating in the city.

Insider tip: Hit up Meals from the Heart for authentic Creole plates that locals actually eat—their red beans and rice on Mondays is a New Orleans tradition. Aunt Sally's has been making pralines since 1935, and you can watch them pour the hot candy onto marble slabs. Buy them fresh and warm if possible.

For po'boys, try the debris roast beef from one of the vendors—"debris" refers to the crispy, flavorful bits that fall off the roast during cooking. It's messy, delicious, and authentically New Orleans. The Vietnamese vendors reflect the city's large Vietnamese population and offer excellent banh mi sandwiches that blend French bread with Vietnamese flavors.

Don't miss the spice vendors where you can buy authentic Creole seasoning, hot sauces that range from mild to face-melting, and coffee with chicory to take home. Many vendors will let you sample before buying.

Experience Fine Creole Dining at Commander's Palace

Make a reservation at this Garden District institution where the turtle soup is legendary and the bread pudding soufflé is worth the 25-minute wait. Commander's Palace has been a New Orleans fine dining destination since 1893, and their blue-and-white Victorian mansion setting is as impressive as the food.

Insider tip: Book the 25-cent martini lunch special (available weekdays with entrée purchase) for one of the best deals in fine dining. The dress code requires business casual—no shorts, flip-flops, or tank tops—but the experience is worth dressing up for. Request a table in the Garden Room if possible, where you can watch the streetcar pass by through the windows.

The turtle soup is made with real turtle (not mock turtle), and it's been on the menu for over a century. If you're adventurous, try it—it tastes like a rich, complex beef stew. The bread pudding soufflé must be ordered at the beginning of your meal because it takes 25 minutes to prepare, but it's light, airy, and completely different from regular bread pudding.

Their jazz brunch on weekends features live music and dishes like eggs Sardou (poached eggs over artichoke hearts and creamed spinach) that you won't find anywhere else.

Hunt for the Perfect Po'boy

Every local has their favorite po'boy spot, and half the fun is finding yours. The sandwich was invented in New Orleans during the 1929 streetcar strike when brothers Bennie and Clovis Martin served free sandwiches to "poor boys" who were out of work. Today, the perfect po'boy requires fresh French bread, quality ingredients, and proper "dressing."

Parkway Bakery & Tavern is a local institution that's been serving po'boys since 1911. Their roast beef debris is the gold standard—tender roast beef with crispy "debris" bits and rich gravy that soaks into the bread. The fried shrimp po'boy uses Gulf shrimp, and the oyster po'boy features plump Louisiana oysters fried to perfection.

Insider tip: Order your po'boy "dressed" (lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and mayo) unless you want it plain. "All the way" includes hot sauce. The bread should be crispy outside and soft inside—if it's not fresh, a good po'boy shop will toast it lightly to restore the crunch.

Johnny's Po-Boys in the French Quarter has been family-owned since 1950 and offers over 40 varieties. Try the fried catfish or soft-shell crab when it's in season. The atmosphere is no-frills—plastic chairs and fluorescent lighting—but the sandwiches are authentic.

Discover Hidden Gem Restaurants

Beyond the famous spots, New Orleans has incredible neighborhood restaurants that locals guard jealously. Liuzza's by the Track serves some of the best gumbo in the city—their gumbo is dark, rich, and loaded with seafood or chicken and andouille. The barbecue shrimp is another standout, served with French bread for soaking up the buttery, garlicky sauce.

‍Insider tip: Liuzza's only takes cash, and the neighborhood (Mid-City) might seem sketchy to tourists, but it's perfectly safe during the day and the food is worth the trip. Try their Creole potato salad—it's made with mayo and Creole mustard and has a tangy kick.

Mandina's Restaurant has been family-owned since 1932 and serves old-school Creole-Italian dishes that reflect New Orleans' immigrant history. Their trout meunière is classic New Orleans—fresh Gulf fish topped with brown butter, lemon, and parsley. The red beans and rice on Mondays is a local tradition that dates back to washday when women needed a dish that could simmer while they did laundry.

Things to Do in New Orleans Today: A Music & Culture Crawl

New Orleans invented jazz, and music still flows through the city like the Mississippi River. You'll hear it spilling out of doorways, echoing from street corners, and filling clubs until the early morning hours. But the music scene goes far beyond jazz—you'll find funk, R&B, brass band music, and genres that don't have names yet.

Stroll Down Frenchmen Street for Live Jazz

Skip the tourist traps on Bourbon Street and head to Frenchmen Street, where locals go for authentic music. This three-block stretch in the Faubourg Marigny neighborhood comes alive after dark with live music pouring out of every venue. The street itself becomes part of the show, with brass bands setting up on corners and crowds spilling onto the sidewalks.

The Spotted Cat Music Club is tiny, intimate, and always packed. There's no cover charge, just buy a drink and squeeze in wherever you can find space. The music ranges from traditional jazz to swing to funk, and the musicians often know each other and sit in with different bands throughout the night.

Insider tip: The Spotted Cat gets incredibly crowded after 10 PM, so arrive early if you want a seat. The bartenders are friendly and knowledgeable about the music scene—ask them about other venues or upcoming shows.

d.b.a. offers a more spacious setting with a great sound system and a wide variety of acts. Their calendar includes everything from brass bands to indie rock to experimental jazz. The bar has an extensive selection of local beers and craft cocktails, and the back patio provides a quieter space to talk between sets.

Snug Harbor is the most upscale venue on Frenchmen Street, with table service and a proper concert hall setup. They book nationally known jazz artists alongside local favorites, and the acoustics are excellent. Make reservations for dinner and a show—their contemporary Creole menu is as impressive as their music lineup.

Blue Nile focuses on funk, R&B, and brass band music. It's where you'll find the younger crowd dancing to bands that blend traditional New Orleans sounds with modern influences. The venue has a great dance floor and stays open late.

Visit Preservation Hall for an Iconic Experience

This tiny venue has been showcasing traditional New Orleans jazz since 1961, and walking through those doors is like stepping back in time. Shows are only an hour long, there's no air conditioning, no bar, and you might end up sitting on the floor—but you'll witness something truly special that connects directly to the roots of American music.

Insider tip: Buy tickets online because they sell out fast, especially during festival season and holidays. The $20 general admission tickets mean you'll likely sit on benches or the floor, but the $35 "Big Shot" tickets guarantee you a chair. Arrive 30 minutes early to get in line—they seat people in order of arrival within each ticket category.

The musicians are often in their 70s and 80s, and many learned from the masters who created this music. Between songs, they'll share stories about the old days and the musicians who influenced them. Photography is allowed, but flash and video recording are prohibited out of respect for the performers.

Take a Walking Tour Through the Treme

The Treme neighborhood is where jazz was born, and a good walking tour will teach you about the cultural roots that shaped New Orleans music. This area, just outside the French Quarter, was home to free people of color before the Civil War and became a center of African American culture and music.

Insider tip: Book a tour with Free Tours by Foot or French Quarter Phantoms—both offer knowledgeable guides who live in the neighborhood and can share personal stories alongside historical facts. The tours typically last 2-3 hours and cover about 1.5 miles of walking.

You'll visit Congo Square (now part of Louis Armstrong Park), where enslaved and free people of color gathered on Sundays to play music, dance, and maintain their cultural traditions. This is where African rhythms mixed with European instruments to create the foundation of jazz music.

The tour includes stops at the Backstreet Cultural Museum, which focuses on African American culture in New Orleans, and the New Orleans African American Museum, housed in a beautiful Creole villa. You'll also see shotgun houses where famous musicians lived and learn about the social and economic conditions that shaped the music.

St. Augustine Catholic Church is another important stop—it's the oldest African American Catholic parish in the United States and played a crucial role in the community's cultural development.

Catch a Second Line Parade

If you're lucky enough to be in town during a second line parade (check the New Orleans Social Aid & Pleasure Club schedule online), drop everything and follow the music. These brass band parades happen most Sundays from September through June and are pure New Orleans joy in motion. The tradition dates back to the late 1800s when social aid and pleasure clubs formed to provide insurance and burial services for African American communities who were excluded from white-owned insurance companies.

The "first line" is the official parade with the brass band and club members in matching outfits. The "second line" is everyone else who follows along, dancing and celebrating. You're encouraged to join the second line—just follow the music and dance however feels right. Bring water and wear comfortable shoes because these parades can last for hours and cover several miles.

The parades typically start around 1 PM and follow routes through different neighborhoods. Popular starting points include the Treme, Bywater, and Central City. Local news stations often cover the routes, and the Times-Picayune publishes parade schedules during season.

What to expect: Brass bands playing traditional New Orleans music, elaborate umbrellas and fans, people dressed in their Sunday best, and an infectious energy that's impossible to resist. Street vendors follow the parades selling drinks and snacks, and residents often set up barbecue grills and coolers on their front steps to share with parade-goers.

Experience Live Music at Tipitina's

Tipitina's is a New Orleans institution that's been showcasing local and national acts since 1977. Named after Professor Longhair's song "Tipitina," this Uptown venue has hosted everyone from the Neville Brothers to Widespread Panic. The club's motto, "Remember the Music," reflects its commitment to preserving and promoting New Orleans musical traditions.

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Check their calendar for "Fess Night" tributes to Professor Longhair, or catch local favorites like Galactic, Trombone Shorty, or the Rebirth Brass Band when they're in town. The venue has excellent acoustics and sight lines from almost anywhere in the room. Parking can be challenging, so consider taking a rideshare or the streetcar (get off at Napoleon Avenue).

The club also runs the Tipitina's Foundation, which provides instruments to local schools and supports music education programs throughout Louisiana.

Family-Friendly Adventures in the Big Easy

New Orleans isn't just for adults—kids love the streetcars, the street performers, and yes, even the beignets (though they'll need extra napkins). The city offers plenty of activities that engage young minds while introducing them to the unique culture that makes New Orleans special.

Spend a Day at the Audubon Aquarium

The Audubon Aquarium of the Americas sits right on the riverfront and features everything from white alligators to a walk-through tunnel surrounded by sharks. The facility houses over 15,000 animals representing 600 species, making it one of the top-rated aquariums in the United States.

Buy combo tickets online that include the Audubon Zoo and save money if you plan to visit both. The white alligators are unique to Louisiana—they're leucistic, not albino, which means they have white skin but blue eyes. The aquarium's Gulf of Mexico exhibit showcases local marine life, including sea turtles that were rescued and rehabilitated.

The jellyfish exhibit is mesmerizing for kids and adults alike, featuring moon jellies that pulse and glow in specially designed tanks. The hands-on touch tanks let kids interact with stingrays, sea stars, and hermit crabs under supervision from knowledgeable staff members.

Planning tip: The aquarium can get crowded during school holidays and summer months. Visit early in the day or late afternoon for smaller crowds. The facility is fully air-conditioned, making it a perfect escape from New Orleans heat.

Ride the Ferry Across the Mississippi

For just $2, you can take the Algiers Point ferry across the mighty Mississippi River. This working ferry has been connecting the East and West Banks since 1827, making it one of the oldest ferry services in the United States. Kids love being on the water, and the views of the New Orleans skyline are incredible from the river level.

The ferry runs every 15 minutes during peak hours and every 30 minutes during off-peak times. Board at the foot of Canal Street near the French Quarter. Once you reach Algiers Point, you can explore the historic neighborhood with its Victorian houses and quiet streets, or just ride back for the views.

The ferry is also a great way to see the city from the perspective that made New Orleans important—as a major river port. Kids can watch tugboats pushing barges and learn about how the Mississippi River shaped the city's development. The ride takes about 5 minutes each way, perfect for short attention spans.

Cool Down with Sno-balls

When the heat gets intense, find a sno-ball stand (they're everywhere) and try this New Orleans tradition that dates back to the 1930s. Unlike snow cones, sno-balls use finely shaved ice that soaks up the flavored syrup like a sponge, creating a completely different texture and taste experience.

Hansen's Sno-Bliz has been family-owned since 1939 and uses the same ice-shaving machine that founder Ernest Hansen built himself. Their syrups are made from scratch using real fruit juices and extracts. Wedding cake and nectar cream are local favorites that you won't find anywhere else.

Try the "stuffed" sno-ball with ice cream in the middle, or ask for condensed milk on top for extra richness. Popular local flavors include wedding cake (almond and vanilla), nectar cream (similar to cream soda), and spearmint. Most stands offer 50+ flavors, so don't be afraid to ask for recommendations.

Plum Street Snoballs in Uptown and Pandora's Snoballs in Mid-City are other local favorites. Many stands are cash-only and seasonal (typically March through October), so plan accordingly.

Visit City Park and the Besthoff Sculpture Garden

City Park offers 1,300 acres of green space, including the magical Besthoff Sculpture Garden where kids can run around world-class art installations. The park is one of the largest urban parks in the United States and features some of the most beautiful mature oak trees in the South, some over 600 years old.

Insider tip: The sculpture garden is free and open daily. Kids love the interactive sculptures they can climb on and explore. The "Popeye" sculpture by Jeff Koons is always a hit with children. Bring a picnic and enjoy lunch under the ancient oak trees—some are so large that multiple families can sit in their shade.

The park also features paddle boats on Big Lake ($15 for 30 minutes), the historic Carousel Gardens Amusement Park with a 1906 carousel, and the New Orleans Museum of Art which offers family programs and workshops.

Storyland is a fairy-tale themed playground where kids can climb through Jack's beanstalk, slide down from Humpty Dumpty's wall, and explore the Old Woman's shoe house. It's been enchanting New Orleans children since 1956.

Explore the Louisiana Children's Museum

The Louisiana Children's Museum relocated to City Park in 2019 and offers hands-on exhibits that blend learning with play. The museum focuses on STEAM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Math) education through interactive experiences designed for children ages 0-12.

The water play area is perfect for hot days—bring a change of clothes because kids will get soaked. The "Little Port of New Orleans" exhibit teaches children about the city's role as a major shipping port through miniature boats, cranes, and cargo containers they can operate.

The museum's location in City Park means you can easily combine it with other park activities. Admission is $16 for children and adults, with discounts for Louisiana residents and military families.

Summer Festival Experiences

New Orleans summers are hot and humid, but they're also when some of the city's best festivals happen. The festival season runs year-round, but summer brings unique energy with longer days, outdoor concerts, and celebrations that showcase the culture that makes this city special. After a day of festival-going, Hotel Perle's rooftop pool becomes the perfect retreat to cool off and share stories about the incredible performances you've witnessed.

Jazz & Heritage Festival (April-May)

Jazz Fest is New Orleans' biggest party, featuring multiple stages of music, incredible food booths, and crafts from local artisans. The festival happens over two weekends at the Fair Grounds Race Course, attracting over 400,000 visitors annually since its inception in 1970. What started as a small celebration of local culture has grown into one of the most important music festivals in the world.

Buy tickets early—they often sell out, especially for Saturday passes. Download the Jazz Fest app to create a personalized schedule because with 12+ stages running simultaneously, you'll need a plan. The food is as important as the music—try cochon de lait po'boys, crawfish bread, and mango freeze from local vendors who only appear during Jazz Fest.

What to bring: Comfortable shoes, sunscreen, a hat, and a small cooler with water (allowed with restrictions). The Fair Grounds has limited shade, so plan accordingly. Many locals bring tarps to claim spots near their favorite stages early in the day.

The festival showcases not just jazz but blues, R&B, funk, folk, gospel, Cajun, zydeco, and world music. Past performers have included Stevie Wonder, Pearl Jam, Foo Fighters, and countless local legends like the Neville Brothers and Professor Longhair.

Essence Festival (July)

Essence Festival is the largest celebration of African American culture and music in the United States, bringing major musical acts to the Superdome and filling the city with events, parties, and cultural programming. The festival typically attracts over 500,000 attendees during the July 4th weekend.

Book accommodations early—this is one of New Orleans' busiest weekends, and hotel prices reflect the demand. The main concerts happen at the Superdome, but the real experience includes the daytime empowerment seminars, beauty and fashion shows, and parties throughout the city.

The festival features multiple stages with R&B, hip-hop, and gospel performances, plus a marketplace showcasing Black-owned businesses and entrepreneurs. Past headliners have included Beyoncé, Mary J. Blige, Janet Jackson, and Bruno Mars.

French Quarter Festival (April)

French Quarter Festival is the largest free music festival in the South, showcasing local musicians on 20+ stages throughout the French Quarter. This festival focuses specifically on Louisiana music and culture, making it perfect for discovering new artists while exploring the historic neighborhood.

The festival is completely free, but food and drinks from vendors require payment. This is your chance to hear authentic New Orleans music without the crowds and expense of Jazz Fest. Many of the performers are local favorites who rarely tour outside Louisiana.

The festival typically features over 1,700 local musicians across genres including traditional jazz, brass band music, Cajun, zydeco, blues, and contemporary Louisiana artists. Food vendors offer local specialties, and the entire French Quarter becomes a pedestrian-friendly music venue.

Satchmo SummerFest (August)

Satchmo SummerFest celebrates Louis Armstrong's birthday with a weekend of traditional jazz, educational seminars, and cultural activities. The festival takes place in the French Quarter and focuses on preserving and promoting traditional New Orleans jazz.

This smaller festival offers a more intimate experience than Jazz Fest, with opportunities to meet musicians and learn about jazz history through seminars and workshops. The festival includes a jazz mass at St. Augustine Catholic Church that's deeply moving and authentically New Orleans.

Budget-Friendly Ways to Experience New Orleans

You don't need to spend a fortune to fall in love with New Orleans. Some of the best things to do in NOLA are free or nearly free, and the city's culture is accessible to visitors regardless of budget. Street music, architecture, and natural beauty don't charge admission fees.

Free Concerts in Armstrong Park

Louis Armstrong Park hosts free concerts throughout the year, especially during festival season. The park's amphitheater and Congo Square provide beautiful settings for performances that range from brass band music to gospel choirs.

Check the New Orleans Recreation Development Commission website for concert schedules. Bring a blanket, pack some snacks from a nearby grocery store, and enjoy world-class music in a historic setting. The park is also home to several important cultural sites, including the Mahalia Jackson Theater and the New Orleans Municipal Auditorium.

Congo Square, within the park, is where enslaved and free people of color gathered on Sundays to play music and dance, making it the birthplace of jazz. Free walking tours of the park are sometimes available through volunteer organizations.

Self-Guided Architecture Tours

The French Quarter and Garden District are outdoor museums of architectural styles spanning three centuries. Download a free walking tour app like GPSmyCity or pick up a map from the New Orleans Convention & Visitors Bureau and explore at your own pace.

The Preservation Resource Center offers free self-guided tour brochures that explain architectural terms and highlight significant buildings. Look for Creole cottages, shotgun houses, Greek Revival mansions, and Victorian "gingerbread" details that tell the story of New Orleans' cultural evolution.

The French Quarter features Spanish Colonial and Creole architecture (despite the name, most buildings date from Spanish rule, not French). The Garden District showcases antebellum mansions built by wealthy Americans who moved to New Orleans after the Louisiana Purchase.

‍Free highlights include:

• The Cabildo and Presbytère flanking St. Louis Cathedral
• The Hermann-Grima House's preserved 1830s architecture
• Magazine Street's mix of shotgun houses and commercial buildings
• The mansions along St. Charles Avenue visible from the streetcar

Happy Hour Specials and Local Deals

Many restaurants offer excellent happy hour deals on both food and drinks, making fine dining accessible to budget-conscious travelers. Commander's Palace offers their famous 25-cent martini special (with entrée purchase) during weekday lunch, transforming an expensive dinner destination into an affordable luxury experience.

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Download the NOLA.com app for current restaurant deals and happy hour specials. Many French Quarter establishments offer discounted appetizers and local beer between 3-6 PM.

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Budget-friendly local favorites:

• Acme Oyster House: Happy hour oysters for $1 each
• The Original French Market Restaurant: Early bird dinner specials
• Mother's Restaurant: Generous portions at reasonable prices
• Central Grocery: Muffuletta sandwiches that easily feed two people

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Local grocery stores like Rouses Market sell ingredients for picnics in City Park or along the riverfront. Many hotels, including Hotel Perle, can provide recommendations for affordable local eateries that offer authentic experiences without tourist pricing.

Free Museum Days and Cultural Events

The New Orleans Museum of Art offers free admission for Louisiana residents on Thursdays, and many other museums have special free days throughout the month. The Historic New Orleans Collection offers free exhibitions and walking tours that provide deep insights into the city's history.

Insider tip: The Ogden Museum of Southern Art has free admission on Thursdays after 6 PM for Louisiana residents, plus "Ogden After Hours" events with live music and cash bars. The Backstreet Cultural Museum focuses on African American culture and traditions, offering affordable admission and invaluable cultural education.

Many churches offer free concerts, especially during the holiday season. St. Louis Cathedral occasionally hosts free organ concerts, and several Protestant churches in the Garden District feature excellent choirs and musical programs.

Practical Tips for Your New Orleans Adventure

Best Time to Visit New Orleans: What to Expect Each Season

October through April offers the most comfortable weather, with average temperatures between 60–75°F and lower humidity. Still, each season brings its own unique charm and considerations:

Spring

• Peak festival season with Jazz Fest and French Quarter Festival
  
  
• Comfortable temperatures around 70–80°F
  
  
• Expect large crowds and higher hotel rates
  
  
• Pro tip: Book your accommodations early—this is one of the busiest times of year
  
  

Summer

• Hot and humid, often exceeding 90°F with high humidity
  
  
• Fewer tourists and lower hotel rates
  
  
• Many local festivals and events take place—great for an authentic experience
  
  
• Pro tip: Stay cool by planning indoor activities during midday hours
  
  

Fall

• Beautiful weather returns, with warm days and cooler nights
  
  
• Hurricane season runs through November, but major storms are rare after October
  
  
• Smaller crowds compared to spring, and festival season picks up again
  
  
• Pro tip: A great time to enjoy outdoor dining and walking tours
  
  

Winter

• Mild temperatures between 50–65°F
  
  
• The lowest hotel prices of the year (except during Mardi Gras)
  
  
• Mardi Gras season begins in late January or early February, bringing big parades and bigger crowds
  
  
• Pro tip: For a quieter winter trip, visit just before or after Mardi Gras season
  
  

Getting Around the City

New Orleans is surprisingly walkable, especially in the French Quarter and surrounding neighborhoods. The Regional Transit Authority (RTA) operates streetcars and buses throughout the city, making car-free exploration entirely feasible.

Streetcar lines:

• St. Charles Line: Connects downtown to Uptown and the Garden District ($1.25 per ride)
• Canal Street Line: Runs from the French Quarter to City Park and the cemeteries
• Riverfront Line: Connects the French Quarter to the Convention Center

Insider tip: Buy a Jazzy Pass for unlimited rides if you plan to use public transit frequently. The one-day pass costs $3, and three-day passes are $9. Streetcars run every 15-20 minutes, and exact change is required if paying per ride.

Rideshare services (Uber and Lyft) are readily available, though surge pricing occurs during major events and festivals. Many visitors find they don't need a car at all, especially when staying in central locations like Hotel Perle on St. Charles Avenue, where the streetcar line provides easy access to major attractions.

Staying Comfortable in the Heat

New Orleans summers can be intense, with temperatures reaching 95°F and humidity levels that make it feel even hotter. Plan indoor activities during the hottest part of the day (usually 2-5 PM), and don't underestimate the importance of staying hydrated.

Heat survival tips:

• Drink water constantly, even if you don't feel thirsty
• Wear lightweight, light-colored clothing and a hat
• Take advantage of air-conditioned shops, restaurants, and museums for cooling breaks
• Plan walking tours for early morning or late afternoon
• Consider afternoon pool time or indoor activities during peak heat

Many locals take a midday break during summer months, and some businesses reduce hours during the hottest part of the day. Embrace this rhythm rather than fighting it—use the afternoon heat as an excuse to relax by the pool or explore air-conditioned museums.

Safety and Common Sense

Like any major city, New Orleans requires basic street smarts, but don't let safety concerns prevent you from exploring this incredible city. The French Quarter has a strong police presence, especially during busy periods, and most tourist areas are well-patrolled.

Basic safety guidelines:

• Stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night
• Don't flash expensive jewelry, electronics, or large amounts of cash
• Stick to well-lit, populated areas after dark
• Trust your instincts—if something feels wrong, leave
• Keep copies of important documents separate from originals

The French Quarter is generally safe for tourists, but be cautious on quiet side streets late at night. The Garden District and Magazine Street are safe during daylight hours. If you're unsure about an area, ask locals or hotel staff for guidance.

Emergency contacts:

• New Orleans Police: 911 or (504) 821-2222
• Tourist-oriented police: French Quarter has dedicated tourist police officers
• Medical emergencies: 911

Your Perfect New Orleans Home Base

No matter what brings you to New Orleans—the music, the food, the festivals, or just the unique energy of this incredible city—choosing the right place to stay can make or break your experience. Hotel Perle offers the perfect combination of luxury and location that enhances every aspect of your New Orleans adventure.

Located on historic St. Charles Avenue, Hotel Perle puts you within easy reach of all the best things to do in New Orleans while providing a peaceful retreat from the city's excitement. The spacious multi-bedroom suites are ideal for groups and families who want to stay together while having room to spread out. After a day of exploring jazz clubs on Frenchmen Street or sampling po'boys in the French Quarter, you can gather on the rooftop pool deck to share stories and plan the next day's adventures.

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The hotel's location along the streetcar line means you can easily reach the French Quarter, Garden District, and Uptown without needing a car. The local staff knows the city intimately and can provide insider recommendations that go beyond typical tourist suggestions—whether you're looking for the best late-night music venue, a hidden restaurant that locals love, or the perfect spot to watch a second line parade.

What sets Hotel Perle apart is its understanding that New Orleans is best experienced with others. The multi-bedroom suites encourage the kind of shared experiences that make trips memorable—cooking breakfast together before heading out to explore, gathering for drinks before a night on Frenchmen Street, or simply having space for everyone to relax comfortably after a long day of festival-going.

FAQ: Planning Your New Orleans Trip

What's the best time of year to visit New Orleans? 

October through April offers the most comfortable weather and peak festival season, but each season has its charm. Summer brings authentic local culture and lower hotel rates, while winter offers mild temperatures and fewer crowds. Spring is festival season but also the busiest and most expensive time to visit.

What's a good itinerary for 3-4 days? 

Day 1: French Quarter exploration, beignets at Café du Monde, and dinner in the Quarter. Day 2: Garden District streetcar tour, Magazine Street shopping, and music on Frenchmen Street. Day 3: City Park, museums, or a cooking class, followed by fine dining. Day 4: Swamp tour, additional neighborhoods, or festival attendance depending on timing.

Can I explore New Orleans without a car? 

Absolutely! The French Quarter, Garden District, and many attractions are walkable. The streetcar system connects major areas efficiently, and rideshare services fill in the gaps. Many visitors find that having a car is more trouble than it's worth due to limited parking and traffic in popular areas.

What's the best area to stay for first-timers? 

The French Quarter puts you in the heart of the action but can be noisy. The Garden District and areas along the streetcar line offer quieter accommodations with easy access to attractions. St. Charles Avenue provides an ideal balance of accessibility and tranquility.

How much should I budget for food? 

New Orleans offers options for every budget. Street food and casual dining can cost $10-20 per meal, while fine dining ranges from $50-100+ per person. Many restaurants offer excellent happy hour deals, and the city's food culture encourages sharing dishes, which can help stretch your budget.

What should I pack? 

Comfortable walking shoes are essential. Dress in layers for air-conditioned interiors and hot, humid exteriors. Bring sunscreen, a hat, and an umbrella for sudden rain showers. If visiting during festival season, pack earplugs and a small bag for carrying water and snacks.

Wrapping Up

New Orleans rewards the curious traveler with experiences that can't be found anywhere else in the world. Whether you're here for a long weekend or a full week, this city will surprise you with its depth, charm you with its hospitality, and send you home with stories that'll last a lifetime. The music, food, culture, and people create a combination that's impossible to replicate—and once you've experienced authentic New Orleans hospitality, you'll understand why so many visitors become lifelong fans of the Big Easy.

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