10 Best Things to Do in New Orleans

If you like magazines, go along Magazine Strip, but the six-mile-long street is dotted with more than just that, including book stores, bakeries, cafés, restaurants, gift shops, jewellery stores, home décor, and more.

New Orleans, Louisiana is a far cry from the hustle and bustle of America, and it has a vintage feel about it. You’ll find yourself admiring the ancient iron balconies, French architecture, and peaceful environment.

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10 Best Things to Do in New Orleans

From the early 18th century to the early 19th century, Orleans served as the capital of French territory before being given over to the United States. At sites like joie de vivre, Frenchmen Street, the French Quarters, and Jackson Square, you may still get a glimpse of French life and flair.

We’ve compiled a list of the top ten things to do in New Orleans, Louisiana, USA, which you should definitely check out.

1. Visit the French Quarter

In New Orleans, Louisiana, the French Quarter is the city’s historic core and the city’s oldest neighbourhood.

The French Quarter, often known as ‘Vieux Carre,’ is a popular hangout spot throughout the year. You can simply meander around and take in some of the fascinating one-of-a-kind sights while relaxing in one of the cosy cafes.

Despite the fact that it is now a US state, New Orleans retains the final vestiges of its French heritage, which can be seen in this lovely neighbourhood. It’s interesting and enjoyable to listen to live music on the street.

It’s impossible to avoid amusement on the streets. If you enjoy jazz, you will spend the entire evening here. You can also buy souvenirs or small, unique presents, or simply stroll along the Mississippi Riverfront.

2. Jackson Square 

Jackson Square, a 2.5-acre park in New Orleans, is one of the city’s most popular attractions. In 1721, it was constructed as part of and to beautify the French Quarter.

General Andrew Jackson, who also served as the 7th President of the United States from 1829 to 1837, was renamed in 1815. This historic park also includes his sculpture, which was created by Clark Mills and is quite lovely.

The park was originally built to overlook the Mississippi riverside, but the view has since been obstructed by tall buildings. The 18th century houses that exist opposite to the north-side of the park, which used to be the core of colonial-period, will leave you speechless.

A few films and television shows have also been filmed in New Orleans’ Jackson Square. The streets are bustling with street merchants and young artists selling on-the-spot portraits.

After spending the afternoon in the Square, you’ll find a variety of stores, galleries, and restaurants where you may grab a bite to eat.

3. Audubon Zoo 

The Audubon Zoo is a 58-acre zoo located in New Orleans’ uptown neighbourhood. Around 2,000 species are housed at the zoo, which are better adapted to Louisiana’s humid environment. Built in 1914 and named for John James Audubon, a local artist and naturalist.

Asian elephants, gorillas, orangutans, and tigers will all be there. Apart from them, you will be able to see rhinoceros, giraffes, and other animals in their natural habitat. The swamp exhibit and the unusual white alligator are the major attractions.

During the summer, the zoo also hosts a few kid-friendly activities. It’s not to be confused with the Audubon Zoo, which has the same name. Another sight near the French Quarter is the Butterfly Garden, which has roughly 50 exhibits.

4. Food History Tour in the Afternoon

Something you should not miss out on. The town boasts a wide variety of uncommon and authentic meals to choose from, which you may savour all afternoon.

This tour is highly recommended whether you are in town for vacation or business. You should try everything, from huge restaurants to little cafés to street cuisine; we are confident you will not be disappointed.

Café du Monde, which has been around since the 1980s, is a one-of-a-kind coffee shop with 24-hour service and the greatest donuts in town. A popular choice is “au lait,” a traditional coffee kind, but you may also try something new from their extensive menu.

5. The National World War II Museum

The National WWII Museum in New Orleans, Louisiana, will take you on a tour of the war, its aftermath, and the courageous soldiers who fought and sacrificed their lives. It will be a very humbling experience for you.

The museum will provide insight into the American side of the fight, with medals and other objects belonging to battle veterans, among other things, on display. Make sure to go early in the afternoon because the museum shuts at 5 p.m. every day.

6. World of Mardi Gras

Mardi Gras is one of the oldest traditions in the United States, and it is still celebrated today.

The Mardi Gras World has a large assortment of colourful, wacky, and off-the-wall costumes. The enterprise was founded in 1984 by the Kern Studios with the goal of providing tourists and even locals with year-round access to the float-building tradition.

In and around New Orleans, it has become a popular tourist destination. You can ask the staff to let you put on a costume (though it may be difficult to choose one) and learn about Mardi Gras traditions while you’re there.

You can also check out the planned costumes for the forthcoming Mardi Gras day, as well as the most recent sculpting. Along the Mississippi Riverfront, it’s just near to the Morial Convention Center.

7. Steamboat Cruise in Natchez

It’s as exhilarating in your thoughts as it sounds. Also a terrific romantic setting with jazz playing in the background and a large buffet while sailing on the Mississippi. You can select the tour package that best suits your needs. You’ll spend a number of hours sending.

Taking a cruise is one of the most enjoyable and exciting things to do in New Orleans. To be clear, this is the only riverboat in New Orleans that still runs in the original manner.

8. Streetcars

Streetcars, often known as trams, are becoming increasingly scarce these days, but you can still find fully operating trams in this town. These have been in use since the 1830s and have always been an important feature of New Orleans. This means of transportation can be used to get around most of the city.

The dark green streetcar line on St Charles Avenue has been in service for the longest time in the history of American railway lines. That has now been designated as a historic site.

Although they were severely damaged and diverted off course when Hurricane Katrina wreaked havoc on the region, they were rebuilt the following year.

You can purchase a ticket to board this and take a journey from St. Charles Avenue to the end of the street’s border, passing through tunnels and gorgeous antebellum mansions. Each passenger paid less than $2 for the ride.

9. Audubon Park 

We’ve already discussed the Audubon Zoo and Aquarium, which is named after a well-known local artist and naturalist, and the Park is also named after him. This is a popular hangout spot for both visitors and locals.

Some of the trees date back to the 1880s, when they were planted on plantations. The location was previously used for Buffalo soldiers during the Civil War before being recognised as a park for public pleasure decades later.

The park looks out over the Mississippi River, and the vista is breathtaking. A relaxing and pleasant environment that harkens back to a bygone era. The World Cotton Centennial, a world exposition held in 1884, was also held here.

10. Airboat Tours 

The swamp trips are more than just sightseeing; they are entertaining and full of adventures. This is a must-do for adventure seekers in New Orleans. There’s also a chance you’ll see a rare albino alligator.

Airboat tours in Louisiana are suitable for families and children. You can also purchase your tickets in advance online.

Conclusion

Although the city was erroneously impacted and much was lost when Hurricane Katrina struck in 2005, it is now back on its feet and thriving even more. The city retains a small-town, yet classic, feel about it. When you’re in town, you’ll find yourself seeing the historic district, visiting museums, and learning about Louisiana’s wild side.