10 Best Things to Do in New Orleans

Looking for what to do in New Orleans? New Orleans is one of the most culturally rich and atmospheric cities in the United States — a place where jazz music drifts through historic streets, Creole and Cajun flavours fill bustling restaurants, and centuries of blended French, African, Caribbean and American influences shape everyday life. The city’s character is unmistakable: vibrant, soulful and overflowing with traditions found nowhere else. Whether you come for festivals, food, music or history, New Orleans offers an unforgettable experience steeped in charm and storytelling.

From the iconic French Quarter and its lively music halls to waterfront attractions, haunted tours, museums, and legendary cuisine, here are the 10 best things to do in New Orleans to help you plan the perfect visit.

1. Explore the French Quarter

The French Quarter is the beating heart of New Orleans — a neighbourhood filled with cobblestone streets, wrought-iron balconies, jazz clubs, open-air cafés, and buildings dating back centuries. Walking through the Quarter feels like stepping into a living museum, where architectural beauty and local traditions merge in every direction. Famous spots such as Bourbon Street, Royal Street and Jackson Square create an atmosphere unlike anywhere else in the world.

The area is constantly alive with street performers, artists, musicians and vendors who bring the Quarter’s energy to life. Whether it’s brass bands on a corner, painters selling their work near the cathedral, or lively bars buzzing into the night, the French Quarter showcases the soul and rhythm of New Orleans at every hour.

2. Visit Jackson Square & St. Louis Cathedral

Jackson Square stands as one of America’s most picturesque public plazas, framed by historic architecture and anchored by the stunning St. Louis Cathedral — the oldest continuously active Roman Catholic cathedral in the United States. Visitors can explore the cathedral’s ornate interior, admire its soaring spires and take in the serene atmosphere that contrasts beautifully with the lively streets around it.

Surrounding the square, local artists display paintings and sketches, musicians perform for passersby, and horse-drawn carriages wait to offer scenic rides through the French Quarter. With nearby cafés, boutiques and galleries, Jackson Square is a perfect place to slow down, take photos and enjoy the essence of New Orleans culture.

3. Experience live jazz on Frenchmen Street

Frenchmen Street is the true heart of New Orleans’ live music scene — a strip lined with intimate clubs, bars and venues offering nightly jazz, blues, funk and brass performances. Unlike the more tourist-heavy Bourbon Street, Frenchmen Street attracts locals and music lovers seeking authentic, high-quality shows. Venues such as The Spotted Cat, d.b.a. and Snug Harbor are legendary for their intimate atmosphere and outstanding musicians.

As you wander the street, you’ll also encounter outdoor markets, street performers and impromptu jam sessions that spill onto the sidewalks. It’s a place where the city’s musical identity comes alive, creating an unforgettable experience for visitors looking to immerse themselves in New Orleans’ sound and spirit.

4. Enjoy beignets & coffee at Café du Monde

Café du Monde is a New Orleans institution that has served powdered-sugar-dusted beignets and rich chicory coffee since 1862. Its location near Jackson Square makes it a perfect stop while exploring the French Quarter, and its open-air seating allows visitors to enjoy the lively street scenes while indulging in one of the city’s most iconic treats. The warm beignets paired with a café au lait are an essential New Orleans experience.

The café is open 24/7, and part of its charm is the constant buzz of people — tourists and locals alike — enjoying the simple pleasure of fresh pastries. Whether you visit early in the morning or late at night, Café du Monde captures a timeless slice of the city’s culture.

5. Take a Mississippi Riverboat cruise

Riverboat cruises along the Mississippi River offer a nostalgic and scenic way to experience New Orleans from the water. Traditional paddlewheel boats combine old-world charm with guided narration, live jazz music and delicious Creole-inspired meals. The Steamboat Natchez and the Creole Queen are two popular options, each providing panoramic views of the skyline and shoreline.

As the boat glides along the river, you’ll learn about New Orleans’ maritime history, its role in American trade and the significance of the Mississippi throughout the city’s development. Sunset cruises are especially magical, with golden reflections dancing on the water and the city lighting up in the evening glow.

6. Explore the National WWII Museum

The National WWII Museum is one of the most acclaimed museums in the United States, offering an immersive and emotional journey through the history of World War II. Its exhibits feature aircraft, tanks, personal letters, interactive displays, multimedia presentations and breathtaking storytelling that highlight both the global conflict and individual experiences of those who lived through it. Visitors often spend hours exploring its detailed galleries.

The museum’s 4D film “Beyond All Boundaries,” narrated by Tom Hanks, provides a powerful cinematic overview of the war. With multiple buildings and extensive exhibitions, the National WWII Museum is a must-see for history enthusiasts and one of New Orleans’ top attractions.

7. Wander the Garden District

The Garden District is a stunning neighbourhood known for its grand mansions, oak-lined streets and impressive examples of 19th-century Southern architecture. Walking through this peaceful area feels like entering a different world compared to the lively French Quarter. Historic homes with wraparound porches, intricate ironwork and manicured gardens make the district a favourite for photographers and architecture lovers.

Nearby, Magazine Street offers boutique shopping, antique stores and charming cafés that make for a perfect afternoon. Visitors often pair their Garden District stroll with a stop at Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 — famous for its above-ground tombs — although access varies and should be checked in advance.

8. Enjoy a swamp or bayou tour

Just outside New Orleans, the Louisiana wetlands open up into a world of cypress trees, quiet bayous and fascinating wildlife. Swamp tours offer opportunities to see alligators, turtles, herons and other native species in their natural habitat. Airboat tours provide fast-paced adventure as they skim across open marshes, while slower eco-friendly boats allow for a more relaxed and educational experience.

Guides often share stories about Cajun culture, local traditions and the importance of preserving the wetlands. These tours offer a refreshing contrast to the city’s urban energy and highlight the beauty and diversity of Louisiana’s natural landscapes.

9. Visit the Audubon Aquarium & Insectarium

Located along the riverfront, the Audubon Aquarium showcases an impressive collection of marine life from the Gulf of Mexico, Caribbean and beyond. Exhibits include sharks, stingrays, colourful tropical fish, jellyfish tunnels and hands-on touch pools that are especially popular with families. The aquarium’s presentations and educational programs offer deeper insight into the region’s aquatic ecosystems.

Nearby, the Audubon Insectarium takes visitors into the fascinating world of insects through live displays, interactive exhibits and themed environments. It’s an engaging and educational stop that appeals to both kids and adults, making the two attractions a great pairing for a fun-filled day.

10. Taste New Orleans’ legendary cuisine

New Orleans is one of the world’s great food cities, renowned for dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, étouffée, po’boys, chargrilled oysters, red beans and rice, muffulettas and sugary pralines. The city’s culinary traditions blend Creole, Cajun, French, African and Caribbean influences, creating flavours that are bold, comforting and unforgettable. Whether you dine in a classic institution or a modern fusion restaurant, every meal tells a story of the region’s cultural history.

Neighbourhoods such as the French Quarter, Bywater, Treme, Marigny and Uptown offer endless options for food lovers, from casual eats to fine dining. With its emphasis on fresh seafood, spices and soulful cooking, New Orleans promises some of the most memorable meals you’ll ever experience.