New Orleans is a vibrant city that has a lot going on. Somehow it still has a chilled vibe at the same time! Although this city is mainly known for partying, there is so much more to it than just that.
There’s so much to see and so many things to do in New Orleans. In this post, I’ll be sharing all my favourite things!
Things to do in The French Quarter
The French Quarter is the historic, lively area and probably the most popular area to visit. You’ll find beautiful buildings with cast-iron balconies, hanging baskets and lanterns all over the French Quarter.
You can probably see most of the French Quarter in a day but 2 would be ideal. I noticed different things every time I walked the same street.
I’ve listed the must-see places below:
Jackson Square and St Louis Cathedral
In the middle of the French Quarter, you’ll find Jackson Square, overlooking the fairytale St Louis Cathedral.
The square is a great place to stop and rest for a while, it’s filled with palm trees and so picturesque. between the square and the Cathedral, you find street performers, fortune tellers and market stalls.
Café Du Monde
A few minutes from Jackson Square is Café du Monde; (located on Decatur Street). This place was on every blog post I read and for good reason! The line is usually long but does move quickly.
Be sure to try the beignets here. They’re square doughnuts covered in icing sugar!
The French Market
Located right next to Café du Monde. The French Market spreads over 6 blocks. You’ll find all sorts of souvenirs here as well as many tasty food stalls.
Bourbon Street
Also known as the party street! It’s always lively with blaring music, street performers and lots of bars. This is the most lively Street in New Orleans and definitely something you need to see for yourself.
Royal Street
Just one block away from Bourbon Street you’ll find Royal Street. Still quite a lively street but this one is filled with shops restaurants and galleries. It’s also very pretty.
Photo Location: The Corner of Royal and St Peters Street.
Other Streets
I would highly recommend exploring some of the lesser-known streets of the French Quarter. They’re charming and much more relaxed. My favourite was Dauphine Street. Frenchman Street is also a really great place to see live Jazz.
Watch Street Preformers
You’ll come across all sorts of street performers on the streets of the French Quarter. They really add to the lively atmosphere
Louis Armstrong Park
This park is really cool, essentially it’s made up of ponds and bridges. As well as statues and open space to enjoy the sunshine.
See the Mississippi River
It’s huge! It’s a nice walk along the part of the river that runs along the edge of the French Quarter. There are also a few different boat tours you can take.
Other Things to do in New Orleans
The Garden District
If you want to escape the hustle and bustle of the French Quarter, take a walk in the Garden District.
I spent a couple of hours wandering here. While there isn’t a whole lot to do in this area, the huge houses are really something special!
Canal Street
Another of New Orleans’s most famous streets. The streetcars run up and down and are a great way to get around. Also it’slined with palm trees, those combined with the sunshine are sure to get you in the holiday mood!
City Park
City Park is definitely with a visit. It’s a 1’300-acre park so you could easily spend a whole day exploring here! There are quite a few things to do, including the Museum of Art, mini-golf and a botanical garden.
I took my 2-year-old to Storyland and he loved it, you’ll also find an amusement park for older kids.
Wednesday at the Square
In the summer Lafayette Square hosts “Wednesday at the Square”. A pop up with live music and plenty of food and drink stalls, there’s also a little craft market. I happened to stumble across them setting up and am so pleased we went back that evening. The atmosphere was amazing and even better, attending is FREE!
You can find out more details / check the schedule HERE.
Thank you so much for reading my post about all the things to do in New Orleans, I hope you have the best time there!
Happy Travelling,
