Exploring New Orleans: Things to Do & Must-See Spots
New Orleans is one of the most unique cities in America, blending rich history, world-famous cuisine, vibrant music, and unforgettable culture into an experience unlike anywhere else. From the historic streets of the French Quarter and the lively energy of Bourbon Street to hidden courtyards, riverfront views, and legendary restaurants, there is no shortage of incredible places to explore. Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning to discover something new, the Crescent City offers attractions, landmarks, and local experiences for every type of traveler. In this guide, we’ll cover the top things to do in New Orleans, must-see historic sites, iconic food destinations, and hidden gems that make this Louisiana city a bucket-list destination year-round.
Why Exploring New Orleans Should Be on Every Louisiana Bucket List
Few cities in America offer the history, culture, food, music, and character found in New Orleans. Founded in 1718, the city blends French, Spanish, African, Caribbean, and American influences into an experience unlike anywhere else in the world.
Whether you’re visiting for the first time or returning for another trip, New Orleans rewards those who slow down, wander its streets, and embrace its unique traditions. From historic landmarks and legendary restaurants to live music and neighborhood festivals, every corner of the city tells a story.
Wander Through the Historic French Quarter
The French Quarter serves as the heart of New Orleans and remains the city’s oldest neighborhood.
Here, visitors can stroll along cobblestone streets lined with colorful buildings, wrought-iron balconies, and centuries of history. Around nearly every corner, you’ll find musicians performing, artists creating, and locals sharing stories.
Must-See French Quarter Attractions
- Jackson Square
- St. Louis Cathedral
- Royal Street
- Bourbon Street
- French Market
While Bourbon Street draws visitors looking for nightlife, Royal Street offers a quieter experience filled with galleries, antique shops, and live jazz.
Visit Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop
No trip to New Orleans feels complete without stepping inside one of the city’s most famous landmarks.
Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop stands on Bourbon Street and is widely considered one of the oldest bars in America. Built during the early 1700s, the structure has survived fires, hurricanes, and centuries of change.
Why Visitors Love Lafitte’s
- Candlelit atmosphere
- Historic architecture
- Pirate legends connected to Jean Lafitte
- One of the oldest surviving buildings in New Orleans
- Unique New Orleans character
Today, visitors come as much for the history as they do for the drinks.
Experience New Orleans Food Culture
Food plays a major role in every New Orleans visit.
The city’s cuisine reflects generations of cultural influences, creating dishes that have become icons of Louisiana cooking. While famous restaurants attract visitors from around the world, neighborhood eateries often deliver some of the most memorable meals. Check out our guide for our Top 10 Ranked New Orleans restaurants for 2026 at fromtheparish.com.
Must-Try New Orleans Foods
- Beignets and café au lait
- Shrimp po’boys
- Oyster po’boys
- Gumbo
- Jambalaya
- Crawfish étouffée
- Red beans and rice
- Chargrilled oysters
Additionally, fresh Gulf seafood appears on menus throughout the city.
Explore New Orleans Neighborhoods
Although the French Quarter gets much of the attention, several other neighborhoods help define New Orleans.
Each offers its own personality, architecture, and local culture.
Garden District
The Garden District features historic mansions, beautiful oak trees, and some of the city’s most impressive homes.
Magazine Street
Stretching for miles, Magazine Street combines local restaurants, boutiques, bars, and coffee shops into one of the city’s most walkable areas.
Bywater
Colorful homes, public art, and a creative atmosphere make Bywater one of New Orleans’ most distinctive neighborhoods.
Marigny
Located next to the French Quarter, Marigny combines historic architecture with a thriving music scene and local character.
Follow the Sound of Live Music
New Orleans offers live music every night of the week, with each neighborhood showcasing its own unique sound. Frenchmen Street is the city’s premier destination for jazz, blues, brass bands, funk, and local musicians. Popular venues include The Spotted Cat Music Club, d.b.a., Blue Nile, and Snug Harbor. Throughout the French Quarter, you’ll find legendary spots like Preservation Hall for traditional jazz.
The bars along Bourbon Street feature everything from rock and country to high-energy party bands that play late into the night. Favorites include Fritzel’s European Jazz Club, Pat O’Brien’s, and The Cat’s Meow. Some of the best entertainment isn’t inside a venue at all. Street musicians and brass bands regularly perform around Jackson Square, Royal Street, the French Market, and throughout the French Quarter. If you’re looking for larger concerts, visit Tipitina’s in Uptown or The Fillmore New Orleans in the Warehouse District. No matter your musical taste, New Orleans has a live music venue or street performance you’ll never forget.
Music isn’t simply entertainment in New Orleans—it’s part of everyday life.
Although jazz was born here, visitors will also find blues, funk, brass bands, soul, zydeco, and bounce music throughout the city.
Learn the City’s Fascinating History
New Orleans has played a major role in American history for more than three centuries.
Because of its location along the Mississippi River, the city became one of the most important ports in North America. Today, visitors can explore museums, historic landmarks, and neighborhoods that tell the story of Louisiana’s past.
Historic Attractions
- National WWII Museum
- St. Louis Cathedral
- Historic cemeteries
- French Quarter landmarks
- Mississippi River waterfront
As you explore, you’ll quickly discover that history remains visible throughout the city.
Spend Time Along the Mississippi River
The Mississippi River helped shape New Orleans into the city it is today.
Walking along the riverfront offers spectacular views of cargo ships, paddlewheel boats, and the New Orleans skyline. Additionally, riverboat cruises provide a unique perspective of the city from the water.
For many visitors, sunset along the river becomes one of the most memorable moments of the trip.
Enjoy Parks and Outdoor Spaces
Although New Orleans is famous for its urban attractions, the city also offers beautiful outdoor spaces.
City Park
One of the largest urban parks in America, City Park features:
- Ancient live oak trees
- Walking trails
- Sculpture gardens
- Lagoons
- Family-friendly attractions
Audubon Park
Located Uptown, Audubon Park offers scenic walking paths, open green space, and views near the Mississippi River.
These parks provide a welcome break from the city’s busy streets.
Discover Voodoo and Spiritual Traditions
Voodoo remains one of the most misunderstood parts of New Orleans culture.
Rooted in African, Caribbean, Catholic, and Indigenous traditions, Louisiana Voodoo developed over generations and continues to influence local spiritual practices.
Visitors can explore museums, historic sites, and educational tours that explain the history behind figures such as Marie Laveau and the lasting impact of Voodoo on New Orleans culture.
Explore the Haunted Side of New Orleans
New Orleans has earned a reputation as one of America’s most haunted cities.
Centuries of history, epidemics, fires, wars, and natural disasters have inspired countless legends and ghost stories.
Popular Haunted Attractions
- Historic cemeteries
- French Quarter ghost tours
- Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop
- Historic mansions
- Former hospitals and hotels
Even visitors who don’t believe in ghosts often enjoy learning about the city’s folklore and legends.
Experience New Orleans Festivals
Although Mardi Gras receives most of the attention, New Orleans celebrates throughout the year.
Food, music, culture, and community remain at the center of nearly every festival.
Top New Orleans Festivals
- Mardi Gras
- French Quarter Festival
- New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival
- Essence Festival of Culture
- Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival
Together, these events showcase the music, cuisine, and traditions that make New Orleans one of the world’s great festival cities.
Why New Orleans Never Gets Old
New Orleans reveals itself a little differently during every visit.
One trip may revolve around food. The next might focus on music, history, architecture, or festivals. Because the city constantly evolves while preserving its traditions, visitors often discover something new each time they return.
More than anything, New Orleans rewards curiosity, making it one of the most unforgettable destinations in Louisiana.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time to visit New Orleans?
Spring and fall typically offer the most comfortable weather, along with many of the city’s largest festivals.
How many days should I spend in New Orleans?
Three to five days allows enough time to experience the French Quarter, local food, live music, museums, and nearby neighborhoods.
Is the French Quarter walkable?
Yes. Most major attractions within the French Quarter are easily explored on foot.
What food should I try first in New Orleans?
Many visitors start with beignets, gumbo, po’boys, chargrilled oysters, or jambalaya.
What is the most famous festival in New Orleans?
Mardi Gras remains the city’s most famous celebration, although Jazz Fest and French Quarter Festival also attract large crowds.
Related Articles
French Quarter Festival Guide – Discover one of Louisiana’s largest free music festivals and learn how to experience it like a local.
Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop: The Oldest Bar in America – Explore the history, legends, and atmosphere behind one of New Orleans’ most famous landmarks.
History of the Zulu Parade – Learn how one of Mardi Gras’ most beloved traditions became an important part of New Orleans culture.
What Is a Beignet? History and Best Places to Find Them – Discover the origins of Louisiana’s most famous pastry and where to find the best beignets.
Guide to the Best Po’Boys in Louisiana – Explore iconic sandwich shops serving one of Louisiana’s most beloved foods.
Final Thoughts
Exploring New Orleans means experiencing one of America’s most unique cities. From historic streets and legendary restaurants to live music and world-famous festivals, every visit offers something memorable. Whether you’re discovering the French Quarter, listening to jazz on Frenchmen Street, or enjoying a plate of gumbo along the river, New Orleans delivers an experience that stays with you long after the trip ends.
