The vibrant culture, sights and sounds of New Orleans make it one of the most unique cities in America. From jazz music to Cajun cuisine and Mardi Gras celebrations, all eyes are on the iconic French Quarter, home to the infamous Bourbon Street and the vibrant Royal Street. Beyond the French Quarter is just as exciting, from the trendy Warehouse District to the upscale Garden District. To discover the best sights and attractions, start with our list of the top 16 places to visit in New Orleans!
16 Best Things to Do in New Orleans, LA
| Attraction | Address | Opening Hours | Admission Fee |
|---|---|---|---|
| French Quarter | Bounded by Canal St, Rampart St, Esplanade Ave, & River | Open 24 hours | Free |
| Mardi Gras | Various locations in New Orleans | Varies depending on events and location | Free (some events may charge) |
| National WWII Museum | 945 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | 9:00am-5:00pm, closed on some holidays | $29 for adults, $26 for seniors |
| Jackson Square | 701 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70116 | Open 24 hours | Free |
| Preservation Hall | 726 St. Peter St, New Orleans, LA 70116 | 5:00pm-11:00pm | $20 per person |
| Steamboat Natchez | 600 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | Varies depending on cruise schedule | $34 for adults, $17 for kids |
| Warehouse District | Bounded by Poydras St, Tchoupitoulas St, & Magazine St | Open 24 hours | Free |
| Garden District | Bounded by St. Charles Ave, Louisiana Ave, & Magazine St | Open 24 hours | Free |
| Audubon Zoo | 6500 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70118 | 10:00am-5:00pm | $25.50 for adults, $17.50 for kids |
| Col. Battle Bark Outdoor Show at National WWII Museum | 945 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | 11:00am, 12:00pm, 1:00pm, & 2:00pm | Included in admission fee |
| Royal Street | Bounded by Canal St & Esplanade Ave | Open 24 hours | Free |
| Frenchmen Street | Bounded by Royal St & Decatur St | Open 24 hours | Free |
| Court of Two Sisters | 613 Royal St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | 9:00am-3:00pm | $33 per person for brunch |
| Expressions of America Outdoor Show at National WWII Museum | 945 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | Daily shows at 11:00am & 2:00pm | Included in admission fee |
| 4D Theater at National WWII Museum | 945 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | Varies depending on schedule | Included in admission fee |
| Parades during Mardi Gras | Various routes throughout New Orleans | Varies depending on events and location | Free (some events may charge) |
French Quarter
For many tourists seeking a unique experience, New Orleans is the ideal destination. Situated on the banks of the Mississippi River, the bustling city is a melting pot of cultures and experiences, particularly iconic within the French Quarter. Originally founded by French settlers, the beautiful architecture gives visitors a sense of history. Home to the infamous Bourbon Street, there is plenty of activity day and night.
Take a leisurely walk along the cobblestone streets while admiring the red-tiled roofs and picturesque courtyards. Royal Street offers a great mix of history, fine cuisine, and unique shopping opportunities, with some higher end stores, galleries, and hotels. The Court of Two Sisters (1832) is now home to a restaurant known for its jazz brunch. For a more active nightlife, Frenchmen Street is the place to visit for traditional jazz music, lively entertainment, and fantastic restaurants. With so much to explore and discover in the French Quarter, it’s easy to understand why tourists flock here.
Mardi Gras
Mardi Gras is a highly anticipated event in New Orleans, as the festivities last up to two weeks. From parades through the streets to colorful floats lined with beaded necklaces, it’s no wonder people flock to the city for an unforgettable experience.
Bourbon Street is always packed for the days leading up to Mardi Gras, as this is one of the main areas where people congregate. It was the French settlers who introduced the tradition, which became particularly popular by the end of the 19th century. As the finale of the celebrations draw near, the level of intensity increases, culminating with Ash Wednesday. To truly experience the atmosphere of Mardi Gras, you need to be in New Orleans to take in all the sights and sounds.
National WWII Museum
The remarkable National World War II Museum honors those brave souls who fought throughout World War II. Visitors are taken on a journey through the past with engaging exhibits, documentaries, and oral histories. The museum is split into three sections, each devoted to a particular area. The first focuses on the war in Europe, the second on the war in the Pacific, and the third houses WWII aircraft.
One of the highlights of the museum is the Beyond All Boundaries 4D Theater experience. Produced and narrated by Tom Hanks, the documentary immerses you with chairs that rumble and stage props that bring it to life. With so many evocative exhibits and stories to explore, it’s a must-see attraction for everyone.
Jackson Square
Situated in the heart of the French Quarter, Jackson Square is not to be missed. Located close to the waterfront, the lush greenery and beautiful architecture provide great photo opportunities. Not only for its beauty, Jackson Square is also a hub for local artists, buskers, and musicians, offering a variety of entertainment.
Take a stroll through the square and you can easily get lost in the atmosphere. Those with an eye for history will appreciate the Te Deum bell, while those in search of a unique souvenir can browse the prices and crafts offered by local artisans. So, whether you want to observe the stunning architecture or listen to a talented street performer, Jackson Square is the perfect place.
Preservation Hall
Preservation Hall offers an intimate musical experience like no other. Opened in 1961 as a safe haven for traditional, old-time New Orleans Jazz, the hall is renowned for its jazz shows. Step inside and you will be transported back in time, with the timeless melodies of trumpets, tubas, banjos, and trombones.
Listen in awe as master musicians play, many of whom have been playing at Preservation Hall for years. While visitors are encouraged to take photos, talking and recording is not allowed, as this would disrupt the sacred vibe of the room. If you want to immerse yourself in the true spirit of New Orleans, Preservation Hall is the place to go.
Steamboat Natchez
Visitors to New Orleans can take a unique and memorable journey along the Mississippi River, on the historic Steamboat Natchez. The beautiful vessel is a favorite sight of many, with people lining up to buy tickets along the shore. The twin-stacked steamboat offers jazz, dinner and sightseeing cruises, but all trips will inevitably feature a similar outing, along the same cozy reaches of the river.
The Natchez offers daily cruises from the French Quarter, allowing guests to take in the surrounding sights and sounds that have been a part of this iconic city for centuries. Choose from a regular sightseeing cruise, or enjoy open seating for the opportunity to keep moving and see the views from different perspectives. Nightly jazz cruises are also a popular option, offering smooth sounds and delicious cuisine to help make the most of the experience. As the late afternoon sun sets over the river, travelers will be entranced by the smooth beats of the live music while cruising peacefully downstream.
The Natchez has been a staple of local life since the 19th century, and it still operates today as a registered National Historical Landmark. A trip on the Natchez is an essential part of experiencing the rich history of New Orleans, combined with fun and excitement. It’s definitely a must-see for anyone coming to visit the city!
Warehouse District
New Orleans is a great city for exploration, and the Warehouse District is just one of the many neighborhoods that should be visited when in town. Beyond the classic architectural offerings of the French Quarter, the Warehouse District provides plenty of nightlife, shopping, and dining options. With easy access to public transportation, it’s easy to explore the area and take in its historical sites.
The Warehouse District consists of a few blocks of streets lined with renovated warehouses, many of which have been turned into restaurants, art galleries, music venues, and shops. The district is also home to several popular bars and nightclubs full of life and music. Every Saturday, the area hosts the Arts Market, where local vendors sell art, jewelry, clothing, and crafts.
Those looking for a unique experience should visit the National WWII Museum located in the Warehouse District. Here, visitors can explore the history of WWII through interactive exhibits, films, and oral histories. A new show called the Expressions of America Outdoor Show will be debuting in November 2022, which promises to be an outdoor immersive show unlike any other.
The Warehouse District is a great place to explore and discover the unique culture of New Orleans – and best of all, it’s within walking distance of the French Quarter.
Garden District
To experience more of the culture and charm of New Orleans, visitors should take a trip on one of the city’s historic streetcars. These vintage vehicles take passengers through some of the most picturesque parts of the city, including the picturesque Garden District.
The streetcars are an affordable way to get around and are also a great way to experience the city like a local. Taking a streetcar through the Garden District allows travelers to take in some of the area’s historic architecture, with stately mansions set against lush green spaces. This is a great spot to get a feel for the history of the city and to get a glimpse of the old-world sophistication of the area.
There are other areas of the city that can be explored on the streetcars, such as the French Quarter and Uptown. The quaint neighborhood cafes, boutiques and art galleries along the way provide plenty of opportunities for travelers to stop and explore.
The streetcars remain a popular way to get around and are a great way for visitors to get a sense of the city and its many attractions.
Audubon Zoo
Though many people flock to the French Quarter and other centers of tourist activity in New Orleans, there is another attraction that shouldn’t be missed: the Audubon Zoo. Located on the corner of Magazine Street and Audubon Place, it provides a unique opportunity to get close to some of the world’s fascinating animals.
The zoo is well-known for its vast collection of exotic creatures, including rare and endangered species brought in from all corners of the planet. Visitors can get face-to-face with giant cats, giant primates, and even a herd of elephants. Plus, there are plenty of wonderful wildlife exhibits, featuring everything from flamingos to zebras.
The Audubon Zoo also offers exciting shows, interactive experiences, and educational programs to teach visitors about the animals and the habitats they inhabit. And the zoo’s various trails, gardens, and aviaries create an immersive environment for visitors to explore.
From thrilling wintry rides to bird-watching and other family-friendly activities, the Audubon Zoo is one of the top attractions for tourists in New Orleans.
Col. Battle Bark Outdoor Show at National WWII Museum
Beginning in November 2022, the National WWII Museum in New Orleans will be presenting a brand new show called the Expressions of America Outdoor Show, set on the Colonel Battle Bark. This show is being billed an “outdoor immersive show” and is sure to provide an unforgettable experience.
Held at night at the museum, the Expressions of America show uses music and technology to create an exceptional event that will combine lights, images, and sound for an awe-inspiring show. The show’s creators hope to bring the history and memories of the era to life with a combination of film, animation, and special effects.
It promises to be a great evening’s entertainment and will be a wonderful addition to the National WWII Museum. Meanwhile, the museum also has lots of engaging exhibits, documentaries, and interactive experiences to explore during the day.
Royal Street
Royal Street in the French Quarter of New Orleans is the perfect place to indulge in a bit of shopping and dining. Set along the cobbled lanes of the city’s oldest district, Royal Street is the perfect place to find unique items, enjoy the sights of the area, and savor some of the city’s finest food.
From high-end boutique stores to small souvenir shops, there’s plenty of shopping to be done here. It’s also a great street for people watching and getting lost in the history of New Orleans.
There are plenty of dining options on Royal Street and across the French Quarter. From fine-dining establishments, casual cafes, and pastry shops, there’s something to suit all tastes. Of particular note is the Court of Two Sisters, which has been serving New Orleans cuisine for over half a century and is known for their famous jazz brunches.
Whether you’re looking for unique souvenirs, world-class dining, or just want to soak up the atmosphere of the old city, Royal Street is the perfect spot to explore.
Frenchmen Street
The quaint streets of the French Quarter in New Orleans offer a unique experience for tourists. It’s here that you’ll find the infamous Bourbon Street at its heart, with horse-drawn carriages waiting to take visitors on a tour, and the Steamboat Natchez docked along the shore. For those looking for a more cultural experience, a visit to Frenchmen Street is a must.
Here, visitors will find live jazz music from the area’s most talented musicians, a variety of restaurants serving up classic Cajun cuisine, and plenty of unique shopping opportunities. Additionally, Royal Street offers a great mix of historical buildings, fine dining, and interesting shops. When exploring the French Quarter, visitors can also make sure to check out Jackson Square and St Louis Cathedral, located just off the waterfront.
Court of Two Sisters
The Court of Two Sisters is one of the most noteworthy buildings to be found on Royal Street in the French Quarter of New Orleans. This 1832 building is now home to one of the city’s most renowned restaurants, known for its jazz brunch. The restaurant offers a wide selection of classic Cajun dishes and Creole cuisine, as well as musical entertainment from some of the city’s best jazz performers. With its charming décor and delicious food, it’s no surprise that the Court of Two Sisters is one of the most popular places for tourists to visit during their trip to New Orleans.
Expressions of America Outdoor Show at National WWII Museum
At the National WWII Museum in New Orleans, there’s something for everyone! Visitors can learn about the history of the war in Europe and in the Pacific through engaging exhibits and documentary snippets. The 4D theater shows the documentary film Beyond All Boundaries, produced and narrated by Tom Hanks, which comes to life with moving chairs and stage props. The newest attraction at the museum is the Expressions of America outdoor show, an immersive show that takes place in the evenings and brings the stories of WWII to life.
Experiencing the 4D Theater at National WWII Museum
NOwhere else in the world can visitors experience WWII quite like they can at the National WWII Museum in New Orleans. An absolute must-see, the museum houses three different sections, each devoted to the war in the Pacific, Europe, and aircrafts. In the 4D theater, visitors can watch the Beyond All Boundaries documentary, produced and narrated by Tom Hanks, that aims to give viewers a real-life look at the items on display.
Chairs rumble as tanks go by on screen and stage props turn the experience into a sensory event. Additionally, visitors are assigned a profile of someone who was actually in the war, and can take advantage of oral updates available from various stations throughout the complex.
Enjoying the Parades during Mardi Gras
Nothing says New Orleans quite like Mardi Gras! Celebrations span a period of two weeks, ending on Shrove Tuesday just before Ash Wednesday. Parades with outrageous floats roll through the city on almost a daily basis, and onlookers line the balconies and sidewalks to catch the strings of beaded necklaces that are tossed from the floats. The festivities reach a peak as they get closer to the finale, and the whole French Quarter area is packed with partygoers. The tradition began with French settlers and has become an iconic part of the culture in the city. Visiting New Orleans during Mardi Gras is a unique experience that should not be missed.
Conclusion
Discovering the sights and sounds of New Orleans is a must for any traveler. From historic architecture to delicious Cajun cuisine, and wild Mardi Gras celebrations, there’s something for everyone to explore! This stunning city is the perfect destination to kick off your adventure, and with our list of the top attractions in New Orleans, you’ll be sure to have an unforgettable visit.
From iconic French Quarter to the vibrant Garden District, soak up the rich culture and history that this vibrant city has to offer. Whether you’re looking to explore the famous jazz music, take part in the lively festivities, or just take a stroll along the Mississippi River, New Orleans has something special for everyone to discover!