10 Best Things to Do in New Orleans

The French Quarter is the area many call the heart of New Orleans, thanks to its many 18th-century buildings, townhouses and art galleries. Choose from a selection of cafes and eateries, or enjoy beignets and café au lait at Café du Monde, which has been operating since 1862.

The French Quarter is home to many historical landmarks, including the Cabildo, where the Louisiana Purchase was signed in 1803, and St. Louis Cathedral, which is the oldest Roman Catholic Church in the USA. Why not take a historical, self-guided walking tour to see these wonderful landmarks, as well as free art exhibitions in Jackson Square?

From the outside, LaLaurie Mansion is a picturesque display of early 19th-century architecture, with its wrought iron balconies and baroque façade. It seems unlikely that anything gruesome could ever have happened there, and yet it is notorious for being one of the most haunted buildings in the USA thanks to its dark past. The mansion’s owner, Marie Delphine Macarty or 'Madame LaLaurie', tortured and killed many enslaved people back in the mid-1800s.

Entrance to LaLaurie Mansion isn’t permitted. However, you can join a ghost tour to learn all about the grisly history of the house and other surrounding spooky sites.

City Park is a magnificent green space in the heart of New Orleans, and it's also one of the largest urban parks in the country. The park first opened in 1854, so it has a long history as well as vast natural beauty.

Within the park grounds, you'll find facilities for boating, sports, picnics and more. Younger family members can enjoy over 15 themed rides at the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park, including a hand-carved carousel called 'Flying Horses', which dates back to the early-1900s. The park also features a whimsical Storyland garden setting, where you and your loved ones can check out 20 sculptures of popular book characters.

At the St. Louis Cemeteries, located half a mile northwest of Bourbon Street, you can pay a respectful visit to the tombs of many New Orleans icons. These 3 labyrinth-like graveyards date back to the late-18th century, with most of the intricate tombs set above ground.

One of its most popular residents is Marie Laveau, also known as the 'Voodoo Queen of New Orleans'. Many claim to have seen her spirit wandering the St. Louis Cemetery, which attracts plenty of paranormal enthusiasts. Join a guided walking tour of the cemeteries to make the most of your exploration and learn more local secrets.

Blaine Kern’s Mardi Gras World is a working studio and museum displaying thousands of extravagant costumes, floats and props for Mardi Gras celebrations. Founded in 1947, it occupies a 37,000 sq m warehouse in the Port of New Orleans, about 1 mile southeast of the Louisiana Children’s Museum.

Among the many creations you can see here are a dragon-shaped float and giant sculptures of Disney characters. You can even rummage through the costume trunks and dress up in your favourite Mardi Gras costumes during your visit.

The Garden District is known as one of New Orleans’ most picturesque neighbourhoods, filled with historic mansions, striking cemeteries and ancient trees lining the streets. If you’re looking for a quieter spot in the city, this is the place to go, as it offers a more laid-back vibe than some of the more party-centric neighbourhoods. Even so, it still provides plenty of dining and shopping options.

Highlights of the Garden District include the Briggs-Staub House, built in 1849, and you'll love the many great brunch spots along Magazine Street.

The New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum is located in the heart of the New Orleans French Quarter, and it has highlighted the legacy of New Orleans' Voodoo history since 1972. The museum embraces the mysteries, folklore and secrets of the practice with its displays of altars, candles, dolls and paintings.

As you explore the museum, you'll learn about the history of Voodoo Queens, including the renowned Marie Laveau, and you'll have the option of joining a walking tour to visit her house as well as other related landmarks. Don't forget to visit the gift shop for souvenir candles, soaps, potions and prints.

The New Orleans Streetcar has been operating since 1835, making it one of the oldest transportation systems in the USA. The iconic streetcars are operated by the New Orleans Regional Transit Authority (NORTA), and are inexpensive and easy to navigate.

There are 4 lines travelling to popular neighbourhoods in the city, and you won't want to miss the Riverfront line, one of the most scenic routes. This 2-mile route travels along the Mississippi River and stops at landmarks such as the French Quarter, Riverwalk Marketplace, Jackson Brewery and French Market. Buy 1-way fares or choose a pass for unlimited trips.

The Crescent City Farmers Market takes place at various locations in New Orleans, including Uptown, Mid-City and City Park. The markets began in 1995 as producer-only markets where shoppers could buy fresh products directly from ranchers, dairies, bakers, farmers and fishermen in the area.

Nowadays, you'll find over 50 local vendors at the markets, selling a wide array of fresh vegetables, fruits, seafood and meat, as well as baked goods, packaged food items, jams, honey and homemade pastries. Join the free cooking demonstrations and enjoy the live music, which is perfect for livening up the atmosphere and strengthening the community spirit.

Bourbon Street, located in the French Quarter, is a nightlife hub that embraces the liveliest of New Orleans party vibes. Bars, clubs and restaurants line the 13 blocks of Bourbon Street, spanning from Canal Street to Esplanade Avenue. Music fills the air and neon lights cast a colourful glow on the streets.

You’re likely to hear live jazz or rock ‘n’ roll in the evenings as some of the city’s best jazz clubs, venues and burlesque theatres are located in this neighbourhood. One popular spot is Fritzel’s European Jazz Club, which has been hosting nightly traditional jazz performances since 1831. Or drop into Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop Bar for a touch of authentic New Orleans charm and ambience.