With a culture unlike anywhere else on the planet, New Orleans should have a place on everyone's travel bucket list. Today I'm going to share some things you must do in New Orleans. Let's go?!
I can tell you: it's much more than just Mardi Gras! You have to discover places beyond Bourbon Street.
Try New Orleans Food
New Orleans is a foodie destination!
In addition to trying the food, I recommend taking a food tour as well. The cuisine here has such a dynamic history and learning about it makes it that much more interesting.
As a bonus, food tours allow you to sample a few flavors to decide what you like without having to commit to a full plate.
The food scene is flourishing and you'll find delicacies and innovative dishes in addition to the classic dishes.
Stroll through the French Quarter of New Orleans
This is the tourist center, so get there early as there are always a lot of people. If you enter before 9 am, you will find a quiet and clean place ready to be explored. Take pictures early when the neighborhood is at its peak.
Stroll past iconic sites like Jackson Square, the Cabildo (where the Louisiana Purchase was signed in 1803) and St. Louis.
Try New Orleans' Local Cocktails
While New Orleans is so much more than just drinking, you'll definitely want to play a little game here. Explore the bars around the city and the cool thing is that you can enjoy your drink on the street. 🙂
Experience local drinking culture by experiencing iconic New Orleans. Some of the most popular drinks to add to your list are Sazerac, Hurricane and the Purple Voodoo Drink (which is similar to an alcoholic slushie).
If you have a drink on your trip, make it one of these :).
Explore the Garden District in New Orleans
There are so many impressive mansions and architectural wonders in the Garden District. While it's a perfect photo spot, you'll see even more in one tour. Learning about the history and cultural significance of each place makes it more meaningful.
I hear that when actor John Goodman is in town he leaves the door open to let everyone know he's there!
Know your story
In my four-day guide to New Orleans, I've shared several different tours that give you a glimpse into local life. New Orleans, as an ancient port city and modern party center, has so many international influences and a fascinating history that can be found on every block.
Curiosity: did you know that the french quarter is actually made up of almost all spanish style buildings?
listen to some jazz
New Orleans is a city with a soundtrack. Music permeates the soul of Louisiana and a live show is an essential experience.
Preservation Hall is a great place and is just one of many and Frenchman Street is another must.
If you are lucky enough to find a “second line”, you will have an unforgettable experience. It is one of the most quintessential experiences in the city.
Part of a traditional "jazz funeral", a second line is a traditional dance where people get in a line and hold a parasol or scarf in the air.
Take a ride on the tram
Take a ride on an old-fashioned tram. There are four lines. You can take the St. Charles, the Canal Street line (which covers the cemeteries and City Park), the Riverfront line (currently served by the Canal lines) or the Rampart line.
Bring the exact change, as the driver will not give you any feedback. It's $ 1.25 for a one-way trip or you can grab a Jazzy Pass for unlimited rides.
Visit the French market
O french market is six blocks from non-stop shopping, cafes, restaurants and one-of-a-kind antiques. Open 365 days a year from 10am to 6pm, this is the perfect place to sample the best of New Orleans food and culture.
There is often a brass band roaming the streets and the whole place radiates energy.
explore a cemetery
New Orleans is famous for its cemeteries and there are tours that will take you to the most beautiful places. Unfortunately, there have been issues with vandalism in the past, so they're not all open to individual visitors – however, you can explore most of the iconic cemeteries with a licensed tour guide.
Remember this is not a theme park.!
Cemeteries are places of cultural learning in New Orleans. Enjoy the stories of burial practices and some of the old ghost stories that have been passed down through generations.
Learn about voodoo
Forget the Hollywood version of voodoo! The Voodoo religion is not at all what you think. The actual culture and belief system surrounding Voodoo is closely intertwined with New Orleans.
I recommend spending some time separating fact from fiction and soaking up the culture and religion on a deeper level by taking a tour.
Where to stay in New Orleans
Do your research on the map and find the best options:
Booking.com10 things you must do in New Orleans
Did you like the tips?
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10 Local Foods to Try in New Orleans
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