Discover the best of New Orleans through its iconic landmarks, rich history, vibrant music, renowned cuisine and family-friendly attractions.
New Orleans combines many attractions and landmarks, from cultural delights to family-friendly experiences, culinary tours to a vibrant music scene, and much more, which can sometimes tend to overwhelm the first-time traveller. Here are the top things to do for anyone visiting New Orleans for the first time.
Explore the French Quarter
The French Quarter tops the list for most travellers to New Orleans. Visit the iconic St. Louis Cathedral in Jackson Square, then line up for beignets at Café du Monde. Gallery hop on Royal Street or pick out a few souvenirs from the French Market. The French Quarter has it all: live music, food and drink, shopping, and history that define the city like no other.
A Ride on the Streetcar
No trip to New Orleans is complete without a ride on the streetcar. With four routes to choose from, the streetcar is the most scenic way to see New Orleans via public transit. Get a Jazzy Pass for all-day access and make a day out of it exploring the city and experiencing the streetcar cocktail crawl.
Cruising the Mississippi River
Whether via ferry to Algiers or a riverboat tour, there are many ways to get on the water. The Mississippi River defines the region with calm waters perfect for cruising. Take the ferry over to Old Algiers for a visit to a quaint residential neighbourhood or go all out on a riverboat cruise complete with food, drink, and music.
Culinary Delights Around Town
Po-boys, gumbo, red beans, seafood; traditional New Orleans food can be found in abundance throughout the city. When it comes to restaurants, checking out the classics is a good place to start. New Orleans also boasts a diverse food scene, with several Vietnamese, Italian, Indian, and South American restaurants to satisfy your cravings. Do not forget about the cocktails; there are plenty of places to grab a drink in New Orleans.
A Vibrant Music Scene
In New Orleans, music is everywhere. Whether it is Hot 8 Brass Band at the Howlin’ Wolf or Kermit Ruffins at the Mother-In-Law Lounge, experiencing live music in New Orleans must top every traveller’s list.
Nature Walk in City Park
If first-time travellers really want to experience New Orleans in full, a trip to City Park must be included the itinerary. This 1,300-acre public park is home to centuries-old oak trees, the New Orleans Museum of Art, Besthoff Sculpture Garden, and the Louisiana Children’s Museum, plus a variety of sports ranging from 18-hole golf to mini golf.
Walk Through the Historic Neighbourhoods
New Orleans is rich with history, much of it just waiting to be explored via neighbourhood tour. Take a guided tour of Tremé to the cultural centres that lie within the oldest African American neighbourhood in the country. Architectural enthusiasts will enjoy a tour of Uptown and the Garden District.
Family-Friendly Museums and Attractions
New Orleans is a cultural epicentre with family-friendly museums and attractions for every type of traveller. Some of the most popular attractions, however, include the National WWII Museum, the Audubon Zoo, and the Aquarium.
So, come and experience these New Orleans must-visit attractions during your first visit.
