The Wonders Of New Orleans, Louisiana: 15 Best Things To Do
New Orleans draws the attention of travelers and adventurers from around the world with its vibrant tapestry of history, culture, cuisine, and music. The city, also known as the heart of Louisiana, hides amazing wonders, including mouth-watering cuisine, indulgent massage spas, sweet music, and historic cemeteries.
As the title says, we will explore the wonders of New Orleans in the article below. We have selected the 15 best things to do in the city for you to make sure you don't miss out on enjoying the pleasures during your visit.
Let’s start this exploration without wasting a moment and learn together about the history, culture, and 15 best things to do in New Orleans, Louisiana.
The Rich Tapestry and Cultural Soul of New Orleans:
According to HNOC, the city of New Orleans was discovered by the French in 1718 as a place used for trading, hunting, and forming alliances by the Native Americans. It was also known as “Bulbancha,” meaning the land of various tongues, due to its multi tribal population. It became an attractive location for settlement with its high ground and convenient access to Lake Pontchartrain. The main federally recognized tribes of this land are Tunica, Biloxi, Chitimacha, Coushatta, and the Jena band of Choctaw. The early New Orleans was designed by a French military engineer, Le Blond De La Tour, in 1721. This was later destroyed by two huge fires during the Spanish colonial period between 1763 and 1803, and the Spanish government built the city. Today, the city presents a blend of French, Spanish, African, and American cultures that have lived here from 1718 to today.
Why You Should Visit New Orleans:
The city of New Orleans is not just a place, it's like a happy festival that brings visitors and locals together with its music and cuisine. It is the melting point of American, African, Spanish, and French cultures. Its colorful streets and yearly festivals make it a top pick for visitors around the world as the birthplace of Jazz music. Its rich history, world-famous cuisine, and vibrant music offer a mix of elegance, excitement, and unforgettable memories. If you are a food lover, the famous flavors like Cajun and Creole will make your tour more exciting than anything. The centuries-old architecture and street performance festivals offer unmatched life celebrations with passion. This city always leaves the visitors inspired, enchanted, and looking for more because it's an experience, not just a destination.
15 Best Things To Do During Your Visit to New Orleans:
As I said earlier, this city is the heart of Louisiana, and it always leaves visitors with a passion for more. Many wonders in the city make your trip unforgettable and give you pleasing memories. Whether you have visited the city before or are a first-time visitor, our curated list of the 15 best things to do in New Orleans is for you. You will be introduced to the most famous and enjoyable life experiences to do in the city during your trip. So, without wasting any further time, let's get to those 15 best things to do in the heart of Louisiana.
1. Exploring Jackson Square and the French Quarter:
The French Quarter of New Orleans, Louisiana, is a living museum with its Wrought-iron balconies, gas lanterns, and the charm of old age. You can stroll down the Royal and Charters Street to watch street performers and jazz spilling out from every cafe and bar. The Jackson Square and French Quarter are the places where a glass of Sazerac or a beignet sample will make your tour more sweet and pleasing. Here you can witness the remains of different architectures from their top-notch building designs.
2. Taking a Walk Through the Garden District:
The garden district is a leafy heaven and one of the most picturesque neighborhoods of this city.
You will see the stunning antebellum mansions framed with Spanish moss and surrounded by shady oak trees. This place is perfect for taking a walk around to see the local favorites like the Lafayette Cemetery No.1 and the Nichols House. Once you are done walking, get onto the magazine street for sweet treats, cozy cafes, and chic boutiques to treat yourself. You can also take a streetcar ride here, but it is not comparable to walking.
3. The Nightlife on Bourbon Street:
It's not wrong if I say your visit is not complete without witnessing the nightlife on the legendary Bourbon Street. You will be seeing the colors of life, and the loud, wild music from street performers here. You can enjoy street performances or live music in any bar, enjoying a classic cocktail. This vibrant energy and festive atmosphere make it worth visiting even if partying is not your scene. Here you can see the night energy of New Orleans and enjoy your visit under beautiful lights and loud music.
4. The Famous Jazz Museum:
The historic jazz museum is located inside the old US Mint. It is the soul of music of the heart of the city that is not just a museum of jazz music, but a celebration. You can enjoy live performances, view music exhibitions, and find vintage recordings from all times. Here you will be introduced to Louis Armstrong and Jelly Roll Morton, who have made New Orleans world-famous with their music.
5. Voodoo and the Historic Voodoo Museum:
The historic Voodoo museum in the French Quarter offers an opportunity to dive into the mysterious traditions of the city. This place brings the world of Voodoo to life with the artifacts, stories, and altars filled here. You can learn about the common myths and legendary figures like Marie Laveau and observe the influence of Voodoo on local culture today. If you are a mystic enthusiast, this is the best stop for you to explore the mystical side of this city.
6. The Delicious Beignets of Cafe Du Monde:
Cafe du Monde was established in 1862 and is specifically famous for its beignet cuisine and chicory coffee. If you want to get the full enjoyment of your visit to New Orleans, don't miss visiting this cafe. Their pastries are golden, deep-fried, and dusted with sugar powder will double the taste of your meal. They have been offering their coffee and beignets since the opening, and still the best in the French market for the last 1.5 decades.
7. The Sno-Ball of Hansen Sno-Bliz:
The Hansen’s sno-bliz is the best way to cool off during the heat of Louisiana. This local drink is made of homemade syrups, flavor, shaved ice, and fluffy snow soaked in it. It was started in 1939 and is still offering perfect desserts with the perfection of generations. Their famous beverages like cream of nectar and satsuma are made from scratch every day for fresh serving. A sno-ball beverage is a must in the city for a good and nostalgic experience.
8. The Massage and Spa Treatment:
A calming massage or spa treatment is the best way to recharge your energies after wandering through the vibrant culture and historic streets of New Orleans. You can find the most effective and relaxing escape through a full body massage, soft lighting, and soothing scent of the place. Some common and well-known messages of this city are mentioned below.
The Ritual Voodoo Massage
The Bamboo Massage
Southern Citrus Ceremony
Himalayan Stone Massage
Signature Foot and Hand Retreat
9. The City Park and Botanical Garden:
If you are looking for a peaceful and natural escape in the city, the park and botanical garden are the go-to places for you. It is the perfect place for spending a fun-filled afternoon in nature between sparkling lagoons, walking paths, and old oak trees. You can enjoy your time by paddling across the lake, sitting on a bench surrounded by nature, or watching kids in Story land. You can observe nature playing here and human creativity in the NOMA sculpture garden exhibitions, specifically held for the tourists.
10. Visiting the Historic Cemeteries of the City:
The historic cemeteries of New Orleans will make your visit like stepping into another world and into old age. These ancient cemeteries are made like tombs above the ground with brick, iron, and stone materials. A must-visit cemetery of all is the St. Louis Cemetery No.1, in which the famous Voodoo queen Marie Laveau is buried. You can go back to the times of quirky burials, family vaults, and ghostly legends walking between these cemeteries.
11. The Audubon Park Visit:
If you want to unwind in the natural beauty of this city, simply visit Audubon Park and the Mississippi River. Here you will find massive jogging and walking tracks surrounded by massive oak trees and Spanish moss. You can enjoy the natural beauty of this city by just sitting on the green grass and watching the river in its full strength. When you feel bored by this place, straightly go to Magazine Street to reward yourself with a charming cuisine or beverage and the cafe.
12. Riding the Streetcar of St. Charles Avenue:
The St. Charles streetcar offers one of the most nostalgic and scenic riding experiences in New Orleans. This vintage green trolley takes you through southern mansions, historic churches, uptown, and the old oak trees. It is one of the oldest functional streetcar services in the U.S. and ensures a relaxing journey with a fresh breeze touching your face. You will surely enjoy the eye-catching and scenic views of this ride.
13. Creole and Cajun Cuisine:
Whether you are a cuisine lover or not, your visit to this city can’t be completed without trying the famous cuisines here. Dining at a historic place like Anotoin’s Commander’s Palace or Parkway Bakery is an important thing to do during your trip. You can enjoy the famous Cajun and Creole flavors or rich gumbo and spicy jambalaya dish that reflect the city’s deep cultural roots with the past. Believe me, your meal will not be just food, it will be a celebration of soulful hospitality, a celebration of heritage and the flavor of culture.
14. River boating in the Mississippi:
Another wonder of New Orleans is the magical riverboat on the Mississippi River. It is a timeless experience with a combination of soulful charm, scenery, and history. You can catch the sights of historic warehouses, steamboat stacks, and oak-lined banks while paddling your boat past the city skyline. The rhythmic music and gentle churn of water create a peaceful mind escape during both day and night boating.
15. The Frenchmen Street Live Jazz Show:
Heading to Frenchmen Street at night can satisfy your craving for the authentic nightlife of this city. This place is always jam-packed with cozy and music-filled venues where jazz comes to life. You can hear everything from an energetic brass band to smooth swing in the local favorites like Spotted Cat and Snug Harbor. You can watch the top-notch talent of music, warm atmosphere, and have flowing drinks in this place. Every night, this place shared a deep experience of New Orleans nightlife to capture the true spirit.
Quick Travel Tips For Visiting New Orleans, Louisiana:
Here are some quick travel tips for you, even if you are a first-timer or have visited before.
Considering these tips will help you enjoy the most out of your trip and explore the real wonders of New Orleans.
Plan your trip for major events like Jazz Fest and Mardi Gras
Familiarize yourself with the city layout before your trip
If you need a quieter place to stay, check out the Garden District
Utilize streetcar services for convenient transportation
Pack your things according to the weather
Respect the local culture
Be aware at night