Things to Do in New Orleans

Beyond Bourbon

As a native New Orleanian, I am often asked "What is there to do in New Orleans besides getting drunk on Bourbon street?!" Aside from eating (which would be another article in itself) there are many wonderful things to do in New Orleans. Granted, New Orleans is the "Party Capitol of the World," but if you are going to come here for a visit, you should explore the rest of the city and outlying areas.

Be sure to:

Take the battlefield paddlewheel cruise down the Mississippi River. It is a great opportunity to view landmarks (with a narrator), enjoy music, and eat New Orleans cuisine. The ship docks to give riders time to tour the battlefield. Adult ticket price without lunch: $20, with lunch $27. (Kid friendly)


For a more romantic setting, take a dinner jazz cruise down the Mississippi River at night. The Creole Queen and Cajun Queen paddleboats both have cruises that offer New Orleans cuisine and jazz. Adult ticket price without dinner: $30; with dinner $53.

Go on a Swamp Tour. The best time to do this is Spring and Summer when the wildlife is active. You can go on a walking tour, boat tour, or airboat tour. (Kid friendly)

Take a streetcar ride from N. Carrollton ave. to Canal street- a great way to sightsee uptown, the garden district, business district and downtown. (Kid friendly)

Visit at least one plantation. Many are within 45 minutes of New Orleans, along the old River Road. Oak Alley Plantation and Laura Plantation are only a few minutes apart and offer a look back into the history of the Deep South. (Kid Friendly)

Visit a cemetery. We bury our dead above ground! Some of the tombs are elaborate enough for royalty! Check out Metairie Lawn Cemetery, it has some of the most extravagant and famous.


Got Kids?

Take the Audubon Cruise to the Aquarium, IMAX and the Audubon Zoo.

Eat beignets at Café du Monde.

Take a picnic to Audubon Park