Touted as the most unique city in the United States, New Orleans - the Crown Jewel as they often called it offers visitors a distinct ambiance which you won’t find elsewhere. Its French Quarter takes travelers back to the colonial period, where one could marvel at the lined-up Spanish-Creole buildings across the streets. From its fun and entertaining Bourbon Street to its historical New Orleans Jazz Museum, every little corner exudes a rich cultural heritage. Stroll along the Jackson Square, where you’ll get to see the city’s most iconic landmarks - St. Louis Cathedral. There’s so much to learn and explore about this sublime city. And if you’re planning to visit the city then check out our comprehensive list of things to do in New Orleans’ French Quarter.
1. Take a walk across the lively Bourbon Street
If you wish to start your trip in New Orleans with some fun and good vibes, then the entertaining Bourbon Street is what you’ll need to look for. This historical attraction has been on the radar of many tourists visiting the French Quarter as it is filled with bars, nightclubs, and strip clubs. Back in the 1900s, the street was primarily a residential area but went through a quick transition when the Storyville redlight district was established next to the French Quarter. It became the ‘sin city’, where prostitution and gambling were taking place, and by the 1950s, you could easily find bars, exotic dancers, and burlesque shows lining up the Bourbon Street. And since then they haven’t turned back.
Bourbon Street
Address: Bourbon St., New Orleans, LA
2. Watch an entertaining performance at Le Petit Theatre
When it comes to pure entertainment then Le Petit Théâtre du Vieux Carré knows well how to do it. Created in 1916, the nation’s oldest community-based theatre started as a group of art supporters which helped produce plays in private drawing rooms in the French Quarter, and today it is known as the most historic playhouse in the area. Ranging from contemporary to classic dramas, blues to jazz, and comedies, this is the place to savor some good art performances. The Spanish Colonial-style theatre designed by Architect Richard Koch is located right at the corner of St. Peter and Chartres Streets.
Le Petit Theatre
Address: 616 St Peter, New Orleans, LA 70116
Website: Le Petit Theatre
Opening hours: 12am - 5pm (daily)
3. Soak in the scenic views from Woldenberg Park
Whether you prefer to enjoy a relaxing afternoon or the cool and soothing breeze coming from the Mississippi River in the morning, Woldenberg Park is just the place to be. This park sprawls across 16 acres (6.5 hectares) of green spaces between the Mississippi River and the French Quarter and has been a frequently visited spot for both locals and tourists. During festive seasons you might find lively concerts happening at the amphitheater or street performers presenting their art. There’s always something interesting happening at the park. Located close to the park are the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas and the Entergy Giant Screen Theater.
Woldenberg Park
Address: 1 Canal St, New Orleans, LA 70130
Website: Woldenberg Park
Opening hours: Sun - Thu: 6am - 10pm; Fri - Sat: 6am - 12am
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4. Dress up in costumes at Mardi Gras Museum of Costumes and Culture
One of the most anticipated celebrations in New Orleans is certainly the Mardi Gras, which happens on the last day of the Carnival celebration. And the best way to learn about this tradition and the culture of the New Orleanian society is to take a tour at the Mardi Gras Museum of Costumes and Culture. The museum showcases a private collection of Carl Mack touted as the Xylophone Man, an entertainment provider, who collected fancy carnival costumes over many years. This large collection includes Mardi Gras Indians, Carnival ball royalty, Cajun Mardi Gras, Gay Carnival Krewes, Carnival in Brazil and many more.
Mardi Gras Museum of Costumes and Culture
Address: 1010 Conti St, New Orleans, LA 70112
Website: Mardi Gras Museum of Costumes and Culture
Opening hours: 10am - 5pm (daily)
5. Visit St. Louis Cathedral - the oldest in North America
The majestic St. Louis Cathedral is one of the most popular landmarks of the New Orleans and for a good reason. It’s not only because of its sublime architecture but the church is known to be the oldest cathedral in the United States, dedicated to King Louis IX of France. It is currently the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of New Orleans and went through many renovations and expansions. One of the reasons for attracting many visitors is the cathedral’s cemetery, where the very known Voodoo priestess Marie Laveau was buried. Visitors can easily spot the cathedral which overlooks the famous Jackson Square.
St. Louis Cathedral
Address: 615 Pere Antoine Alley | New Orleans, LA 70116-3291
Website: St. Louis Cathedral
Opening hours: 8.30am - 4pm (daily)
6. Admire the masterpieces at Martin Lawrence Galleries
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
If you’re someone who has a great passion for fine arts then Martin Lawrence Galleries reserves some great art masterpieces for you. Founded in 1975, this modern and sleek art gallery is conveniently located in the Royal Street of the French Quarter, where original artworks of the 20th-century masterminds like Picasso and Warhol can be seen. Aesthetes will also have access to contemplate paintings by contemporary artists like Robert Deyber and Takashi Murakami.
Martin Lawrence Galleries
Address: 433 Royal St., New Orleans, LA, New Orleans, LA 70130-2103
Website: Martin Lawrence Galleries
7. Delve into medical history at the New Orleans Pharmacy Museum
In the 19th century, the state of Louisiana passed a crucial law by Governor Claiborne, which required that all pharmacists operating in the state take a licensing examination to be able to practice professionally. With the passage of this new law board of credible pharmacists and physicians were established through oral examinations which took place at the Cabildo in Jackson Square. And among these practitioners, Louis J. Dufilho, Jr. was the first person to pass the licensing examination. He consequently was able to set up his apothecary shop which became the first pharmacy in the United States to operate under inadequate scientific research. Currently, visitors can tour the museum and learn more about early medicine.
New Orleans Pharmacy Museum
Address: 514 Chartres St, New Orleans, LA 70130
Website: New Orleans Pharmacy Museum
Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 10am - 4pm (closed on Sun & Mon)
Price: 5 USD
8. Learn how to cook at the New Orleans School of Cooking
Learn about the fusion of New Orleans cuisine by taking a fun cooking class with the New Orleans School of Cooking, which was created since 1980. The cooking school is currently located in the center of the French Quarter at the renovated molasses warehouse. Simply grab an apron and start a wonderful cooking lesson and learn about the local specialties, including Gumbo, Jambalaya or the Oyster Bienville. Thanks to its cultural diversity, visitors get to taste the fused Cajun and Creole cuisine.
New Orleans School of Cooking
Address: 524 St Louis St, New Orleans, LA 70130
Website: New Orleans School of Cooking
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 9am - 6pm; Sun: 9am - 5pm
9. Visit Hex an old-world witchcraft shop
Situated in the quaint French Quarter, the Hex is an old world witchcraft shop dedicated to those who believe in the power of spirits and psychic abilities. This quirky-looking shop is the brainchild of the duo warlocks, notably Brian Cain and Christian Day who are themselves, practitioners. Arriving here, you’ll be amazed by going through the vast collection of occult books, voodoo dolls, potions, spell candles and jewelry. If you wish to make a step ahead, then try consulting the psychic reader who can predict your future. Visitors can find many experts who specialize in tarot card reading palmistry and astrology.
Hex
Address: 1219 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70116
Website: Hex
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 11am - 9pm; Fri - Sun: 11am - 11pm
10. Watch a 3D film at Entergy Giant Screen Theater
Editor’s note: establishment is permanently closed
The Entergy Giant Screen Theater is an ideal destination to go with your kids, where watching movies like Antarctica in a 4k resolution becomes a real treat for children. The venue is equipped with the most advanced motion picture technology and is fitted with a multi-speaker sound system and a silver screen reaching five-and-a-half stories tall. The theater is located close to the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas. If you’re planning to watch a movie with your family then you can purchase tickets online or at the counter. The regular tickets include the Aquarium admission as well.
Entergy Giant Screen Theater
Address: 1 Canal St, New Orleans, LA 70130
Website: Entergy Giant Screen Theater
Opening hours: 10am - 5pm (daily)
11. Drop by the spooky Museum of Death
Home to the hardcore graphic exhibitions dedicated to death, murder, cannibalism, and terrorism, this unique Museum of Death opens its doors to those who do not possess a faint heart. Inspired by their original museum in California, the founders- J. D. Healy and Catherine Shultz chose to display their odd collection of body bags, autopsy videos, and pictures sent to them by serial killers to the public. The highlight is no doubt the suicide device - Thanatron made by Dr. Kevorkian, but visitors will also find it intriguing to see paintings made by serial killers. If you happen to collapse during your tour, then you might end up getting a free t-shirt with a quirky message.
Museum of Death
Address: 227 Dauphine St, New Orleans, LA 70112
Website: Museum of Death
Opening hours: 10am - 7pm (daily)
Price: 15 USD
12. Familiarize with the Irish diaspora at the Irish Cultural Museum
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Our museum walks you through the history of Irish culture in New Orleans and you will love our coffee shop! Visit our site at http://www.icmnola.org/ to learn more.
Posted by Irish Cultural Museum of New Orleans / St. Pat’s Irish Coffeehouse on Thursday, March 22, 2018
Find yourself in a tranquil Spanish courtyard away from the bustling French Quarter, and enjoy the cool ambiance of the Irish Cultural Museum which is set in a colonial style. Sip the homemade Irish coffee or try the Gaelic Ginger, and begin a trip back in time when you’ll learn about the Irish heritage passed in New Orleans. There’s so much to learn in this complex equipped with a reading library, a research section, and an exhibition displaying artifacts. There’s also an auditorium which features the award-winning film documentary-Irish, New Orleans. And if you fancy some handcrafted jewelry then check out the coffee house which displays some beautiful Celtic ad Irish products.
Irish Cultural Museum
Address: 933 Conti St, New Orleans, LA 70112
Website: Irish Cultural Museum
Opening hours: Fri - Sat: 8am - 7 pm
13. Check out interactive exhibits at the New Orleans Jazz Museum
Right in the robust music scene of the city lies the New Orleans Jazz Museum at the intersection of the French Quarter and the Frenchmen Street corridor of live music. The museum pays tribute to the history of Jazz and its ongoing cultural renaissance. There’s a range of interactive music exhibitions, multi-generational education programs, research facilities, and diverse resources to those who are passionate about Jazz. Visitors will have the chance to get full insight into this genre of music through lectures, oral histories, video interviews, and theatrical live performances.
New Orleans Jazz Museum
Address: 400 Esplanade Ave, New Orleans, LA 70116
Website: New Orleans Jazz Museum
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 10am - 4.30pm (closed on Mon)
Price: 8 USD
14. Get a psychic reading at Bottom of the Cup Tea Room
Reputed as the most reliable and authentic psychic reading place in New Orleans, the Bottom of the Cup has been operating over 80 years! Back in the old days, after a long day of shopping around the city, ladies would take a break at the Bottom of the Cup to refresh themselves with a soothing cup of tea. And as they finished drinking their tea, psychic would pay them a visit to read the tea leaves which remained at the bottom of the cup. Visitors can still enjoy the relaxing ambiance and consult the renowned psychic-Otis who has been working there for more than 30 years.
Bottom of the Cup Tea Room
Address: 327 Chartres St, New Orleans, LA 70130
Website: Bottom of the Cup Tea Room
Opening hours: 10am - 6pm (daily)
15. Take a tour of The Presbytère
The Presbytère was primarily built in 1791 to complement the Cabildo, alongside the St. Louis Cathedral. This Jackson Square-facing museum portrays the best example of the formal colonial Spanish architecture. Previously it was operated as a courthouse, but today visitors can see its two prominent exhibitions which are dedicated to the history of the Mardi Gras culture in New Orleans, and the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina, where photographs are displayed.
The Presbytère
Address: 751 Chartres St, New Orleans, LA 70116
Website: The Presbytère
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 10am - 4.30pm (closed on mon)
Price: 7 USD
16. Enjoy the hand-crafted cocktails at Bar Tonique
Editor's Note: There's no photo available at the time of writing
If you’re wondering which bar you need to check out while visiting the city, then Bar Tonique is hands down your best bet. With its dim light, chilled-out vibe and friendly staff, enjoy a wonderful afternoon or evening by trying crafted cocktail drinks from the extensive menu list. Our recommendation is the refreshing Gin Fizz which will surely set you in a good mood.
Bar Tonique
Address: 820 N Rampart St, New Orleans, LA 70116
Website: Bar Tonique
Opening hours: 12am - 2pm (daily)
17. Savor a delicious brunch at Stanley Restaurant
Posted by Stanley on Friday, 10 May 2019
Stanley Restaurant is conveniently located at the popular Jackson Square. This airy and sun-soaked restaurant offers guests a beautiful dining setting with a gorgeous backdrop of the St. Louis Cathedral and downtown New Orleans. Ranging from sandwiches, burgers to crafted ice cream desserts, tease your taste buds with the local flavors.
Stanley Restaurant
Address: 547 St Ann St, New Orleans, LA 70116
Website: Stanley Restaurant
Opening hours: 7am - 7pm (daily)
18. Visit the New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum if you are a believer
Strolling along the bustling streets of the French Quarter, you’ll certainly end up noticing the ever-presence of the Voodoo culture which has played a significant role since the 1700s. Right between the Bourbon and Royal Streets, take a tour at the New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum, and learn more about the intriguing voodoo culture. Meet the on-site voodoo priest, who will be happy to give you a reading. There are sections at the museum dedicated to the voodoo history, traditions, and art.
New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum
Address: 724 Dumaine St, New Orleans, LA 70116
Opening hours: 10am - 6pm (daily)
Price: 7 USD
19. Pamper yourself at The Ritz-Carlton Spa
Editor's Note: Photo taken from the establishment's official social account
Our Ladies and Gentlemen are honored to announce that The Ritz-Carlton Spa as been included on the 2021 'Tops of the...
Posted by The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans on Friday, January 15, 2021
Soak in the rejuvenating ambiance of the Ritz-Carlton Spa right in the wonderful New Orleans City in an upscale setting. The luxurious spa offers a well-deserving spa treatment to those who wish to relax their muscles after a long day of shopping. Known as the most comprehensive spa in the city, including 22 treatment rooms, a boutique, and a cafe, the spa has an extensive list of signature treatments but the most desirable of all is no doubt the voodoo ritual. This spa ritual consists of crafted herbal poultice which is geared towards casting a spell for relaxation and allowing you to enter the mystical world.
The Ritz-Carlton Spa, New Orleans
Address: 921 Canal St, New Orleans, LA 70112
Website: The Ritz-Carlton Spa, New Orleans
Opening hours: Sun - Thu: 9am - 6pm; Fri - Sat: 9am - 7pm
20. Admire works of local artists at Dutch Alley Artists Co-op
Supporting local artists work is always a good gesture while visiting a new place, and the Dutch Alley Artists Co-op is one of the few places where you’ll get that chance. Visiting the Dutch Alley Artists Co-op might help you find the perfect souvenir gift to take from your New Orleans vacation. This wonderful art gallery is situated at the North Peters Street, which specializes in selling original artworks of the local artists. From sublime art paintings to intricately sculpted woods, and jewelry, there is always something that will grab your attention.
Dutch Alley Artist's Co-op
Address: 912 N Peters St, New Orleans, LA 70116
Website: Dutch Alley Artist’s Co-op
Opening hours: 10am - 6pm (daily)
21. Collect a souvenir from Bevolo Gas & Electric Lights
Posted by Bevolo Gas & Electric Lights on Monday, 13 August 2018
Simply head to the Bevolo Gas & Electric Lights located in the French Quarter, and you’ll understand the daunting work that takes to create gorgeous copper lanterns such as those that adorn historic landmarks like the Cabildo and Jackson Square. This shop has been operating since 1945 and is still going strong, selling copper lanterns across all of the 50 states and over 50 countries. It was Andrew Bevolo, Sr. who was the brain behind the production of gas lamps. And later with his metalworking skills paired with the talented architect A. Hays Town to create the original French Quarter Lamp. Take a tour of the rustic shop and find your favorite copper lantern lamp to take home.
Bevolo Gas & Electric Lights
Address: 521 Conti St, New Orleans, LA 70130
Website: Bevolo Gas & Electric Lights
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 8am - 5pm; Sat: 9am - 4pm (closed on Sun)
22. Traverse to the 19th century at 1850 House
Take a step back in time by visiting the1850 House to get a glimpse of the 19th-century New Orleans history, culture, and art. The 1850 House is an antebellum row house adorned with decadent furnishings and notable paintings. Built in 1850 by the daughter of Don Andrés Almonaster y Rojas, Micaela Almonester, the refined structure of the house was inspired by Parisian architecture. It is simply the place where you can experience the lifestyle of the colonial period dating more than 150 years. Visitors can find a set of John Slidell’s chinaware and Old Paris porcelain. There are several compartments including three bedrooms, a parlor, a dining room, and the kitchen building which housed the servants.
1850 House
Address: 523 St Ann St #3318, New Orleans, LA 70116
Website: 1850 House
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 10am - 4pm (closed on Mon)
Price: 5 USD
23. Witness natural phenomena at Audubon Butterfly Garden and Insectarium
Visit the largest American insectarium which is home to more than 50 live exhibits dedicated to insects, including different species of butterflies. Situated on the first floor of the 170 years of U.S. Custom House Federal Building, this museum is an ideal spot to bring your children to discover the importance of insects in our ecosystem. Despite being recently opened, the museum has proudly received the Thea Award for Outstanding Achievement (science and discovery garden). Children can visit the free-flight exhibition where they can see an array of spectacular butterflies.
Audubon Butterfly Garden and Insectarium
Address: 423 Canal St, New Orleans, LA 70130
Website: Audubon Butterfly Garden and Insectarium
Opening hours: 10am - 4.30pm (daily)
24. Marvel at the marine life at Audubon Aquarium of the Americas
Set along the banks of the Mississippi River, Audubon Aquarium of the Americas is a popular attraction among families on vacation. The attraction was opened in 1990 in view to promote awareness of the marine wildlife of the Americas. The aquarium has about 10,000 aquatic animals representing 530 species which include piranhas, freshwater stingrays, penguins, sharks, sea turtles, catfish, and a leucistic white alligator. One of the recommended exhibitions is the Caribbean reef which features a 30-feet (9 meters) long tunnel surrounded by 132,000 US gallons (500 cubic meters) tank of incredible marine animals like angelfish and tarpon.
Audubon Aquarium of the Americas
Address: 1 Canal St, New Orleans, LA 70130
Website: Audubon Aquarium of the Americas
Opening hours: 10am - 5pm (daily)
Price: 29.95 USD
25. Delve into city's history at The Historic New Orleans Collection
To acquire a comprehensive knowledge of New Orleans’ history and culture, Historic New Orleans Collection (THNOC) exhibits a huge collection of historical items that document historical events that spanned over three centuries. Whether you’re a history enthusiast or a researcher, Williams Research Center (under THNOC) caters about 35,000 library items, documents, photographs, paintings, manuscripts, and other precious artifacts. The headquarter of the museum is home to the main gallery where frequent rotating exhibitions take place.
The Historic New Orleans Collection
Address: 533 Royal St, New Orleans, LA 70130,
Website: The Historic New Orleans Collection
Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 9.30am - 4.30pm; Sun: 10.30am - 4.30pm (closed on mon)
26. Explore the exhibits at the Louisiana State Museum Cabildo
The Cabildo is a prominent historical building which was designed by Gilberto Guillemard and was used as the historical site of the Louisiana Purchase transfer in 1803, finalized by the United States’ acquisition of the Louisiana Territory. The building is conveniently located at the Jackson Square close to the St. Louis Cathedral. Take a tour and discover the rare artifact of America’s history through different displaying exhibitions, including Sidney Bechet’s Saxophone, a Mardi Gras Indian Suit, paintings and 3D objects.
Louisiana State Museum Cabildo
Address: 701 Chartres St, New Orleans, LA 70130, USA
Website: Louisiana State Museum Cabildo
Opening hours: Tue - Sun: 10am - 4.30pm (closed on Mon)
Price: 10 USD
27. Take a stroll around Jackson Square
One of the iconic attractions of New Orleans is definitely the Jackson Square, which in the 18th century was known as ‘Place d’Armes.’ The square is named after major Andrew Jackson who led the battle of New Orleans in 1815 against the British army. Today the square is a lively spot where locals and tourists hang around. The attraction is conveniently located facing the Mississippi River and is surrounded by historical landmarks such as the St. Louis Cathedral, the Presbytere, and Cabildo. There are also numerous galleries, cafes, restaurants, and museums. The square is also known to be ‘local artists’ colony’, where they display their artworks on the square’s iron fence.
Jackson Square
Address: 701 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70116
Website: Jackson Square
Opening hours: 8am - 7pm (daily)
28. Try Creole cuisine at Brennan's
Inspired by the old world elegance, Brennan’s has operated since 1946 bringing the best of the traditional Creole cuisine in the French Quarter. This opulent dining restaurant is meticulously decked out with Creole-inspired decor, where guests can enjoy the warm ambiance. Dishes are well concocted by the award-winning chef who knows perfectly how to revive the essence of the creole cuisine. Try the Bananas Foster and you’ll end up asking for more. The delicious seafood filé gumbo takes you to the next level.
Brennan's
Address: 417 Royal St, New Orleans, LA 70130
Website: Brennan’s
Opening hours: Sun - Thu: 9am - 9pm; Fri - Sat: 9am - 10pm
29. Hangout with your friends at Razzoo Bar & Patio
The last but not the least, the Razzo Bar & Patio is one of Bourbon’s premier nightclubs which you certainly do not want to miss. Enjoy its daily happy hour where you’ll get the delicious cocktail drinks to set your mood right for the evening. There is also live music which happens each Saturday night where you can listen to Hip Hop beats, the classic 80’s and 90’s music and R & B.
Razzoo Bar & Patio
Address: 511 Bourbon St, New Orleans, LA 70130
Website: Razzoo Bar & Patio
Opening hours: Mon - Wed: 2pm - 4pm; Thu - Sun: 12pm - 4am
Explore New Orleans’ French Quarter - the crown jewel
There’s something unique about New Orleans’ French Quarter - from its vibrant and entertaining Bourbon Street to its art galleries, this place is like no other. And if you don’t know where to start exploring, then check out our list of things to do in this city.
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