New Orleans, Louisiana: 10 Best Things to Do Nearby
10 Fun Things to Do Near New Orleans, Louisiana
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| Stroll from French Quarter charm to streetcar rides, river cruises, and mossy bayou adventures near New Orleans, Louisiana. |
If you're planning a trip to New Orleans, Louisiana, you're in for a treat. This one-of-a-kind city in Orleans Parish is packed with music, food, history, and colorful streets that seem to have a story around every corner. But if you're wondering what to do near New Orleans, the good news is that there’s plenty to explore both in the city and just outside it.
I’ve always felt like New Orleans has a heartbeat all its own. One minute you're listening to jazz on a street corner, and the next you're eating something so good you start planning your next meal before you’re even done. If that sounds like your kind of trip, keep reading.
Here are 10 great things to do near New Orleans, LA that are fun, memorable, and perfect for first-time visitors and return travelers alike.
1. Walk Through the French Quarter
You really can’t talk about things to do in New Orleans, Louisiana without starting with the French Quarter. This is the city’s most famous neighborhood, and for good reason. The streets are full of iron balconies, live music, little shops, and old buildings that give the area its charm.
Take your time here. Grab a coffee, wander down Royal Street, and people-watch in Jackson Square. It’s the kind of place where even getting a little lost feels fun.
- Best for: first-time visitors
- Great photo spots: Jackson Square and the colorful side streets
- Tip: go early in the day if you want a quieter experience
2. Ride the St. Charles Streetcar
If you want an easy and affordable way to see more of the city, hop on the St. Charles Streetcar. It rolls past grand old homes, oak trees, and neighborhoods that feel a world away from Bourbon Street.
Honestly, this is one of my favorite simple pleasures in New Orleans. It’s not flashy, but it gives you a real feel for the city. Think of it like a moving front porch tour.
The ride is scenic, relaxing, and budget-friendly, which is always a win.
3. Try Beignets at Café du Monde
Yes, it’s popular. Yes, there may be a line. And yes, it’s still worth it.
Stopping for beignets at Café du Monde is one of those classic New Orleans experiences you just have to try once. These warm, puffy pastries come covered in a mountain of powdered sugar, so don’t wear black unless you’re okay leaving with sweet evidence all over your shirt.
Pair them with chicory coffee and enjoy the moment. Sometimes the simple stuff becomes the best travel memory.
4. Explore the Garden District
If you want a break from the busy feel of downtown, head to the Garden District. This area is known for beautiful mansions, tree-lined streets, and a slower pace that feels calm and elegant.
It’s a great place for a long walk, especially in the morning or late afternoon. You can also join a guided tour if you want to hear the stories behind the homes and the famous people who have lived there.
The whole area feels a bit like stepping into a movie set, only with better food nearby.
5. Listen to Live Music on Frenchmen Street
Looking for live music without the wild party vibe? Frenchmen Street is the place. Many visitors say it’s one of the best spots in New Orleans for hearing jazz, blues, and brass bands in a more local setting.
You can pop into clubs, hear music spilling onto the sidewalk, and find a sound that fits your mood. Some places have a small cover charge, while others are more casual.
If I had to recommend one evening activity near the top of the list, this would be it. New Orleans and live music go together like coffee and beignets.
6. Take a Mississippi River Steamboat Cruise
Want to see the city from a different angle? A Mississippi River cruise is a fun way to slow down and take in the views. Some cruises include live jazz and meals, while others focus more on sightseeing.
There’s something special about being out on the water with the New Orleans skyline in view. It gives you a better sense of how important the river has always been to the city.
If you're traveling with family, this can be a nice change of pace from walking tours and museum stops.
7. Visit the National WWII Museum
Even if you’re not usually a museum person, the National WWII Museum is worth your time. It’s one of the top museums in the country, and it does an amazing job of making history feel real and personal.
The exhibits are thoughtful, engaging, and easy to follow. You could spend a couple of hours here or most of the day, depending on how much you want to see.
It’s a powerful stop, and it adds depth to your New Orleans trip in a way that balances out the city’s lighter side.
8. Tour a Louisiana Swamp Near New Orleans
If you want to get outside the city for a bit, book a swamp tour near New Orleans, Louisiana. This is one of the most memorable day trips in the area. You’ll pass through bayous and wetlands, and if you’re lucky, you may see alligators, birds, turtles, and moss-covered trees.
It feels like entering another world. Quiet, wild, and a little mysterious.
Many swamp tours are within about 30 to 45 miles of New Orleans, making them an easy half-day trip. If you're looking for unique things to do near New Orleans, this should be high on your list.
9. Visit Chalmette Battlefield and National Cemetery
Just outside New Orleans, in Chalmette, you’ll find the Chalmette Battlefield, the site of the Battle of New Orleans. It’s a peaceful place now, but it played a big role in American history.
This is a good stop if you enjoy history, open spaces, and less-crowded attractions. The grounds are easy to walk, and the visitor area helps bring the story to life.
It’s also a nice option if you want to see something important without spending an entire day on it.
10. Spend a Day in Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve
For nature lovers, Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve is a great escape near New Orleans. The preserve has walking trails, boardwalks, and chances to spot local wildlife in the wetlands.
It’s a nice reminder that the New Orleans area is not just about music and food. The natural beauty here matters too. The landscapes are flat and easy to explore, which makes this a good pick for families or anyone wanting a slower day.
Bring water, wear comfortable shoes, and don’t forget bug spray. That’s one travel lesson I’ve learned the hard way more than once.
Final Thoughts on Visiting New Orleans, Louisiana
From jazz clubs and streetcars to swamp tours and historic sites, there are so many amazing things to do near New Orleans, LA. That’s what makes this destination so special. You can fill your day with food, music, history, nature, or a little bit of everything.
If you ask me, New Orleans is the kind of place that sticks with you. The sounds, the flavors, the warm air, the old buildings—it all blends together in a way that feels unforgettable.
Have you been to New Orleans, Louisiana? Which spot would you add to this list? Share this post with your travel buddy and drop a comment below with your favorite New Orleans tips, must-see places, or food picks. I’d love to hear what made your trip special.
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