Rhythms spill into the streets, aromas drift from Creole kitchens, and centuries-old architecture tells stories at every turn—New Orleans is more than a destination, it’s a feeling. This vibrant city thrives on contrasts, blending deep-rooted history with an ever-evolving creative spirit. From hidden courtyards in the French Quarter to brass bands playing in open squares, every corner offers something worth experiencing. Whether your interests lie in food, music, culture, or adventure, knowing where to begin can shape an unforgettable journey. This guide spotlights the must-see highlights and hidden treasures that make New Orleans unlike anywhere else you’ll visit.
Explore the New Audubon Riverfront Park
Footsteps echo on the pathways of Audubon Riverfront Park, where lush green lawns meet sweeping Mississippi River views. This revitalized waterfront gem offers locals and visitors an open-air retreat filled with walking trails, public art, and shaded picnic spots. Families gather under the trees, joggers weave through the scenery, and photographers capture golden hour silhouettes against the skyline. It’s more than a park—it’s a serene extension of the French Market district, blending natural beauty with the rhythm of the city. Evening visits reward guests with vibrant sunsets and the distant hum of riverboats. Whether you’re unwinding on a bench or attending one of the seasonal outdoor events, this urban oasis encourages everyone to slow down and appreciate New Orleans from a different angle. Ideal for couples, solo travelers, and families, Audubon Riverfront Park delivers a peaceful, scenic pause just steps away from the city’s historic energy.
Attend the 2025 New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival
Rhythms of brass and percussion flood the streets during the 2025 New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, drawing music lovers from around the globe. This landmark event is more than just a concert series—it’s a cultural immersion. With multiple stages showcasing jazz, blues, gospel, zydeco, and funk, the festival celebrates Louisiana’s unique soundscape. Culinary stalls dish out crawfish bread, jambalaya, and beignets, creating a sensory overload that delights every visitor. Artisans display their crafts, while second lines and traditional dances erupt spontaneously in the crowd. Held at the Fair Grounds Race Course, the event captures the soul of New Orleans in every note. Music legends, emerging acts, and local favorites share the spotlight, making each day distinct. Ideal for both first-timers and returning fans, the Jazz Fest offers a joyful experience that blends artistry, heritage, and community spirit—solidifying its place as one of the city’s most iconic annual traditions.
Visit the Historic New Orleans Collection’s Vietnamese Culture Exhibit
Cultural storytelling takes center stage at the Historic New Orleans Collection’s Vietnamese Culture Exhibit, where layered narratives unfold through artifacts, photographs, and oral histories. This thoughtfully curated installation delves into the Vietnamese American experience in Louisiana—from early migration stories to modern-day contributions. Visitors walk through decades of resilience, community-building, and cultural fusion, gaining insight into how Vietnamese traditions have shaped New Orleans neighborhoods. Personal stories add emotional depth, while multimedia displays enrich understanding of language, food, and faith. The exhibit highlights moments of hardship and triumph, honoring the strength and identity of this vibrant community. Educational yet deeply human, it invites visitors to engage with the city’s broader cultural mosaic. Ideal for history buffs and culturally curious travelers, this exhibit isn’t just informative—it’s an essential experience that broadens the lens through which one views New Orleans. Timely and moving, it underscores the city’s diversity and rich immigrant heritage.
Participate in the Krewe of Krampus’ “Kreeps Hunt”
Tension builds as twilight sets in, marking the start of the Krewe of Krampus’ eerie “Kreeps Hunt.” This offbeat winter tradition flips the script on festive cheer, introducing participants to the darker, folklore-inspired side of seasonal celebration. Armed with flashlights and riddles, teams navigate shadowy neighborhoods and alleys in search of hidden “Kreeps”—costumed characters who blend horror, humor, and holiday weirdness. Clues, puzzles, and interactive street performances keep the adrenaline high as participants unravel a twisted scavenger hunt filled with surprises. Unlike typical parades or light displays, this event embraces satire and community theater, drawing fans of gothic culture, local lore, and immersive experiences. It’s equal parts escape room, urban fantasy, and performance art. For those craving something unusual and unforgettable, the “Kreeps Hunt” offers a perfect balance of mystery, mischief, and Mardi Gras flair—with just the right amount of spooky charm to make December in New Orleans feel thrillingly unpredictable.
Enjoy the French Quarter Festival
Springtime streets come alive with sound and flavor during the French Quarter Festival, one of the largest free music festivals in the South. Set against the backdrop of wrought-iron balconies and cobblestone alleys, the event transforms the historic district into an open-air stage. Over 20 stages dot the area, showcasing jazz, funk, brass, and Cajun acts that mirror the city’s sonic heritage. Food vendors line the sidewalks with local specialties, from shrimp and grits to muffulettas. Art installations and pop-up markets add to the vibrant scene, making every street corner a cultural showcase. Ideal for families, couples, and solo explorers, the festival provides a relaxed, family-friendly alternative to Mardi Gras. It’s an authentic celebration of what makes New Orleans magical: community, creativity, and a shared love of music. Whether dancing along the riverfront or sampling a new dish in Jackson Square, every moment feels like a love letter to the Crescent City.
Take a Steamboat Natchez Jazz Cruise
Sounds of live jazz float across the water as the Steamboat Natchez glides along the Mississippi River. This authentic paddlewheeler invites guests to step into a bygone era, where music, storytelling, and river views define the experience. Onboard, the scent of Creole cuisine drifts from the dining room while musicians bring Dixieland jazz to life. History enthusiasts can explore the engine room and learn about steamboat mechanics, while others relax on the open-air deck with a cocktail in hand. The skyline twinkles at sunset, offering unmatched photo opportunities as the cityscape meets the river’s timeless flow. Daytime and evening cruises are available, each offering a unique ambiance. Ideal for visitors craving both leisure and culture, this river journey captures the rhythm and romance of New Orleans. Whether it’s your first visit or a return trip, the Steamboat Natchez delivers a captivating ride through the heart and soul of the South.
Tour the Whitney Plantation
Stories of survival and injustice echo through the grounds of the Whitney Plantation, one of the nation’s most important sites for understanding slavery’s legacy. Located along Louisiana’s historic River Road, this museum presents the brutal realities of plantation life through the voices of the enslaved. Guided tours take visitors through slave quarters, memorials, and the preserved “Big House,” while statues and first-person narratives confront visitors with powerful, often sobering truths. Unlike other plantation tours, the focus here is not on grandeur but on honoring the humanity of those who endured oppression. Thought-provoking and emotionally impactful, the experience encourages reflection and awareness of America’s complex past. Ideal for those seeking meaningful travel, a visit to the Whitney Plantation fosters empathy and historical understanding in a way that lingers long after leaving. It’s a necessary journey for anyone who wants to comprehend the deeper roots of Louisiana’s culture and social history.
Explore the Museum of Death
Shadows, skulls, and serial killer memorabilia await at the Museum of Death, a chilling yet fascinating stop for those curious about the macabre. This unconventional museum showcases artifacts from crime scenes, autopsy tools, mortuary art, and letters from infamous criminals. It’s not for the faint-hearted—but for the brave and the intrigued, it’s an unforgettable deep dive into death culture, forensic science, and criminal psychology. Visitors move room by room through eerie exhibits that span history and pop culture, prompting both discomfort and intrigue. Educational elements are woven throughout, making it more than just a shock-value spectacle. Whether you’re drawn to true crime, pathology, or the rituals surrounding mortality, the experience challenges taboos and encourages discussion. Ideal for alternative travelers and fans of the bizarre, the Museum of Death offers a perspective few destinations dare to present—gritty, raw, and unflinchingly honest about the darkest corners of human existence.
Attend the Bayou Boogaloo Festival
Floating barges, vibrant music, and waterfront celebrations define the spirit of the Bayou Boogaloo Festival. Held annually along Bayou St. John, this beloved neighborhood event captures the laid-back energy of Mid-City with a lineup of local bands, food vendors, and floating art installations. What makes it truly unique is the flotilla—visitors bring kayaks, paddleboards, and inflatable rafts to enjoy the festivities from the water. It’s a scene unlike any other: music echoing across the bayou, kids splashing nearby, and locals sharing laughs over po’boys and snowballs. On land, artisan markets and interactive performances keep things lively. Perfect for those seeking a community vibe, the Boogaloo offers a casual alternative to larger festivals, celebrating New Orleans’ eclectic personality without the crowds. From sustainability efforts to local talent showcases, every element feels rooted in authenticity. It’s a joyful, creative gathering that reflects the city’s flair for music, mischief, and waterfront revelry.
Visit the New Orleans Museum of Art and Sculpture Garden
Towering oaks and curated masterpieces surround guests at the New Orleans Museum of Art and its expansive Sculpture Garden. Located within City Park, this cultural haven invites reflection through its diverse collection of European, American, African, and contemporary works. Inside the museum, quiet galleries hold paintings, photography, and decorative arts that span centuries. Step outside, and you’ll find over 90 sculptures nestled among lagoons, bridges, and Spanish moss—a tranquil space where nature and art harmonize. The garden’s layout encourages leisurely strolls, while rotating exhibits and seasonal programs keep the experience fresh year-round. Art lovers and casual visitors alike appreciate the balance of grandeur and intimacy here. Whether you’re sketching, meditating, or simply admiring the craftsmanship, the NOMA campus offers an enriching escape from the city’s buzz. It’s a cornerstone of New Orleans’ creative identity, offering both stillness and stimulation in a setting that feels like a living work of art.
Experience the New Orleans Wine & Food Experience
Palates and pairings take center stage at the New Orleans Wine & Food Experience, a multi-day celebration of fine dining and Southern flavor. This annual event draws winemakers, chefs, and food lovers from across the country to indulge in curated tastings, wine dinners, and culinary showcases. From grand tastings at the Sugar Mill to intimate pairing classes, the schedule offers something for every level of enthusiast. Signature dishes from the city’s top restaurants are served alongside rare vintages and boutique labels, all while live jazz performances underscore the ambiance. The festival doesn’t just celebrate indulgence—it supports local charities and food-based nonprofits, making each bite and sip part of a greater mission. Ideal for date nights, girls’ weekends, or solo getaways, it delivers a sensory-rich dive into New Orleans’ culinary prowess. Each experience blends elegance with hospitality, spotlighting the region’s status as a premier food and wine destination.
Take a Swamp Tour in Manchac Bayou
Moss-draped cypress trees line the route through Manchac Bayou, where swamp tours introduce visitors to Louisiana’s wild side. Flat-bottom boats glide through still waters as guides narrate tales of local legends, wildlife, and Cajun culture. Alligators sun themselves on fallen logs, egrets soar overhead, and the scent of freshwater mingles with ancient decay. This immersive adventure provides a rare glimpse into a delicate ecosystem teeming with biodiversity. Beyond the thrill of spotting wildlife, it’s the serene, otherworldly beauty that leaves a lasting impression. Guides often share personal stories that bridge generations of swamp life, deepening the experience. Tours typically last a couple of hours and suit all ages, making it a popular choice for families and photographers alike. Away from the city’s energy, Manchac Bayou offers quiet moments and natural spectacle, making it an unforgettable excursion for anyone interested in Louisiana’s environmental heritage and haunting natural landscapes.
Attend the Greek Festival New Orleans
Lakeside charm and Mediterranean aromas define the Greek Festival New Orleans, a beloved May tradition that brings the city’s Hellenic heritage to life. Held at the Holy Trinity Greek Orthodox Cathedral, this family-friendly event combines cultural education with vibrant entertainment. Folk dancers perform in traditional costume, while live Greek bands energize the crowd. Market stalls brim with imported goods, jewelry, and crafts, offering a taste of Greece in the heart of New Orleans. But the food steals the show—moussaka, souvlaki, baklava, and fresh pastries line the menu, tempting every palate. A shaded beer garden offers Greek wines and mythos, while kids enjoy games and face painting nearby. For locals, it’s a nostalgic favorite; for visitors, a warm, welcoming surprise. This festival’s joyful spirit and community focus make it more than a weekend event—it’s a celebration of heritage, hospitality, and flavors that transport guests straight to the Aegean coast.
Explore the Garden District and Magazine Street
Painted homes and wrought-iron balconies set the stage for a walk through the Garden District, where grandeur meets Southern charm. Magnolia trees frame Victorian mansions, many of which once belonged to New Orleans’ elite. Guided walking tours share fascinating details about architecture, celebrity residents, and historic scandals. Magazine Street nearby offers a more modern rhythm—lined with eclectic boutiques, art galleries, vintage shops, and outdoor cafés. It’s a favorite for afternoon strolls and impromptu shopping sprees. Local eateries range from upscale to cozy, making this stretch ideal for relaxed dining and people-watching. The contrast between 19th-century elegance and bohemian buzz gives the area a unique appeal. Whether you’re a fan of architecture, a seeker of hidden gems, or just craving a change of pace from the French Quarter, the Garden District and Magazine Street deliver timeless elegance and everyday charm in equal measure—no matter the season or reason.
Visit the National WWII Museum
War stories come to life at the National WWII Museum, an institution often ranked among the top museums in the world. Located in the Warehouse District, this immersive facility chronicles the global conflict through personal accounts, restored aircraft, wartime artifacts, and interactive exhibits. Visitors can follow the war’s timeline in vividly themed pavilions, explore oral histories in the “Road to Tokyo” and “Road to Berlin” sections, and even experience a 4D cinematic journey narrated by Tom Hanks. The museum does more than inform—it evokes emotion, honoring the sacrifices made during one of history’s darkest periods. It’s a powerful destination for families, veterans, students, and history lovers alike. Special exhibits rotate throughout the year, and the campus continues to expand with new wings and educational programs. A visit here offers both reflection and respect, grounding guests in a pivotal chapter of the past that continues to shape the present.