10 Free Things to Do in New Orleans
New Orleans is a city with a culture unlike any other in America. The music, art, and unique history that make New Orleans famous pour out into the streets and can be experienced without spending a dollar- making it a top spot to visit if you’re on a budget. If you have some cash for delicious cuisine, bar covers, and streetcar fare, you truly can explore the Big Easy without breaking the bank. Here’s a guide to our top 10 free things to do in New Orleans.
1. Explore the French Quarter
The French Quarter is the heart and soul of New Orleans. Visit the famous antique stores, admire local street artists, and visit the picture-perfect St. Louis Cathedral in Jackson Square. From the cobbled streets and historic architecture to people watching and dancing in the streets, it’s all free to explore and take in.
2. Listen to Live Music
New Orleans is a city filled with music. Stroll along Frenchmen Street and hear the sounds spill out from historic venues. Take in the talents of street musicians set up throughout the French Quarter. And look out for events featuring local bands and artists.
3. Go to a Cemetery
While visiting the dead may not be what comes to mind when looking for things to do in a new city, New Orleans cemeteries are famous for their grandeur and haunting tales. There are several historic cemeteries throughout the city that are free to visit. Just be sure to check visitation hours, and remember to respect the resting.
4. Attend a Parade
New Orleans hosts one of the biggest parties held in the United States at Mardi Gras, and attendance is absolutely free! While Mardi Gras is one day, the season of parades goes on for about a month. Of course the city is always looking for things to parade about, so they’re also held throughout the year for holidays such as: Halloween, Easter, St. Patrick’s Day, Pride, and more.
5. Visit the Sazerac House
Learn about the unique history of the famous Sazerac cocktail and the evolution of alcohol in New Orleans at the stunning Sazerac House. Self-guided tours are complementary and feature samples of Sazerac products. Space is limited, so it’s best to reserve your tickets in advance.
6. Check out Champions Square
If you happen to be in town for a Saints home game, get a taste of the Who Dat Nation with a pregame outside of Caesar’s Superdome at Champions Square. Sport your black and gold, and get wild with Saints fans with live music and lots of revelry gearing up for a Saints victory.
7. Go to a Festival
In the city that’s always festin’, there’s no better way to soak up the culture than to hit up a free festival. Check out French Quarter Fest in April, Satchmo Summerfest in August, or the Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival in October. Be sure to check for local events while in the city as over 130 festivals are held in New Orleans each year!
8. Explore the Garden District
Take a rom-com worthy stroll as you take in the stunning historic homes in the New Orleans Garden District. Full of ‘grammable sights, the Garden District is home to antebellum mansions and adorable bakeries and shops. Fair warning that you will likely want to splurge on something unique or delicious as you peruse along Magazine Street.
9. Enjoy City Park
Think Central Park of New Orleans, City Park is a connection to nature with forests and trails of historic oak trees and even Big Lake. City Park often hosts public events as well. And if you don’t mind spending a few bucks, it’s home to attractions such as the New Orleans Museum of Art, the New Orleans Botanical Gardens, Cafe du Monde, and more.
10. Stroll Along the Mississippi River
Full of rich history, the Port of New Orleans is one of the busiest in the world. Take a walk along Woldenberg Park, and take in the sights of the mighty Mississippi River. Spot historic steamboats and the picturesque Crescent City Connection Bridge. You may encounter some live music or even a wedding.
Whether you’re dancing to the rhythms of live music, wandering through historic cemeteries, or celebrating at one of the many festivals, each free activity invites you to discover the heart of New Orleans. Let the eclectic atmosphere of the Big Easy captivate you without even spending a dime! And if you’re looking to splurge on once-in-a-lifetime thrills, check out the world’s only fully aquatic swamp zip line on a heart-racing tour through the Louisiana swamp at ZipNola!