New Orleans, LA
Home to the bustling Mississippi River, New Orleans offers riverboat cruises and scenic water views. Explore the city's hauntingly beautiful above-ground cemeteries or take a stroll through the city's many parks and green spaces. With its year-round festivals, including the renowned Jazz Fest and Essence Festival, New Orleans is a city that pulsates with life and rhythm. Rich in history, flavors, and music, the Big Easy invites visitors to lose themselves in its enchanting ambiance.
What to do in New Orleans, LA
French Quarter
The French Quarter, also known as Vieux Carré, is the oldest neighborhood in New Orleans, renowned for its vibrant atmosphere, historic architecture, and lively entertainment. Visitors can stroll along the cobbled streets, revel in the sounds of live jazz music, and explore iconic landmarks such as Jackson Square and St. Louis Cathedral. The area is also famous for its culinary scene, offering a diverse range of restaurants, from traditional Creole eateries to upscale fine dining establishments.
Garden District
A visit to the Garden District is a must for those seeking a glimpse of New Orleans’ opulent past. This elegant neighborhood is renowned for its well-preserved antebellum mansions, lush gardens, and tree-lined streets. Visitors can take a leisurely walk to admire the stunning historic architecture, including the famous “Wedding Cake House” and the hauntingly beautiful Lafayette Cemetery. Additionally, the area boasts a wealth of charming boutiques, art galleries, and upscale dining options.
Frenchmen Street
For an authentic taste of New Orleans’ live music scene, Frenchmen Street is the place to be. This vibrant and eclectic thoroughfare is a haven for music lovers, offering an array of intimate jazz clubs, bohemian music venues, and lively bars. Whether it’s brass bands, soulful blues, or contemporary jazz, visitors can revel in the electrifying performances that emanate from the street’s numerous iconic establishments. Moreover, the area showcases a dynamic mix of local art galleries, street performers, and enticing food vendors.
Riverboat Cruise
Exploring the Mississippi River on a classic steamboat cruise is an essential experience in New Orleans. These nostalgic vessels offer a leisurely and picturesque way to take in the city’s skyline and witness the bustling riverfront. Whether it’s a daytime excursion or a romantic sunset cruise, passengers can savor the soothing rhythm of the paddlewheel and immerse themselves in the rich history and folklore of the legendary waterway. Many cruises also feature live jazz music, delectable Creole cuisine, and captivating narrated tours.
New Orleans Cuisine
One of the greatest pleasures of visiting New Orleans is indulging in its world-renowned cuisine. From iconic dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, and po’boys to delectable beignets and pralines, the city’s culinary offerings are a reflection of its rich cultural heritage. Visitors can savor these delicacies at celebrated restaurants, local eateries, and vibrant food markets, immersing themselves in the tantalizing flavors that define Creole and Cajun cooking. Additionally, embarking on a food tour allows guests to uncover hidden culinary gems and gain insight into the city’s gastronomic traditions.
Example Two-Day Itinerary
Day 1
Morning
Start your day with a visit to the historic French Quarter. Explore the iconic Jackson Square, and take a stroll down Royal Street to admire the beautiful architecture and browse the art galleries and antique shops.
Midday
Head to the lively French Market, the oldest market in the United States. Here, you can find an array of goods, from local produce and seafood to handmade crafts and souvenirs. Don’t miss the chance to sample some traditional New Orleans cuisine at one of the market’s food stalls.
Afternoon
After the French Market, take a short walk to the New Orleans Jazz Museum at the Old U.S. Mint. Immerse yourself in the city’s rich musical heritage and learn about the evolution of jazz through interactive exhibits and live performances.
Evening
In the evening, experience the vibrant nightlife on Frenchmen Street. Known for its live music venues, jazz clubs, and eclectic bars, this is the perfect place to soak up the city’s renowned music scene.
Day 2
Morning
Spend the morning exploring the Garden District. Take a leisurely stroll down tree-lined streets adorned with beautiful Southern mansions and lush gardens. Don’t miss the renowned Lafayette Cemetery No. 1, known for its above-ground tombs.
Midday
Enjoy a visit to the National WWII Museum, ranked as one of the top museums in the world. Dive into the history of World War II through immersive exhibits and interactive displays that detail the global impact of the war.
Afternoon
After the museum, take a streetcar ride along St. Charles Avenue. This iconic mode of transportation will lead you through picturesque neighborhoods and past stunning architecture, providing a unique perspective of the city.
Evening
As the day winds down, take a leisurely stroll along the Mississippi Riverfront. Enjoy the scenic views and soak in the relaxed atmosphere before heading out for a night of entertainment or a quiet dinner in one of the city’s exquisite restaurants.
Music & Nightlife
New Orleans is renowned for its vibrant music scene with a plethora of live music venues and street performers. Additionally, the city is famous for its lively nightlife offerings including jazz clubs, bars, and dance clubs.
Steamboat Natchez Evening Jazz Cruise with Dinner Option
Savor the beauty and romance of the New Orleans skyline aboard the Dinner Jazz Cruise. Enjoy the Dukes of Dixieland jazz band and a narration provided by our captain while cruising the Mighty Mississippi River.
There are two seating times for dinner, so please make sure to check availability of both if one is not available. The 1st dinner seating is from 6-7:15pm and the 2nd is from 7:45-9pm. Groups must be booked as one reservation in order to be seated together for dinner.
The Steamboat NATCHEZ is taking some time off, but her sister vessel, the Riverboat CITY of NEW ORLEANS will be taking her place. You’ll get the same authentic riverboat experience of a leisurely, two-hour cruise on the mighty Mississippi, enjoying traditional live jazz, craft cocktails, and all the beautiful New Orleans sites, while also exploring the newly renovated riverboat. Make sure you check out all four decks - the top deck view is a sight to see! Upgrade your ticket to include the dinner buffet.
Book Today on Viator From $55.00
Steamboat Natchez Jazz Brunch Cruise in New Orleans
On this Sunday brunch cruise, travel along the Mississippi River while enjoying live jazz music and savoring a lovely buffet brunch, if option selected. Otherwise, sit inside in one of our elegantly appointed decks or sit outside on one of our outdoor decks and enjoy the sites and breezes of the Mississippi River. This authentic paddle-wheel riverboat will whisk you away to the romance and ambiance of yesteryear. Don't forget your camera, as you'll see amazing panoramas of the New Orleans skyline!
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $42.00
Paddlewheeler Creole Queen Jazz Cruise
Cruise into a brilliant and romantic sunset aboard the Paddlewheeler Creole Queen! Underneath enchanting skyline views enjoy the lively sounds from Sullivan Dabney, Jr. and the Muzik Jazz band while delighting your taste buds with a deliciously prepared Creole-styled meal (if option is chosen). Grab one or two classic New Orleans cocktails inside at the bar, then take a stroll outside along elegantly designed wrought iron trimmed railings for a night full of stars and warm banter. Become part of the city's unique energy and let the sweet Mississippi River breeze sweep you off your senses onto the dance floor atop our promenade deck for a night full of pure New Orleans magic.
Book Today on Viator From $55.00
Paddlewheeler Creole Queen Historic Mississippi River Cruise
Take a 2 hour, 30 minute cruise down the great Mississippi River aboard the Paddlewheeler Creole Queen. Enjoy a narrated tour with a licensed historian describing 300-years of New Orleans history; from the founding of the city by the LeMoyne Brothers to the tragedy of Hurricane Katrina. During your cruise the vessel will dock at Chalmette Battlefield for a 1-hour excursion. Enjoy a guided tour and talk by a National Park Ranger about the battle of New Orleans, while taking in the sweet breeze and delicate waves along the river. Delight in a cash bar and/or a satisfying Creole lunch option available on the boat while viewing the famous French Quarter and Port of New Orleans from the river .
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $42.00
Culinary Experiences
New Orleans is a food lover's paradise with its unique Creole and Cajun cuisines. Visitors can enjoy iconic dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, beignets, and po'boys in a variety of restaurants, food tours, and cooking classes.
New Orleans Food Walking Tour of the French Quarter with Small-Group Option
Find out what all the fuss is about on this half-day food tour of some of the best food in New Orleans' famous French Quarter! Food and history mixed together. Your passionate and knowledgeable guide will escort you to experience traditional NOLA samplings in the French Quarter, including a few commonly mentioned in cookbooks. You will sample a variety of authentic tastings. Depending on your food tour time, options may include: Traditional Gumbo at a Creole restaurant, Seafood or Short Rib Po-Boys, Alligator Sausage, Muffuletta, Jambalaya, Char-Grilled Oyster, Pralines, buttery Praline cookies, and stroll past the famous Cafe du Monde. Learn about the rich legacy of fine food in the French Quarter and which hotspots to check out on your own later. You can even work with your guide to customize the tour to your interests or upgrade to a small-group tour with no more than 12 guests. Please note tastings are subject to change due to current availability.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $75.00
Adults Only New Orleans Ghost, True Crime, Voodoo and Vampire Walking Tour
Do you believe there are things in this life that simply cannot be explained? Come take a walk through the haunted French Quarter stories that may leave you questioning what you ever thought possible.
Our 8PM tour will be available with the VIP option of HELLVISION™! We use handheld projectors to bring the bloody images of New Orleans out of the archives and onto the streets for your tour.
Our new 7PM tour is for those that prefer the road less traveled - an alternative to our popular main route, starting at the New Orleans Jazz Museum, telling oft-forgotten true crime gems.
Tours go out rain or shine. Intoxicated travelers will not be permitted.
Book Today on Viator From $37.00
New Orleans French Quarter Food Adventure
Dig into the rich and varied flavors that make New Orleans one of the USA’s top foodie destinations. From the most famous local haunts to some delectable hidden gems, you’ll leave with not only a full stomach and a smile, but a greater understanding of how New Orleans food, culture and history all go hand-in-hand.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $79.00
New Orleans Cocktail and Food History Tour
Combining the history of Louisiana cuisine and New Orleans-style cocktails, this event is a feast for the senses!
Along with your guide you will visit up 6 locations: award-winning seafood restaurants, James Beard Award-nominated craft cocktail lounges, Creole restaurants, artisanal candy stores and more.
Once inside you’ll sample up to 8 or more different dishes that represent the modern expressions of our culinary heritage: classic dishes like gumbo, and muffulettas, but also new interpretations like savory fried plantains and curried pork skins!
We'll also enjoy 4 full-sized cocktails like the refreshing Pimm's Cup, the rum-heavy Hurricane, the classic Daiquiri and more!
This 4-hour gastronomic odyssey is our way of showing you where we like to go now, and what we like to eat and drink once we're there.
With so many dining and drinking options in New Orleans, why not try up to 6 different places in one fell swoop?!
Note: all venues subject to change based on availability.
Book Today on Viator From $140.00
Festivals & Events
New Orleans is known for its vibrant festival scene, including Mardi Gras, Jazz Fest, French Quarter Fest, and many more. Attend cultural celebrations, music shows, food festivals, and parades throughout the year.
Jamnola Ticket in New Orleans
Jamnola stands for Joy, Art and Music – New Orleans. Jamnola takes audiences of all ages on a topsy-turvy stroll through the cultural gems that make the city so special.
New Orleans' hottest new attraction has been featured by the New York Times, Thrillist, Forbes, The Washington Post, The Today Show, and countless other publications!
Enjoy 17 immersive exhibits celebrating the iconic art, music, food and theatrics of New Orleans through the eyes of over 30 local artists and creative partners.
Our mission:
To help offset the negativity that exists in the world around us by investing in New Orleans' cultural community to create more opportunities for Joy and prosperity through Art and Music.
We believe that happiness can overcome all if you immerse yourself in it and share it with others.
Book Today on Viator From $29.00
Go City: New Orleans All-Inclusive Pass with 25+ Attractions
Sightsee the best of New Orleans and save compared to buying separate attraction tickets with Go City. For one low price you'll get admission to over 25 of the most popular attractions and tours in the Big Easy.
Explore the city on-board an Adventures in New Orleans Bus tour, go on a traditional Paddlewheeler cruise, check the huge collection of artifacts and exhibits at the National WWII Museum, or discover the secrets of Louisiana cuisine with a mouth-watering New Orleans cooking school class demo. Your New Orleans All-Inclusive Pass is fully digital and comes with a digital guide complete with attraction opening times and other useful tips.
The All-Inclusive Pass includes:
• 1, 2, 3 or 5-day admission to over 25 New Orleans attractions and tours
• Top activities including Paddlewheeler Creole Queen Cruise, Adventures in New Orleans Bus tour and more
Book Today on Viator From $69.00
Haunted Tours
Discover the eerie side of New Orleans on haunted walking tours that explore the city's spooky legends, ghost stories, and historic haunted locations. Experience the supernatural tales and mysteries of the Crescent City.
Adults Only New Orleans Ghost, True Crime, Voodoo and Vampire Walking Tour
Do you believe there are things in this life that simply cannot be explained? Come take a walk through the haunted French Quarter stories that may leave you questioning what you ever thought possible.
Our 8PM tour will be available with the VIP option of HELLVISION™! We use handheld projectors to bring the bloody images of New Orleans out of the archives and onto the streets for your tour.
Our new 7PM tour is for those that prefer the road less traveled - an alternative to our popular main route, starting at the New Orleans Jazz Museum, telling oft-forgotten true crime gems.
Tours go out rain or shine. Intoxicated travelers will not be permitted.
Book Today on Viator From $37.00
Haunted Pub Crawl in New Orleans
Explore the intoxicatingly haunted side of the New Orleans French Quarter with this two hour Haunted Pub Crawl led by a local licensed guide. Learn about real haunted ghost stories at haunted locations throughout the French Quarter which have been verified by historical research done at each property. This tour is all about fun and we make sure to stop by the best haunted bar locations in the city. You will have time to get drinks along the way at several of these stops. You must be 21 years of age to go on this tour.
Book Today on Viator From $25.60
Cemetery and Ghost BYOB Bus Tour in New Orleans
Warning! This tour is only for the brave! NOLA Ghost Riders provides the original and finest night-time cemetery tour. This experience gives guests the opportunity to learn about our unique above ground burial procedures and storied past by venturing into actual graveyards after dark. Many have left this experience feeling haunted, or even captured photographs which can only be described as paranormal, so bring your camera!
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $40.00
New Orleans Cemetery Bus Tour After Dark
Enjoy a shockingly fun cemetery bus tour while local historian guides share with you the amazing history of New Orleans. Explore these cities of the dead under moonlight and be on lookout for paranormal activity! There will be an opportunity to purchase a drink for the ride and don't forget your camera. Go inside an above ground cemetery at night with the only company allowed access! Use EMF readers to capture ghosts and spirits throughout the tour.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $44.80
Historical Tours
Explore the rich historical heritage of New Orleans through guided tours of neighborhoods like the French Quarter, Garden District, and historic cemeteries. Learn about the city's architecture, culture, and significant landmarks.
New Orleans City and Cemetery 2- 2 1/2 Hour Bus Tour
For 2-2.5 hours, we’ll take you on an air conditioned ride throughout some of the most famous neighborhoods in New Orleans. We’ll show you the landmarks you don’t want to miss, and our licensed driver guides share the stories you’ll love to hear.
We’re a small company run by New Orleans locals, so our heritage runs deep. We’ll take you from the Treme to the Garden District, the 9th Ward to the back streets of The French Quarter. We’ll tell you where the best crawfish are, or where to get the coldest beer.
We love New Orleans. It’s our mission to make sure that when you step off our buses you’re in love with this great city as well. Come experience the best two hours of your vacation today.
Book Today on Viator From $49.98
Oak Alley Plantation and Large Airboat Swamp Tour from New Orleans
The Oak Alley plantation tour is one of the most magnificent plantation tours near New Orleans because of the 28 evenly spaced, huge Oak Trees that go from the river road to the Plantation House. The Greek Revival home dates back to 1837. Located on the grounds is a restaurant, blacksmith shop, Souvenir Shop and antique farm equipment. Next up is an airboat tour - hold onto your hat! Our New Orleans Airboat Swamp Tour is a high speed adventure that is part tour and part ride. Along the way, you will get a personal tour by your local Captain. Our airboats have stadium seating, so that the person in front of you does not obstruct your view. So, every airboat seat is great for experiencing the tour and viewing the wildlife.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $150.00
St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 Official Walking Tour : Tour Inside
The Official Tour of St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 takes you through the gates to walk the paths between the tombs where the most famous of New Orleans' historical figures have been laid to rest. Visit the tombs of Voodoo Queen Marie Laveau, Homer Plessy, and more.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $25.00
Oak Alley Plantation Tour with Transportation from New Orleans
Experience the grandeur of New Orleans’ antebellum south on a half‐day tour of Oak Alley Plantation. Take a journey through time to the manicured estate and into the gorgeous home, built in 1839. View stunning architecture, oak‐lined esplanades, and enduring sugar cane fields while learning about the plantation’s fascinating – and often somber – histories from expert guides.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $82.00
Swamp Tours
Escape the urban hustle and explore Louisiana's unique ecosystem on swamp tours near New Orleans. Encounter wildlife such as alligators, birds, and turtles while cruising through the bayous and marshes.
Swamp Boat Ride and Oak Alley Plantation Tour from New Orleans
This combination tour combines the best of the best! The best swamp tour with the best plantation along River Road.
See a variety of wildlife on a swamp boat ride and explore an authentic southern plantation on this tour from New Orleans. See alligators, egrets, raccoons and snakes during your ride around a private Louisiana swamp.
9am & 11am Departure Times tours Oak Alley Plantation and is 7 hours and 45 minutes in length returning to New Orleans @ 4:45pm and 6:45pm respectively.
1pm Departure Time tours Destrehan Planation and is 5 hours and 30 minutes in length returning to New Orleans @ 6:30pm.
Book Today on Viator From $109.00
New Orleans Airboat Ride
Take a break from the hustle-bustle of New Orleans and escape to nature on this exhilarating, family-friendly airboat ride! Spot alligators, snakes, turtles, egrets and herons as you take a fast, fun ride over a tidewater cypress swamp close to Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve. Admire moss-covered cypress and tupelo-gum trees as you explore bayous teeming with life and take advantage of incredible photo ops.
Th premium small-group tour is limited to 6 people, regular small airboat (up to 10 people) or large airboat (up to 30 people) to allow for better views of the wildlife.
Please note: If you book the self-drive option you will not receive hotel pickup. If you book the option with pickup, pickups will begin 1 hour and 15 minutes prior to tour time.
Book Today on Viator From $59.00
Large Airboat Swamp Tour with New Orleans Pick Up
Experience the thrill of riding a 16-passenger airboat on a 2-hour New Orleans swamp tour, with informative narration provided by the captain. See alligators and other wildlife in their natural habitat during the adrenaline-fueled ride. This family-friendly tour includes the convenience of hotel transport from downtown hotels.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $85.00
New Orleans Swamp and Bayou Boat Tour with Transportation
Meet your guide for pickup in downtown New Orleans and head for a 2-hour boat tour in Honey Island Swamp, a wildlife preserve that is one of the last protected wetlands in Louisiana. Visit a Cajun village only accessible by boat; learn about the animals and plants in the lush swamps; and get close to wildlife that are out and active with an expert local guide.
Please note that wildlife sightings are never guaranteed.
Book Today on Viator From $64.47
Museums & Art Galleries
Immerse yourself in the art, history, and culture of New Orleans by visiting its diverse museums and galleries. Explore exhibits on topics ranging from Mardi Gras and voodoo to Southern art and African American history.
The National WWII Museum Admission Ticket New Orleans
Designated by Congress as the official WWII museum of the United States, The National WWII Museum is located in downtown New Orleans on a six-acre campus, where five soaring pavilions house historical exhibits, on-site restoration work, a period dinner theater, and restaurants. Step inside with a general admission ticket, and then spend as long as you like exploring this must-visit attraction independently. Discover thousands of World War II memorabilia and artifacts, and learn all about wartime events from the museum's information displays.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $36.56
New Orleans French Quarter Photo Shoot
You will have a chance to see the most famous things in French Quater, New Orleans and have the recognizable city as your background for the shoot. I will make sure you have great pictures to take home—a unique souvenir of your time in New Orleans. We do this for several years and love it! We have several publications about our experience. You can check part of an article about our experience in the Whereyat magazine on the screenshot.
Group size is a maximum of 4,5 people to keep this experience as personal as possible, if your booking is for less than 4,5 people you will be paired with other people to share this experience (you will still get your photos severely, not as a group).
We will be covering as much spots as possible from the locations mentioned in the list (depending on how fast all the group will be moving).
Book Today on Viator From $59.00
Vue Orleans Observation Deck and Museum Entry Ticket
Celebrate New Orleans like never before! Feel like you’re on top of the world with panoramic views from the indoor and outdoor observation decks. You’ll discover an interactive cultural experience, uncovering the history, music and culture that makes New Orleans the most storied city in America. Don’t just see New Orleans, Vue it!
Book Today on Viator From $27.32
Outdoor Activities
Enjoy outdoor adventures in and around New Orleans, such as swamp tours, kayaking, paddleboarding, and bike tours. Nature lovers can explore nearby wildlife refuges and parks for birdwatching and hiking opportunities.
New Orleans Airboat Ride
Take a break from the hustle-bustle of New Orleans and escape to nature on this exhilarating, family-friendly airboat ride! Spot alligators, snakes, turtles, egrets and herons as you take a fast, fun ride over a tidewater cypress swamp close to Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve. Admire moss-covered cypress and tupelo-gum trees as you explore bayous teeming with life and take advantage of incredible photo ops.
Th premium small-group tour is limited to 6 people, regular small airboat (up to 10 people) or large airboat (up to 30 people) to allow for better views of the wildlife.
Please note: If you book the self-drive option you will not receive hotel pickup. If you book the option with pickup, pickups will begin 1 hour and 15 minutes prior to tour time.
Book Today on Viator From $59.00
Large Airboat Swamp Tour with New Orleans Pick Up
Experience the thrill of riding a 16-passenger airboat on a 2-hour New Orleans swamp tour, with informative narration provided by the captain. See alligators and other wildlife in their natural habitat during the adrenaline-fueled ride. This family-friendly tour includes the convenience of hotel transport from downtown hotels.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $85.00
New Orleans Zipline Swamp Tour
Zip NOLA is New Orleans' and the World's FIRST ever fully aquatic swamp zipline! With over a half mile of ziplines and suspension bridges spanning the Maurepas Swamp, Zip NOLA is the premier activity for nature lovers and thrill seekers alike. View swamp critters and the amazing swamp ecosystem from the comfort of the moss covered cypress treetops!
Zip NOLA’s facility has many amenities including a 1200 sq ft gift shop with the latest and greatest New Orleans souvenirs, gifts, and snack/beverage items. Our shop also boasts a phenomenal enclosure for our baby alligators and turtles! We also have spacious restrooms, locker storage, green space picnic area, and an expansive 2000 sq ft elevated seating area overlooking the beautiful cypress-filled Maurepas Swamp. Guests can take in breathtaking sights of moss covered cypress swamp, while they also view the many wildlife that frequent the area. Alligators can be readily seen, as well as a plethora of other swamp critters!
Book Today on Viator From $91.00
New Orleans Small Group Airboat Swamp Tour
Enjoy a personalized small group experience on this swamp tour just 35 minutes outside of New Orleans. This airboat has a maximum of six or nine passengers giving you plenty of room to admire the views of the Louisiana marshlands from all angles.
DetailsBook Today on Viator From $89.00