The Museum of the Southern Jewish Experience (MSJE) tells the unique story of Jews in thirteen Southern states from Colonial times to the present. Since opening in 1911, the New Orleans Museum of Art (known simply as "NOMA") has assembled more than 40,000 works of art an impressive compilation considering the museum opened with only nine pieces. 10. Tucked away from the French Quarter is Magazine Street. Here, visitors can interact with installations, such as "Do You NOLA," which features 58 fun facts about the city. The structure standing today is actually the third cathedral built on this spot, since the first two were destroyed. By entering your email address you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy and consent to receive emails from Time Out about news, events, offers and partner promotions. Until 2014, the banks of the Mississippi River bordering the city's downtown Marigny and Bywater neighborhoods were essentially unwalkable. Contextualizing a huge global event like World War II is no easy task, but through large narrative exhibits that include very detailed, personal accounts from eyewitnesses, the museum manages to do just that. How to Plan a Classy Girls Weekend Getaway to New Orleans Its a large hotel in the French Quarter and has a rooftop pool as well as balconies that oversee the famed Bourbon Street. Locals are loyal to their favorites, but every neighborhood has a worthy option. The exhibits are open Wednesday through Saturday from 2 p.m. to 7 p.m. and Sunday from 2 p.m. to 5 p.m., and the warehouses are located on Royal Street near a number of other galleries and studios. For history buffs, visit the National WWII Museum to learn more about D-Day, or Chalmette Battlefield at the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve. Some even preferred the Garden District over Bourbon Street, citing the peaceful atmosphere and well-preserved properties as a much-needed break from the city's crowded tourist spots. Take the self-guided tour through the maze of props to learn more about the festival's history. 21 Best Bars in New Orleans for Cocktails and a Good Time Worried about missing out on the best sights and stops? Exhibits are sleek, technologically impressive, and in some cases, interactive, detailing the start of cocktail culture in the Crescent City and the evolution of the Sazerac. Updated on 05/06/19 Sean Pavone / Getty Images Since the 1800s, New Orleans has been divided into seventeen numbered wards, but you'll rarely hear a neighborhood referred to this way (the Seventh Ward and Lower Ninth Ward are two exceptions). All rights reserved. Commander's Palace The crown jewel of the Brennan food. I recommend Discover Cars for finding the most competitive rates for you. In one room you could be posing next to a life-size crawfish sitting in a lounge chair and in another you could be trying on Mardi Gras costumes. The Ogden Museum of Southern Art is Smithsonian-affiliated and, as its name suggests, celebrates the culture and aesthetic of Southern artists. Muriels Jackson Square (pictured above with hanging plants) is both a pretty and a comfortable restaurant right next to St. Louis Cathedral, perfect for high-quality Southern bistro food. Highlights include actual planes, jeeps, and Higgins Boats, a theater with WWII-era musical performances, a restaurant, and a fantastic gift shop with 1940s-inspired gifts and clothing. Jazz Fest is a must for any music, food and culture lover. Most displays use spray paint and graffiti techniques, and the entire project took six months to complete. How about right here - with our guide to the best things to do in New Orleans. To learn more, visit the museum'swebsite. And while you're here, consider stopping by the St. Louis Cathedral, located next door on Chartres Street. Here's How Much You Should Tip in Major Cities Around the World, Venice's Grand Canal Is Suddenly Bright GreenHere's Why, These Amtrak Train Routes Make Stops at Some of America's Most Scenic National Parks, How to Get Through Long Lines at Airport Security as Smoothly as Possible This Summer. Spoiler alert: it figures heavily in the citys past. Recent visitors agreed that a trip to New Orleans isn't complete without stopping by Frenchmen Street. Explore the "Confluence of Culture" exhibit to learn more about the historical figures who played a significant role in shaping New Orleans. New Orleans Saints vs Seattle Seahawks | October 9th. Ad Choices. 11, 100 or 114, which all stop at Magazine and Poeyfarre streets (in front of the museum). Located behind Audubon Park, the zoo is dotted with majestic oak trees (keep an eye out for resident peacocks). During the day, join a small-group tour around the French Quarter or the Garden District to admire the area's distinct architecture. 2023 Cond Nast. A visit to New Orleans' City Park is the perfect little escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and one of the best places to enjoy some fun outdoor activities. The Columns Hotel was my favorite place to visit in New Orleans. The 11 best things to do in New Orleans - Lonely Planet April 5, 2021 The Big Easy, of course, has its must-see sightsthe New . 21 Best Things To Do In New Orleans: The Ultimate Bucket List At night, plan to take a cab instead of walking, and stay in well-lit areas. A classy girls weekend in New Orleans: What to do I recommend a long weekend girls trip (at least 3 days) in order to fit all of this in, but you could certainly pick and choose if you only have 2 days, too! Known for its annual Mardi Gras celebrations and its rich Creole and Cajun culture, New Orleans is a great place to visit full of fun things to do. Editor's note: Given the changing nature of the COVID-19 pandemic, the hours and accessibility of many places are fluid and subject to change. Lunch: Turtle Soup au Sherry at Galatoire's Seafood Gumbo at Commander's Place Dinner: Charbroiled Oysters at Dragos Duck Confit at Gautreau's Seafood Platter at Mandina's Dessert: King Cake at Bywater Bakery Sno-Bliz at Hansen's A massive milkshake at Shake Therapy It sits on nearly every bar menu, has been designated the citys official cocktail, and even has its own museum. But New Orleans offers so much more than those headlines. There are also several paid parking lots scattered throughout the neighborhood. He specializes in large-scale murals and paintings illustrating scenes from black culture in the city, black leaders and icons; the exhibits show off the whole range of Odums talent, with mixed media pieces including sculpture and video. Jambalaya: a Creole rice dish consisting of meat and vegetables mixed with rice. Get Down With Live Music. Recent visitors said that attending a concert at Preservation Hall is a must-do experience in New Orleans thanks to the talented musicians. New Orleans has won many an admirer after a single visit, and many of the city's unique experiences are on bucket lists of all types. Its home to the rotating Carousel Bar (pictured above), For all the literary buffs here, Ernest Hemingway, Tennessee Williams, Anne Rice, John Grisham, and William Faulkner have stayed there, and Truman Capote lounged at The Carousel Bar. Located in the Esplanade Ridge neighborhood of New Orleans, the area was once known as "Creole's Millionaire's Row." Some people just love cemetery tours, but this is also great for visitors who want to feel spooked while learning local history. Flanking Jackson Square in the heart of theFrench Quarter, the Cabildo was originally constructed in 1799 (when New Orleans was under Spanish rule), as the seat of the Spanish government. It also serves as an open-air market space for vendors and artists to share and sell their works. Try Hansens, Williams Plum Street, Pandoras, or Sals. New Orleans is home to several of these sites. Sign up for our email to enjoy your city without spending a thing (as well as some options when youre feeling flush). You can even stay in a literary suite.. Multiple recent visitors called the art on display "powerful," and almost everyone agreed that the experience was well worth the $15 for general admission price. Its sensory-overload, New Orleans style. Get into the. Follow this guide to pack like a pro and ensure airport security is a breeze. The Best Things to Do in New Orleans - Culture Trip Theres also a demonstration kitchen that hosts regular cookery demos and classes. Idyllically situated among the park's Spanish moss-covered live oaks, the sculpture garden doubled in size in 2019. When you need to rest your legs, grab a book, pack a picnic, and head to one of New Orleans' stunning parks, both with ponds, trees, walking and biking trails, and plenty of space to relax. The lush back patio is the perfect spot to enjoy a bottle of wine and a cheese plate. The art soon moved out and the music continued. Caf du Monde is a must-do experience for any foodie visiting New Orleans. Amanda Norcross, Content & SEO Strategist, Travel, Pack a picnic to enjoy at "the Fly," a large green space behind the zoo in Audubon Park, Enjoy live music at one of the underground music clubs in Trem, Bike the paths running through Crescent Park, Hop on a ferry to Algiers, a historic neighborhood on the west bank of the Mississippi River. Plus, the museum celebrates Louis J. Dufilho Jr. of Louisiana, who was America's first licensed pharmacist. Expect red velvet booths, raspberry shrub cocktails, and lobster pastabecause more is more. If you choose to drive, you'll find a paid parking lot on Magazine Street, across from the theater. Relax in the park. Past travelers commented on the small size of the museum, but others noted that its size allows you to see all of the exhibits in just one visit and say not to miss the Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden. However, travelers also warn that the room where the performances are held can get quite hot in the summertime as there is no air conditioning. 90 sculpturesmostly modern and abstractare set among magnolias and live oaks, framed by bridges and reflecting pools, with world-renowned artists Henry Moore, Antoine Bourdelle, and Ossip Zadkine represented. The floor traces the cultural influence of booze in New Orleans. The tech-savvy attraction takes travelers on a journey through New Orleans as they make their way up to the top of the building. The best free things to do in New Orleans are: If you want to experience New Orleans like a local, consider these non-touristy things to do: New Orleans is home to a bevy of one-of-a-kind attractions, from world-class museums to funky neighborhoods. New Orleans is home to plenty of fun activities and attractions that are free. Past travelers suggest ordering from the cafe's walk-up window, since lines can be long inside the restaurant. All rights reserved. Within the exhibit you'll find multimedia displays and artifacts collected during the cleanup of both hurricanes Katrina and Rita. The finder of the baby becomes the "King" or "Queen" of the day. Recent travelers called their experiences at this attraction informative and interesting, and they especially recommended the (adult-themed) guided tour. The space hosts big events that still need a more intimate setting than a sports arena: touring Broadway shows, big-name comedians, and the occasional concert. Others also recommend visiting the cafe's City Park location to skip the lines that usually congregate around the original location near the French Quarter (there are several locations around New Orleans and Louisiana). Inside, the collection is equally impressive, with French and American art and traveling exhibits that feature everything from fashion to digital media. Sometimes it feels like most, if not all, of the festivities in and around New Orleans are simply vehicles for making and consuming local dishes and cocktails. By Paul Oswell. Need to rent a car? The 16 Best Things to Do in New Orleans (Updated 2023) Youll also see seals, reptiles, and a glimpse of the Louisiana swamp. Opened in October 2019, The Sazerac House is a multi-floor, multi-media, interactive dive into the intoxicating world of a whiskey brand. Famed for its narrow streets, lively atmosphere, and historic architecture, the French Quarter (also known as the Vieux Carr and nicknamed the "Crown Jewel of New Orleans") is one of the oldest and most popular parts . Cajun Encounters takes you 45 minutes from French Quarter beignets and Bourbon Street, but the bayou feels a world away. After touring the cathedral and the Old Ursuline Convent (the oldest building in the Mississippi Valley), consider strolling through St. Anthony's Garden to see the impressive statue of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. The square has plenty of fun things for travelers to do, including top attractions like the Cabildo and the St. Louis Cathedral. The huge floats take months to build and decorate, and this is where a large part of that happens. Explore The French Quarter. The Audubon Aquarium opened in 1990 and has since welcomed millions of visitors to the striking glass and steel building on the banks of the Mississippi River. The Best, Most Beachy Airbnbs on Cape Cod, 10 New York City Hotels With Private Balconiesand Stunning Views, How to Get Outdoors in BerlinFrom Lush Gardens to Swimming Lakes, 4 Amtrak Routes That Make for ScenicAnd AffordableSummer Getaways, Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden. Keep an eye out for the tombs of local legends like Voodoo Queen Marie Laveau, as well as the decoration on the stonework, which will really stick with you. Recent travelers said the Cabildo's design is worth seeing, even if you're not interested in the history within. Some of New Orleans' must-see attractions are its cemeteries. A mix of saltwater and freshwater, the bayous are home to crawfish, shrimp, deer and alligators, which are often the main attractions for visitors. We went ahead and listed a few of the most fun things to do in New Orleans with kids to plot on your next unforgettable trip. (A dance floor will open up for the local swing crew to show off its moves.) In a city full of iconic music venues, Tipitinas stands out. The scene is definitely charming, but it can also be expensive if you choose to stay at any of the French Quarter'shotels. If you don't consider yourself a night owl, the Palace Market (open Sunday through Wednesday 7 p.m. to midnight and Thursday through Saturday 7 p.m. to 1 a.m.) is a shopping haven where locals sell homemade art and jewelry. Help spread the word. The 16 Best Things to Do in New Orleans - Nomadic Matt's Travel Site For example, a tarot card reader on the street will charge around $20, where visiting a Voodoo shop such as Marie Laveau's or Rev. Chefs love to eat there and its also one of Americas best wine restaurants. If collage sports are of interest, the Tulane Green Wave also play in October. The internationally renowned Commander's Palace (1403 Washington Ave) is a Creole restaurant dating back to 1893 and housed in a fine turreted building with blue and white awnings. First established in 1862, the cafe is located at the end of the French Market just off Jackson Square. Planning a trip to the Big Easy in the near future? The real stars of the showand the works for which he is most famousare the floor-to-ceiling portraits. The permanent collection showcases more than 4,000 pieces from 15 states; in fact, with works dating back to 1733, the institution boasts the most comprehensive collection of Southern art in the world. Recent visitors said the neighborhood is lively, with lots to do and see and offers a one-of-a-kind experience. Even if you're not interested in attending a service, past visitors urge you to take a peek inside, describing it as "beautiful inside and out.". At this comprehensive repository of artifacts from the very beginning of the 20th century, you'll see and hear the history of jazz. Many of the city's top cemetery tours stop in St. Louis Cemetery No. Avoid neighborhoods like Central City, which does not have any tourist attractions and is known for its high crime rate. New Orleans Bachelor Party Guide: Ideas and Things to Do The short ride on this commuter ferry will give you an amazing view of the city and a few minutes to be one with the river. Explore a different side of the South at New Orleans' newest museum. The Big Easy, they call it - and getting into the southern swing of New Orleans is a piece of cake. French Quarter While Bourbon Street can be avoided (unless it's your first visit to New Orleans - you have to experience it), the French Quarter is always a must-do, any time of year. Best Bars in New. At the popular zoo and aquarium, special kid-friendly exhibits feed curious minds while allowing little ones to get up close and personal with their favorite furry (or scaly or slimy) friends. If you want an authentic New Orleans experience more removed from the touristy areas of Bourbon Street and the French Quarter, head to the lively Frenchmen Street. Decatur St & Ursulines Ave, New Orleans. Exhibits feature gesture tracking, touchless interactives, large-scale LED walls and augmented viewers, among other high-tech elements. They also appreciated the history associated with the museum and complimented the knowledgeable tour staff. Cruise insurance can protect your investment in the event of cancellations, delays, lost luggage and more. 20 Best Things to Do in New Orleans | Cond Nast Traveler 2 is currently closed.) 70 Best & Fun Things To Do In New Orleans (Louisiana) The National WWII Museum is a sprawling complex of modern buildings in the Warehouse District that receives thousands of visitors daily. And yes, we mean the food, but also the everything. Its filled with antique memorabilia and packs in an impressive number of ingredients, with exhibits representing all of the southern states, not just Louisiana. Click the link to read our complete New Orleans city guide. Jackson Square Pin Source: Fotoluminate LLC / shutterstock Jackson Square, New Orleans He prefers Domilises. This huge warehouse in Bywater welcomes visitors with a massive, colorful mural on its front. Its Cajun shrimp and goat cheese crepes are utterly delectable. Stretching fromHoustonto Mobile, Alabama, the Bayou Country played a crucial role in the development of the United States in terms of communication and transportation. JAMNOLA, which stands for "joy, art and music New Orleans," is one of the city's more unique and relatively new attractions. And while the city may not have mountains or beaches, the bayous, lakes and parks offer a chance to soak up the charm of Southern Louisiana. Head to the Big Lake and rent a swan boat, take the kids (or embrace your inner child) at Storyland and the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park. To plan a 4-Day New Orleans Itinerary, we recommend using our outlined Three Days in New Orleans Itinerary as a base for your trip. For a family-friendly activity, pay a visit to the National World War II Museum. Red Beans and Rice: A Cajun spice red bean gravy with celery, onions, and green peppers, over rice and served with sausage, Etouffee: a stew of onion, celery, bell pepper, garlic, hot sauce, and either shrimp, crawfish, or chicken, Gumbo: a Cajun-flavored soup with sausage and shellfish, celery, bell peppers, and onions, King Cake: a round iced cake with a hole in the middle and a plastic baby hidden inside. New Orleans Saints vs Cincinnati Bengals | October 16th. The best Airbnbs in New OrleansThe best hotels in New Orleans. NOMA houses more than 40,000 pieces featuring pieces from the Italian Renaissance to modern works. All things to do Category types Attractions Tours Day Trips Outdoor Activities Concerts & Shows Food & Drink Events Shopping Transportation Traveler Resources Types of Attractions Nightlife Sights & Landmarks Museums Boat Tours & Water Sports Spas & Wellness Fun & Games Classes & Workshops Nature & Parks Zoos & Aquariums Water & Amusement Parks 1047 Piety Street, +1 504-571-9975, neworleanskayakswamptours.com. Then, on the last day, take a full-day tour. The center also doubles as the location for the New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park. Travel Stories USA New Orleans The 11 best things to do in New Orleans Save Adam Karlin Apr 4, 2023 11 min read The Zulu Crewe perform as part of the Mardi Gras Parade in New Orleans Bob Sacha/Getty Images The New Orleans menu is long and storied. However, many said the zoo can be unbearable on a hot summer day due to uncomfortable heat and humidity. New Orleans streetcar system has been rolling since 1835. First, I list my favorite fiction books set in New Orleans, so you can get in the mood for your travel. Its a well-designed, landscaped spot that packs a lot into 32 acres. The museum is dedicated to preserving the history and culture of the free people of New Orleans. The creator, Brandan "BMike" Odums, collaborated with more than 40 other artists to create large murals and exhibits that explore activism, resistance and Black American history. For more information, visit the officialwebsite. You can also watch daily feedings or sit in on numerous lectures and films about the environment. If you don't have the chance to see everything in one day, you can return the next day with your ticket and only pay an additional $7. Zombie's Voodoo Shop will be ~$50. Steamboat Natchez offers a few tour options, including a dinner jazz cruise, a daytime jazz cruise, a Sunday jazz brunch cruise and select special event cruises. One thing to know upfront: This isn't a museum it's a warehouse workshop where current floats are in the process of being completed and old floats are stored. Steamboat Natchez launched in 1975 and is a traditional sternwheel steamboat that takes visitors on a tour of the Mississippi River. March 11, 2021 // by Southern Trippers Are you planning a trip and looking for unforgettable things to do in New Orleans? When people say that New Orleans isn't the best place to bring kids, they're forgetting about the Louisiana Children's Museum. (the Free People of Color Museum) has an enriched history. Today, Preservation Hall hosts intimate jazz concerts more than 350 nights of the year. Synonymous with debauchery, it's become famous for the boisterous Mardi Gras festival that takes . In 1999, it became an official literary landmark by the Friends of the Library Association. Your tour captaina total pro who knows caimans from alligatorstakes you out on a flat-bottomed boat for two hours in search of gators in the wild. Afterward, enjoy a deep-fried sweet beignet from Caf Du Monde. U.S. News Insider Tip: Book a dinner cruise for sunset views, and bring a light jacket as it gets cool out on the water at night. There arent a ton of green spaces in downtown New Orleans, so Louis Armstrong Park, just outside the French Quarter, is a welcome option. This large, open-plan warehouse has a bohemian ambience. Its known for its turtle (snapper) soup and bread pudding. The park is dedicated to sharing the origins and evolution of jazz. Described by its creator as a "cultural funhouse," the pop-up art installation opened in 2020 in the Faubourg Marigny/Bywater neighborhood and houses 12 exhibits across 5,400 square feet. While you're strolling, pay attention to the neighborhood's architecture: balconies are designed with baroque ironwork and hanging plants, while leafy courtyards are filled with bubbling fountains.