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It’s no secret that New Orleans is THE place to celebrate Mardi Gras, but that only takes place one time a year. What if you’re visiting outside of the Mardi Gras season? Not to worry - there are plenty of other activities in New Orleans happening year-round. These are the top things to do in New Orleans (other than eating, drinking, and partying!)
People-watch from a balcony in the French Quarter.
The French Quarter is New Orlean’s oldest section of the city, dating back to 1718. It’s considered the historic heart of the city and it’s known for vibrant nightlife and colorful buildings with beautiful cast-iron balconies.
French Quarter is where the infamous Bourbon Street is located with jazz clubs, Cajun food, and lively bars. Whether you visit at day or night, there’s great people watching from the second-floor balconies.
Get a palm reading in Jackson Square.
Street performers, tarot card readers, and palm readers flock to this area in addition to local artists. Every year, only 200 artists are allowed to display their artwork at the park, which typically consist of paintings, drawings, portraits, and caricatures.
Learn about Voodoo legend, folklore, and history.
This tour is led by a true Voodoo priest, and he explores the history, culture, and beliefs of Voodoo practitioners from both the past and present. Witness rituals and dispel superstitions associated with this religion.
When I attended, Robbie Gilmore was our guide, and he was both informative and hilarious. He kept the tour interesting, and he’s a wealth of information since he comes from a long line of Voodoo priests and priestesses himself.
Free Tours by Foot is a “name-your-own-price” tour for 5 or less people. For groups of 6-9, there’s a pre-payment of $10 per person. Private and large group tours are also available.
If you’re interested in learning about the ghosts and spirits of New Orleans, check out their New Orleans Ghosts tour.
Try a Classic Sazerac Cocktail at The Sazerac House.
The Sazerac is a local variation of a cognac or whiskey cocktail. It was named for the Sazerac de Forge et fils brand of cognac brandy that served as the original main ingredient. It’s shaken or stirred with ice, strained, and served with a twist of lemon rind.
While exploring the Sazerac House, you can learn about the distilling process for Sazerac Rye, learn how the cocktail fits in with New Orleans traditions, and taste a Sazerac cocktail for yourself! Self-guided tours are complimentary and provide product samples. For a more immersive experience, you can pay to participate in a variety of special events, including whiskey cocktail creation, whiskey tastings, demonstrations, and seminars.
Experience live jazz music at Mahogany Jazz Hall.
Mahogany Jazz Hall specializes in absinthe cocktails. There’s no cover but it is required to purchase a beverage per person, per set (even if it’s just water). Food is not served, so be sure to eat before or after! Occasionally there are burlesque performances in addition to live jazz 7 days a week.
Bike around the Garden District.
I had no idea about this district and was blown away by the beautiful historic homes and shady oak trees. I’m a big fan of seeing new cities by bike, and this experience was no different. Although they also offer a Garden District walking tour, I found the biking tour to be more fun; plus you’re able to cover more ground in a shorter amount of time.
Our guide, Corinna, was excellent. She was kind, informative, and kept our stops brief but interesting. She also offered to take pictures of me since I was solo - which was very helpful!
If you’re a fan of American Horror Story’s Coven (season 3), then you MUST book this trip and see Buckner Mansion - the beautiful white mansion featured in the season. Although it’s private and not open to the public, you can go to the gates and take pictures of the property.
Participate in a second line parade.
Now this next one may be more difficult to achieve but at least keep your eye out for them. The Second Line is a traditional parade with a brass band. It’s typically accompanied by dancing, people holding parasols and handkerchiefs, and general community engagement.
This style of traditional dance is one of the most foundationally Black American-retentive cultures in the United States. It’s been called a “quintessential New Orleans art form - a jazz funeral without a body”.
In my experience, I’ve only been able to participate in a second line as a part of an organized event, like a festival or a wedding, however if you spot one, you may be able to tag along for the experience. At the very least, stop what you’re doing and watch the fun impromptu parade as they pass by.
Explore the "city of the dead" in St. Louis Cemetery.
Cemeteries are rather unique in New Orleans because for the most part, people are “buried” above ground. If you go on a cemetery tour (St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 and No. 3 are the most popular), you’ll learn the reason for having above-ground tombs as well as the history behind the famous cemeteries.
Bring an umbrella and water on this tour. It will likely be hot and humid which can make it more difficult to concentrate on the tour if you’re without those items!
Kayak through the Honey Island Swamp.
If you’re willing to venture outside of New Orleans, these next two activities are perfect for half-day or full-day trips.
Our guide, Jessica, is a true New Orleans swamp expert. She taught us about hundred-year-old cypress trees, the local ecosystem, and the local fauna. It’s super educational but not the least bit boring.
The big question is, did we see any gators?! Well on this trip, no. When the waters are cold still (early March), the gators stay on the bottom of the swamp. We did however see fish, turtles, and snakes!
Stroll through Oak Alley.
Oak Alley was a traditional sugar plantation with enslaved people working onsite. You can tour inside the house and the guide was mindful to reflect the stories of all inhabitants - including the enslaved people.
Pictures are not allowed inside the home, however they are allowed on the wrap around porch upstairs and all over the rest of the property.
BONUS! Eat LOTS of oysters, Cajun, & Creole food!
This one probably goes without saying, but eat LOTS of oysters, Cajun, and Creole food while you’re in New Orleans! New Orleans is a foodie’s paradise. There are so many amazing places to eat in New Orleans that you could plan your entire trip around the food.
For my recommendations, check out this blog post -
New Orleans is a melting pot of vibrant culture, tradition, and activity. The people of New Orleans add spice and flair to everything they do - whether that’s cooking, dancing, or playing music. Whether you come to enjoy the Mardi Gras festivities or not, there will always be exciting and fun things to do in New Orleans.
author bio
Known as The Jet Set Blonde, Brittany Ryan inspires others to add more adventure to their childfree travel experiences. Brittany has visited 23 countries (and counting!) Connect with her to get access to detailed childfree travel itineraries, travel guides for weekend getaways, and updates on adult-only hotels, resorts, cruises, and other travel amenities.
