Fun Things to Do, Interesting Things to See in New Orleans, LA
Famous for Mardi Gras and an adult-centric party scene, New Orleans, LA, also known as the Big Easy, flows with jazz and blues music, Creole cuisine, and an energetic arts culture. Learn about the history of the French Quarter at Jackson Square, sample a world-famous beignet from one of the many Louisiana bakeries, or dance in the streets to the tune of New Orleans jams that filter from bars and clubs on Bourbon Street. Looking for more family-friendly attractions? Wander through the historic Garden District to see antebellum mansions, walk a nature trail in Audubon Park, or appreciate beautiful paintings and sculptures at the New Orleans Museum of Art.
The National WWII Museum
The National WWII Museum, a treasure trove of the American Experience and the tales of World War Two, is a must-visit. With ever-changing exhibits and a constant influx of new artifacts, it promises a rich and immersive experience. Taking a stroll through New Orleans, it’s safe and convenient to walk from the French Quarter to the museum. Sidewalks crisscross the entire way, leading you directly to the museum’s doors. Discover freedom here.
- Address: 945 Magazine St New Orleans, LA 70130
- Phone: (504) 528-1944
- Website link: www.nationalww2museum.org
Audubon Park and Zoo
Adjacent to one another, the Audubon Park and Zoo are family-friendly attractions that you should plan to tour for at least 3 to 4 hours, if not the entire day. The park features beautiful blossoming gardens and perfect places to picnic. The zoo offers interactive animal encounters, educational programs to teach guests about the importance of conservation, and animal sightings worldwide. There’s always something exciting to do at the zoo; children can even plan their birthday parties on the grounds.
- Address: 6500 Magazine St New Orleans, LA 70118
- Phone: (504) 861-2537
- Website link: https://www.audubonnatureinstitute.org/
City Park
City Park has been described as whimsical and romantic, words made stronger by the carousel, stone bridge, and sweet-scented botanical garden. It would be the perfect place for a date, but the park also features family-friendly elements, like a pelican greenhouse, an owl house, and a putt-putt course. Nature trails are also woven throughout the park for walkers, hikers, and outdoorsy folk.
- Address: 1 Palm Dr New Orleans, LA 70124
- Phone: (504) 482-4888
- Website link: neworleanscitypark.org
The Garden District
The Garden District features row houses turned historic homes, Classic Revival mansions, and cottages that look like something out of fairytales. Indie boutiques dot the sidewalks, and the district is named for its many well-maintained, gorgeous flower gardens featuring native and exotic species of flora and fauna. You may even see a celebrity or two, as Beyonce, John Goodman, and Sandra Bullock are rumored to have homes here.
- Address: St Charles Avenue New Orleans, LA 70130-5968
- Phone: N/A
- Website link: www.neworleans.com/blog/post/guide-to-the-garden-district/
New Orleans Museum of Art
One of the oldest attractions in Louisiana, the New Orleans Museum of Art, also known as NOMA, boasts an impressive arts and crafts collection of 4000 permanent items in various exhibits. Louisiana residents can visit free every Wednesday; otherwise, general admission fees go toward the Helis Foundation, a charitable organization for art, culture, and community. Expect to spend 2 to 3 hours at the museum.
- Address: 1 Collins Diboll Cir New Orleans, LA 70124
- Phone: (504) 658-4100
- Website link: www.noma.org
