New Orleans in August

By Sarah Harris
Published: July 18, 2024

Energetic and bold with historic landmarks, superb nightlife and publicly celebrated traditions you won’t find anywhere else in the country, New Orleans has an energy like no other. If you’re planning to visit the city this August, don’t worry – we've got you covered. See our list of fun and creative things to do during summertime in New Orleans. With Go City, you can create memories to cherish for years to come.

Explore the City

If you’re after great shopping and dining, look no further than Royal Street. Encompassing the bohemian nature of the city, this packed thoroughfare makes for the ultimate day out. Seated in the heart of the French Quarter, this stretch of grand family-owned antique shops, art galleries and curiosity stores offers a little something for everyone. A charming area with a lot to see, it’s impossible to be bored. As one of the oldest streets in the city, its brightly colored buildings and wrought-iron verandas with trailing foliage are also a sight to behold.

With the summer heat and humidity, what better way to cool off than with a steamboat tour? Feel the breeze on your face as you cruise down the Mississippi River on Steamboat Natchez. With this historic riverboat ride, you can admire the beautiful skylines of the city as they are best seen. Offering live jazz music and an optional buffet with many local specialties, this experience is fun for all the family.

For those who are interested in learning more about New Orleans, why not look into some of the city’s walking tours? A stroll through the Garden District is an absolute must for history and architecture lovers, and with the self-guided tour you can see much of it for free! On the tour, you can learn about the historic plantation homes of the district whilst soaking up the sun. The area’s private gardens and oak-lined streets add to the beauty of the area, making it one of America's most Instagram-worthy districts. The epitome of Southern Charm, this historic suburb exhibits a wide range of architectural styles all in one spot.

New Orleans’ summer is not only hot but extremely hot! If you're not a fan of the heat, why not check out the city’s most popular voodoo tour, which runs at nighttime? This educational walking tour provides a deeper look into the area’s strong ties with voodoo practices. On the tour, you will learn about how Voodoo came to New Orleans and visit several sacred grounds where rituals and ceremonies have taken place. One thing’s certain-you'll walk away with shivers running down your spine.

Enjoy the Nightlife

Sometimes a cold beer is the perfect antidote to a hot day. With its vibrant atmosphere and rich musical history, Bourbon Street is the perfect place to get some drinks. Extending thirteen blocks from Canal Street to Esplanade Avenue, the area lives up to its enduring reputation – the streets are bustling, the bars are busy, and the air is filled with music. Whilst it’s not the ideal place for a quiet evening, if you’re looking to cool off at the bar, this place won’t let you down. Grab a drink and a bite to eat, and then sit back and enjoy the live performances.

Whilst Bourbon Street is the most popular area for getting a drink, Frenchmen Street comes in at a close second. Still, what this street lacks in popularity, it makes up for in atmosphere. Stretching for 13 blocks, the area is known for its energetic street scene and high concentration of live music venues. If you’re looking to cool off with some good music, food and culture, Frenchmen Street is hard to beat.

If you’re looking for a quiet, romantic spot to cool off with your partner, Bayou Wine Garden might just be for you. Located in the Mid-City area, this courtyard bar offers an extensive wine selection as well as small plates to snack on. With its casual atmosphere and friendly staff, the taproom is as welcoming to novices as it is experts. The beautiful modern interior, relaxed ambience and approachable menus make this place a sure winner.

Have Fun Outdoors

Louis Armstrong is one of New Orleans’ most famous native sons, so it’s no surprise that they came up with a festival in his name. Held annually in the height of the summer sun, The Satchmo SummerFest is a four-day splendor of food, fun, and, of course, jazz! For those who are interested in learning more about Armstrong, the event also offers indoor seminars by biographers and historians as well as discussions with musicians who have been inspired by his work. In short, this festival is a music lover’s dream.

Another favorite is the NOLA Downtown Music and Arts Festival, which takes place towards the end of the month. A celebration of the city's rich artistry and culture, the event features two days of music, dance, art and film screenings. Complete with fun pop-up shops and food trucks serving delicious local cuisine, the festival makes for the perfect day trip. Be sure not to miss it!

Why not bask in the sunshine and explore the natural beauty of New Orleans at the same time? Just 25 miles downtown from the city, you can visit wild swamps and wetlands which run for countless miles. On the tour, you’ll be guided by experts in the field who'll provide a better understanding of one of America’s most unique ecosystems. You’ll also be able to spot lots of beautiful wildlife, including alligators, wild boars, egrets and turtles. Remember to bring a camera!

With its rich and vibrant history, New Orleans has got pretty much everything you can think of and then a whole heap more. Music, food and culture developed here like nowhere else in the United States, and it is still celebrated to this day. The summertime in the city brings a host of festivals, tours and markets. With Go City, you can see more, for less. If you’d like to know more, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook.

Sarah Harris
Go City Travel Expert

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What to do on Memorial Day Weekend in New Orleans
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What to do on Memorial Day Weekend in New Orleans

Did you know that over 6 in 10 Americans have family members who serve or have served in the armed forces? That's...a lot of Americans. It's no wonder that Memorial Day is one of the most venerated days on the calendar. A day to pay respects to fallen soldiers, Memorial Day gives non-serving people the opportunity to give thanks for what we have and the sacrifices others made to provide us with so much. So, if you're in New Orleans and wondering what to do on Memorial Day weekend, we've created this guide that gives you the low down on all the goings on in the city. When is Memorial Day? Memorial Day lands on the last Monday of May. In 2023, that's Monday, May 29. What to do on Memorial Day Weekend in New Orleans? Now you know what and when Memorial Day is, let's explore what to do in New Orleans on the weekend. Attend the Memorial Day service at the National WW II Museum On any other day, the National World War II Museum is one of New Orleans' best attractions. History buffs will love exploring the 6-acre site, which features numerous exhibits that honor the courage and sacrifice that brave American soldiers made during one of the worst conflicts humanity has ever seen. Covering everything from D-Day to the invasion of Tokyo, you'll read personal stories from soldiers on the frontlines, follow the troops as they make their push east and then west toward Berlin, and see authentic weapons, clothing, and equipment used during the Second World War. On Memorial Day, a ceremony is held there between 11AM and 12PM. It gives participants the opportunity to remember the people who paid the ultimate price for their country. Without them, you may not even exist today. Servicemembers get free entry to the ceremony, and they'll also get admission to the rest of the museum for free. Memorial Day Ceremony at Chalmette Cemetery Chalmette National Cemetary is one of the city's biggest grave sites. The ground it sits on now was where the Battle of New Orleans was fought back in 1815. On top of that, soldiers from wars through the years have been buried there, including those lost in the Vietnam War. So it's only appropriate that a Memorial Day Ceremony is held there every year. The ceremony takes place on Monday, May 29, at 12.30PM. It includes a color guard, a bagpiper, and veterans, who often say some words to see out the ceremony. Anyone is free to attend and pay their respects. You can even volunteer to place flags on the headstones and then remove them at the end of the day. However, it's worth noting that, given New Orleans' hot and humid climate, you should make sure you're capable of the often-hours worth of work, including bending over to place the flags and walking among the hundreds of headstones. Still, if you're willing and able, it's a great way to say thanks. Other things to do in New Orleans on Memorial Day weekend The above two are the biggest Memorial Day events in New Orleans, but you'll still find plenty of local services and events happening in the city. Feel free to check social media before you head out, or simply walk the streets and see what's happening. If you're staying in New Orleans over the whole Memorial Day weekend and want to know what to do on the other days, we've got some suggestions down below. Take the Paddlewheeler Creole Queen Cruise If you're keen to discover more of New Orleans' 300-year history, or enjoy riding boats, consider a Paddlewheeler Creole Queen Cruise. The luxury liner looks like it was ripped out of the Wild West era, but don't let your eyes decieve you - the boat boasts luxurious decor and air conditioning, ensuring your trip will be pleasant regardless of New Orleans' sticky temperatures! Your trip passes through all the city's best bits, like the French Quarter, the Port of New Orleans, and Jean Lafitte National Park. Your guide will point out landmarks as you pass them, all while filling you in on the history of each location. Highlights include the founding of present-day New Orleans by the LeMoyne brothers, the expansion of the city into the French Quarter, and the Louisiana Purchase. You'll then reach Chalmette Battlefield, which seems like an appropriate stop for Memorial Day weekend. You'll disembark and be taken on an hour-long guided tour led by National Park Rangers. You'll learn more about the Battle of New Orleans and why the city was so important for Louisiana and the US as a whole. Dare to undertake an Ultimate Swamp Adventure If you want to feel closer to nature and have a daring streak in you, why not take a tour of the bayou, courtesy of an Ultimate Swamp Adventure? Gorgeous scenery and deadly wildlife await! You'll hop aboard a boat and set out into Louisiana's thick wetlands on an adventure you won't soon forget. Your experienced guide and sea captain will expertly navigate the waters, taking you on a tour of the best sites. Make sure you take a camera, or make some space on your phone, because you'll want to take as many pictures as possible. With any luck, you'll see alligators, snapping turtles, and wild hogs, to name but a few. Get some grub And finally, you may need to refuel at some point on Memorial Day weekend, so if you're wondering what to eat in New Orleans, check out our picks for the places that do BBQ right! The Joint, Central City BBQ, Devil Moon BBQ, and Blue Oak BBQ all offer quality smoked and grilled meats in different parts of the city, so check out their menus and locations and see which is right for you! Whichever you go to, you're bound to be stuffed and satisfied. Now there's no need to wonder what to do on Memorial Day weekend in New Orleans! We hope this guide helps you enjoy the weekend in whichever way you choose. However, if you're looking for some different suggestions for the Memorial Day weekend itinerary, check out Go City. With our All-Inclusive Pass, you can see all of New Orleans' best bits at one low price.
Dom Bewley
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New Orleans in September

There are so many things to do in New Orleans in September. The weather is less humid, the crowds are smaller, and we’re ready to explore all that the city has to offer. Whether you’re soaking up the culture at one of the city’s many fine museums, taking in the breathtaking architecture of a historic estate, or having a blast at a festival, you’ll be absolutely spoiled for choice. So, if you’re planning to make the visit, make sure to read our rundown of the very best attractions and activities to check out in The Big Easy. Whatever you choose to do, we promise you won’t leave disappointed! Fall is the sweet spot for tourists in New Orleans. The city has an entirely different pulse to it than during the summertime; the weather is balmy, there are fewer crowds, and all the while, the area is bustling with life. Still, what really draws in visitors year after year is the town’s wide array of world-class attractions. Whether you’re exploring some of its best institutions, uncovering under-the-radar gems, or having a ball at Southern Decadence, this place has it all. To make the best out of your vacation, check out Go City’s All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass. For more information, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook. So grab a New Orleans pass and save while you sightsee!
Sarah Harris
Blog

Things to do in New Orleans

A melting pot of great food, music, history and culture, New Orleans has been drawing in visitors from near and far for decades – and with good reason! There are lot – and we mean a lot of fantastic things to do in The Big Easy. From the stunning design of the Presbytere and learning about how parade floats are made at Mardi Gras World to great music at Preservation Hall, New Orleans pretty much has it all. Whether you’re a culture vulture, an artsy type, or a foodie, you’re sure to find something to pique your interest. If you’re a first-time visitor you might feel a little overwhelmed by the possibilities – but don’t worry – that's what we’re here for! If you’re planning to head over to New Orleans, and aren’t quite sure where to begin, make sure to read through our list of the best cultural gems and hidden treasures in the area. You might not be able to squeeze all of them in, but there’s certainly no harm in trying! See the Sites Brimming with a unique and storied history, New Orleans is well-known for its magnificent venerable structures. The city was founded by the French in the early 1700s and ruled by the Spanish for 40 years, all of which can be seen through its eclectic mix of architectural styles. Whilst much of the city’s architecture speaks NO’s past, The Presbytere stands out as one of the nation’s best examples of colonial Spanish architecture. Once serving as a courthouse under Spanish rule, this Designated Historic Landmark is now open to the public, with engaging educational exhibitions focusing on the background of New Orleans. There are two permanent exhibitions: ‘’Living with Hurricanes: Katrina and Beyond’’ and ‘’Mardi Gras: it’s Carnival Time in Louisiana’’. We also recommend taking some time to see St. Louis Cathedral, which is right next door. Learn About the City Another one of the top visitor attractions in the city is the Cabildo. Declared a National Historic Landmark in 1960, The Cabildo is great for those who want to learn more about the background of the city. First constructed in 1795, the building is recognized as one of the most historically significant buildings in America and is known for its classical style of architecture. Once serving as the seat of government during the Spanish colonial period, this spot is now a fantastic educational attraction open to visitors all throughout the year. The museum’s small yet comprehensive collection features around five hundred artefacts taking visitors through the storied history of New Orleans and Louisiana. Located along Jackson Square, this spot is easily accessible by bus or cab and has a lot of interesting things to do in the surrounding area. We recommend checking out St. Louis Cathedral, which is right next door! No other place in America knows how to put on a festival quite like New Orleans. Even if you’re not visiting during Mardi Gras, you can still get a sense of the traditional Christian holiday at Mardi Gras World. As fun as it is fascinating, Mardi Gras World seeks to offer a behind-the-scenes look into the nation’s biggest party. Tour a 300, 000 square foot working warehouse where the floats, characters and costumes are made for this unique event and learn more about the work that goes into these spectacular pieces. In addition, you’ll be able to hear more about the history and traditions of the holiday and see how technology helps to aid the creative process. The guides are very friendly and informative here, so if you have any questions, feel free to ask away! Whether you’re a total crafting geek or just looking to snap that perfect Instagram shot, this is the place to be. Find Fun Activities to Do If you love animals like we do, you’re sure to enjoy the next item on our list. Located in the historic Uptown New Orleans, Audubon Zoo is the perfect place to spend some quality time with the family whilst seeing some great critters. We especially love this place because it offers a great opportunity to see some exotic wildlife without causing any harm to the animals. This attraction is home to a whopping 2,000 animals, so you know that there’s plenty to see here. Amongst its expansive repository, you can expect to see everything from American river otters and spider monkeys to gorillas and Mayalan tigers. If you’re the type who likes to get up close with the animals, this place offers special exhibits and feedings. We suggest checking online before you head out, so you won’t miss the chance to interact with your favorite furry friend. In addition, this spot has a gift shop, a play area, as well as a café to enhance the experience. Both educational and fun, we love this spot because it’s impossible to leave without having learned something new. Of course, a trip to New Orleans just wouldn’t be complete without listening to some authentic jazz. Whilst the city is chock-a-block with some fantastic jazz spots, none can quite compete with the likes of Preservation Hall. Established way back in 1961, the venue often served as a rehearsal spot for the likes of some of New Orleans’ most highly revered jazz musicians, including George Lewis, Punch Miller, The Humphrey Brothers, and more. Today, this small though venerable structure now serves as a great place to hear some of the best jazz in the city. The house band is none other than The Preservation Hall Jazz Band – you can catch these guys around the globe, but there’s no better place to see them than at their home venue. This spot also has limited seating and doesn’t take reservations, so we recommend showing up early to ensure your seats! A charming and atmospheric venue with a lot of history behind it, Preservation Hall provides a fantastic cultural experience to remember. No doubt New Orleans is one of the most exciting cities to visit in the south. Known for its fascinating history, great music and vibrant culture, The Big Easy really has it all. Whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned visitor, you’re sure to be spoiled for choice when it comes to finding interesting things to see and do there. Explore the city to its full potential with GoCity’s All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass. If you’d like to know more, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook. With Go City, you can see more, for less.
Sarah Harris

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