New Orleans in August

By Sarah Harris

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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New Orleans in July

There’s nothing quite like summer in New Orleans. While it’s a beautiful destination all year round, July is the best time to visit – the weather is warm, the sun is shining, and we’re ready to explore all that the city has to offer. Jazz lovers, rejoice; foodies, celebrate; and architecture geeks, get ready – because this unique historic metropolis truly offers a little something for everyone. So, if you’re planning on making the trip, make sure to check out our list of the top things to see and do in the area. See the Sites Since the area is renowned for its thriving arts scene, it’s no surprise that it’s home to some of the best museums in the South. Combining the historic architecture of the city with a true passion for the art of today, the Contemporary Arts Center is built into a venerable open-space warehouse in downtown New Orleans. A great stop for art lovers, the gallery features experiments in painting, mixed-media, video, and much, much more. Interesting and thought-provoking, this beautiful and unique space is well worth the trip. No city in the Unites States boasts quite the same architectural beauty as New Orleans. Those who are interested in exploring the constructural integrity and spiritual life of the area should take time to visit the Old Ursuline Convent. Completed in 1752, the abbey is the oldest building in the Mississippi Valley and most certainly a sight to behold. Visitors can take self-guided walking tours to appreciate the 18th century wooden staircases and stunning stained-glass windows. July is the perfect time to visit and meander through the perfectly manicured gardens which surround the convent. Another one of our favorite museums in New Orleans is the African American Museum. Situated in the historic neighborhood of Tremé, this repository seeks to preserve and protect the contributions that those of African descent have made to the development of New Orleans culture. Through world-class curated exhibitions, fascinating personal stories and public programs, the museum provides an educational experience for those of all ages. Attention all shopping addicts: for the ultimate browsing experience, Canal Street is the place to be. Cutting right down the city center, this lively pedestrianized thoroughfare has all that you could ask for to satisfy your deep shopping cravings. Buzzing with life and flanked with lots of interesting stores, theaters, and museums, this area has more than enough to keep you busy. Get to Know the City Perhaps one of the main draws of the city is its iconic food scene. Those who are interested in sampling some of the best that New Orleans has to offer should look into booking a food tour. On the tour, you’ll be guided through the historic and beautiful Lower Garden District and have the chance to try out a number of quintessential dishes based in Louisiana tradition. Combining flavor with learning, this tour is guided by a local expert in gastronomy, who will explain the development of Southern cuisine in a fun and engaging way. Spanning numerous cuisines, 10 blocks, and unfathomable levels of deliciousness, this is not one to be missed! Whilst the summer heat isn’t for everyone, we think it’s a shame to waste the opportunity to enjoy the great outdoors. Just outside the city center, the Bayou Segnette Park offers a wide array of fun activities for those of all ages. Whether you’re fishing in the reserves’ expansive waterway, exploring the winding hiking trails of the park, or spotting animals in the swamps, you'll find little reason to stray far from the retreat’s natural wonders. Visitors will enjoy the quietness and serenity of this beautiful park. If you're trying to avoid the weather, why not beat the heat with a museum tour? In stark contrast to its neighbors, the Beauregard-Keyes House is a unique example of Greek Revival architecture to be found right in the middle of the French Quarter. Visitors can take a self-guided tour to explore the museum’s beautiful interiors and fascinating collection of artefacts. From antique dolls and teapots to delicate fans and folk costumes, this place has it all. Get Festive If you're visiting in July, you’ll be too late to catch Mardi Gras – but lucky for you, the festivals never stop coming in the Big Easy. Running from the 25th Jun to 4th July, Essence Fest is one of the South’s most popular music festivals. Featuring five live stages and an extraordinary array of talent across its star-studded lineup, the event attracts music fans from every corner of the country. With previous performances from Kendrick Lamar, Erykah Badu, Beyonce and The Roots, you won’t want to miss this one! Considering that the city was founded and developed by the French, it’s no wonder that Bastille Day is a big deal there. Falling on July 14th every year,the Faubourg St. John Bastille Day Block Party serves as an exciting celebration of the city’s unique cultural heritage. The festivities include speciality French cuisine, music, and even costume contests – hey, what’s not to like? In addition, there are kids activities available for those travelling with family – so, everyone’s happy! Everyone loves Independence Day, but nobody does it quite like New Orleans. The city presents a wide variety of great things to do for one of America’s favorite holidays, including parades, contests, and firework displays. For a traditional Fourth of July experience, we recommend checking out 4th Fest in Crescent Park, which features fun activities, music and delicious food. Come nightfall, we suggest taking a ride on the Steamboat Natchez – this way, you’ll be able to catch the spectacular firework display lighting up the city sky. This historic steamboat cruise offers live music, a buffet, as well as an open bar. Attracting millions of visitors each year, New Orleans has an undeniable universal appeal. With its unique history, the city's strong cultural influence spreads through to its delicious cuisine, great music and beautiful architecture. From stunning national parks to vibrant nightlife destinations like the French Quarter, the area offers something fun for every traveller. And now, you don’t have to miss a thing – with Go City, you can see more, for less.
Sarah Harris
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New Orleans in January

Lively and filled with culture, New Orleans is home to many of the country’s most iconic neighborhoods, restaurants and museums. Whether you’re checking out the local galleries, soaking in the beautiful architecture, or having a ball at Mardi Gras, you’ll find little reason to stray far from the city’s delightful attractions. For those who are planning to visit this January, plan ahead with our comprehensive guide for all the best activities in the area. With Go City, you can see more for less. See the Sites New Orleans is one of the biggest entertainment hubs in the South. To grab a slice of the action, head down to the Seanger Theater to catch a wide variety of performances including touring Broadway shows, leading comedians, and live music. With its historic architecture and state-of-the-art technology, there’s no better place in town to go for a show. While most museums in the area focus on the history of New Orleans, the National WWII Museum seeks to preserve the experiences of those who were victimized by the Nazis and their allies during the Holocaust. A great stop for history buffs, the institute explores the war through immersive exhibits, moving personal stories, multi-generational programming and research facilities. An exceptional attraction and important landmark for New Orleans, the museum provides a fascinating educational experience. New Orleans is widely known for its beautiful buildings, like the Immaculate Conception Church, which has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places. A total must-see for architecture buffs, this venerable landmark’s stained-glass windows and wrought-iron pews are not to be missed. Visitors can come to the sermons or take self-guided tours to see the breathtaking interiors up close. If you’re interested in learning more about the history and culture of the city, you should take some time to check out the Historic New Orleans Collection. This expansive repository is comprised of 10 remarkable buildings which hold over 1, 000, 000 items that chronicle the history of the city. With so much to see, do and learn, this site would make for a great family day trip. Our next recommendation is the New Orleans Voodoo Museum, which is a small repository right in the heart of the French Quarter, holding one of the few collections dedicated solely to Voodoo art. Serving the community since 1972, the site prides itself on bringing its visitors an informational and adventurous experience intended to preserve the backstory and culture of Voodoo in New Orleans. Experience the intersection of history and spirituality through the museum’s unique collection of artefacts and artworks. Indulge in the Local Cuisine New Orleans is the go-to food city of the South, and with Mardi Gras kicking off in January, there’s no shortage of opportunity to try out the city’s delectable culinary offerings. Those with a sweet tooth should definitely check out the King Cake Festival, where attendees can sample tastings of the holiday treat from over 20 vendors. Although the star of the event is obviously the king cake, there are a lot of other food vendors serving up local favorites, just in case desserts aren't your thing. This one is not for the faint-hearted! If you’re looking for a fine dining joint as an escape from the bustling city, look no further. Situated in a beautiful Italian-style manse in Bywater, the New Orleans Country Club offers an assortment of delicious regional specialities, including shrimp and grits, chicken and waffles, and mascarpone polenta. In addition, visitors can enjoy some cocktails whilst catching a fun drag show – the world’s your oyster! New Orleans is renowned for its iconic gastronomic history. For a taste of the city’s unique culinary offerings, we suggest checking out The Pelican Club. Nestled in the historic Exchange Place in the French Quarter, this award-winning restaurant offers a diverse menu grounded in Southern Louisiana tradition. With its approachable menus, friendly staff and incredible atmosphere, the restaurant attracts and excites both first timers and Creole novices alike. Get Festive Carnival season kicks off in January, making it one of the most exciting times to visit the city. If you’re interested in joining in on the fun, either as a spectator or as a festivalgoer, there are a number of big events which might tickle your fancy, including the Twelfth Night, Phunny Phorty Phellows and Krewe de Jeanne d’Arc. At the parades, you’ll be able to experience the fanfare and festivities in true New Orleans style. Since the parades create dense crowds and a rather hectic atmosphere in the city, we also recommend planning ahead – remember, organization is key! Another one of our favorite things to do in January in New Orleans is observe Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Each year, on the third Monday of January, a crowd marches in the center of the city, celebrating the political activist’s life and legacy. To add to all the excitement, there are ceremonies, concerts and dance performances throughout the day. For those who are interested in learning more about Martin Luther King Jr.’s cultural impact, Ogden Museum of Southern Art offers free admission on the day, as well as special activities. For those who are travelling with kids, we highly recommend checking out Wizard World Comic Con. Attracting thousands of avid pop culture fans each year, this festival is the ultimate sci-fi, horror, anime and gaming convention that the city has to offer. Featuring costume contests, special workshops and artist and celebrity Q&A panels, the fun never stops coming. With previous speakers like William Shatner, Stan Lee and David Duchovny, this one is a sure winner. Exciting and vibrant, it's no wonder that New Orleans is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the South. Whether you’re a music lover, a total foodie, or an architecture geek, this place has it all. Celebrate Mardi Gras to its fullest, try out the city’s famous culinary offerings, or check out some of the stunning architecture – the sky's the limit! Discover all that this unique and fascinating city has to offer with Go City’s All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass.
Sarah Harris
Blog

New Orleans in March 

There are countless things to do, see and experience in New Orleans. From celebrating Mardi Gras to visiting The Cabildo, the city offers a little something for everybody. So, how do you choose between all the different attractions? Well, lucky for you, we’ve rounded up all of our favorite things to do in the area to help you plan your trip. Keep scrolling to discover the best things to do in New Orleans in March! Take Advantage of Festival Season It’s no secret that New Orleans loves its festivals. Held annually on Fat Tuesday, Mardi Gras is a traditional Christian festival celebrating the close of pre-Lenten season. To get a better view of the wild parades and elaborate and ornate floats, we recommend watching from high up on a balcony. In addition, we suggest checking out the live music, special events, Mardi Gras balls and cook-offs. New Orleans is globally renowned for its vibrant music and arts scene, so it’s only fitting that the city presents us with some brilliant music festivals. Running from March 19th-20th, the Buku Music + Art Project showcases an exciting, diverse and innovative array of talent across its extensive lineup. Consisting of four performance stages and featuring artists from a wide variety of genres, this festival has a little something for everybody. In addition to all of the music, the event features a live graffiti gallery, dance performances, and countless art installations. Another one of our favorite festivals for the month of March is St. Patrick’s Day. If you’re planning on joining in on all the fun and festivities, we recommend checking out the annual parade. On the actual day of the festival, we also suggest heading down to Parasol’s Bar, which is also located in the Irish Channel – an area rich with Irish history and tradition. Not only is the bar buzzing with energy, but the location is surrounded by a big street party! Expect music, dancing, and good cheer throughout the day! Don’t forget to pack your greenest attire! Is there any better way to experience the culture of a city than through its food? We don’t think so! To experience New Orleans in all of its true culinary glory, you should consider checking out the Top Taco Festival. Offering unlimited tacos and cocktails from some of the best eateries across the city, this culinary extravaganza is not to be missed. In addition, the festival features music from Latin-inspired artists as well as some cool interactive activities. Explore the City Art tours are a fun and educational way to explore one of the South’s most creative cities. On the tour, you’ll be able to experience the bright murals and hidden street art which add interest and beauty to the area. In addition, you'll be taken through the background and history of many famous and underground artists. New Orleans’ pervasive impact in modern musical history is well-recognized. For those who are interested in learning more about the city’s rich musical history, we recommend booking a jazz tour. On the tour, you’ll walk through the neighborhoods and performance sites where jazz originated and thrived. In addition, you’ll be able to learn about the evolution of the genre as well as those who contributed to its development. One of the most interesting things to do in New Orleans is taking a cemetery tour. An absolute must for history buffs, this two-hour walking tour enables you to explore the historic and supposedly haunted St Louis Cemetery 1, where many of the city’s famous residents have been laid to rest. In addition, you’ll be shown the ornate tombs which were originally made to display one's wealth and status and guided through the unique above-ground traditions of the burials. A visit to New Orleans wouldn’t be complete without checking out The Cabildo. A remarkable example of Spanish colonial architecture, this historic landmark is definitely worth seeing. Upon entrance, visitors are able to view many rare pieces of American history and learn more about the rich and vibrant culture of Louisiana. With over five hundred artefacts and original artworks on display, there’s a lot to see here. Get Cultured If you consider yourself to be a bit of a bookworm, you won’t want to miss out on the Tennesse Williams Literary Festival, which is held annually from 23rd March to 27th March. Attracting thousands of literature lovers each year, this event seeks to celebrate some of the South’s most extraordinary writers. As one of the best literary festivals the city has to offer, the event boasts an impressive lineup of some of the area’s biggest authors and speakers. Visitors can enjoy workshops, readings, performances, and more. New Orleans Museum of Art is easily one of the best things to do on a dull spring afternoon. Built into a neoclassical building right in City Park, even the building itself is a work of art. With an expansive collection of more than 40,000 pieces, spanning over 5,000 years of mastery, this place is an art lover’s dream. City central and holding a diverse collection of world-class pieces, there’s no reason to skip out on this one. Providing innovative experiences for education and interpretation, this place would make the perfect day trip. Another great art space in New Orleans is Studio Be. Built into a large, restored warehouse in the historic Bywater district, the repository displays the work of local artist Brandon Odums. A truly moving exhibition that seeks to inform its viewers, the gallery features stunning murals and paintings depicting Katrina, the Civil Rights movement, and black culture in New Orleans. Interesting and powerful, the gallery provides an informational experience for those of all ages. New Orleans is renowned for its architectural beauty, unique culture, and fascinating history. With its exquisite food, beautiful weather, and lively music scene, the city always has something to offer, no matter where your interests lie. March is the perfect time to visit the area, because of all the festivals! To get the most out of your trip, try Go City’s All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass. If you’d like to know more, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook.
Sarah Harris

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