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.
