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.
