Looking for ways to enjoy New Orleans in June? Whether you’re travelling with family or going solo, we’ve got you covered with the very best that the city has to offer. From a day in the swamps to a night at the jazz bar, plan ahead with these great things to do in New Orleans. With Go City, you can see more for less.
See the Sights
Window shopping is a great way to take refuge from a hot summer’s day in New Orleans – and there’s no better place to go for this than Magazine Street. Running through some of the city’s most popular neighborhoods, this cluster of speciality boutiques, galleries and restaurants is buzzing with life. Whether you’re looking for a unique shopping experience or just a relaxing stroll, the area is the perfect way to spend a couple of hours.
If you're interested in learning more about the area, you should make time to visit some of its most historic landmarks. Just downriver from the city, you can visit the site of January 8, 1815, Battle of New Orleans: Chalmette Battlefield. In addition to the actual battlefield, the tour seeks to educate its guests about the war with visitor center films and exhibits. A one-of-a-kind educational experience, this one is not to be missed.
Want to see the sights without facing the sweltering heat? We hear you. Whilst Mardi Gras takes place in the spring, Mardi Gras World provides tourists with a taste of the traditional festival all year round. During the guided tour, you can walk through the warehouse where more than 80 per cent of the parade floats are built and see the breathtaking pieces taking shape. In addition, you can learn about how the floats are designed, the many unique traditions surrounding the parade, and dress up in elaborate costumes.
Why go see a movie indoors when you can see it outside? The historic Broad Theater recently opened a new venue called the Broadside, operating as an outdoor theater. Formerly occupied by a junkyard, the renovated spot has a big screen, food concessions and a bar. Offering after-dark screenings of old classics as well as new releases, there’s always something to choose from. In addition, the space provides a wide variety of daytime entertainment, including puppet and clown shows for kids, as well as music events.
Get Festive
Although Mardi Gras is generally considered to be the city’s most popular festival, Juneteenth ranks pretty highly in our books. Taking place in the middle of the month, this annual event seeks to commemorate the abolition of slavery in America. Celebrating 156 years of freedom, the festival features open markets, music, dance and film screenings. There are also daily activities, including family artmaking, moving dance performances and seminars.
Once a year, the Gay Pride Parade takes place in New Orleans and is the most popular LGBTQ event in Louisiana. Kicking off in early June, this festival means drag shows throughout the French Quarter, special events at bars, and of course, the parade! Celebrations take place throughout the entire month, so don’t miss it!
New Orleans has always been a true food city. For a culinary experience with heart, check out Hogs for the Cause. This annual food festival works to raise money for children fighting brain cancer. With nearly 100 teams serving, you’ll be able to try out barbeque, sauces and sides prepared in the most delicious ways you can think of. You won’t be disappointed!
Another great event for foodies is Restaurant Week New Orleans. Running from June 21-27, this event celebrates one of America’s greatest food cities by giving diners the opportunity to eat at a lower price point. Throughout the week, you’ll be able to choose from over 100 participating restaurants, ranging from fine dining establishments to favorite local bistros. Between them, you’ll have your pick from a wide variety of culinary styles, including Cajun, Italian, French, Asian, Middle Eastern and many more.
Whilst Voodoo didn’t originate in New Orleans, it developed in the city. If you’d like to learn more about the city’s ties with the religion, we recommend checking out the events which are held during St. John’s Eve, which is a holy day in Voodoo tradition. Historically, the famous Voodoo Priestess Marie Laveu was said to have performed ceremonies on the Bayou St. John in the city celebrating the holiday. On June 23rd, you can still attend religious ceremonies and see practitioners perform rituals around the city.
Discover Nature
With the hot summer weather, some activities are just out of the question. Sometimes it’s just nice to kick back in the park, read a book and take in the natural surroundings. A lovely outdoor retreat, Audubon Park offers a little bit of everything – bike and walking trails, beautiful forests, and children's play areas. Located in the Uptown area of the city, the park is easy to get to by walking, streetcar or bicycle.
For the ultimate family-friendly experience, head over to Audubon Zoo. Housing a collection of over 2,000 animals, this place makes for the ultimate day trip. Visitors should take the opportunity to get up close with their favorite furry (or slimy) friends or tromp through a real swamp right in the middle of the city. In addition, you can watch daily feedings and sit in on numerous educational lectures about the animals.
One of the best things to do in June in New Orleans is swamp kayaking. Escape the city for an afternoon and experience one of the most unique ecosystems in the United States. On the tour, you’ll be able to spot alligators, turtles, and water snakes. Very little experience is required for the actual kayaking, so grab a paddle!
New Orleans is a place bursting with exciting, cool things to do. Whether you’re a culture vulture, a foodie, or just simply can’t get enough of the South, the city’s got everything you could ever ask for, and more! Explore the city to its fullest with Go City’s All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass. If you’d like to know more, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook.