New Orleans in March 

By Sarah Harris
Published: July 18, 2024

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
Go City Travel Expert

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Cheap Things to do in New Orleans

New Orleans is best known for its lively music scene, unique festivals and Creole cuisine. However, travelling on a budget can come with its restrictions. Still, with Go City, you’ll be able to find lots of fun and creative things to do on vacation at a fair price. To make your money go further, have a look at some of our affordable things to do in the city. Check out the parks If nature is your thing, New Orleans is home to some of the United States’s most unique public parks. At 1,300 acres, City Park is one of the biggest urban parks in America. With the world’s largest collection of mature live oak trees, the area serves as a great budget-friendly spot for recreation, picnics or just enjoying a long, leisurely walk. The park is open all year round, seven days a week, and is admission-free – just remember to pack your comfortable walking shoes! But it doesn’t stop there – the city offers a wide array of outdoor spaces which shouldn’t break the bank, including Jackson Square. Seated in the French Quarter of the city, this national historic landmark facing the Mississippi River is surrounded by a number of notable buildings, including the St. Louis Cathedral, the Presbytere and the Pontalba Buildings. The park itself is built up with iron-wrought fences and equestrian statues, showing its long history. For those who take an interest in the arts, we also recommend looking into the Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden. A cross between a garden and an outdoor art exhibit, the space showcases contemporary and modern pieces alongside one another. Artists featured in the garden include Katharina Fritsch, Frank Gehry and Jeppe Hein. Walking along the footpaths, it’s hard not to notice the 200-year old live oak trees and gleaming lagoons — overall, the experience is unusual and serene. See museums Low-budget educational experiences can be difficult to find - however, the city has a lot of affordable museums to offer. Located at the site of the very first apothecary shop, the Pharmacy Museum documents and showcases the history of medicine throughout the 19th century. Exhibiting an extensive collection of old surgical tools, medical instruments and apothecary jars containing their original ingredients, the museum proves to be a fascinating learning experience for all. For those who want to learn more about the topic, the museum also provides educational programs on the history of pharmacy and health care. If you’re looking to learn more about the city, the Lower Ninth Ward Living Museum might be just for you. Founded in 2011, the museum seeks to remember and celebrate the Lower Ninth Ward, a neighborhood which was largely affected by Hurricane Katrina. The museum presents oral history interviews with Lower Ninth Ward residents, exhibits of fundamental events from the history of the neighborhood, and cultural events to entertain and educate. A moving experience, the museum tells the remarkable tale of the community’s strength and survival. As far as kid-friendly activities go, the Louisiana Children’s Museum is a great option. This state-of-the-art campus focuses on providing immersive, educational activities for children eight and younger. With 13 interactive exhibits and integrated outdoor spaces, this museum makes for a fun day out-and all at a lower price point! The institution also offers special programs and activities which are designed for children with special needs. Although the space is designed primarily for kids, we think that there’s fun to be had for all the family. Learn about the culture New Orleans has an endless list of activities to offer, but a visit wouldn’t be complete without exploring the French Quarter. This historic neighborhood is the cultural hub of the city, fusing colonial French architecture with Caribbean and Southern influences. With its vibrant atmosphere and unique architecture, there's so much that captures the eye. If you’d like to experience more of the city’s rich bohemian culture, you can find live music, street performers, artists and fortune tellers in the quarter. Whilst the show is entirely free, it’s encouraged to tip the musicians and performers. Besides being a great historical city, New Orleans is known for its distinctive local cuisine. If you’d like a taste of the South sans the hefty price tag, we recommend Parkway Bakery and Tavern. Bold and full of character, this restaurant is known for serving some of the best po’boys around – and has even been visited by Barack Obama himself! For those who are looking for something a little more sweet, Café du Monde might just be for you. Operating out of a beautiful Antebellum building in the French Quarter, this purveyor is best known for their iconic sugar-coated beignets and high-quality coffee. A total New Orleans classic, it’s hard to be disappointed with this one. For anybody who’s especially interested in Cajun and Creole food, we suggest heading down to the French Market. Sat along the Mississippi River banks, this famous market has an astonishing 230 years of experience in trading. This buzzing fair offers a broad category of products ranging from fresh produce and seafood to Cajun dishes and bakes. There’s a fun, lively atmosphere at the market, with drinks flowing and great local cuisine being served. Among the stands, you should also be able to pick up Cajun and Creole cooking ingredients to add a bit of spice into your repertoire. New Orleans is a beautiful, unique destination presenting ample opportunities for affordable travel. A top location with an entrancing atmosphere, the city is available to those who know where to look. Thankfully, it’s quite simple to find affordable activities catering to different age groups and areas of interest. With Go City, you can find fun and interesting things to do on your trip which you’ll remember for years to come. If you'd like to save money on your next trip, Go City works to help you see more whilst cutting down on the cost. If you’d like to know more, connect with @GoCity on Instagram and Facebook.
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
Brass band parade in New Orleans.
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New Year's Eve in New Orleans

New Orleans' party scene is the stuff of legend. You don’t need to wait until New Year to have a good time here, where the bars stay open all night, there’s fine live music at nearly every licensed establishment, and (it is said) somewhere in the region of 200 festivals every year. But things really kick off on New Year’s Eve, when the already lively Bourbon Street explodes in a riot of colorful balcony parties and the atmospheric streets of the historic French Quarter come alive with the sounds of jazz and Creole bands and the excited chatter of cocktail-swilling revelers. Our guide to New Year’s Eve in the Big Easy takes in all this and more, including: The Allstate Sugar Bowl Parade Bourbon Street and the French Quarter The 1850 House and State Museum New Orleans Jazz Museum The Big Easy’s best Cajun and Creole eats Mississippi cruises New Year’s Eve balcony bashes Spectacular NOLA fireworks Save on activities and attractions in New Orleans Save on admission to New Orleans attractions with Go City. Check out @GoCity on Instagram for the latest top tips and attraction info. So grab a New Orleans pass and make the most of the new year!
Stuart Bak
Stuart Bak

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