Outdoor Activities New Orleans

By Sarah Harris

A well-rounded city seated right by the Gulf of Mexico, New Orleans is an exciting place to visit for first-timers and seasoned visitors alike. Around 20 million people flock to The Big Easy each year – and it’s easy to see why! Proving its status as one of the south’s top visitor destinations, the best things to do in New Orleans run the gamut. From admiring the beautiful mansions of the Garden District to ambling along the scenic hiking trails of the Barataria Preserve, the city presents ample opportunity for outdoor exploration and adventure. Looking for the best way to fill up your trip to the Big Easy? Look no further! Check out our guide to the best outdoor activities in New Orleans. However you choose to enjoy your time in the south, we’re sure it’ll be just wonderful.

See the City

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Perhaps no other place in the United States is known for its architecture quite like New Orleans. If you’re looking to marvel over some of the most gorgeous historic homes in the country, we recommend taking a walking tour through the Garden District. Well-revered for its stunning mansions and meticulously well-kept gardens, this charming neighborhood is a total treat for both history buffs and architecture geeks alike. We suggest bringing plenty of water and sunscreen since New Orleans weather can be pretty hot and humid. In addition to its diversity in beauty, the Garden District is a fantastic place to window shop, with Magazine Street on the southern border of the neighborhood boasting some of the best upscale boutiques and eclectic stores in the whole city. To take a break after some hardcore exploring, we suggest sitting down at a quaint sidewalk cafe, ordering a sweet tea, and soaking up those distinctly southern vibes.

If you're looking for something a little different, don’t worry – we've got you covered! Billed as ‘’the city of the dead’’, New Orleans is well-recognized for its fascinating historic cemeteries. Not only are these places known for their unusual above-ground graves, but they are also where some of the most famous jazz greats were laid to rest. If you’re looking to experience this creepier side of the city, we suggest checking out the St. Louis Cemetery Tour. Combining the city’s rich history with its wholly distinctive culture, this tour provides a great way to incorporate education into your vacation experience. Along the way, you’ll be able to learn more about the traditions which surround burials in the city, such as jazz funerals and Voodoo practices. Voodoo priestess Marie Laveau is buried in St. Louis No. 1 and jazz musicians Danny Barker and Ernie K. Doe are buried in St. Louis No. 2. Experience the hauntingly beautiful past of New Orleans and delve into the unique history native to this part of the United States alone. A thoroughly fascinating cultural experience, this tour is not to be missed.

Get in Touch With Nature

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If you love nature as much as we do, you might just be interested in our next suggestion. The New Orleans Botanical Garden was opened in 1936 and still stands as a popular oasis in the heart of the city. Covering over ten acres of enchantment, this beautiful green space is well-recognized for its lovely collection of 2,000 plants from around the world. The garden features several different components, including the Original Garden, the Demonstration Garden and Exotic Foliage. The park is also known for its wonderful art installations, most of which are the work of Mexican-born artist Enrique Alferez. Don't forget to check out the butterfly walk, where you can experience a wide array of species all in one spot. Offering a peaceful respite from the city, this wonderful outdoorsy mecca is a great place for gathering your thoughts and experiencing the true magic of mother nature.

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Seated along the southern coastline, New Orleans is rich and endowed with remarkable plant life to be explored. If you’re looking to get stuck in, there’s no better place to see than the Barataria Preserve. Located just outside Marrero, this space offers a great way to get in touch with nature and learn more about the world around us. The park covers over 23, 000 acres of bayous, swamps, marshes and wetlands to be explored. This unique nature attraction is home to a lot of animals – expect to see everything from minks and deer to alligators and water snakes. The spot is also a popular visitor site for birdwatchers, as it is home to over 300 bird species. Fun activities to do here include hiking, swimming, canoeing and kayaking. In addition, visitors can discover more about the environment at the site’s visitor center, which offers educational films, displays and interactive exhibits. With its meandering hiking trails and wonderful greenery, we couldn’t think of a better way to spend a sunny day out in New Orleans!

Have a Blast!

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Those travelling with family might just appreciate the next item on our list. Set up way back in 1906, Carousel Gardens Amusement Park offers a full day of classic all-American entertainment to remember. Breaking away from your typical theme park experience, this spot works to retain much of its original old southern charm. The park has a great assortment of old-fashioned rides to choose from, making it a total crowd-pleaser. For younger visitors and those who like to play it safe, rides like the Ferris wheel and bumper cars would be just perfect. But if it’s a hit of adrenaline you’re after, you’ll probably prefer the tilt-a-whirl. There’s also a concession stand, serving up traditional theme park snacks like corndogs, sliders and cotton candy. We love this spot because it’s impossible to leave without a huge smile stretched across your face.

No doubt New Orleans has plenty to see and do in the outdoors. The city has a charm all of its own which can’t quite be replicated. Whether you’re interested in learning more about the history of The Big Easy or getting some fresh air and soaking up the sun, you’ll be blown away by all that there is to discover. Just remember to pack plenty of sunscreen! Explore the city to its full potential with GoCity’s All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass. If you’d like to know more, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook. With Go City, you can see more, for less.

Sarah Harris
Go City Travel Expert

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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
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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
Blog

New Orleans in September

There are so many things to do in New Orleans in September. The weather is less humid, the crowds are smaller, and we’re ready to explore all that the city has to offer. Whether you’re soaking up the culture at one of the city’s many fine museums, taking in the breathtaking architecture of a historic estate, or having a blast at a festival, you’ll be absolutely spoiled for choice. So, if you’re planning to make the visit, make sure to read our rundown of the very best attractions and activities to check out in The Big Easy. Whatever you choose to do, we promise you won’t leave disappointed! Fall is the sweet spot for tourists in New Orleans. The city has an entirely different pulse to it than during the summertime; the weather is balmy, there are fewer crowds, and all the while, the area is bustling with life. Still, what really draws in visitors year after year is the town’s wide array of world-class attractions. Whether you’re exploring some of its best institutions, uncovering under-the-radar gems, or having a ball at Southern Decadence, this place has it all. To make the best out of your vacation, check out Go City’s All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass. For more information, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook. So grab a New Orleans pass and save while you sightsee!
Sarah Harris

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