Relaxing things to do in New Orleans

The city is well-recognized for its larger-than-life attitude, but still, it’s nice to take a break sometimes. If you’re looking for the most relaxing activities and attractions in The Big Easy, you’ve most certainly come to the right place!

By Sarah Harris
Published: July 18, 2024
Garden District - New Orleans, Louisiana

From zipping across the Mississippi on the Algiers Ferry to catching a movie outdoors, there’s a lot to see here for all types of travellers. Other popular places to take a breather include the Garden District, Barataria Preserve, and Besthoff Sculpture Garden – but don’t worry – we'll get to all of that later! Whether you’re an art lover, an outdoorsy type, or a history buff, you're sure to find something to suit you. Start planning your personalized trip to New Orleans with our guide to the top attractions and things to do in the city. Check off the list as you go, and make sure to have a look at some of our other articles for more information about how to explore New Orleans!

Explore the Area

 

New Orleans architecture is no joke. If you’re looking to marvel over some of the finest colonial homes in the United States, we recommend heading over the Garden District. A quiet scenic neighborhood known for its historic mansions and oak-lined streets, this spot is best explored on foot. We suggest taking a laid-back stroll through the area to view the beautiful homes and carefully–manicured gardens up close. If you’re hankering to learn more about the unique history of the area and different styles of architecture, a guided tour should be your best bet. The Garden District is also a great place for window shopping, with Magazine Street located at the southern border of the neighborhood. As one of the city’s most upscale shopping destinations, this thoroughfare is known for its designer boutiques and eclectic stores. Don't forget to check out some of the eateries here, too – from quaint sidewalk cafes to fantastic fine dining spots, there’s sure to be something to take your fancy. No doubt one of the most beautiful areas of the city, this stop is surely not to be missed.

 

The Mississippi River is the second-longest river in North America, and a total sight to behold. Get a full frame of one of the United States’ most wonderful natural attributes by taking the Algiers Ferry Ride. Along the way, you can cruise along the majestic waters of the Mississippi and see the muddy waters up close. The ferry stops at Algiers Point, a historic residential neighborhood which retains much of its 19th-century village charm. We suggest taking some time to enjoy the area’s small art galleries, friendly pubs and quaint Creole cottages. Anybody who is interested in learning more about this unique area of New Orleans should look into history and architecture tours. Pro tip: if you wait to take the ferry back after dusk, you’ll be able to enjoy the sparkling skyline of the cityscape from over the river. What could be better than that?

Get in Touch with Nature

 

One of the best ways to relax on vacation is through getting in touch with Mother Nature. Situated right by the Gulf of Mexico, New Orleans is well-recognized for its year-round tropical weather and lush greenery, making it a true haven for nature enthusiasts. If you’re looking to take advantage of all of this, we recommend heading over to the Barataria Preserve, one of the area’s most popular nature attractions. The area extends for over 26,000 arces across Louisiana flatwoods and wetlands, so you know that there’s plenty to see here. A unique region of incredible biodiversity, this spot is home to a wide array of wildlife – expect to see everything from minks and deer to alligators and water snakes! In addition, this is a popular place for birdwatching, with over 300 species to be enjoyed. There are a lot of great activities to do here, including hiking, swimming, sailing and kayaking. Offering a quiet respite from bustling city life, this peaceful oasis is perfect for a quiet spot of contemplation and soaking up the sun.

Get Creative

 

Those looking for art and culture in New Orleans will not be disappointed with what the city has to offer. Whilst there are countless fantastic cultural institutions and points of interest dotted around the city, we recommend the Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden for the ultimate relaxing day trip. Breaking away from the typical museum experience, this place works to provide a unique creative endeavor out in the open doors. The 6.5 acre expansion works to present modern and contemporary sculpture from some of the world’s most prolific installation artists. The grounds include beloved land art pieces by Larry Bell, Tony Cragg, Johan Creten, and more. The garden itself is a total sight to behold, with mature pines, magnolias and oaks surrounding two gleaming lagoons. We recommend taking plenty of water and sunscreen to stay comfortable. This spot is great for those who want to get away from all of the hustle and bustle of the city and view art in a calm natural space.

 

Ever wanted to kick back with a movie under the stars? Well, now you can! Located between The Broad and the Lafitte Greenway, The Broadside Theater is the best place in the city to take a breather after a long hard day of exploration. The perfect spot for all cinephiles, this spot is well-known for its wonderfully selective programming. Visitors can expect to see everything from popular blockbusters and old classics to lesser-known indie films and even election results – all out in the open doors. Emulating an old-style drive-in, the theater is laid out with a combination of straight-back and Adirondack-style chairs and picnic tables and is completed with a massive movie screen, of course. Don't fill up too much beforehand, since there are pop-ups and food trucks, with classic movie theater fare like popcorn, hot dogs and burgers as well as a bar. In addition, The Broadside hosts concerts for a wide range of genres all throughout the week. We love this spot because it brings something new to the table.

 

We love to relax in New Orleans! 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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What to do on Memorial Day Weekend in New Orleans
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What to do on Memorial Day Weekend in New Orleans

Did you know that over 6 in 10 Americans have family members who serve or have served in the armed forces? That's...a lot of Americans. It's no wonder that Memorial Day is one of the most venerated days on the calendar. A day to pay respects to fallen soldiers, Memorial Day gives non-serving people the opportunity to give thanks for what we have and the sacrifices others made to provide us with so much. So, if you're in New Orleans and wondering what to do on Memorial Day weekend, we've created this guide that gives you the low down on all the goings on in the city. When is Memorial Day? Memorial Day lands on the last Monday of May. In 2023, that's Monday, May 29. What to do on Memorial Day Weekend in New Orleans? Now you know what and when Memorial Day is, let's explore what to do in New Orleans on the weekend. Attend the Memorial Day service at the National WW II Museum On any other day, the National World War II Museum is one of New Orleans' best attractions. History buffs will love exploring the 6-acre site, which features numerous exhibits that honor the courage and sacrifice that brave American soldiers made during one of the worst conflicts humanity has ever seen. Covering everything from D-Day to the invasion of Tokyo, you'll read personal stories from soldiers on the frontlines, follow the troops as they make their push east and then west toward Berlin, and see authentic weapons, clothing, and equipment used during the Second World War. On Memorial Day, a ceremony is held there between 11AM and 12PM. It gives participants the opportunity to remember the people who paid the ultimate price for their country. Without them, you may not even exist today. Servicemembers get free entry to the ceremony, and they'll also get admission to the rest of the museum for free. Memorial Day Ceremony at Chalmette Cemetery Chalmette National Cemetary is one of the city's biggest grave sites. The ground it sits on now was where the Battle of New Orleans was fought back in 1815. On top of that, soldiers from wars through the years have been buried there, including those lost in the Vietnam War. So it's only appropriate that a Memorial Day Ceremony is held there every year. The ceremony takes place on Monday, May 29, at 12.30PM. It includes a color guard, a bagpiper, and veterans, who often say some words to see out the ceremony. Anyone is free to attend and pay their respects. You can even volunteer to place flags on the headstones and then remove them at the end of the day. However, it's worth noting that, given New Orleans' hot and humid climate, you should make sure you're capable of the often-hours worth of work, including bending over to place the flags and walking among the hundreds of headstones. Still, if you're willing and able, it's a great way to say thanks. Other things to do in New Orleans on Memorial Day weekend The above two are the biggest Memorial Day events in New Orleans, but you'll still find plenty of local services and events happening in the city. Feel free to check social media before you head out, or simply walk the streets and see what's happening. If you're staying in New Orleans over the whole Memorial Day weekend and want to know what to do on the other days, we've got some suggestions down below. Take the Paddlewheeler Creole Queen Cruise If you're keen to discover more of New Orleans' 300-year history, or enjoy riding boats, consider a Paddlewheeler Creole Queen Cruise. The luxury liner looks like it was ripped out of the Wild West era, but don't let your eyes decieve you - the boat boasts luxurious decor and air conditioning, ensuring your trip will be pleasant regardless of New Orleans' sticky temperatures! Your trip passes through all the city's best bits, like the French Quarter, the Port of New Orleans, and Jean Lafitte National Park. Your guide will point out landmarks as you pass them, all while filling you in on the history of each location. Highlights include the founding of present-day New Orleans by the LeMoyne brothers, the expansion of the city into the French Quarter, and the Louisiana Purchase. You'll then reach Chalmette Battlefield, which seems like an appropriate stop for Memorial Day weekend. You'll disembark and be taken on an hour-long guided tour led by National Park Rangers. You'll learn more about the Battle of New Orleans and why the city was so important for Louisiana and the US as a whole. Dare to undertake an Ultimate Swamp Adventure If you want to feel closer to nature and have a daring streak in you, why not take a tour of the bayou, courtesy of an Ultimate Swamp Adventure? Gorgeous scenery and deadly wildlife await! You'll hop aboard a boat and set out into Louisiana's thick wetlands on an adventure you won't soon forget. Your experienced guide and sea captain will expertly navigate the waters, taking you on a tour of the best sites. Make sure you take a camera, or make some space on your phone, because you'll want to take as many pictures as possible. With any luck, you'll see alligators, snapping turtles, and wild hogs, to name but a few. Get some grub And finally, you may need to refuel at some point on Memorial Day weekend, so if you're wondering what to eat in New Orleans, check out our picks for the places that do BBQ right! The Joint, Central City BBQ, Devil Moon BBQ, and Blue Oak BBQ all offer quality smoked and grilled meats in different parts of the city, so check out their menus and locations and see which is right for you! Whichever you go to, you're bound to be stuffed and satisfied. Now there's no need to wonder what to do on Memorial Day weekend in New Orleans! We hope this guide helps you enjoy the weekend in whichever way you choose. However, if you're looking for some different suggestions for the Memorial Day weekend itinerary, check out Go City. With our All-Inclusive Pass, you can see all of New Orleans' best bits at one low price.
Dom Bewley
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Outdoor Activities New Orleans

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 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 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. 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! 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
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New Orleans in April 

April in New Orleans is pretty glorious. While a lot of the country is still huddled away inside, the city’s coastal seat makes it the perfect destination for curious explorers. Whether you’re exploring the swamps, walking through the stunning gardens of a historic luxury estate, or kicking back at the jazz club, there’s more than enough to keep you busy. Those looking for stunning architecture, delicious food and world-class art will not be disappointed. And really, what more could you ask for? See the Sites New Orleans is universally renowned for its strong association with jazz. Anybody who’s a big fan of the genre should definitely head over to Preservation Hall for a traditional experience. In the 1950s, this small venerable building served as a practice spot for many living legends of New Orleans jazz, including George Lewis, Punch Miller, and Sweet Emma Barrett. Nowadays, the concert hall seeks to honor and protect the essence of one of America’s most respected art forms through hosting intimate live shows right in the middle of the French Quarter. Simply put, this is as close to time travel as one can get. New Orleans is home to many world-class museums. Known for housing an extensive collection of important artefacts and documents, the Museum of Southern Jewish Experience seeks to protect and preserve the modern Jewish experience. Through immersive exhibits, powerful personal stories, and interactive displays, visitors can learn more about the Holocaust. Both educational and fascinating, the museum provides a deeper insight into one of the most tragic events in human history. No visit to New Orleans would be complete without exploring the city’s creepy side – and what better place to start than with the Museum of Death? Whilst definitely not for everyone, this quirky – and quite frankly, graphic gallery – exhibits as many facets of death as it can fit within its four walls. Featuring serial murderer artwork, memorabilia from the O.J. Simpson trial, and even Charles Manson crime scene photos, this place is most certainly not for the faint-hearted. New Orleans is renowned for its beautiful historic structures. A must-see for architecture lovers, Longue Vue House and Gardens is a total masterpiece and the epitome of Southern Charm. Built in 1939, this magnificent property is one of the last true examples of the sumptuous 20th-century lifestyle. Springtime is great for strolling through the perfectly landscaped gardens which surround the estate and should be in full bloom. For those who are travelling with kids, we suggest heading over to Carousel Gardens Amusement Park for a family-friendly day of fun. Stretching over 1300 acres and featuring 18 old-school rides, including bumper cars, a Ferris wheel and a carousel, this place is guaranteed to put a smile on any child’s face. In addition, the park has two outdoor cafes, with fresh food made to serve. Book a Tour Since New Orleans is home to one of the most historic neighborhoods in the United States, it’s no surprise that its residents want to show it off with walking tours. Learn more about Tremé’s multicultural identity, from the original settlement of the Creoles right through to the present day. On the tour, you’ll be able to visit some major landmarks, including Storyville and Conge Square, and be guided through the history of music in New Orleans. With its stunning architecture and vibrant atmosphere, New Orleans is a photographer's dream. Those who are interested in capturing the beauty of the city should look into booking a historic photography tour. Combining history with photography, the tour features the most picturesque and fascinating areas of the city, whilst also providing a backstory. Attracting beginners, hobbyists, and advanced photographers alike, this activity is open to anybody with a true appreciation for the city’s architectural integrity. With its unique reputation as the most haunted town in the United States, New Orleans continues to intrigue its visitors with its mysterious past. If you’re interested in exploring the scarier side of the city, you might want to look into a haunted ghost tour. Combining history with thrill, this tour stops at some of the eeriest locations in the French Quarter, including haunted mansions, Jackson Square, and LaLaurie. Along the route, you’ll be able to learn more about the city’s dark history. Get Festive Louisiana—and New Orleans residents in particular—love their festivals. Kicking off at the start of the month, the Freret festival offers a great opportunity to soak up the vibrant atmosphere of the city. Featuring over 200 food vendors, three live performance stages, and an open-air art and flea market, this one is definitely something to look forward to. Still, perhaps the biggest reason why we love this event is for its inclusion of pet-adoption services, encouraging festivalgoers to take home a new friend. April means Easter, and what better way to celebrate than with an egg hunt? Taking place in the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park, the Egg Scramble is the perfect holiday experience for families. At the annual event, there are a whopping 36, 000 eggs to be found, including golden eggs with special prizes inside for those who are lucky enough to uncover them. In addition, there is music, face painting, a balloon artist and, of course, the Easter Bunny! Conveniently located on the coast and right by the mighty Mississippi River, it’s no wonder New Orleans is known for its delicious fresh seafood. To get in on the action, head over to the Crawfish Festival, where you can try crawfish prepared in too many ways to even count. In addition to all the great food, there will be live music and drinks. New Orleans offers a unique and enriching experience of various forms of art, cultures, food and music all in one city. Whether you’re visiting the museums or taking a haunted ghost tour, there's always something to do, wherever your interests lie. And now, you don’t have to miss out – with our All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass, you can find an exhaustive array of things to do, for cheaper.
Sarah Harris

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