1. One of the best places to get a feel for the city's unique identity is at the Backstreet Cultural Museum. Lafayette Cemetery No. Even though the Atlantic hurricane season ends in November, New Orleans is rather wet this time of year, getting precipitation on 10 days out of the month and accumulating over 4.5 inches throughout December. The museum also hosts special events (including live music performances by local musicians and parties) throughout the year. Stepping into the Pharmacy Museum and finishing the day up with a cocktail tour is just what you need for the ultimate New Orleans itinerary. There is a great deal of history in this southern city, a fact that will appease both history buffs and patriotic travelers alike. Holiday Parades December in New Orleans kicks-off in true New Orleans fashion with a larger-than-life holiday parade. The weather's also entering the cool zone (which is still a fair bit warmer than temperatures up North), making it possible and comfortable to bundle up and explore some of the city's exciting outdoor attractions. along treelined streets and back is really worth the ride and time. Vue Orleans is a family-friendly interactive experience perched at the top of the Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans. 10 Neighborhoods You Need to Know in New Orleans, Take a Tour of Jackson Square and Surrounds in the French Quarter in New Orleans, Take a Self-Guided Tour Along the New Orleans Riverfront, October in New Orleans: Weather, What to Pack, and What to See. These are the can't-miss things to do in New Orleans: Downtown New Orleans is safe for tourists. Parking wasnt that easy, or cheap. New Orleans Pharmacy Museum 7. This is just a small glimpse of all December in New Orleans has to offer. The brainchild of friends Stephen Ambrose, a bestselling author and consultant on the film "Saving Private Ryan," and Gordon H. "Nick" Mueller, former historian and vice chancellor at the University of New Orleans, the museum also features oral recantations of civilians' and soldiers' experiences throughout the early 1940s. Some people just love cemetery tours, but this is also great for visitors who want to feel spooked while learning local history. Whats New on Marthas Vineyard This Summer, The Best Things to Do on Nantucket This Summer, From Reopened Restaurants to Art Design Festivals, This Summer's Most Exciting Hotel Openings, The Best Places to Stay Near Acadia National Park, Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden. One of the most uniquely New Orleans holiday celebrations this month is the Christmas Concert in the St. Louis Cathedral, which features the cathedral's concert choir and the Louisiana Philharmonic Orchestra performing traditional and contemporary favorites; however, tickets go fast, so be sure to get yours well before you visit. Ad Choices. Duration: 2 hours. Great experience for art lovers! Each game hosts several fan fests and events perfect for all ages. The tours aim to cultivate an atmosphere that transports guests to another era, with the captain shouting through a hand-held megaphone and old-time music lingering in the air. Whitney Plantation Tour 2023 - New Orleans - Viator . Along with its beignets, Caf du Monde is also well known for its caf au lait, which is a blend of milk, coffee and chicory (made from roasted, ground and brewed chicory root). 1 If you are a history buff of World War II this is a must see. Idyllically situated among the park's Spanish moss-covered live oaks, the sculpture garden doubled in size in 2019. Amanda Norcross, Content & SEO Strategist, Travel. JAMNOLA is not your typical art gallery. Things to Do in New Orleans Things to Do in New Orleans, LA - New Orleans Attractions Things to Do in New Orleans Here, French architecture, Creole food, and jazz music come aliveand not just during Mardi Gras. Here, visitors can interact with installations, such as "Do You NOLA," which features 58 fun facts about the city. The ground floor exposes the inner workings of the on-site distillery, and the parts blend to form a cohesive whole, like a well-made cocktail. Steamboat Natchez promises to take you back to that time on board the last authentic steamboat and give you a fun culinary and musical experience. Le Muse de f.p.c. Here, not only will you find fewer crowds (albeit not by much), but you'll also encounter cheaper eats and drinks, and better music it's kind of like Bourbon Street's hipper, trendier cousin. Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity. This park seeks to protect the natural and cultural heritage of the Mississippi River Delta region of Louisiana. One of the top New Orleans attractions is the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park & Preserve. Although the capacity has been cut from 4,000 to 2,600, the grand venue is still one of the biggest theaters in town, with a performance hall modeled on an Italian baroque courtyard and overhead lighting that resembles a starry constellation. As the site of the original New Orleans colony (established by the French in 1718), the French Quarter has held on to its heritage, complete with street names that are still listed in French. By the 1960s, the venue became a full-fledged jazz establishment. 29 Top-Rated Things to Do in New Orleans Updated March 16, 2023 Known for its annual Mardi Gras celebrations and its rich Creole and Cajun culture, New Orleans is a great place to visit full. The second floor delves into the brand, looking at the production of the spirit, including a hands-on look at ingredients, and a chance to sample the wares if youre old enough. The world-famous eatery serves as the place in the historic French Quarter to enjoy delicious coffee drinks and the original beignet Louisiana's official doughnut. Bywater Museums in New Orleans 4. First established in 1862, the cafe is located at the end of the French Market just off Jackson Square. Read on for the best things to do in New Orleans. The 6-mile stretch of roadway runs from Canal Street to Audubon Park. The memorabilia, the photos, actual film footage, display of weapons, the Higgins boat, and even aircraft. Visitors rave about the beautiful houses and architecture. Its not much to look atjust a small, square room with some seating and a small stage areabut a little local magic happens four or five times a day. It is the largest single-site public art exhibition in the American South, and it attracts visitors from all over the globe. May 4, 2022 - This Pin was created by Amanda Bittner | City Explorer on Pinterest. Close out the year with a number of different holiday celebrations, outdoor activities and a wide selection of light shows and displays this December. Caf du Monde is a must-do experience for any foodie visiting New Orleans. The collection also has information and artifacts relating to jazz funerals, second lines, and social aid and pleasure clubs. U.S. News Insider Tip: Book a dinner cruise for sunset views, and bring a light jacket as it gets cool out on the water at night. He demonstrated in detail how to make the traditional Sazerac cocktail and along the way delighted the group with the history of 'spirits' in New Orleans. Named after a French pirate who helped Gen. Andrew Jackson defend New Orleans during a battle in the War of 1812, the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve consists of six sites throughout southern Louisiana. We love St. Louis Cathedral. This off-the-beaten-path attraction was established by local photographer and history buff, Sylvester Francis. Upon entry, follow a bevy of interactive maps to the elevator, where further video traces the history of New Orleans. Krewe of Jingle: New Orleans residents throw a parade for everything, and Christmas is no different. The National WWII Museum Admission Ticket New Orleans, The National WWII Museum Admission + Campaigns of Courage Guided Tour Ticket, Urban Enslavement Tour at Hermann Grima House, Architectural Buildings Churches & Cathedrals, Points of Interest & Landmarks Theaters. The Garden District 3. Crescent Park is a mile-and-a-half long and feels very much like a local spot; you're unlikely to find Mardi Gras-beaded tourists here. Recent travelers said the Cabildo's design is worth seeing, even if you're not interested in the history within. Any information published by Cond Nast Traveler is not intended as a substitute for medical advice, and you should not take any action before consulting with a healthcare professional. Stories of local heroes and the resilience of the people. Our first stop was to visit a visitor center to get maps of the city. 2 is currently closed.) 12 Things to Do this December | New Orleans Mardi Gras World 5. The ultimate Christmas precursor takes place atop the levees along the Mississippi River with the Christmas Eve bonfires. The exhibits are mainly permanent, although its a constantly growing archive of costumes, artifacts, memorabilia, photographs, and films. Visitors are guided to the third floor to begin their tour. Through teaching the basics of arguably the only indigenous cuisine in the whole of the United States, the instructors here peel back layers of the citys history and people. Performers take on the roles of actual historical free people of color who lived in New Orleans during Colonial times. Many of the tombs found in these "cities of the dead" are above ground to protect them from rising water levels, and they're embellished with ornate designs inspired by French and Spanish architecture. We loved looking at the Christmas decorations everywhere and attending the Audubon Zoo lights, Miracle on Fulton Street, Celebration in the Oaks in New Orleans' City Park, and Christmas FEST at the Convention Center. Cram in and stay for more than one set. Past travelers commented on the small size of the museum, but others noted that its size allows you to see all of the exhibits in just one visit and say not to miss the Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden. (the Free People of Color Museum) has an enriched history. Visit a National Historical Park. To learn more about New Orleans' unique culture, take a behind-the-scenes tour of one of its many famous above-ground cemeteries, or stop by the Backstreet Cultural Museum or Le Muse f.p.c. The civil war place has great . From the French Quarter to the swamp tours offered around New Orleans, the list encompasses all of the main highlights. If you're interested in more recent history, you'll find that at the Cabildo, too. For more details about special games like these, make sure to check this list of New Orleans sporting events. If you don't consider yourself a night owl, the Palace Market (open Sunday through Wednesday 7 p.m. to midnight and Thursday through Saturday 7 p.m. to 1 a.m.) is a shopping haven where locals sell homemade art and jewelry. The structure standing today is actually the third cathedral built on this spot, since the first two were destroyed. Grab some exceptional beans at Joey K's on Magazine Street or Sammy's Food Services & Deli on Elysian Fields. 1. The museum is very active socially, and in any given week theres likely to be a few live events, from demonstrations and lectures to nights where you can sample specific foods or cocktails. If you love exploring outdoor gardens and seeing what local plant life is in bloom, you'll appreciate wandering the pathways at this attraction. Recent travelers called their experiences at this attraction informative and interesting, and they especially recommended the (adult-themed) guided tour. A massive warehouse facility in the Bywater district of New Orleans, Studio Be is an eye-popping and illuminating display of public art. New Orleans Museum of Art 10. Movie buffs will recognize the eerie walls of Lafayette Cemetery No. The Museum of Death 8. The tours last about two hours and include a concert, a narration of historical facts and an optional meal; a gift shop and bar are also available on board. In one room you could be posing next to a life-size crawfish sitting in a lounge chair and in another you could be trying on Mardi Gras costumes. How to celebrate Christmas time in New Orleans - Lonely Planet Explains how the people survived the storm only to be let down by the systems that were were supposed to help them. Located in the French Quarter on Saint Peter Street, Preservation Hall welcomes visitors nightly for 45 minutes of intimate traditional New Orleans live jazz performances. During the tour, travelers learn about the impact of free people of color in the city, whether it's through cuisine, architecture or music. The oldest Catholic cathedral in continuous use in the United States, St. Louis Cathedral was originally built in the early 1700s. Past travelers suggest ordering from the cafe's walk-up window, since lines can be long inside the restaurant. A Guide to New Orleans Food Festivals and Events in 2023 - Eater New The house band is, unsurprisingly, the Preservation Hall Jazz Band. A new insectarium and butterfly garden facility will be built and located on the New Orleans Riverfront next to the aquarium. Stock up and save on travel-size toiletries ahead of your summer vacation. You'll find this street laden with performers and fortune tellers as well as rowdy bars. Amanda Norcross, Content & SEO Strategist, Travel, Pack a picnic to enjoy at "the Fly," a large green space behind the zoo in Audubon Park, Enjoy live music at one of the underground music clubs in Trem, Bike the paths running through Crescent Park, Hop on a ferry to Algiers, a historic neighborhood on the west bank of the Mississippi River. This has to be one of the best places to tour in NOLA. U.S. News Insider Tip: Stroll past 2707 Coliseum Street to see where "The Curious Case of Benjamin Button" was filmed. Recent visitors said that attending a concert at Preservation Hall is a must-do experience in New Orleans thanks to the talented musicians. THE 10 BEST Indoor Things to Do in New Orleans (Updated 2023) - Tripadvisor The square's name is inspired by the bronze statue of Andrew Jackson that stands at the center. Photo courtesy of New Orleans Tourism & Marketing Corp. Photo courtesy of New Orleans Tourism Marketing Corporation, Photo courtesy of Arts Council of New Orleans, Photo courtesy of Trixie Minx Productions, Photo courtesy of The Outlet Collection at Riverwalk, Best places for ghost busting in New Orleans, America's most haunted city, 10Best things to see and do in New Orleans, 10Best free (or almost free) things to do in New Orleans, 10 Best things to do with kids in New Orleans, 10Best New Orleans' spas to cleanse body and soul, 10Best ways to romance your baby, New Orleans style, Your California Privacy Rights / Privacy Policy. Easy entrance and exit. 14 Tours & Activities Why you are seeing these recommendations Reserve Now & Pay Later The New Orleans Sightseeing Flex Pass: Save Big on 20+ Attractions and Tours 9 Reviews New Orleans, United States Share Save to Wishlist From $84.40 Lowest Price Guarantee Select Date and Travelers Check Availability Reserve Now & Pay Later Within the exhibit you'll find multimedia displays and artifacts collected during the cleanup of both hurricanes Katrina and Rita. If youre looking for the classic New Orleans sports experience, be sure to check out one of the regular season games for the Saints and Pelicans. Don't miss the sharks, turtles, fish and sting rays swimming in the 17-foot-deep, 400,000-gallon Gulf of Mexico exhibit at the aquarium, or the newly expanded Jaguar Jungle exhibit in the zoo, where you can not only see jaguars, but also bats, tree frogs, poison arrow frogs and much more. Sign up for our newsletters to receive the latest and greatest on all things travel. Read More Things To Do: Cemeteries In New Orleans - New Orleans & Company Opened in October 2019, The Sazerac House is a multi-floor, multi-media, interactive dive into the intoxicating world of a whiskey brand. 23 Best Things to Do in New Orleans | Cond Nast Traveler For more information, visit the officialwebsite. NOLA Christmas Fest. Lafayette Cemetery No. Grab a bottle of wine and a cheese plate from nearby Bacchanal Wines, and find yourself a grassy riverside spot for an afternoon picnic. If you prefer to take the bus, you can hop on the No. Activities for children are particularly plentiful, from teddy bear tea with Santa at the Royal Sonesta to Celebration Under the Oaks, a festival of lights in City Park. For a family-friendly activity, pay a visit to the National World War II Museum. November in New Orleans: Weather and Event Guide - TripSavvy