Ready to add these New Orleans bucket list items to this year’s travel plans?
For the record, I never thought I’d go to New Orleans.
I’ve gone three times in three years and would have gone more if it weren’t for the Covid lockdown.
(I highly recommend Bar Tonique for good traditional New Orleans cocktails at super cheap prices – they have specials every day too.)
My favorite reasons to go are for cocktail bars, live jazz on Frenchman St, cooking classes, and walking the French Quarter to observe the architecture.
Aside from that I really have to return to try some new things to do.
Here’s a mixed list of things I like to do and still need to do in New Orleans.
Looking for other bucket list ideas for couples? Check out my other blog posts.
More Travel and Date Ideas for Couples
50+ Fun Activities for Couples on Vacation in the US
10 Cheap Romantic Getaways for Couples Ideas to Escape Reality, Fall Back in Love
5 Florida Paradises that Make Fun Weekend Getaways for Couples
50+ Fun Date Ideas for Couples and New Daters
50 Stay Home Date Night Ideas for Couples to Feel in Love Again
20 New Orleans Bucket List Ideas You Don’t Want to Miss
Visit the French Quarter – The heart of New Orleans, the French Quarter is a must-visit for any traveler looking to experience the city’s unique culture and history.
Explore Jackson Square – Located in the heart of the French Quarter, Jackson Square is a vibrant public space featuring historic architecture, street performers, and local artists.
Take a Stroll through the Garden District – Known for its stunning architecture and lush greenery, the Garden District is a beautiful neighborhood to explore on foot.
Tour the National World War II Museum – This museum is a must-visit for history buffs, featuring exhibits and artifacts from one of the most significant events of the 20th century.
Listen to Live Jazz on Frenchmen Street – Frenchmen Street is the place to be for live music in New Orleans. The street is lined with music venues and bars that showcase the city’s vibrant jazz scene.
Visit the Audubon Zoo and Aquarium – These two attractions offer a fun-filled day for families and animal lovers alike. See exotic animals and marine life up close and personal!
Take a Riverboat Tour – See the city from a different perspective on a riverboat tour. The cruises offer breathtaking views of the Mississippi River and the city skyline.
Indulge in Beignets and Coffee at Cafe Du Monde – A trip to New Orleans is not complete without trying the city’s famous beignets and coffee at Cafe Du Monde. Situated in the French Quarter, it’s a great place to people-watch.
Drink a Hurricane on Bourbon Street – Bourbon Street is one of the most famous streets in the world, known for its vibrant nightlife and drink specials. Be sure to try a Hurricane, a popular cocktail made with rum and fruit juices.
Visit the St. Louis Cathedral – This iconic cathedral is a stunning example of French and Spanish architecture and is a must-see for lovers of history and art.
Take a Cooking Class – Learn how to cook traditional New Orleans dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, and crawfish étouffée from professional chefs.
Explore the Bayou – Take a swamp tour to see Louisiana’s diverse wildlife, including alligators, turtles, and exotic birds.
Visit the Mardi Gras Museum – Learn about the history and traditions of Mardi Gras, the city’s most famous celebration.
Go on a Ghost Tour – New Orleans is known for its haunted history, and a ghost tour is a fun way to explore the city’s spooky side.
Take a Streetcar Ride – The streetcar is a historic and iconic mode of transportation in New Orleans. Take a ride and see the city at a more leisurely pace.
Visit the New Orleans Museum of Art – This museum features an impressive collection of art from around the world, including works by local artists and French Impressionists.
Go on a Cemetery Tour – New Orleans’ above-ground cemeteries are a unique and eerie sight. Take a guided tour to learn about the city’s burial traditions and famous residents.
Explore the City Park – At 1,300 acres, City Park is one of the largest urban parks in the country. Enjoy walking paths, gardens, and even a sculpture garden.
Visit the Ogden Museum of Southern Art – This museum features a collection of art by Southern artists, including works by folk artists and contemporary painters.
Take a Bike Tour – Rent a bike and explore the city on two wheels. There are many bike-friendly paths and lanes throughout New Orleans that offer a unique perspective on the city.