There’s so much to do beyond drinking and eating (although, if that’s all you wanna do then you’re all set). A couple of these spots require transit of 30 minutes to 2 hours, so check them out and plan ahead! Here’s your list of experiences, activities, and miscellaneous things to do around New Orleans.
Take a 3-hour long guided kayak tour down Cane Bayou. You spend the first half in day light making your way to the lake, then you enjoy the sunset at the lake, and take the same route back up the bayou in pitch black surrounded by the sounds of the swamp. Yes, you’ll likely see alligators, and yes, you’ll be safe. It is amazing.
Mr. Gregory will cook a shrimp boil for you and other guests in a cozy upstairs French Quarter setting. It’s a fantastic way to experience a traditional New Orleans style seafood boil, including sides, and most nights there is entertainment. BYOB, or purchase cocktails next door at Bar Tonique.
One of the only plantation museums in the country dedicated to honoring the lived experience and history of slaves working plantations, the Whitney is a sobering look at America’s history that is often left out of the mainstream narrative. Tours are 1.5 hours. Book tickets and transportation to and from the site in advance.
Stroll on Royal Street in the French Quarter between Ursulines St and Toulouse St. Our favorites: Antieau Gallery, Harouni Gallery, and Funeral Gallery.
Frenchmen Street is packed with music clubs, bars, and restaurants. If you’re looking for live jazz, check out the Spotted Cat, Snug Harbor, or Blue Nile. Look on their websites or social media in advance to see if they’ve got shows going on.
Explore 10 acres of gardens right in City Park. You’ll see greenhouses full of cacti and succulents, vegetable gardens, dozens of orchids, prehistoric plants, and more. It’s a great way to spend a quiet afternoon.
Queer people played a massive role in making New Orleans what it is today, and you’ll find signs of this throughout the French Quarter. Learn about LGBTQ history, landmarks, etc, in this guided walking tour from Frank Perez.
Local drag queen Quinn Laroux leads walking tours through New Orleans discussing everything from modern day drag in the crescent city to the history of sex work, and more. We haven’t been on this tour yet ourselves, but are looking forward to going on one soon! You can book private tours for a group as well.