Things to Do in New Orleans

• View NOLA in a new way with Vue Orleans Observatory - Vue Orleans Observatory is “a 360-degree observation deck and interactive experience" on floors 33 and 34 of the new Four Seasons Hotel. Having been built on a swamp, New Orleans is mostly low-rise, and so this observation deck, though not that high in relative terms, still delivers memorable views of the surrounding city. Upon entry, follow a bevy of interactive maps to the elevator, where further video traces the history of New Orleans. Narrated by local singing legend Irma Thomas and rendered in beautiful rotoscope animation, you’re surrounded on three sides by ever-shifting scenery while climbing to the first observation deck. There’s one more level to explore, where you can stroll outside around the perimeter of the tower, and take in the views—the vista looking straight up Poydras Street is particularly dramatic.
• Take a Riverboat Cruise - The Steamboat Natchez is a well-loved and well-established tour with two daily harbor cruises. Though they may differ slightly, all of the cruises take in the sights and history of New Orleans and the Mississippi River. With the calliope organ playing as the boat docks, this is a rare chance to learn a lot in a short period of time. Buy tickets at the walk-up booth along the river.
• Listen to some Jazz along Frenchmans Street at the Spotted Cat - If Frenchmen Street is home to the city's best Jazz, the Spotted Cat is its epicenter—a small bar that comes alive each night as old-school jazz plays on. Expect to hear brassy quartets and quintets; clarinet solos and big voices. Cram in and stay for more than one set; a dance floor will open up for the local swing crew to show off its moves.
• Get immersed in History at the World Renowned World War II Museum - The National WWII Museum is a world-class history museum—a sprawling complex of modern buildings in the Warehouse District that receives thousands of visitors every day who want to hear the story of the war that changed the world. Doing so is no easy task, but through large narrative exhibits that include detailed, personal accounts from eyewitnesses, the museum manages to do just that. Every conceivable medium is used: film, immersive exhibits, large-scale reconstructions, and first-person oral histories among them. It's not to be missed.
• Wonder through the famous Mardi Gras Floats - You might walk right by this anonymous warehouse by the Port of New Orleans, but inside is a behind-the-scenes look at what goes into the country's biggest free party—Mardi Gras. The huge floats take months to build and decorate, and this is where a large part of that happens. Painters and sculptors are actually working on pieces as you take this 90-minute walking tour, so it feels like you’re being let in on a secret.
• Explore The French Quarter and Bourbon Street - If you want to experience New Orleans properly, it's best to begin your tour in the iconic French Quarter. The neighborhood, also known as Vieux Carré, is the heart and soul of this city, and it's also a National Historic Landmark. 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. Wander the narrow cobblestone streets to find such attractions as Jackson Square, Faulkner House Books and Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop. While you're strolling, pay attention to the neighborhood's architecture: balconies are designed with baroque ironwork and hanging plants, while leafy courtyards are filled with bubbling fountains. Undoubtedly, the French Quarter's main draw is Bourbon Street – New Orleans' infamous party hub. You'll find this street laden with performers and fortune tellers as well as rowdy bars. Although a trip to New Orleans isn't really complete without strolling down Bourbon Street, keep in mind that boisterous evenings on Bourbon are best appreciated by the more daring travelers.
• Don't miss the charming Garden District - Take a walking tour (you can find some good self-guided ones with a quick Google search) of the Garden District for a peek at some of the city's most beautiful homes. Like its name suggests, this historic residential neighborhood is laden with trees, ivy, and yes, gardens. Visitors rave about the beautiful houses and architecture. Many even preferred the Garden District over Bourbon Street, citing the peaceful atmosphere and well-preserved properties as a much-needed break from the city's crowded tourist spots. If you need to refuel after meandering the neighborhood's leafy streets, head to the intersection of Prytania Street and Washington Avenue. This area features shops, cafes and the famous Lafayette Cemetery No. 1. Directly across from the cemetery is where you'll find Commander's Palace Restaurant – one of the city's most well-regarded and refined restaurants. And don't miss strolling down Magazine Street, filled with cute boutique shops and restaurants.