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Things to do in New Orleans on the Weekend

by  Aleena Mehmood
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2025-01-13

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The Big Easy, New Orleans is the ultimate weekend getaway. From historic blocks lined with colorful boutiques to passionate live jazz tumbling from warm dives, this town offers a fruitful blend of culture, history, and indulgence. From powdered sugar-dusted beignets to longing for a bit of late-night people-watching at the French Quarter, you’ll never run out of things to do in this bustling town.

Here’s how to experience New Orleans on a weekend, with suggestions, local secrets, and answers to burning questions!

Is New Orleans a Good Place to Visit on Weekends?

Absolutely! New Orleans has so much going on in a small vicinity it makes for great weekend plans. Its compact design lets you see several highlights without hurrying. The weekends are especially magical as a city comes to life with live music, busy markets, and special events. Floating through Jackson Square, tapping your toes at the Spotted Cat, eating Creole food — you’ll never be bored in New Orleans.

Start Your Saturday with Beignets and Coffee

Start your weekend with a New Orleans breakfast classic — beignets dusted with powdered sugar and served with chicory coffee at CafĂ© du Monde. Situated in the center of the French Quarter, this emblematic cafĂ© has been adored by locals and tourists alike since 1862. After breakfast, you can explore the streets with historic architecture, street performers, and colorful art galleries.

Explore Jackson Square

A visit to New Orleans is never complete without stopping by Jackson Square. This historic park bustles with activity, artists sketching portraits, musicians performing and horse-drawn carriages waiting to whisk you away into the French Quarter. Be sure to catch the iconic St. Louis Cathedral, a testament to the city’s storied past.

Afternoon Stroll in the Garden District

Your Saturday evening should be devoted at some point to Frenchmen Street, home to much of New Orleans’ live jazz. For a more authentic taste of the music scene, check out Frenchmen Street instead of its rowdier neighbor, Bourbon Street. Drop into local faves like Spotted Cat for intimate shows that embody the city’s spirit.

Sunday Mornings in City Park

Get an early start on Sunday morning and head to City Park, a sprawling 1,300-acre green oasis for nature lovers. You can do everything from a peaceful gondola ride to enjoying the New Orleans Museum of Art located within the park. If you’re traveling with children, visit Carousel Gardens Amusement Park.

Brunch and People-Watching

In New Orleans, Sunday afternoons demand a leisurely brunch. That being said, many restaurants serve live jazz at brunch — what could be more perfect than combining music with food? Popular haunts like Commander’s Palace or Atchafalaya offer a blend of Southern classics and more modern dishes. Get it to go but eat outside if you can — you’ll discover the added treat of excellent people-spotting.

Bourbon Street: Love it or Hate it

Some avoid Bourbon Street as it is known for its wild parties, but it is a well-known part of the charm of the city. If you do go, the best time to visit is during the day or early evening when things are a bit more chill. Pick up a cocktail and wander this legendary street packed with bars, restaurants , and lively crowds.

Embark on the Best of New Orleans Tour with Steamboat Cruise to explore the city’s top spots!

Weekend Trip to New Orleans Cost

What will a weekend in New Orleans cost? Budget travelers will pay approximately $500 for two days, which includes basic accommodation, meals, and activities. If you want a lavish experience, budget $1,000 or more. Pro tip: Save cash by booking attractions, such as the small group tours with See Sight Tours, in advance and selecting boutique hotels in districts like the Garden District rather than the French Quarter.

Discover Hidden Gems in Bywater

If you want something a little less mainstream, spend some time in the Bywater neighborhood. A vibrant neighborhood known for its colorful houses and quirky vibes, Bywater is home to some of New Orleans’ most creative art studios, cozy cafes, and the popular Crescent Park. It’s a wonderful spot for a tranquil afternoon stroll or to browse for local crafts.

Don’t Miss a Mississippi River Cruise

Close out your weekend on a high note aboard a steamboat cruise along the Mississippi River. These cruises typically include live music from jazz musicians, providing you with a soothing way to take in the city’s skyline. Dinner cruises are especially romantic, with a choice of Creole-inspired fare while gliding past the city lights.

Hidden Gems in the French Quarter

The French Quarter is known for its party atmosphere, but this neighborhood has more to offer than meets the eye. Get away from the crowds on Bourbon Street and seek out hidden courtyards filled with green foliage, tucked-away jazz bars, and appealing antique stores. For a more subdued experience, head to Pirate’s Alley or check out the lesser-known Ursuline Convent. These little-known treasures embody the spirit of New Orleans and provide a lens into the city’s storied past.

The Best Coffee Shops in New Orleans

With everything from the iconic CafĂ© du Monde to trendy locations in the Bywater and Marigny neighborhoods, New Orleans’ coffee scene is as varied as the city itself. Try the local specialty, chicory coffee, or go for a classic espresso. Many of these coffee shops also function as art spaces, so they’re ideal for absorbing the artistic energy of the Big Easy. Whether you want a quiet morning or a lively cafĂ©, there is something for everyone.

Family-Friendly Weekend Activities

Families with kids and adults who want to have fun will find plenty of things to do in New Orleans. Spend a day in City Park, home to the New Orleans Museum of Art and the whimsical Storyland playground. Another bonus is the Audubon Zoo, home to exotic animals and beautiful landscapes. For a fun and educational spin, visit the Louisiana Children’s Museum, where interactive displays engage the littlest ones while also familiarizing them with the culture and environment of New Orleans.

Exploring New Orleans’ Famous Cemeteries

Ornate, above-ground tombs, and interesting backstories make New Orleans’ historic cemeteries unique. The most renowned cemetery, St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, is home to Voodoo Queen Marie Laveau’s tomb. A guided tour offers closer looks at the city’s burial traditions and influences on culture. As you walk through these cemeteries it is as if you were transported back in time, leaving an indelible memory.

Discover New Orlean on our Food Walking Tour, perfect for sampling powdered sugar-dusted beignets and Creole delight!

Shopping in the Garden District

The Garden District is not just historic mansions and picturesque streets — it’s a shopper’s paradise. Boutique shops, antique stores, and artisan markets punctuate Magazine Street. If you’re looking for handmade jewelry, vintage clothing, or unique art pieces — it’s all available in this area. After a day of shopping, you can unwind at one of the Garden District’s intimate cafes or fashionable restaurants.

Delicious Desserts You Must Try in New Orleans

While beignets dusted with powdered sugar are a traditional sugar fix, New Orleans’ dessert scene has a lot more to offer. Sample pralines, a creamy, nutty sweet, or slice into some king cake, if you’re there during the season. Another local classic to seek out is bananas foster, an invented-in-the-city flambĂ©ed dessert. Each bite is a chapter in New Orleans’ rich culinary tradition.

Free Things to Do in New Orleans Over the Weekend

Visiting New Orleans won’t have to cost a fortune. You can visit Jackson Square to see live street performances and local art displays. Stroll down the picturesque Mississippi River or hit the trails of City Park. Walk the streets of the French Quarter to see some of its historic architecture and lively atmosphere. These free activities and sights give you a taste of New Orleans without spending any money.

Evening Strolls Along the Mississippi River

The Mississippi River comes alive, especially at sunset. The riverfront is a quieter and safer alternative to explore where you can find nice pathways to walk on to enjoy the evening. Watching steamboats pass as the city lights twinkle on the water. This peaceful experience is a perfect way to unwind after a busy day of exploring New Orleans.

Discovering the Art Scene in New Orleans

A hub of creativity and artistic expression, New Orleans’ art scene is just as alive and vibrant as the city itself. Tour galleries in the Warehouse District, seek out street art in Bywater or visit the Ogden Museum of Southern Art for a curated view of regional work. The city’s artistic soul is stitched into every neighborhood, a boon for art lovers.

Unique Souvenirs to Bring Home from New Orleans

Bring a taste of New Orleans home with you by shopping. The city is home to many souvenirs, from locally made pralines and hot sauces to voodoo dolls and handmade jewelry. Explore markets like the French Market or independent stores along Magazine Street to find treasures that embody the spirit of the Big Easy.

The Role of Food in New Orleans Culture

Food is at the heart of life in New Orleans, its unique mix of Creole and Cajun influences. Dining on gumbo, jambalaya, and crawfish Ă©touffĂ©e is more than lunch: It’s experiencing the cultural fabric of the city. Don’t neglect the sweet side, as in powdered sugar-dusted beignets or king cake, both of which have cultural significance.

Exploring Beyond the City: Day Trips from New Orleans

If you have some more time, you may also take a trip out of the city, for a day trip. The River Road plantation homes are absolute must-sees, and swamp tours give an up-close look at Louisiana’s natural beauty. These jaunts provide a fresh view of the region and give you an unforgettable New Orleans experience.

Best Spots for Night Owls in New Orleans

The city of New Orleans really comes to life at nighttime and there are plenty of options for nocturnal adventurers. From its famous jazz clubs on Frenchmen Street to raucous bars on Bourbon Street, its nightlife is second to none. Explore secret speakeasies or groove the night away at local music venues. The Big Easy’s nocturnal zest is trĂšs contagieuse and trĂšs mĂ©morable.

Stroll through the Garden District and uncover architectural wonders on the Best of New Orleans Walking Tour with Steamboat Cruise!

Evening Ghost Tours and Spooky Stories

New Orleans has a haunted history, and there’s no better way to end a weekend than by taking a ghost tour. Stroll down the eerie streets of the French Quarter and hear about the city’s most notorious legends. It’s a chilling but fun way to see another side of the Big Easy.

Explore More with See Sight Tours

Whether you want a long entail yourself in an unforgettable adventure consider booking a guided tour with See Sight Tours. Our New Orleans tours offer an intimate way to see the city’s major landmarks, from the bustling French Quarter to tranquil City Park. Knowledgeable guides, customizable options, and much more allow you to maximize your weekend trip!

A Few Final Tips for Your Weekend in New Orleans

1-Plan If You Can: Accommodations, and tours on food, music, and history can be booked quickly in New Orleans, especially on weekends, so making reservations (when possible) is a good idea.

2-Stay Hydrated: The city’s muggy, warm climate can be draining — carry a water bottle with you.

3-Eat Local: From gumbo to jambalaya, don’t leave without trying the city’s renowned cuisine

4-Embrace the Music: Whether it is a street performer or a jazz band in a bar, absorb as much music as you can — it’s the heartbeat of New Orleans.

There’s a tempest of sights, sounds, and flavors in New Orleans on the weekend. Whether you’re exploring historic streets, listening to live jazz at Spotted Cat, or eating powdered sugar-laden beignets, the Big Easy makes for an unforgettable getaway.

FAQs

What Are the Must-Visit Attractions in New Orleans?

Must-sees are Jackson Square, City Park, the French Quarter, Bourbon Street, and Frenchmen Street. And don’t overlook iconic sites like the St. Louis Cathedral and the Garden District.

Is New Orleans Expensive for a Weekend Trip?

It can be as inexpensive or as decadent as you can make it. It’s possible to keep to a budget — there are many free attractions, from street performances to public parks. Eating where the locals eat instead of at upscale restaurants also helps economize.