Introduction: Discover the Magic of New Orleans
New Orleans, Louisiana, affectionately known as the Big Easy, is a city unlike any other in the United States. Founded in 1718, it’s a melting pot of French, Spanish, African, and Creole influences, where jazz floats through the air, Creole cuisine tantalizes the taste buds, and every street tells a story. In 2025, New Orleans is buzzing with energy, from the iconic Mardi Gras celebrations to the world-class Super Bowl LIX at the Caesars Superdome. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, the city’s vibrant culture, historic charm, and lively festivals make it a must-visit destination. This guide highlights the 16 best things to do in New Orleans in 2025, offering a mix of classic experiences, hidden gems, and new attractions to ensure an unforgettable trip. From the French Quarter’s cobblestone streets to the serene bayous, here’s how to immerse yourself in the soul of New Orleans.
1. Stroll Through the French Quarter
The French Quarter, or Vieux Carré, is the heart of New Orleans, a National Historic Landmark brimming with colorful architecture, live music, and history. Walk the narrow cobblestone streets to admire wrought-iron balconies and Creole cottages. Key stops include Jackson Square, home to the iconic St. Louis Cathedral, and the bustling French Market, the oldest continuously operating open-air market in the U.S.. Grab a café au lait and beignets at Café du Monde for an essential New Orleans experience.
Cost: Free to explore; beignets ~$5. Tip: Visit during the day for a quieter experience, or at night for vibrant nightlife.
2. Experience Mardi Gras
Mardi Gras, kicking off January 6 and peaking on Fat Tuesday (March 4, 2025), is New Orleans’ most famous festival. Expect vibrant parades, colorful floats, and beads flying from balconies. Over a million visitors join the festivities, creating a lively, rowdy atmosphere. Early-season parades are less crowded, ideal for first-timers.
Cost: Free for street parades; balls or premium viewing ~$50–$200. Tip: Book accommodations early, as prices surge and hotels fill up.
3. Catch Live Jazz on Frenchmen Street
Frenchmen Street in the Faubourg Marigny is the go-to spot for authentic live music. Unlike Bourbon Street’s tourist-heavy vibe, Frenchmen offers intimate jazz clubs like Snug Harbor and Preservation Hall, where you can hear world-class musicians. The street also hosts brass bands and street performers, embodying New Orleans’ musical soul.
Cost: Cover charges ~$10–$20; drinks ~$5–$10. Tip: Arrive early for seats at smaller venues like Preservation Hall.
4. Visit the National WWII Museum
Celebrating 25 years in 2025, the National WWII Museum in the Warehouse District is a world-class attraction. Its immersive exhibits, including a 4D narrated movie and the “Road to Tokyo” display, tell personal stories of the war. Allocate a full day to explore its vast collection.
Cost: ~$30/adult. Tip: Book tickets online to avoid lines and check for combo passes with other museums.
5. Cruise the Mississippi on Steamboat Natchez
A cruise on the Steamboat Natchez, the only surviving authentic steamboat in New Orleans, offers stunning views of the city and the Mississippi River. Choose a daytime history cruise or an evening jazz cruise with Creole dining and live music by the Dukes of Dixieland.
Cost: Day cruise ~$40; dinner cruise ~$90. Tip: Opt for the dinner cruise for a magical blend of music and scenery.
6. Explore the Garden District
The Garden District, known for its grand antebellum mansions and lush gardens, is a serene contrast to the French Quarter. Take a guided tour to learn about its history or stroll St. Charles Avenue to see historic streetcars. Don’t miss Lafayette Cemetery No. 1, a hauntingly beautiful above-ground cemetery.
Cost: Free to walk; guided tours ~$25–$35. Tip: Visit Commander’s Palace for a legendary brunch if your budget allows.
7. Savor Creole and Cajun Cuisine
New Orleans is a food lover’s paradise, named the Best Food Destination in 2025 by Time Out. Try gumbo, jambalaya, or po-boys at spots like Heard Dat Kitchen for their Super Dome dish or Drago’s for charbroiled oysters. For dessert, indulge in king cake during Mardi Gras season or pralines year-round.
Cost: Casual meals ~$10–$25; fine dining ~$50–$100. Tip: Visit local markets for affordable eats or join a food tour (~$50–$80).
8. Tour the New Orleans Museum of Art
Located in City Park, the New Orleans Museum of Art (NOMA) houses over 40,000 pieces, from Italian Renaissance to modern art. The adjacent Sydney and Walda Bestoff Sculpture Garden, set among live oaks and Spanish moss, is a highlight. In 2025, catch the “New African Masquerades” exhibit.
Cost: ~$15/adult; sculpture garden free. Tip: Visit on Wednesdays for free admission to the sculpture garden.
9. Discover Voodoo Culture
New Orleans’ voodoo heritage, rooted in African traditions, adds a mystical layer to the city. Visit the New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum or take a voodoo tour with Witches Brew Tours to explore cemeteries and learn about figures like Marie Laveau.
Cost: Museum ~$7; tours ~$30–$35. Tip: Combine a voodoo tour with a ghost tour for a spooky evening.
10. Attend Jazz Fest
The New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival, held April 24–May 4, 2025, is a celebration of music, food, and culture. Expect performances across genres, from jazz to blues, alongside craft vendors and Creole dishes like crawfish boils.
Cost: ~$80–$100/day. Tip: Buy tickets early and bring sunscreen for outdoor stages.
11. Visit Vue Orleans Observatory
Opened in the Four Seasons Hotel, Vue Orleans on floors 33 and 34 offers 360-degree views of New Orleans. Interactive exhibits and a narrated elevator ride by Irma Thomas enhance the experience. The outdoor deck provides dramatic vistas, especially up Poydras Street.
Cost: ~$25/adult. Tip: Visit at sunset for breathtaking city views.
12. Take a Swamp Tour
Explore Louisiana’s bayous with a swamp tour, where you might spot alligators, turtles, and herons. ZipNola offers the world’s first fully aquatic swamp zipline, adding adventure to the experience.
Cost: Tours ~$50–$90; zipline ~$100. Tip: Book with reputable operators like Cajun Encounters for safety.
13. Wander Royal Street
Parallel to Bourbon Street, Royal Street offers a quieter, upscale vibe with art galleries, antique shops, and street performers. Its French architecture and live music make it a perfect daytime stroll.
Cost: Free; shopping varies. Tip: Stop by a café for live music and a Sazerac cocktail.
14. Experience Super Bowl LIX
On February 9, 2025, New Orleans hosts Super Bowl LIX at the Caesars Superdome, marking its 11th time hosting the event. Fan events like the Super Bowl Experience offer NFL player meet-and-greets and interactive games.
Cost: Game tickets ~$500+; fan events ~$20–$50. Tip: Book accommodations early due to high demand.
15. Visit the Sazerac House
The Sazerac House, opened in 2019, is a part-museum, part-bar celebrating the iconic Sazerac cocktail. Free 90-minute tours include samples, and interactive exhibits explore New Orleans’ cocktail history.
Cost: Free; workshops ~$30. Tip: Reserve tours in advance online.
16. Explore City Park
City Park, a 1,300-acre oasis, offers museums, golf courses, and the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park. Visit the Couterie Forest for nature trails or dine at Ralph’s on the Park for upscale Creole cuisine.
Cost: Free to explore; attractions ~$5–$20. Tip: Rent a bike to cover more ground comfortably.
Planning Your Trip: Tips for 2025
When to Visit
Spring (March–May) and fall (September–November) offer pleasant weather and fewer crowds, though Mardi Gras and Jazz Fest draw large numbers. Summer is hot and humid but features festivals like the Creole Tomato Festival. Winter, especially January, is quieter but marks the start of Mardi Gras.
Budgeting
- Accommodation: Hostels (~$30–$70/night), budget hotels (~$100–$150), or Airbnbs (~$120–$200).
- Food: Street food/cafés (~$10–$20/meal), casual dining (~$20–$40), fine dining (~$50+).
- Transport: Streetcars ($1.25/ride), buses ($2), or bike rentals (~$15/day). A Jazzy Pass ($3/day) offers unlimited rides.
- Activities: Budget $20–$50/day for attractions; city passes save on museums and tours.
- Average Daily Cost: Backpacker (~$80–$120), mid-range (~$150–$200), luxury (~$300+).
Total for a 7-Day Trip (Mid-Range, Per Person): ~$1,400–$1,800, including flights ($600–$900).
Practical Tips
- Book Early for Events: Mardi Gras, Jazz Fest, and Super Bowl accommodations sell out fast.
- Use City Passes: The New Orleans Pass or French Quarter walking tours bundle attractions for savings.
- Stay Safe: Avoid isolated areas at night, especially in the French Quarter, and keep valuables secure.
- Pack for Weather: Bring lightweight clothing for summer and layers for spring/fall. Comfortable shoes are a must for walking.
- Explore Beyond the Quarter: Neighborhoods like Treme and Bywater offer authentic cultural experiences.
Cultural Context: New Orleans in 2025
New Orleans’ allure lies in its ability to blend tradition with innovation. In 2025, the city hosts major events like Super Bowl LIX and Prospect.6, a contemporary art triennial running through February 2, showcasing immigration-themed installations. Social media platforms like X buzz with excitement, with users recommending spots like St. Roch’s Market for diverse cuisines and rooftop bars for nightlife. The city’s multicultural history—French, Spanish, African, and Creole—shines through in its food, music, and architecture, making every visit a cultural immersion.
Why Visit in 2025?
New Orleans in 2025 is a city of celebration, from Mardi Gras’ colorful chaos to Jazz Fest’s soulful rhythms and the Super Bowl’s electric energy. Its neighborhoods, from the historic French Quarter to the artistic Bywater, offer something for everyone—foodies, history buffs, music lovers, and adventurers. The city’s resilience, seen in its recovery from Hurricane Katrina, adds depth to its vibrant spirit, inviting travelers to join the party.
Conclusion: Let the Good Times Roll
New Orleans is a city that captivates with its infectious energy, rich history, and unparalleled culture. The 16 experiences listed—from sipping cocktails at the Sazerac House to cruising the Mississippi—offer a perfect blend of iconic and unique activities. Whether you’re dancing on Frenchmen Street, savoring gumbo, or exploring haunted cemeteries, New Orleans delivers memories that linger long after you leave. Plan your 2025 trip, embrace the spontaneity of the Crescent City, and let the good times roll—laissez les bons temps rouler!
