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Local Picks - Things To Do in New Orleans

Experience the vibrant culture of New Orleans with our curated list of things to do, handpicked by seasoned locals. Whether you're indulging in the rich culinary scene or exploring the historic French Quarter, there’s something for everyone. Dive into live jazz music at a cozy club, savor beignets at Café du Monde, or take a stroll along the picturesque Riverwalk. Don’t miss out on unique attractions like the historic Garden District and the lively Frenchmen Street. Our local picks are designed to help you connect with the spirit of the city, so you can create unforgettable moments during your visit. Uncover the hidden gems and must-visit spots that truly define New Orleans.
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Local advice you’ll appreciate

If you’re planning to catch live music in New Orleans, aim for a weeknight at a smaller venue like one in the Marigny or the Treme neighborhood. These shows tend to be more intimate and less tourist-focused, giving you a clearer sense of the city’s musical roots. Also, bring cash – many local bars and music spots operate on a cash-only basis. Trust me, it’s worth stepping off Royal Street once in a while and venturing into the neighborhoods where locals spend their evenings.

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about how we select New Orleans Local Picks.

Our Local Picks are chosen by a dedicated editorial team made up of people who live and breathe New Orleans. They rely on day-to-day experiences and local knowledge, not algorithms or paid promotions.

The picks are reviewed and refreshed regularly to reflect new openings, seasonal changes, and feedback from locals to keep the recommendations fresh and relevant.

Yes, definitely. Since these are selections from locals, they offer an authentic glimpse of New Orleans beyond typical tourist spots, but they’re still accessible and rewarding for newcomers.

Some familiar sites appear if locals genuinely recommend them, but the focus is mostly on places and activities that reflect everyday life and unique experiences in New Orleans neighborhoods.

While the French Quarter is iconic, it’s heavily frequented by tourists. Our local experts often point to other areas like Bywater, Marigny, or Gentilly for a more genuine feel and less crowded experiences.

Yes. The selections are free from sponsorship or paid placements, based entirely on the team’s firsthand knowledge and honest opinions about what’s worth exploring in New Orleans.

Explore Things To Do Categories

City Tours (602 places) If you've never wandered through the French Quarter with someone who knows the streets and stories, you're missing out. City tours in New Orleans aren’t just about seeing famous spots like Jackson Square or the St. Louis Cathedral; they're about hearing the tales behind those creaky doors and wrought iron balconies… Explore
Family-Friendly Experiences (546 places) If you’re coming to New Orleans with kids, you’re in for some good times , and maybe a few surprises. There’s a lot here that isn’t just about the nightlife or the beignets, really. The Audubon Zoo is a must, and if you’ve got energetic little ones, the cool splash pad at City Park’s Big Lake is a lifesaver on hot… Explore
Heritage Sites (472 places) New Orleans isn’t just about jazz and beignets. The city’s past hangs thick in the air, especially at its heritage sites, where you can get a real sense of its complex history. The French Quarter isn’t just pretty buildings; places like the Cabildo tell stories about Louisiana’s colonial days and early American… Explore
Cultural Tours (468 places) Cultural tours in New Orleans aren’t just about walking through a city,they’re like conversations with its soul. You’ll find yourself in the French Quarter, walking past weathered iron balconies while a guide’s telling you stories that never make it into guidebooks. And just when you think you’ve heard it all, a jazz… Explore
Historical Landmarks (468 places) Walking through New Orleans' historical landmarks feels like flipping through a living scrapbook. You can’t help but get pulled into stories of the French Quarter’s creaky iron balconies or the imposing brick walls of the Old Ursuline Convent on Chartres Street. And trust me, these aren’t just pretty sights. Each… Explore
Guided Walks (410 places) If you want to soak up New Orleans on foot, guided walks are where the city really comes alive. Forget cookie-cutter tours; here, you’re wandering with folks who’ve lived down these streets and have stories that only locals share. Want to stroll through the French Quarter after dark and hear about ghostly legends no… Explore
Attractions & Tickets (358) • Tastings (280) • Private Tours (260) • Day Trips (144) •

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