Best Things to do in New Orleans | Must-see attractions 2025

Louis Armstrong Park

8:00 AM–6:00 PM

Park

701 North Rampart Street

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Louis Armstrong Park is a historic 31-acre city park in New Orleans, home to Congo Square, concerts, and cultural events.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some events may require a paid ticket.

Audubon Aquarium of the Americas

10:00 AM–5:30 PM

Aquarium

#1 Canal St (at the River)

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Audubon Aquarium of the Americas, located in New Orleans, features diverse marine life exhibits, a 400,000-gallon tank, and a stunning walk-through tunnel.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

Adults: $30, Children (2-12): $22, Seniors (65+): $24. IMAX experiences and some special exhibitions may cost extra.

Louisiana Children's Museum

We-Sa 09:30-16:30; Su 11:30-16:30; Mo-Tu closed

Museum

420 Julia Street

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Louisiana Children's Museum in New Orleans features 30,000 sq. ft. of interactive exhibits, including a climbing wall, art studio, and mock cafe designed for children's play and learning.

Duration: 2 to 3 hours.

General admission: $12 adults, $10 children (3-12), free for children under 3. Special exhibitions may incur additional costs.

New Orleans Jazz Museum

Tu-Su 10:00-16:30;Mo,PH off

Museum

400 Esplanade Avenue

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Located in the heart of New Orleans, the Jazz Museum honors the city’s musical heritage with interactive exhibits and live performances.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

Longue Vue House and Gardens

Mo-Sa 10:00-17:00; Su 13:00-17:00

Museum

7 Bamboo Rd

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Longue Vue House and Gardens is a historic estate in New Orleans, featuring a house museum and eight acres of diverse gardens, including a Discovery Garden for children.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

General admission: $12. Discounts available for groups, seniors, and children.

Washington Artillery Park

Open 24 hours

Park

Decatur St

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Washington Artillery Park in New Orleans features a mounted Civil War cannon honoring the 141st Field Artillery of the Louisiana National Guard.

Duration: 30 minutes.

Free.

Lakefront Arena

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Stadium

6801 Franklin Ave The University of New Orleans East Campus

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Lakefront Arena in New Orleans serves as a multi-purpose venue for sports, concerts, and events, accommodating diverse audiences throughout the year.

Duration: Approximately 2-4 hours depending on the event.

Varies by event. Sports events typically range from $10 to $50.

Coliseum Square Park

Open 24 hours

Park

1708 Coliseum Street

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Coliseum Square in New Orleans serves as a vibrant green space, designed as a village green for post-Louisiana Purchase residents, amidst a colorful cultural backdrop.

Duration: More than 1 hour.

Free. No ticket required to enter the park.

Spanish Plaza

Open 24 hours

Park

1 Poydras St

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Spanish Plaza in New Orleans features a vibrant atmosphere with lush greenery, historical significance, and cultural events, making it a hub of communal gatherings.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Special events may have entry fees.

Oakwood Shopping Center

10:00 AM–9:00 PM

Mall

197 Westbank Expy

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Oakwood Shopping Center in Gretna, USA, features diverse retail stores, restaurants, and entertainment options, catering to various shopping needs and leisure activities.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. No admission fee, but purchases are necessary.

Our Lady of Prompt Succor

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

2635 State St

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Our Lady of Prompt Succor in New Orleans is a Catholic shrine known for its stunning architecture and rich historical significance, attracting visitors seeking spiritual solace.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free to enter. Donations are welcome for upkeep.

Carrollton Shopping Center

10:00 AM–8:00 PM

Mall

caollton ave (tulane)

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Carrollton Shopping Center in New Orleans offers diverse shopping options, a variety of dining establishments, and convenient parking, catering to local needs and tourists alike.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Individual store prices vary.

Stallings Playground

8:00 AM–8:00 PM

Park

New Orleans

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Stallings Playground in New Orleans offers various recreational facilities, including playgrounds and sports equipment, appealing to families and outdoor enthusiasts.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free access.

Samuel Square

6:00 AM–9:00 PM

Park

New Orleans

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Samuel Square is a picturesque park in Orleans Parish, Louisiana, featuring landscaped gardens, walking paths, and recreational areas for visitors of all ages.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free.

Lawrence Square

6:00 AM–8:00 PM

Park

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Lawrence Square is a tranquil park located in New Orleans, offering lush greenery and recreational spaces for families and tourists alike.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Special event activities may vary in pricing.

Rink Shopping Center

10:00 AM–9:00 PM

Mall

2727 Prytania St

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Rink Shopping Center in New Orleans offers a diverse shopping experience with various retail stores, dining options, and entertainment facilities.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

Free. Some events or pop-up markets may have a small entry fee.

Clay Square

8:00 AM–6:00 PM

Park

Louisiana

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Clay Square is a historic park in New Orleans offering lush green spaces, beautiful landscaping, and a tranquil environment for locals and visitors alike.

Duration: 1 to 2 hours.

Free. Special events may require tickets.

University of New Orleans

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

University

2000 Lakeshore Dr

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The University of New Orleans, established in 1956, offers diverse academic programs and a vibrant campus life situated along Lake Pontchartrain.

Duration: 1-2 hours for a campus walk.

Free. No admission fee is required for general access to the campus.

Saint Louis Cathedral

9:00 AM–4:00 PM

Church

615 Pere Antoine Aly (at Chartres St)

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St. Louis Cathedral is the oldest active cathedral in the U.S., featuring striking stained glass, a painted ceiling, and a vibrant community in New Orleans' French Quarter.

Duration: 1–2 hours.

Free to enter. Donations are appreciated.

Carousel Gardens Amusement Park

5:00 PM–10:00 PM

Theme Park

1 Palm Dr

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Carousel Gardens Amusement Park features an antique carousel and 16 rides, located in New Orleans, Louisiana, ideal for families and visitors of all ages.

Duration: Approximately 2-4 hours.

$18 for unlimited rides. No entry fee.

Cuccia-Byrnes Playground

Open 24 hours

Park

New Orleans

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Cuccia-Byrnes Playground in New Orleans offers a recreational space featuring play structures, green fields, and sports facilities for community enjoyment.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free.

Evans Playground

7:00 AM–8:00 PM

Park

5100 (Lasalle St.)

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Evans Playground, located in New Orleans, features expansive green spaces, playgrounds, and sports facilities, providing a recreational hub for families and visitors.

Duration: 1-3 hours.

Free. No ticket required for entry.

6:00 AM–10:00 PM

Park

Louis Armstrong Park

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Beauregard Square, located in Louis Armstrong Park, New Orleans, is a historic gathering place reflecting the city's musical and cultural heritage.

Duration: Around 1 hour.

Free. Special events may incur a charge.

Audubon Park

Open 24 hours

Park

6500 Magazine St

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Audubon Park, located in New Orleans, features green spaces, Spanish Oaks, and a 1.8-mile paved trail ideal for recreational activities and walking dogs.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Free. Some special events may charge a fee.

Ogden Museum of Southern Art

Mo-Su 10:00-17:00

Museum

925 Camp St

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Ogden Museum of Southern Art in New Orleans features Southern artists' works, including painting, sculpture, and photography. Established in 1999, it showcases diverse cultural heritage.

Duration: Approximately 2 hours.

General admission: $12, Students and seniors: $8, Children under 12: Free.

Audubon Zoo

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Zoo

6500 Magazine St

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Audubon Zoo in New Orleans features over 2,000 animals, unique exhibits, and beautiful gardens. It’s part of the Audubon Nature Institute.

Duration: 3–4 hours.

General: $24.95 (adult), $16.95 (child); discounts available for seniors and military.

Jackson Square

Open 24 hours

Park

745 Decatur St. (btwn St. Peter St. & St. Ann St.)

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Jackson Square is a historic park in New Orleans, established in 1721, featuring artists, musicians, and stunning architecture, including the St. Louis Cathedral.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special events may have costs.

Tulane University

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

University

6823 Saint Charles Ave

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Tulane University, located in New Orleans, LA, spans 110 acres and was established in 1834 as a medical college. It hosts approx. 13,500 students across multiple disciplines.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Free. Some special events may require a paid ticket.

Pan-American Stadium

Open for events and matches

Stadium

City Park (Zachary Tayor Dr.)

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Pan-American Stadium, located in New Orleans, is a 5,000-seat venue serving as the home base for the local soccer team, New Orleans Jesters, and a hub for the city's Latino community.

Duration: 2-3 hours during events.

Entry is free to watch games; special events might have fees.

Tipitina's

6:00 PM–2:00 AM

Event hall

501 Napoleon Ave (at Tchoupitoulas)

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Tipitina's is a renowned music venue in New Orleans, hosting top local and national artists. It's celebrated for its rich musical history and vibrant atmosphere.

Duration: 2–4 hours.

Entrance is generally free, but some special events may require a ticket purchase.

The Historic New Orleans Collection

Tu-Sa 09:30-16:30; Su-Mo off; PH off

Museum

410 Chartres St (Conti St.)

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The Historic New Orleans Collection offers insight into Louisiana's history with artifacts, research facilities, and exhibitions in the French Quarter.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free. Guided tours are $5 per person.

Morial Convention Center

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Business Center

900 Convention Center Blvd

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The Ernest N. Morial Convention Center is a major convention facility in New Orleans, hosting a variety of events, trade shows, and conferences annually.

Duration: 2 to 4 hours, varying by events.

Varies by event. Some events may be free, while others require paid tickets.

Our Lady of Guadalupe Chapel

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

Church

411 N Rampart St at Conti St

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Saint Jude Shrine in New Orleans (built 1826) serves as a vital church and historical site, originally a mortuary chapel for yellow fever victims.

Duration: Approximately 1 hour.

Free access. Donations accepted.

New Orleans Botanical Garden

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Garden

5 Victory Ave

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New Orleans Botanical Garden, located in City Park, Louisiana, is the first classical garden in the city, funded by the Works Progress Administration.

Duration: About 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions and events may require a paid ticket.

House of Broel's Victorian Mansion and Doll House Museum

10:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

2220 Saint Charles Ave

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House of Broel's Victorian in New Orleans offers a unique look at 19th-century architecture, fashion, and an impressive dollhouse collection, relevant for tourists and event attendees.

Duration: Approximately 1.5 hours.

Paid tours typically range from $10 to $15. Event access varies.

Jackson Barracks Military Museum

10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Museum

6400 Saint Claude Ave

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Jackson Barracks Military Museum in New Orleans explores the history of the Louisiana Militia and National Guard from the 18th century to present-day deployments.

Duration: 1.5 to 2 hours.

Free. Some special exhibitions may require a paid ticket.

The National WWII Museum

9:00 AM–5:00 PM

Museum

945 Magazine St (at Andrew Higgins St)

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The National WWII Museum in New Orleans provides an immersive experience of World War II with extensive exhibits, artifacts, and multimedia presentations.

Duration: More than 3 hours.

Paid. Adult: $30, Child (5-12): $12, Discounts available for students and seniors.

Lakewood Golf Club

6:00 AM–8:00 PM

Golf Course

4801 General Degaulle Dr

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Lakewood Country Club in New Orleans features an 18-hole golf course, designed by renowned architect J. Edwin W. Smith, offering scenic views and challenging gameplay.

Duration: Approximately 4 hours.

Membership fees apply. Non-members may access the course through specific events.

Brechtel Golf Course

7:00 AM–6:00 PM

Golf Course

New Orleans

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Brechtel Golf Course in New Orleans features a challenging 18-hole course surrounded by scenic landscapes and rich wildlife, appealing to both casual and serious golfers.

Duration: Approximately 4 hours.

Green fees vary; standard rates for adults and discounts for juniors/seniors available.

Beauregard-Keyes House

10:00 AM–4:00 PM

Museum

1113 Chartres St

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Beauregard-Keyes House is a historic 1826 Greek Revival mansion in New Orleans, once home to Confederate General P.G.T. Beauregard and novelist Frances Parkinson Keyes.

Duration: 1-2 hours.

Paid tours: Adults $10, Children (12 and under) $5.

Crescent City Casino

10:00 AM–4:00 AM

Casino

5000 Old Gentilly Rd

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Crescent City Casino in New Orleans offers gaming, dining, and entertainment experiences, situated near the Mississippi River and vibrant city life.

Duration: Approximately 2-3 hours.

Free entry to the casino. Gaming and dining costs are separate.

Southern University

8:00 AM–5:00 PM

University

6400 Press Drive

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Southern University in New Orleans is a historically black public university founded in 1880. It's known for its vibrant campus and strong academic programs.

Duration: Approximately 1-2 hours.

Free to explore the campus; some events may require tickets.

New Orleans Riverwalk Shopping Center

10:00 AM–8:00 PM

Mall

500 Port of New Orleans Pl

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Riverwalk Marketplace in New Orleans features over 140 stores set in converted warehouses. Located along the Mississippi waterfront, it offers scenic views and diverse shopping.

Duration: More than 2 hours.

Free. Shopping and dining are available without an entrance fee.

Harrah's Casino New Orleans

24 hours

Casino

228 Poydras St (at Poydras St)

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Harrah's New Orleans Casino features 115,000 sq ft of gaming space with around 2,100 slot machines, located near the Mississippi River in downtown New Orleans.

Duration: 2-3 hours.

Free admission. Some dining and event experiences may incur charges.