Top 6 Things To Do In New Orleans

The top 6 things to do in New Orleans are visiting Voodoo Authentica, taking a Bayou Swamp Tours airboat trip, exploring the French Quarter, touring the National WWII Museum, visiting St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, and grabbing beignets at Cafe du Monde. New Orleans welcomes about 18 million visitors a year, and these six stops show why.

1. Visit Voodoo Authentica

This mystery shop sells Voodoo dolls, gris-gris bags, and potion oils, among other ritualistic items. It also offers rituals, readings, and spiritual consultations - stop by for a tarot card reading. It is a must-see for anyone interested in New Orleans Voodoo or hunting for a unique souvenir.

2. Take a Bayou Swamp Tour

Don't miss a day trip exploring New Orleans' bayou by airboat. Airboats are powered by huge propeller-driven engines that let them reach up to 40 miles an hour while skimming over the water. Tours last about 1 hour and 45 minutes, and you can expect bald eagles, snakes, hawks, and part of Louisiana's roughly 2 million wild alligators, according to the Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries. It is a great way to experience the bayou with the whole family.

3. Visit the French Quarter

The charming architecture, live music, and lively bars make the Quarter ideal for anyone who likes to explore. Also known as the Vieux Carre, the French Quarter was founded in 1718 and covers about 78 square blocks, per New Orleans and Company. Take a walk down Bourbon Street, then wander the galleries, music clubs, and shops.

4. Spend a Day at the National WWII Museum

Located in the Warehouse District, this world-class museum offers an interactive way to learn about World War II. Authentic boats, documents, weapons, and uniforms are all on display. Don't miss the dramatic 4D theater experience narrated by Tom Hanks, complete with artillery explosions and simulated gunfire - the highlight of the museum.

5. Visit St. Louis Cemetery No. 1

This famous above-ground cemetery houses the tombs of Voodoo queen Marie Laveau and other notable figures from the 18th and 19th centuries. Because New Orleans' ground is often saturated with water, the dead aren't buried; instead, mausoleums form beautiful yet eerie homes for the departed. Wear comfortable shoes when exploring the grounds.

6. Tour Cafe du Monde at the French Market

Stop at Cafe du Monde for tasty beignets and cafe au lait, served here since 1862. A beignet is a deep-fried donut covered in powdered sugar. Open 24 hours a day, this open-air coffee shop sits at the edge of the French Quarter - the ideal stop after a full day of exploring.

When Is the Best Time to Visit New Orleans?

Fall and spring are the most comfortable. Summer highs average about 92 degrees with quick afternoon showers, while January highs sit near 62 degrees and winter lows rarely drop below 45 degrees, according to the National Weather Service. The city also averages about 62 inches of rain a year, so pack a light rain jacket.

How Long Does a Swamp Tour Take?

Most Bayou Swamp Tours trips run 90 minutes to 1 hour and 45 minutes on the water. Small airboats hold 6 to 10 passengers, large airboats hold 13 to 27 passengers, and covered pontoon boats offer a slower, quieter ride - so there is an option for every group and pace.

How Do You Get to the Swamp from New Orleans?

The swamps are close. Bayou Swamp Tours departs about 30 minutes from downtown New Orleans, with French Quarter hotel pickup available. Nearby, Jean Lafitte's Barataria Preserve protects about 26,000 acres of swamp and marsh, according to the National Park Service. See more ideas in our guide to things to do in New Orleans and local swamp wildlife.