If you’re a broke college student like me, you know that finding free things to do in New Orleans can be a challenge. But never fear! We’ve compiled a list of the best free (or almost free) things to do in the Big Easy. From exploring historic French Quarter to catching a show at Jazz Fest, there’s plenty of cheap fun to be had in New Orleans. So put on your walking shoes and let’s get exploring!
Explore the French Quarter
The French Quarter in New Orleans offers visitors an unforgettable experience. With its unique mix of old-world charm, southern hospitality, and vibrant culture, this historic district offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to browse the many shops lining the streets or take a tour of some of the city’s most iconic landmarks, the French Quarter has something for you.
Those who seek an exciting nightlife can enjoy some of the best music and cuisine there is to offer in bars and restaurants throughout the area.
History buffs can explore museums, monuments, and other charming architecture throughout the quarter. No matter what your interest is, this neighborhood promises a one-of-a-kind experience that will make your visits to New Orleans truly special.
Visit Bourbon Street
In the heart of the French Quarter lies one of the city’s most iconic streets: Bourbon Street. An epicenter for nightlife and entertainment in New Orleans, this bustling street is one of the best places to experience the city’s unique culture. From rowdy bars and live music venues to chic restaurants and boutiques, there’s something for everyone here. Bourbon Street is also home to some of the city’s most popular event — Mardi Gras.
Whether you’re looking to dance the night away or just enjoy a casual stroll, listen to some of the most talented musicians, this street is sure to provide an exciting night out.
Prices vary depending on the venue, with more popular establishments offering more expensive tickets and other places throwing open their doors and inviting any who wish to join in. Regardless of what genre suits your fancy or how much you want to spend for the night, Bourbon Street’s many music options will provide a unique and fun experience for all visitors.
Strolling along Bourbon Street and enjoying all the lively music is one of life’s simple pleasures – and best of all, it’s free!
Visit one of the many free museums in New Orleans
New Orleans is a city full of unique art and culture, which makes it the perfect place to visit a museum.
And thanks to the generous contribution of The Helis Foundation, Louisiana residents — including college students studying within the state — have free access to five renowned museums on designated days.
- Ogden Museum — Free on Thursdays
- New Orleans Museum of Art — Free on Wednesdays
- New Orleans Botanical Garden — Free on Wednesdays
- Contemporary Arts Center New Orleans — Free on Sundays
- Louisiana Children’s Museum — Free one Sunday, every other month
Stroll through City Park
City Park is a wonderful place to explore on a sunny day. Not only does the park have walking and biking trails, but there are plenty of places throughout the park to sit and relax in the stunning natural beauty that surrounds you. Whether it’s taking in the amazing views of rolling hills, smelling the sweet aromas of blooming flowers, or simply listening to the birds chirping their beautiful melodies, there’s always something special and new to discover around every corner of City Park. It’s no wonder so many people love to take a stroll through this gorgeous landscape.
Take a ride on a streetcar
The streetcar is an iconic symbol of New Orleans and a great way to explore the city without having to worry about parking or traffic.
While not free, a single ride costs just $1.25 and a one-day Jazzy Pass is only $3, so it is the cheapest way of getting around New Orleans other than biking or walking.
The Saint Charles Streetcar Line
For over 150 years, the classic dark green St. Charles Streetcar has been rolling down through the heart of New Orleans — along St. Charles and Carrollton Avenues — becoming a timeless symbol for the city’s unique charm and romance. Boasting an illustrious history as being the oldest continuously operating streetcar line on Earth, this beloved route is one to be remembered!
Experience the charm of vintage streetcars as they traverse a 6-mile crescent from Canal Street in the bustling Central Business District through Uptown, passing through historic neighborhoods and key landmarks such as Loyola, Tulane, and Audubon Park.
The Canal Street Line
Take a ride on the iconic red Canal Streetcar Line, a 5.5-mile route that traverses through downtown’s Central Business District and Mid-City district to the foot of Canal Street.
If you want to spend a leisurely day in City Park, or visit the New Orleans Museum of Art, this is the streetcar line that you need to use.
The Riverfront Line
Take a stroll down memory lane as you hop aboard one of the six vintage red streetcars along the Riverfront Line. Shopping, dining and sightseeing are all within an arm’s reach when you choose to voyage around this irresistible route – from the inviting stores at French Market to Aquarium of Americas, Outlet Collection at Riverwalk, Canal Place, and Harrah’s Casino!
Loyola/UPT Line
In 2013, the journey of 1.6 miles along Loyola Avenue/Union Passenger Terminal opened, providing travelers arriving by Amtrak or Greyhound a convenient and economical way to get acquainted with New Orleans while making their way to nearby lodging. Commencing at Union Passenger terminals, passengers can disembark at Julia Street – the main corridor in Warehouse Arts District, Poydras Street – the city’s Financial District hub, and Tulane Avenue – a key destination for those visiting the Medical District.
The streetcars in New Orleans let you sit back, take in the passing sights, or get off at various stops along the way to explore.
Sample some of the city’s famous cuisine from one of the many food carts or vendors
Do you love the convenience of fast food but appreciate the taste of real home-cooked meals? Why not combine those two into an unforgettable experience? The food carts and vendors throughout this city provide the opportunity to sample local delicacies that you won’t forget. Enjoy a range of tasty sandwiches, potato-filled tacos, pastries, and other creations that appeal to all sorts of palates. These little gems are found throughout iconic parts of the city as well — stopping by one is sure to be a highlight of your travels here. Whether you have 10 minutes or two hours, it’s never too late to indulge in some delicious cuisine.
Get a taste of New Orleans’ history by taking a tour of one of its historic homes
If you want to get a glimpse of New Orleans’ fascinating history and culture, consider taking a tour of one of the city’s many historic homes.
Many of the grand homes from the 18th century have been preserved and still capture the essence of old-world luxury and splendor. Whether it is 19th-century Creole townhouse or an English Regency cottage, these homes are decorated with antiques to give you a real feel for what life in New Orleans was like at other points in time. After all, it is often in stories set in these elegant interiors that souls arrive, linger awhile, and leave behind something very special.
Stroll through the Garden District
Exploring the Garden District in New Orleans is like stepping into a fairytale — ornate and colorful townhouses line the streets, gorgeous mansions peer from behind iron gates, and lush gardens are reminiscent of an earlier time.
The area itself is full of cultural charm, with delightful restaurants, boutique shops, and galleries nestled on every corner.
Going for a stroll through this enchanting district is sure to make for an unforgettable walk as it paints a vibrant picture of New Orleans’ rich history. Whether you wander for hours among the streetscapes or view it from the bustling streetcar that passes by its boundary, you won’t regret taking an afternoon to admire the elegance and beauty of this one-of-a-kind neighborhood.
Sit outside Café Du Monde
Sitting outside of Café Du Monde on a warm summer day is the perfect way to take in all that New Orleans has to offer. The smell of beignets lightly wafts through the air and the sound of live music playing at Jackson Square gives it an unparalleled ambiance. You can preview classic landmarks, such as St. Louis Cathedral, while sipping an iced café au lait or indulge in traditional Louisiana cuisine like the jambalaya plate that’s served up right there.
Café Du Monde truly is a delightful experience, full of culture and charm, and a must if ever you find yourself wandering around the streets of NOLA.
Visit St. Louis Cathedral Cathedral
St. Louis Cathedral is a stunning religious landmark located in the heart of New Orleans. Dating back to 1727, it stands as one of the oldest and most iconic buildings in the city and is actually one of the oldest active cathedrals in the United States.
The cathedral’s three majestic spires eclipse the sky and its striking stone facade can be seen from a great distance. Inside, the vast interior offers visitors a rich history to explore through its various artifacts and artworks. On certain days, you can attend Mass or witness one of the cathedral’s more solemn ceremonies such as weddings or funerals. Guided tours are also available if you’d like to learn more about the site.
Taking a moment to appreciate the beauty and grandeur of this religious centerpiece is an experience that no traveler should miss.
Walk along the Mississippi in New Orleans
Taking a leisurely stroll along the mighty Mississippi River is a great way to experience the unique charm of New Orleans. From Jackson Square, you can make your way upriver past picturesque views of the city skyline and iconic bridges like the Crescent City Connection.
Along this historic riverbank, you’ll find plenty of locals out for their own riverfront stroll or hoping to catch a glimpse of the many cruise ships that come and go. When ships passed by, they appear to be above the city, and the sun’s rays reflect off their hulls to produce a magical effect. This is what makes this activity especially special, as it can be a truly serene experience for both locals and visitors alike.
As you walk along the banks, take time to appreciate all the stories of history that have been carried down this waterway — from settlers in search of new horizons to today’s bustling river traffic. This iconic river has long played an integral role in shaping the city, so taking the time to explore its shores will no doubt be a memorable experience.
You can also explore the Mississippi River Trail — a stunning path of trails on both shores of the mighty river. The most walked portion goes from Audubon Park in New Orleans to Bonnet Carré Spillway in St. Charles Parish. The path is famously known by many names: the New Orleans Levee Top Trail, the Mississippi Levee Path and Bikeway, and of course, simply as the Mississippi Levee Trail.
The levees of the Lower Mississippi River have been a major part of New Orleans’ history and culture for centuries. Walking along these necessary structures is a great way to appreciate the city’s incredible resilience as they offer a unique perspective on its relationship with the river. Whether you’re standing atop them or exploring their paths, you’ll be able to take in the beauty of this area and learn more about its fascinating past.
Visit Audubon Zoo
Audubon Zoo is one of the premier attractions in New Orleans. It boasts a variety of flora and fauna from all around the world, as well as some of the best views of the city. You can wander around and observe some of the unique wildlife, or take a leisurely stroll through the winding paths and lush gardens.
The park also features a wide array of attractions, such as an interactive animal exhibit, an aquarium, and even a splash pad for kids to cool off in during warm days.
Audubon Zoo is a paradise for outdoor explorers — here, you can observe the spectacular wildlife, such as exotic birds and mouflons while also marveling at its majestic natural beauty.
Visit the New Orleans Cemeteries
Louisiana is known for its vibrant culture and history, and the best way to explore this is through its cemeteries. There are many famous cemeteries in New Orleans, each with its own unique characteristics and charm. Here’s a look at some of the most popular ones:
St. Louis Cemetery No. 1
Located on Basin Street in the French Quarter, the St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 is the oldest in New Orleans and contains tombs representing various cultures and religious denominations. To visit, though, you must join an official walking tour.
Lafayette Cemetery No 1
Located in the Garden District, Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 is one of the most picturesque cemeteries in all of New Orleans. It is also quite large; containing over 1,100 tombs dating back to 1833. Admission into this cemetery is free.
St. Roch Cemetery
St Roch Cemetery in New Orleans is a cemetery that contains the graves of many famous locals. It has been preserved since the late 19th century and boasts rich history, with numerous stories intertwined with that of its gravestones. Although it’s still active today, the cemetery consists mostly of tombs and mausoleums built in the 1800s, creating an interesting contrast between bright modernity and deep-seated past. The cemetery is also home to a wide variety of plant species, making it a great destination for nature lovers as well as historians. Admission into this cemetery is also free.
Metairie Cemetery
Metairie Cemetery dates back to 1872, located away from the hustle & bustle of downtown New Orleans on over 110 acres near Lake Pontchartrain in Jefferson Parish. There are many notable residents buried here, including former mayor Charles Manship, as well as soldiers from all wars since World War I who were honored with burials at Metairie Cemetery’s Veterans Field of Honor or Circle of Champions circle sections. The cemetery offers tours by appointment only, but visitors can wander freely during daylight hours without an appointment or fee required for entry.
These three iconic cemeteries offer visitors a unique look into New Orleans’ deep history while embodying the unique cultural architecture that makes it one of most beloved cities in America today!
Conclusion
New Orleans is a city full of culture, history, and fun. There is so much to do that you could spend weeks here and not see it all. Whether you want to explore the French Quarter, listen to live music on Bourbon Street, or sample some of the city’s famous cuisine, there is something for everyone in New Orleans. So come on down and experience everything this unique city has to offer!
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