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Are you planning a trip to New Orleans but worried about the expenses? Fear not, as there are plenty of free things to do in the city that won’t cost you a dime. From exploring historic neighborhoods to enjoying live music performances, New Orleans has so many free things to do for everyone in your party.
One of the best things about New Orleans is its rich culture and history, and there are plenty of free ways to experience it. Take a stroll through the French Quarter, where you can admire the stunning architecture and soak up the vibrant atmosphere. Or head to the Garden District, where you can marvel at the beautiful mansions and lush greenery. If you’re interested in the city’s history, don’t miss the free exhibits at the Historic New Orleans Collection.
But that’s not all – New Orleans is also known for its lively music scene, and there are plenty of free concerts and performances to enjoy. From jazz to blues to brass bands, you can find live music on almost every street corner. And if you’re lucky enough to be in town during Mardi Gras season, you can experience the parades and festivities without spending a dime. So pack your bags and get ready to explore all the free things New Orleans has to offer!
Historical Landmarks
New Orleans is a city steeped in history, and there are plenty of free historical landmarks to explore. Here are a few must-see landmarks to add to your itinerary.
Jackson Square
Located in the heart of the French Quarter, Jackson Square is a bustling public square that is home to several important landmarks. The square itself is named after Andrew Jackson, the hero of the Battle of New Orleans. Some of the notable landmarks in Jackson Square include:
- St. Louis Cathedral: This stunning cathedral is the oldest continuously active Roman Catholic cathedral in the United States. Its iconic spires can be seen from all over the French Quarter.
- The Cabildo: This historic building was the site of the Louisiana Purchase transfer in 1803. It now houses the Louisiana State Museum.
- The Presbytere: This building was originally built to house the city’s priests, but now houses the Mardi Gras Museum.
St. Louis Cathedral
As mentioned above, the St. Louis Cathedral is a must-see landmark in Jackson Square. This beautiful cathedral was built in 1727 and has been a central part of New Orleans’ religious and cultural life ever since. Visitors can attend mass or simply admire the stunning architecture.
Lafayette Square
Located in the Central Business District, Lafayette Square is a beautiful public park that is home to several important landmarks. Some of the notable landmarks in Lafayette Square include:
- The Gallier House: This historic home was built in 1860 and is now a museum that offers a glimpse into life in New Orleans during the mid-19th century.
- The Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals: This beautiful building was originally built as a U.S. Post Office and Courthouse in 1891. It now houses the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals.
Whether you’re a history buff or simply looking for some free things to do in New Orleans, these historical landmarks are definitely worth a visit.
Parks and Outdoor Attractions
New Orleans has a variety of parks and outdoor attractions that offer free admission and are perfect for a day out. Here are a few options:
City Park
City Park is a 1,300-acre park that is home to a wide range of attractions, including walking trails, playgrounds, and picnic areas. One of the park’s most popular attractions is the Botanical Garden, which boasts over 2,000 species of plants from around the world. You can also visit the free Sculpture Garden, which features over 90 pieces of art from local and international artists. If you’re looking for a more active day out, City Park also has a golf course, tennis courts, and a disc golf course.
Crescent Park
Crescent Park is a 1.4-mile linear park that runs along the Mississippi River. The park offers stunning views of the river and the city skyline and is a great place to go for a walk, run, or bike ride. Along the way, you’ll find several overlooks, picnic areas, and a dog park. Crescent Park also hosts regular events, including outdoor movie screenings and live music performances.
Audubon Park
Audubon Park is a 350-acre park that is home to several attractions, including a golf course, a zoo, and a nature center. The park also has several walking and running trails, as well as picnic areas and playgrounds.
One of the park’s most popular attractions is the Tree of Life, a 600-year-old oak tree that is over 50 feet tall and has a circumference of over 30 feet. The park is also home to several species of birds and other wildlife, making it a great place for nature lovers.
No matter which park or outdoor attraction you choose to visit, you’re sure to have a great time exploring all that New Orleans has to offer.
Free Museums
If you’re looking to explore New Orleans on a budget, visiting one of the many free museums in the city is a great option. Here are two museums that you can visit for free.
The Historic New Orleans Collection
The Historic New Orleans Collection is a museum and research center that focuses on the history and culture of New Orleans and the Gulf South. The museum has a collection of over 1 million items, including documents, photographs, and artifacts. The museum is located in the French Quarter and is open Tuesday through Saturday from 9:30 am to 4:30 pm.
Some of the exhibits that you can see at The Historic New Orleans Collection include:
- New Orleans: The Founding Era
- The Louisiana Purchase
- The Battle of New Orleans
- The Architecture of the Vieux Carré
New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park
The New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park is a museum and park that celebrates the history of jazz music in New Orleans. The museum is located in the French Quarter and is open daily from 9 am to 5 pm.
Some of the exhibits that you can see at the New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park include:
- Jazz: The Story of New Orleans Music
- Jazz in the Park
- Jazz Masters
- Jazz Funerals and Second Line Parades
In addition to the exhibits, the museum also hosts live jazz performances and educational programs. Be sure to check their website for a schedule of events.
Both of these museums offer free admission to visitors, making them a great option if you’re looking to explore New Orleans on a budget. Whether you’re interested in the history of New Orleans or the city’s rich musical heritage, these museums offer something for everyone.
Cultural Experiences
New Orleans is a city steeped in culture and history, and there are many free ways to experience it. Here are a few cultural experiences that won’t cost you a dime.
French Market
The French Market is a historic open-air market in the heart of the French Quarter. It has been a hub of commerce for over 200 years and is a great place to experience the local culture. You can find everything from fresh produce and seafood to handmade crafts and souvenirs.
Take a stroll through the market and soak up the sights, sounds, and smells of New Orleans. You might even catch a street performance or two. The French Market is open daily from 9 am to 6 pm.
Frenchmen Street
Frenchmen Street is a vibrant and eclectic neighborhood that is known for its live music scene. It’s a great place to experience the local music culture and catch a free show. Many of the bars and clubs on Frenchmen Street offer live music every night of the week.
Take a walk down Frenchmen Street and check out the different venues. You’ll find everything from jazz and blues to funk and soul. Some of the most popular spots include The Spotted Cat Music Club, d.b.a., and Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro.
In addition to the live music, Frenchmen Street is also home to several art galleries and street performers. It’s a great place to spend an afternoon or evening and soak up the local culture.
Festivals and Events
New Orleans is known for its lively festivals and events, many of which are free to attend. Here are a couple of the most popular ones:
Mardi Gras
Mardi Gras is the biggest and most famous festival in New Orleans. It’s a two-week-long celebration leading up to Fat Tuesday, the day before the start of Lent. The festival is known for its parades, colorful costumes, and street parties.
While some events require tickets, many parades are free to attend and open to the public. Check out the official Mardi Gras website for a schedule of events and parade routes.
French Quarter Festival
The French Quarter Festival is a four-day celebration of New Orleans’ music and culture. It takes place in the historic French Quarter and features over 20 stages of live music, as well as food and drink vendors. The festival is free to attend and open to the public. Check out the official French Quarter Festival website for a schedule of events and stage locations.
Other notable festivals and events in New Orleans include the Jazz & Heritage Festival, the Essence Festival, and the Voodoo Music + Arts Experience. Keep an eye on the New Orleans & Company event calendar for a full list of upcoming events.
Final Thoughts on Free Things To Do in New Orleans
New Orleans is a city that has something to offer everyone, and the best part is that you don’t have to spend a lot of money to enjoy it. From exploring the city’s rich history to enjoying the vibrant music scene, there are plenty of free things to do in New Orleans.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, taking advantage of these free activities can help you make the most of your time in the city without breaking the bank. Some of the top free things to do in New Orleans include walking along the riverfront, exploring the French Quarter, and visiting the Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden at the New Orleans Museum of Art.
Other free activities in New Orleans include touring the Germaine Cazenave Wells Mardi Gras Museum, attending free music events like Mardi Gras, and enjoying the beautiful scenery throughout the city. With so many free things to do in New Orleans, you can easily fill your itinerary with fun and exciting activities without spending a dime.
So whether you’re interested in history, music, art, or just exploring the city, there’s something for everyone in New Orleans. Take advantage of the many free activities available and make the most of your time in this vibrant and exciting city.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are some low-key free activities to do in New Orleans?
New Orleans offers many low-key free activities for visitors. You can take a stroll through the historic French Quarter and explore its unique architecture. You can also visit the St. Louis Cathedral and Jackson Square, which are both free to enter. Another great option is to take a walk along the Woldenberg Riverfront Park, which offers stunning views of the Mississippi River.
What are some free museums to visit in New Orleans?
There are several free museums to visit in New Orleans. The New Orleans Jazz Museum is a great option for music lovers, and it offers free admission on Sundays. The Historic New Orleans Collection is also free to enter and features exhibits on the city’s history and culture. Another option is the New Orleans Museum of Art, which offers free admission on Wednesdays.
What are some non-touristy free things to do in New Orleans?
If you’re looking for non-touristy free things to do in New Orleans, consider visiting the Algiers Point neighborhood, which offers a quieter, more residential feel than other parts of the city. You can also take a stroll through the City Park, which is one of the largest urban parks in the country and offers free admission. Another option is to explore the Bywater neighborhood, which features colorful street art and unique shops.
What are some fun, free activities for adults in New Orleans?
New Orleans offers many fun, free activities for adults. You can take a free tour of the Abita Brewery, which offers tastings of their locally brewed beer. You can also visit the Lafitte Greenway, which is a 2.6-mile bike and pedestrian path that runs through several neighborhoods. Another option is to attend a free concert at the House of Blues, which offers free shows on select nights.
What is the #1 attraction in New Orleans?
The #1 attraction in New Orleans is the historic French Quarter. This neighborhood is home to many iconic landmarks, including Jackson Square, the St. Louis Cathedral, and Bourbon Street. It also features unique architecture, colorful buildings, and a vibrant nightlife.
What is the cost of living in New Orleans?
The cost of living in New Orleans is generally lower than in other major cities in the United States. However, it can vary depending on factors such as housing, transportation, and food costs. According to Numbeo, the cost of living index in New Orleans is 76.74, which is lower than the national average.
