There's something electric about New Orleans that hits you the second you arrive. It's the trumpet hum drifting from a street corner, the scent of sugar and café au lait wafting from a nearby café, and the way strangers become friends over a shared laugh or a late-night dance. If you're wondering about fun things to do in New Orleans for adults, let me assure you: this city is a vibrant playground for culturally curious travelers, music lovers, foodies, free spirits, and everyone in between. Let's dive into all the exciting, soulful, and unforgettable things to do in NOLA that make it one of the best destinations for adults. Why New Orleans is the Ideal Destination for Adults New Orleans is like nowhere else in the U.S. — equal parts history, heart, and heaps of fun. It's a place where jazz still rules, strangers wave at you from their porches, and there's always something fun happening on every block. Here's why it stands out as a perfect getaway for adults: Nightlife that Never Sleeps: Whether it's a tucked-away dive bar or an all-night dance club, adults can enjoy a variety of nightlife vibes, from chill to high energy. World-Class Cuisine: You haven't truly eaten until you've tried gumbo at a locally owned corner bistro. History with Soul: Ghost tours, haunted hotels, and centuries-old neighborhoods bring history to life in the most colorful ways. Grown-Up Adventures: Think cooking classes with wine pairings, cemetery tours, or exploring the bayou swamps with local guides. I lived in New Orleans for four years and find myself coming back to visit often. And every time I return, I notice more and more depth to the city – without losing any of the magic. Best Places to Stay in New Orleans for Adults If you're looking for a spot to unwind or recharge before your next outing in the city, these adult-friendly stays are in ideal locations and offer a mix of charm and comfort: Club Wyndham Avenue Plaza 2111 Saint Charles Avenue New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 566-1212 Nestled in the Garden District, this elegant property has a rooftop sundeck and is steps from the St. Charles Streetcar. FIND DATES Club Wyndham La Belle Maison 209 Magazine Street New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 558-5900 Located near the French Quarter, it's perfect if you want to be close to nightlife but still far enough away to enjoy a peaceful rest. FIND DATES Unique Experiences Awaiting in the Crescent City New Orleans is one of the most unique cities I've ever been to, and with an indescribable energy that is almost palpable, there is no shortage of unforgettable experiences to be had. These are my top three unmissable unique experiences in NOLA: Ghost, Voodoo and Vampires Tours – New Orleans is a city proud of its occult culture and history, demonstrated by nightly tours that highlight not just the supernatural elements of the city, but the history as well. Whether or not you're a believer, these nighttime walking tours are spine-tingling fun. When I took my first ghost tour here, I'll admit, I wasn't expecting to feel an actual chill on the back of my neck. But standing outside the LaLaurie Mansion, I felt a noticeable energy shift. And for the non-believers, these tours still provide tons of interesting stories and historical background of the city. And bonus – most tours make a midway stop for drinks at bars such as the historic Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop. There are tons of companies that offer ghost tours. I've personally tried a few and have had a great experience every time. Some top rated companies are French Quarter Phantoms, Witches Brew Tours, and Ghost City Tours. Pro tip: To help you choose the right tour, focus on anything you're especially interested in as many tours have themes, ranging from vampires to true crime. Steamboat Natchez Cruise – One of the most iconic visuals of New Orleans is the Steamboat Natchez cruising along the Mississippi River. Hop aboard, grab a cocktail, and unwind as the steamboat glides along the Mississippi. With views of the city skyline behind you and the jazz band playing on deck, everything feels like a celebration. Pure magic. You can choose from Daytime Jazz Cruises, Dinner Jazz Cruises, or Sunday Jazz Cruises (my personal favorite and a one-of-a-kind brunch). Pro tip: Spots can fill up for the Dinner Jazz Cruises, Sunday Brunch Cruises, and Holiday and Special Event Cruises so make sure to make a reservation! Drag Brunches – LGBTQIA+ culture is central to the culture of New Orleans and the city features some of the best drag shows you can find. Enjoy a mix of breakfast cocktails like mimosas and Bloody Marys, delicious Southern food, and fierce performers. Two favorites for New Orleans drag brunches are The Country Club and Marigny Brasserie. Bring your appetite and cheering voice and get ready to have a ball! Pro tip: Stop by an ATM for some cash beforehand. It's paramount to tip the drag performers. Sometimes performers will leave their Venmo/Cash App information, but it's not a guarantee, so it's best to have some cash on hand just in case. Explore Local Attractions & Hidden Gems French Quarter Beyond Bourbon Street Yes, Bourbon Street is iconic. But I promise, the real gems lie just a few blocks away. Here's where I always take my friends in the French Quarter: Royal Street – Art galleries, antique shops, and live jazz bands on street corners. The best way to enjoy Royal Street is without an agenda. Just stroll along and pop in any shops or galleries that interest you. But if you want to hit the highlights, M.S. Rau and Keil's Antiques are the two antique shops that can't be missed. And the Elliott Gallery and Rodrigue Studio (home of the iconic Blue Dog paintings) are two of the most popular galleries on Royal Street. Pro tip: Stop by The Historic New Orleans Collection, a free museum about the history of New Orleans and the Gulf South. Faulkner House Books – A local bookshop tucked inside the former residence of author William Faulkner. Faulkner began work on his novel Soldiers' Pay while living in this spot. As a huge literature fan, this is my favorite hidden gem in the French Quarter. Pro tip: This shop even sells some rare, out-of-print, and first edition books. And keep your eyes out for signed copies of newer books! Café Amelie Courtyard – This tucked-away courtyard hidden behind wrought iron gates is one of the most charming places to sit down for a meal. It's easy to walk right past if you don't know it's there! Surrounded by historic buildings and shaded by trees, it's a quiet escape from the buzz of the French Quarter. It's casual but charming, with plenty of shade and a quiet vibe that's perfect for a mid-day break or dinner before heading out to hear live music. The menu features Southern-inspired dishes and seasonal cocktails, and the outdoor setting makes it especially popular for brunch and date nights. Discovering the Bayou in NOLA Take a break from the buzz of the city and explore the outdoors in the Bayou. Here are some unique experiences outside of the city: Kayaking Tours – This is a fun activity for a wide range of athletic levels. Experience the serenity of the Bayou and learn about Southern Louisiana's eco-systems as you paddle past charming homes. There are many tour companies, but we recommend Kayak-iti-Yat, the original kayaking tours of New Orleans! Bayou Sauvage Urban National Wildlife Refuge – One of the last remaining marsh areas of Lake Pontchartrain and Lake Borgne, this protected land is a peaceful place for birdwatching and quiet hikes. Unusual Museums and Cultural Spots New Orleans doesn't do boring museums. Even if you're not usually a museum-goer, these are worth your time: New Orleans Pharmacy Museum – Located in the former apothecary and residence of Louis J. Dulfilho Jr., the first licensed pharmacist in the United States, this museum is truly one-of-a-kind. Wild and weird, it showcases historical pharmaceutical and medical objects and artifacts, including leech jars, voodoo portions, and surgical instruments. It can be a little unsettling at times, but seeing how medicine has evolved over time is extremely interesting. I was very skeptical before visiting, but I really enjoyed learning about the history of the building and Louis J. Dulfilho Jr. and seeing all the different artifacts they had on display. I felt like I had learned a ton after only being there for a little while. Backstreet Cultural Museum – This small but powerful museum in the Treme neighborhood shines a spotlight on African American cultural traditions that shaped New Orleans. It's best known for its collection of elaborate Mardi Gras Indian suits, but exhibits also cover second lines, jazz funerals, and social aid and pleasure clubs. Inside, you'll find elaborate hand-sewn suits, photographs, and memorabilia that tell the story of a vibrant, often overlooked side of Carnival, as well as African American history and struggles. The museum is personal and community-run, and it feels more like stepping into someone's home than a formal exhibit space. Museum of Death – This one isn't for everyone, but if you're into the darker side of history, the Museum of Death is one of the most unusual stops in New Orleans. The exhibits cover everything from mortuary science to true crime, with plenty of graphic content throughout. It's intense, unsettling, and definitely not for the faint of heart – but it's also incredibly fascinating and unique. I'll admit, I wasn't sure what to expect going in, but it was one of the most memorable (and strange) museum experiences I've ever had. Nightlife and Live Music Experiences Nightly Jazz: Live Music Venues Live music is the heartbeat of New Orleans. Sometimes the best music you hear will be the band playing on the street. But if you want to experience New Orleans jazz in a venue, these are our picks: Preservation Hall – With multiple concerts every night of the week, this is the spot to hit up for traditional New Orleans jazz. No-frills, all soul. Just pure jazz magic. The Spotted Cat Music Club – Located on Frenchman Street, adjacent to the French Quarter, “The Cat” is a local favorite. Cozy and charismatic with a rotating roster of talent playing not just jazz, but blues, funk, klezmer, and more. d.b.a. – Great drinks and equally great live music from local bands playing jazz, blues, funk, soul, and more. Best Bars and Cocktail Experiences in the Big Easy The Open Container Laws in New Orleans play a part in the city's culture. One of the best ways to enjoy New Orleans is strolling down the street with a drink in hand, dancing with strangers as a brass band plays on the corner. But if you want to sit and enjoy your libation with an equally fantastic environment, these are our favorites. From historic concoctions to modern mixology, you're sure to find your flavor: Sazerac Bar Elegant and steeped in cocktail lore, the Sazerac Bar tucked inside the Roosevelt Hotel, is one of the city's most iconic cocktail spots. With its Art Deco design, walnut-paneled walls, and gleaming bar, there is no better spot to try an iconic New Orleans cocktail. New Orleans is the birthplace of the Sazerac, widely considered one of the first (if not the first) American cocktails. Made with rye whiskey, a sugar cube, Peychaud's bitters, and just a rinse of absinthe, it's as bold and distinctive as the city itself. Cane & Table Cane & Table serves up tropical cocktails and Caribbean-inspired small plates in a laid-back, slightly hidden space with tiki vibes. The drinks are thoughtfully crafted, with an emphasis on rum and house-made syrups. It's a great spot to escape the French Quarter chaos for a slower, more flavorful kind of night. Old Absinthe House For a more dive bar experience in classic New Orleans style, Old Absinthe House on Bourbon Street bar has been around since the early 1800s, and it shows – in the best way. The ceilings are low, the walls are covered in decades of memorabilia, and the whole place has a timeless charm that feels uniquely New Orleans. If you've never tried absinthe, this is the place. It's a little touristy, a little gritty, and full of character. I popped in out of curiosity and ended up chatting with the bartender about famous past patrons including Oscar Wilde and Jean Lafitte. Carousel Bar & Lounge Located inside the Hotel Monteleone, the Carousel Bar is exactly what it sounds like: a full-size, slowly rotating bar that looks like a vintage carnival ride. It's been spinning since 1949 and has become one of the most iconic cocktail spots in New Orleans. The bar makes a full rotation every 15 minutes, and it's subtle enough that you barely notice until you glance up and realize your view has changed. The drinks are classic and well-made (the Vieux Carré was invented here), and there's often live music in the lounge just behind the carousel itself. It's pretty touristy, but also genuinely fun, especially if you can grab one of the coveted seats on the carousel! Bacchanal Wine Out in the Bywater, Bacchanal feels more like a neighborhood backyard party than a typical wine bar. You pick out your bottle from the front wine shop, grab a glass, and head out back to a big open patio filled with string lights, mismatched tables, and a steady flow of live music every night. The crowd is a mix of locals and travelers, and the vibe is relaxed, no-frills, and incredibly fun. Pat O'Brien's This French Quarter staple features a lively piano bar, sprawling courtyard, and stunning fountain. But the real star of Pat O'Brien's is the Hurricane. This legendary New Orleans cocktail is sweet and strong, made with fruit juices, grenadine, simple syrup, and (a lot of) rum. Pat O'Brien's created this signature drink during World War II when whiskey was hard to come by and rum was easy to get. These days, it's a rite of passage for first-time visitors and a nostalgic favorite for locals. Every time I visit NOLA with a first-time visitor, I make it a priority to stop by Pat O's for a Hurricane.Pro Tip: If you stay and sip instead of taking your Hurricane to go, staff will pack up your empty glass so you can keep the iconic Pat O'Brien's Hurricane curved glass as a souvenir. Culinary Delights and Dining Tips Iconic Restaurants and Culinary Tours Want to know what to do in New Orleans if you're a foodie? Eat everything. Part of the magic of New Orleans is that there is great food everywhere. But if you want to make sure you hit the highlights, we got you covered with the most iconic spots below: Commander's Palace Commander's Palace is one of the most iconic restaurants in New Orleans. The unique turquoise-and-white building sets the stage, but it's the food and service that have made this place a local institution since 1893. The menu blends classic Creole dishes with seasonal, upscale twists. Some menu highlights include Pecan Crusted Fish, BBQ'D Duroc Pork Chop, and their extremely popular Turtle Soup. It's a little more formal than most spots around town, but it feels warm and celebratory, not stuffy. In addition to dinner, they also serve Jazz Brunch and lunch with 25-cent martinis. I have celebrated many special occasions here and have always been overwhelmed with the amazing service and fantastic food. If you're looking for a splurge meal to celebrate (or just because) with real New Orleans character, this is the one. Pro Tip: Commander's serves one of the best desserts in the city: their Creole Bread Pudding Soufflé. Make sure to order this ahead of time, as they are made to order and need at least 20 minutes. Atchafalaya Atchafalaya is a go-to spot for one of the best brunches in the city. The vibe is relaxed but refined, with exposed brick walls, local art, and a cozy, lived-in feel. The brunch menu leans Southern-Creole but isn't afraid to mix things up — shrimp and grits, duck hash, and house-made biscuits are all standouts. Plus, they have delicious and creative Bloody Mary cocktails, which is reason enough to go on its own. Dooky Chase's Restaurant A cornerstone of New Orleans culture, Dooky Chase's in Tremé is more than just a restaurant, it's a piece of history. Opened in the 1940s and made famous by the legendary Leah Chase (known as the “Queen of Creole Cuisine”), it became a gathering place during the Civil Rights Movement and has hosted everyone from presidents to local families out for Sunday lunch. The menu sticks to New Orleans classics including gumbo, fried chicken, red beans and rice, and shrimp creole. It's casual, welcoming, full of soul, and a must for anyone looking for classic New Orleans dishes. Cochon Located in the Warehouse District, Cochon is where Cajun soul food meets Southern comfort. The restaurant focuses on locally sourced ingredients and traditional Louisiana recipes, reimagined with a chef-driven twist. Think smoked pork ribs, fried alligator with chili garlic mayo, rabbit and dumplings, and wood-fired oysters. The space itself is warm and industrial, with an open kitchen that adds to the energy. It's casual enough for a laid-back dinner but feels special enough for a night out. Culinary Tours If you find all the food options in New Orleans overwhelming, try a food tour! Tastebud Tours and Destination Kitchen both offer several tour options to allow you to truly get a taste of New Orleans. Must-Try Local Dishes: From Beignets to Pralines New Orleans is famous for so many dishes and it's hard to pick favorites. While every classic NOLA dish is fantastic, here are our can't-miss bites: Beignets at Café du Monde Tourist classic? Yes. Still worth it? Absolutely. Beignets are pieces of deep fried dough that have been covered in powdered sugar, and nowhere makes them quite as good as Café du Monde, an iconic establishment since 1862. No matter how many times I've had it, I still have to stop by every time I'm visiting. And make sure to pair your beignets with a classic café au lait, the café's iconic chicory coffee with milk.Pro Tip: Café du Monde is cash only. Make sure you have some cash on hand before you grab a powdered sugar covered table. Muffuletta from Central Grocery Muffuletta is a sandwich layered with meats, cheeses, and olive salad on fresh sesame seed bread. The best place to try one is obviously the place where it was created! The sandwich was created by Sicilian immigrant Salvatore Lupo who opened Central Grocery in 1906. Pralines from Loretta's Authentic Pralines Pralines are a sweet candy made from sugar, butter, milk, and pecans. Loretta's does them right. Loretta Harrison was the first African American woman to own and operate a praline company in New Orleans, and her shop in the French Market has been serving up these melt-in-your-mouth treats for decades. They're rich, nutty, and just the right amount of chewy. You can stick with the classic or try one of the flavored versions like rum or chocolate, but either way, it's a perfect pocket-sized souvenir or snack for the walk to your next stop. Boiled Crawfish from Frankie & Johnny's Boiled crawfish is a springtime ritual in New Orleans, and Frankie & Johnny's is a classic spot. This laid-back neighborhood joint has been serving seafood since 1942, and when crawfish season hits, you can enjoy a steaming heap of spicy, juicy crawfish served with all the essentials: corn, potatoes, and plenty of napkins. It's messy in the best way, and there's no wrong way to eat them. So grab a drink, roll up your sleeves, and dig in. Gumbo from the Munch Factory Gumbo is a New Orleans staple. It's a stew-like dish with various meats, seafood, and vegetables served over rice. The version at The Munch Factory is a local favorite, and for good reason. Rich, dark, and deeply flavorful, their gumbo is made with a slow-cooked roux and packed with seafood and andouille sausage. The Munch Factory is a family-owned spot with a cozy, welcoming atmosphere, and the gumbo is the dish that keeps people coming back! Hands-On Creole and Cajun Cooking Classes New Orleans boasts cuisine like nowhere else in the world. If you want to bring a little NOLA spice home with you, sign up for a cooking class: New Orleans School of Cooking – Classes are held in a historic French Quarter building, and the engaging instructors make the whole experience fun and interactive. You'll learn how to make classics like gumbo, jambalaya, and pralines, all while picking up a bit of history and a few kitchen tricks. And the portions are generous so come hungry! Mardi Gras School of Cooking – Interactive, intimate, and BYOB-friendly. This French Quarter–based cookery offers a hands-on dive into Creole and Cajun flavors, with the festive spirit of Mardi Gras baked in. Classes take place in a cozy, home-style kitchen where local instructors guide you through prepping, seasoning, and cooking classic dishes like jambalaya, gumbo, and crawfish étouffée. The atmosphere is lively and fun, almost like cooking at a friend's house, and everyone ends up sharing a meal at the end. Outdoor Activities and Day Trips Scenic Spots for a Different NOLA Experience After a few nights out, a calm day is a gift. Here are two spots to take it easy and just relax: City Park – One of the largest urban parks in the country, City Park is a great place to slow down and soak up a quieter side of New Orleans. You can rent a bike and ride through moss-draped oaks, or take a leisurely walk through the Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden and admire the modern art sculptures. The park is also home to the New Orleans Botanical Garden, a mini golf course, and a historic carousel that's been spinning since the early 1900s. It's the kind of place where you can be as active or as relaxed as you want. Whatever you decide to do, just don't forget to grab a refreshing snoball (or a snoball flight) from the snoball stand before you leave. Garden District – With its oak-lined streets, cast-iron fences, and rows of 19th-century mansions, the Garden District feels like stepping into another era. It's a great neighborhood for a self-guided walking tour, especially if you're into architecture or just looking for some prime photo ops. And if you get tired of walking, hop on the St. Charles Avenue streetcar and explore the rest of Uptown! Avery Island – About two hours from New Orleans, Avery Island is the birthplace of Tabasco sauce and a surprisingly scenic day trip. You can tour the Tabasco factory, learn how the famous hot sauce is made, and sample a few flavors before grabbing lunch at the on-site restaurant. Afterward, head into Jungle Gardens—a massive botanical garden with mossy oaks, camellias, and egrets nesting in the trees. It's a fun mix of flavor and nature you won't find anywhere else. Swamp and Wildlife Adventures For something wilder, take a day trip out to the swamps. Swamp Tours – A swamp tour is a must to see another side of Louisiana. Spanish moss, wildlife, and stories from lifelong locals. Cajun Encounters runs some of the most popular swamp tours, offering guided boat rides through Honey Island Swamp. You'll spot all kinds of wildlife: alligators, wild boars, raccoons, and several species of birds. But the real highlight is the guides. Many of them are lifelong locals who share stories about the swamp's ecology, folklore, and history with a sense of humor and fun. Jean Lafitte National Historical Park – This national park offers a totally different kind of New Orleans experience — quiet, green, and full of natural beauty. The Barataria Preserve section is the most popular, with wooden boardwalks and dirt trails that wind through swamps, marshes, and bayous. It's a peaceful spot for hiking, birdwatching, or just getting a little breathing room from the busy city streets. You might spot wildlife like alligators sunning along the water or herons swooping overhead. There are also paddle trails if you want to explore by canoe or kayak. It's a great reminder of just how wild and beautiful Louisiana can be. Planning Your New Orleans Experience Creating a 3-Day Itinerary Fill your days with a mix of food, culture, and nightlife. Here's a quick sample itinerary based on what I've done and loved: Day 1: Wander through the French Quarter – Café du Monde beignets, window (and actual) shopping, stopping for drinks and snacks. End the night with a ghost tour and a nightcap (or two) in iconic French Quarter bars. Day 2: Swamp tour in the morning. Then explore the Garden District's mansions, shops, and views with dinner at Commander's Palace. End your night on Frenchman Street with live music. Day 3: An easy-going last day. Take a cooking class or a stroll in City Park. Take an Evening Jazz Dinner Cruise on Steamboat Natchez and bask in sunset views over the Mississippi River Essential Travel and Safety Tips Stay Hydrated – It's humid, and those cocktails sneak up on you! Try to drink water in between other drinks. Pack the Essentials – New Orleans is pretty hot and sunny year round, so sunscreen and sunglasses are a must. And even though you'll be making stops to shop and drink, you will walk a lot. Pack shoes you're comfortable walking in! Walk Smart – Stick to well-lit areas at night, especially when solo. Ride shares are pretty affordable in NOLA, so if you're unsure, grab a ride. Budget Wisely – Some of the best experiences (like music and street art) are free. Save up for what's important to you, whether that's award-winning restaurants, coveted antiques, museum tickets or all of the above! Best Times to Visit NOLA Spring (March–May) – Balmy weather and festivals galore! Festival Highlights: New Orleans Jazz &Heritage Festival and French Quarter Fest. Fall (September–November) – Cooler temps and fewer crowds (but still lively). Festival Highlights: Halloween and Voodoo Fest. Summer (June-August) – Avoid peak summer if heat and humidity isn't your thing. But if you're on a budget, this is NOLA's off season so costs tend to be lower. Festival Highlights: Southern Decadence and Essence Festival of Culture Winter (December-February) – Avoid February-early March if you're concerned about crowds and budget. While it varies each year, this is the time frame for Mardi Gras which means a huge increase in both crowds and costs. Festival Highlights: Mardi Gras and ChristmasFest Frequently Asked Questions What is the #1 attraction in New Orleans for adults? While it's tough to pick just one, many adults agree that Frenchmen Street's live music scene is a top contender. It's vibrant, authentic, and bursting with local talent — and it's where the locals go, too. Is New Orleans fun for couples? Absolutely! Whether you're sharing beignets, dancing under twinkle lights, or cozying up on a romantic courtyard patio, New Orleans is effortlessly romantic with just the right amount of wild. How to have fun in New Orleans on a budget? There are tons of fun free things to do in New Orleans for adults, like: Watching street performers and musicians in the French Quarter and on Frenchmen Street. Jackson Square in particular always has street performers to provide some free entertainment. Hitting up a festival or parade. New Orleans loves a reason to celebrate, so you can find free festivals and parades all year round. Exploring art in the Bywater or around Jackson Square. The Bywater is a treasure trove of murals, funky cafés, and local life. And the gates around Jackson Square are always covered with art being sold by local artists. Jackson Square is also the spot for a great photo in front of St. Louis Cathedral. There are many tour companies that offer walking tours either free or heavily discounted. Just make sure to tip your guide! If you'd rather explore on your own, you can find lots of self-guided NOLA tours online. New Orleans isn't just a vacation destination, it's a mood. It's that moment when you hear live music playing unexpectedly or when you sip a cocktail after dinner with great company as the hours slip by. Whether you're here for a weekend or a week, there are so many fun things to do in New Orleans for adults that you'll be planning your return trip before you even leave. Laissez les bons temps rouler!
