New Orleans vibrates with a contagious energy unlike anywhere else. Steeped in rich history and a vibrant blend of cultures, the city’s soul comes to life through its music scene, creole cuisine and dazzling architecture. Beyond the iconic Mardi Gras celebrations, there’s no shortage of free things to do in New Orleans for budget-minded travelers. From exploring historic neighborhoods to catching free live music, we’ve outlined the best free gems to explore in the Big Easy.
Exploring the City
Nothing beats wandering through the city's captivating neighborhoods, each with its own unique charm and stories to tell.
1. Explore the French Quarter
Time needed: 2-4 hours
Address: 6500 Magnolia St, New Orleans, LA 70126
If you need a moment of tranquility, take a stroll through New Orleans City Park, the largest city park in the United States. This expansive green space offers an array of activities to enjoy, plus some of the best views in New Orleans. Rent a bike and explore the park’s scenic trails, or simply walk along the tree-lined paths to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
2. Stroll Through New Orleans City Park
Time needed: 2-4 hours
Address: 6500 Magnolia St, New Orleans, LA 70126
If you need a moment of tranquility, take a stroll through New Orleans City Park, the largest city park in the United States. This expansive green space offers an array of activities to enjoy, plus some of the best views in New Orleans. Rent a bike and explore the park’s scenic trails, or simply walk along the tree-lined paths to enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
3. Visit the St. Louis Cathedral
Time needed: 30-60 minutes
Address: 615 Jackson Ave, New Orleans, LA 70130
Take a visit to the spiritual heart of New Orleans at the historic St. Louis Cathedral. This majestic Gothic Revival-style church is the oldest continuously active cathedral in America, dating back to 1727. Admire the stained glass windows, intricate architecture and serene interior. You can also take a guided tour to learn more about the cathedral’s history and its significance to New Orleans’ heritage.
4. Take a Self-Guided Garden District Tour
Time needed: 1-2 hours
Address: Garden District, New Orleans, LA
For free things to do in Nola with a touch of elegance, head to the Garden District. This charming and historic neighborhood is known for its grand mansions, lush gardens and iconic architecture. Take a relaxing stroll here while you admire the architectural details of the Greek Revival, Italianate and Gothic Revival-style homes. The Garden District is also home to Lafayette Cemetery No. 1, a historic cemetery full of distinctive tombs and mausoleums.
5. Visit the Unique Neighborhoods
Time needed: 1-2 hours per neighborhood
Address: Depends on the neighborhood you visit
For fun, cheap things to do in New Orleans, simply explore any of the uniquely charming neighborhoods. Explore the vibrant Marigny, known for its music venues, art galleries and historic Creole townhouses. Wander through trendy Bywater, where you’ll find a thriving arts scene, vintage shops and eclectic cafes. To experience the birthplace of jazz, head over to Tremé, where you’ll find historic landmarks, live music and clubs and plenty of delicious Creole cuisine. Art lovers also won’t want to miss the Second Saturday Art Walk in Marigny and Bywater, where artists' works are on display.
Art and Culture
New Orleans celebrates its rich heritage through its diverse museums, galleries and historic sites. Don’t miss these fascinating free attractions in New Orleans.
6. Learn the City's History at the Historic New Orleans Collection
Time needed: 1-2 hours
Address: 520-532 St. Ann St, New Orleans, LA 70130
If you're a history or architecture buff or simply interested in learning more about the city's past, a visit to the Historic New Orleans Collection won't disappoint. Established in 1966 by Gen. and Mrs. L. Kemper Williams, the museum includes several historic buildings with galleries introducing visitors to city history and regional culture. The Williams Research Center on Chartres Street features art and memorabilia, including around 350,000 drawings, paintings, photos, prints and artifacts. Learn all about the diverse cultures that have shaped New Orleans, from the indigenous tribes to the French and Spanish colonists.
7. Admire the Sculptures at Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden
Time needed: 30 minutes-1 hour
Address: 6500 Magnolia St, New Orleans, LA 70126 (within New Orleans City Park)
View more than 60 sculptures along paths that wind through five acres of lush gardens at the Sydney Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden in City Park. A lagoon divides the sculpture garden into two halves — a magnolia and pine grove, and an area featuring 200-year-old live oaks dripping with Spanish moss. You can access A free audio tour on your cell phone; inquire at the front gate.
8. Stop by the Ogden Museum of Southern Art
Time needed: 1-2 hours
Address: 925 Camp St, New Orleans, LA 70130
History buffs will appreciate learning about the artistic heritage of the American South at the Ogden Museum of Southern Art. Here, you can view a diverse collection of paintings, sculptures and decorative artifacts showcasing the region’s unique cultural identity. Explore the different galleries to admire the works of renowned Southern artists, including folk art, landscapes and portrait pieces. Looking for free stuff to do in New Orleans? The museum has free admission on Thursdays.
Explore the Historic Cemeteries
Time needed: 1-2 hours per cemetery
Address: St. Louis Cemetery No. 1: 425 Basin St, New Orleans, LA 70112; Lafayette Cemetery No. 1: 1400 Washington Ave., New Orleans, LA 70130
New Orleans is full of historic cemeteries that offer a unique glimpse into the city’s past. Take a self-guided tour through St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, one of the most famous cemeteries in the United States, where you can view the elaborate above-ground tombs. You can also visit Lafayette Cemetery No. 1, the city’s first planned cemetery that has been preserved due to its architectural and historical significance.
Enjoy Live Jazz at the French Market
Time needed: 1-2 hours
Address: 1001 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70116
Visit the French Market in Jackson Square for a year-round hub for all kinds of street performers, from solo performances to large jazz bands. Beginning in March, don't miss Wednesdays in the Square, a free, 12-week evening concert series featuring a variety of great local bands. June through August, the concert series becomes Wednesdays on the Point in Algiers, just a short, $2 ride across the river on the Canal Street-Algiers ferry. On Thursday evenings in the spring and fall, you can enjoy Jazz in the Park at Louis Armstrong Park, featuring local bands, a DJ and art displays with live painting.
Nature and Outdoors
When it comes to things to do in New Orleans for free, nothing beats taking advantage of the city’s beautiful parks and green spaces. Here are some local favorites.
Explore Audubon Park
Time needed: 2-4 hours
Address: 6500 Magnolia St, New Orleans, LA 70126
At Audubon Park, ancient live oaks shade this sprawling uptown oasis, where you'll find gardens, a labyrinth, peaceful lagoons, picnic shelters and a playground if you need things to do with kids. Explore the park’s scenic trails or visit the Butterfly Riverview Park — “the Fly,” as locals call it — along the riverfront. For a romantic date night idea, catch the sunset over the Mississippi River after a leisurely stroll.
12. Hike at Couturie Forest and Scout Island
Time needed: 1-3 hours
Address: Couturie Forest: 11301 Lake Ave, New Orleans, LA 70123; Scout Island: 1001 S Carrollton Ave, New Orleans, LA 70118
Take a walk along the trails through Couturie Forest and Scout Island, a 60-acre forest in City Park that will make you forget you're in the city. Eight different ecosystems flourish here, and you'll see many species of birds and fish amid the trees and waterways. Look for Laborde Mountain, New Orleans' highest point at 43 feet above sea level. The “mountain” was created using leftover riprap from the construction of Interstate 610 and features an observation deck and benches at the top.
13. Stop By the Crescent City Farmers Market
Time needed: 1-2 hours
Address: Varies depending on the location of the market. Check the Crescent City Farmers Market website for the latest schedule and locations.
Foodies will enjoy the Crescent City Farmers' Market, which takes place at four locations throughout the city. On Wednesdays at the French Market and Saturdays downtown, you can listen to live music and see cooking demonstrations by local chefs as you browse the locally sourced meat, produce, seafood and tempting baked goods. This popular market is hard to beat when it comes to cheap or free things to do in New Orleans.
14. Take a Walk Along the Mississippi Riverfront
Time needed: 30 minutes-1 hour
Address: Mississippi River Boulevard, New Orleans, LA
Take a leisurely walk along the Mississippi River for stunning views of the riverfront and the city skyline. You can admire historic architecture while strolling along Mississippi River Boulevard and soak up the charming atmosphere. Stop by the Riverfront Park for a picnic or to relax on the benches overlooking the water.
Book Your Trip to NOLA with AAA Travel
With so many free things to do in New Orleans, from exploring its rich history and culture to soaking up its natural beauty, there’s always something new to discover. Before you pack your bags, be sure to take advantage of AAA Travel to find all the best travel guides, vacation packages and more. Learn more about the best time to visit New Orleans.