Thinking about extending your stay in New Orleans for a day or two? Check out a list of fun activities to enjoy before or after HPBExpo25. Whether it’s your first visit or you’re a seasoned traveler, the city’s vibrant energy will inspire you to explore its rich history, art, music, and culture. With so much to see and do, plan your time around your interests, and be sure to leave room for spontaneous adventures that make New Orleans unforgettable.
Video: New Orleans Fun: Things to Do Before or After HPBExpo25
- Catch Street Music, Live at the French Quarter
Take a stroll in the French Quarter, and you’re bound to run into spontaneous live music on the street. The show is free.
- Watch the Crowds on Bourbon Street
Take a selfie with Fats Domino, Pete Fountain, or Al Hirt at Music Legends Park on Bourbon Street while enjoying some of the daily free concerts. Music starts at 10 AM.
- Wander Along Woldenberg Riverfront Park
From Canal Street to the Moon Walk along the French Quarter, stroll down the riverfront, and watch ships of all kinds ply the Mighty Mississippi.
- See Steller Views on the Riverfront at Crescent Park
Accessed just past the French Market at Elysian Fields, you can go all the way to Bywater and see amazing views of the city.
- Window Shop Down Royal Street and St. Charles Ave
Wander down Royal and Charles streets to admire art, antiques, and oddities.
- Eat Well on Magazine Street
Famous for its eclectic shops and cozy eateries.
- Watch the Sunset from Lakeshore Drive
Benches look out over beautiful Lake Pontchartrain in the Lakeview neighborhood.
- Relax at The Fly
The Fly is a swathe of green space behind the Audubon Zoo on the Mississippi River. Sunsets there are lovely.
- Love art? Check out the Contemporary Arts Center
Dive into the vibrant world of contemporary art, performance, and culture at the Contemporary Arts Center, where innovation and creativity collide.
- Stroll Through a Paradise of Exotic Plants at the Botanical Garden
Escape to the serene beauty of the Botanical Garden, a lush haven featuring exotic plants, themed gardens, and peaceful walking paths.
- Discover Masterpieces at the New Orleans Museum of Art (NOMA)
Discover masterpieces from around the globe at the New Orleans Museum of Art, home to an impressive collection spanning centuries and cultures.
- Experience the Heart of the South at Ogden Museum of Southern Art
Celebrate the spirit of the South through the Ogden Museum of Southern Art’s compelling collection of regional works and exhibitions.
- Dive into the Wonders of Aquatic Life at the Audubon Aquarium
Explore the wonders of aquatic life at the Audubon Aquarium, where you can marvel at creatures from the Gulf of Mexico to the Amazon Rainforest.
- See Animals at Audubon Zoo
Embark on a wildlife adventure at the Audubon Zoo, home to diverse animal habitats and interactive exhibits that delight visitors of all ages.
- Visit the Lower 9th Ward Living Museum
Explore the history of New Orleans’ historic Lower 9th Ward pre, during, and post Hurricane Katrina. Admission is always free.
- Relax amongst the beauty of Longue Vue House & Gardens
Check out the beautiful grounds of Longue Vue House & Gardens.
- Peruse the French Market
Browse stalls of souvenirs and clever baubles at the French Market.
- Take a tour of Saint Louis Cathedral in Jackson Square.
The historic church is open to the public and is beautiful.
- Access the Historic New Orleans Collection
Learn about the history of the Crescent City. Visits and self-guided tours of the museum galleries are always free.
- Dance down Frenchmen Street
Any night of the week, music fills the air from the many clubs that rock till the wee hours.
- Wander through the Garden District
Admire the beautiful mansions and wrought iron fences and balconies throughout the Garden District neighborhood.
- Relax on the banks of Bayou St. John
Watch canoes and other non-motorized watercrafts float along the bayou.
- People-watch along Jackson Square
Mule-drawn buggies line up, artists sell their creations and tarot card readers tell you your future throughout Jackson Square.
- Walk around the lake in City Park
The Big Lake at City Park is full of activity and walking paths. You just might sneak up on a dozing turtle or surprise a yellow-footed egret into flight.
- Take a Free Tour by Foot
Take a tour of the French Quarter, including ghost and voodoo tours, self-guided tours of The Garden District, and other architecturally significant homes in New Orleans.
- Browse the shops on Oak Street
Stop into the eclectic mix of shops on quiet Oak Street, including a comic book shop, a guitar repair shop, and a used bookstore.
- Learn about the historic New Orleans cocktail at the Sazerac House
Learn about the history of cocktail culture in New Orleans and how the famous drink is made. The museum is for all ages, but you must be 21+ to enjoy samples.
List condensed from 50 Free Things To Do In New Orleans | New Orleans & Company