Your Guide to Summer Travel in New Orleans

Image: New Orleans' French Quarter. (photo via New Orleans & Company)
Image: New Orleans' French Quarter. (photo via New Orleans & Company)
Eraine Wessler
by Eraine Wessler
Last updated: 8:00 PM ET, Wed March 27, 2024

Planning a summer trip to New Orleans can be an exciting experience, given the city's vibrant culture, rich history, and unique cuisine. There's an energy in the air that gives the city a special feeling that visitors can capture--even in the heat of the summer. Long days mean more time for exploring world-class museums, beautiful boutiques, historic thoroughfares and legendary music scene.

Louie Armstrong Park, Congo Square, New Orleans

Louie Armstrong Park has historical significance in the New Orleans Treme neighborhood. (photo via New Orleans & Company)

Start your trip by exploring the iconic French Quarter, known for its colorful architecture, lively street performers, and historic landmarks such as Jackson Square and St. Louis Cathedral. Be sure to wander through the narrow streets and check out the local art galleries, boutiques, and jazz clubs.

New Orleans is a food lover's paradise, with a rich culinary heritage that blends French, African, Spanish, and Creole influences. Don't miss the opportunity to indulge in classic dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, po'boys, and beignets. Be sure to try some local seafood and sample the city's famous cocktails, such as the Sazerac and the Hurricane.

The city is renowned for its vibrant music scene, with live performances happening every night of the week. Check out iconic jazz clubs like Preservation Hall and Snug Harbor, or dance the night away at one of the city's many bars and clubs on Frenchmen Street. 

NOMA, New Orleans Museum of Art, New Orleans

The interior of the New Orleans Museum of Art. (photo via New Orleans & Company) (Photo Credit: (photo via New Orleans & Company))

Take some time to explore New Orleans' rich cultural heritage by visiting attractions like the National WWII Museum, the New Orleans Museum of Art, and the historic St. Louis Cemetery No. 1. You can also take a guided tour of the city's haunted locations or participate in a traditional second-line parade.

New Orleans hosts a variety of festivals and events throughout the summer, including the Essence Music Festival, the Satchmo SummerFest, and the Tales of the Cocktail. Check the event calendar to see what's happening during your visit and plan accordingly.

There are many free activities to enjoy while visiting New Orleans in the summer, enjoy gallery-hopping in the Arts and Warehouse District, live music at Legends Park, dancing down Frenchman Street, sunrise at Algiers Point and more.

Visitor can take advantage of many hotel deals and offers in the summer months, making New Orleans an especially affordable getaway. Check out New Orleans.com for all the latest ways to save on hotels all year round. 


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