Zesty seafood, live music, and elegant architectural gems come together in New Orleans. Despite the impact of Hurricane Katrina in 2005, the city has made a remarkable comeback. Visitors are once again immersing themselves in the vibrant culinary scene, the renowned annual Mardi Gras celebration, and the everyday delights, especially those in town for the Super Bowl.
Here are Cheapism’s top recommendations for free or affordable activities in the Big Easy.
**Indulge in French Beignets**
A trip to New Orleans wouldn’t be complete without enjoying a cafe au lait ($3.40) and beignets at Cafe Du Monde. Grab a table at this bustling cafe to savor these French fried doughnuts, which come in packs of three for just over $4.50. Get your caffeine and sugar fix for under $10.
**Enjoy Oysters at Happy Hour**
Craving oysters and a well-crafted drink? Make a reservation at Luke, situated on St. Charles Avenue, known as “The Jewel of America’s Grand Avenues.” Happy hour specials run daily from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m., offering oysters for $1.50 each and half-priced wine and specialty cocktails. Look out for more oyster happy hours on Eater.
**Experience Mardi Gras Year-Round at the Presbytère**
Delve into the rich history of Mardi Gras at The Presbytère to avoid the crowds and high prices during the festival. The museum showcases the colorful traditions of Mardi Gras, including parade floats, costumes, and music. Admission is $7 for adults; $6 for seniors, students, and active military; and free for kids under 6.
**Immerse Yourself in Jazz at Preservation Hall**
Preservation Hall in the French Quarter is a mecca for traditional jazz aficionados. Since 1961, this intimate venue has hosted acoustic performances by local legends and visiting greats almost every night of the year. Tickets range from $25 for standing room to $50 for front-row seats, with reservations required online.
**Discover More Music on Frenchman Street**
Escape the hustle and bustle of Bourbon Street and explore Frenchman Street for live music and art. Legendary venues like The Blue Nile, The Spotted Cat, and The Apple Barrel Bar offer a variety of musical genres. Enjoy cheaper admission than touristy spots and catch free performances on the street. Don’t miss out on late-night bites at places like Dat Dog or 13 on Frenchman.
**Savor a Muffuletta at Central Grocery & Deli**
When you’re in New Orleans, don’t miss trying the famous muffuletta sandwich, a hearty delight filled with layers of mortadella, ham, salami, provolone, mozzarella, and an olive spread made with green and kalamata olives, garlic, capers, onions, red wine vinegar, and spices. Central Grocery & Deli, a beloved establishment since 1906, is renowned for its delicious rendition of this classic sandwich.
Immerse yourself in the unique culture of New Orleans with a tour from New Orleans Secrets Tours. From exploring historic grave sites to experiencing Second Line funeral parades, these tours delve into the city’s rich traditions surrounding the afterlife. Choose from a variety of tour options, including paranormal experiences, voodoo mysteries, and ghost stories in the French Quarter, or opt for non-spooky tours like French Quarter history, cocktail tasting, and more.
Visit New Orleans during crawfish season (December to May) to savor free crawfish boils at the Royal Street Inn Bar, also known as R Bar. Enjoy juicy, seasoned crawfish and a lively atmosphere as you indulge in this local culinary tradition.
For a unique experience, seek out Cubs The Poet in the French Quarter, where he crafts custom poems on a vintage typewriter based on your chosen topic. Enjoy a personalized piece of poetry delivered with charm and creativity.
Stop by the Carousel Bar and Lounge at Hotel Monteleone for a spin on the merry-go-round bar. Sip on draft beers or specialty cocktails while taking in the elegant decor and vibrant atmosphere of this iconic New Orleans spot.
Explore the French Quarter at your own pace with a self-guided tour. Wander through charming streets lined with French-style architecture, browse local shops, and immerse yourself in the vibrant culture of this historic neighborhood.
Indulge your sweet tooth with a praline from one of the city’s many candy shops. Sample this delicious treat that originated in New Orleans and varies in ingredients and flavors, such as bacon praline brittle or glazed pecans.
Escape the hustle and bustle of the city by strolling through City Park, a serene oasis spanning 1,300 acres with oak trees, lagoons, biking trails, and green spaces. Relax and rejuvenate in this peaceful setting open year-round for visitors to enjoy.
Discover the Art of Glass BlowingGlass blowing is a meticulous and mysterious art form that requires precision. Visit GlassWorks in the city’s Arts District to delve into this captivating world.
You have the option to attend a 30-minute mini-workshop or a two-hour short course, or you can explore studios, works in progress, and daily demonstrations for free. Take a fascinating journey through history with a free history tour led by a ranger from the Jean Lafitte National Historic Park and Preserve. Wander along the riverfront as rangers recount the captivating tales of New Orleans’ beginnings and rich history during these hour-long walks held from Tuesday to Saturday mornings. Be among the lucky twenty-five to receive first-come, first-served tickets at 9 a.m. at the park’s French Quarter Visitor Center.
Indulge in the vibrant atmosphere of the Crescent City Farmers Market, a market with a legacy dating back to 1779. Discover a plethora of fresh flowers, organic snacks, and farm-to-table ingredients to elevate your culinary creations. Visit the market on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Sundays at various locations, where you can also partake in Southern cooking demonstrations and classes led by renowned local chefs.
Immerse yourself in the soulful sounds of live music at Banks Street Bar Grill, which features nightly performances and has recently reopened under new ownership. Let your Yelp search guide you to numerous bars offering happy hours and live blues and jazz music to enhance your evenings.
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