11 Free Things To Do in New Orleans: A Budget-Friendly Guide

New Orleans isn’t necessarily the cheapest city to visit in the USA, particularly if you plan on eating your way around the French Quarter (which I highly recommend). Luckily, there are plenty of ways to explore the city without spending a fortune.

To save you valuable cash that can be spend on NOLA’s amazing food and luminous green Hand Grenade cocktails, I’m sharing my top ten free things to do in New Orleans.  I’ve also included some paid-for ideas of things to do, in case you’re looking to spend some of those dollars as well.

1. Enjoy Free Live Music in New Orleans

New Orleans is ALL about the music, particularly jazz, and you’ll find live performers wherever you go.

On the streets of the French Quarter, you’ll be met with the sounds of trumpets, trombones and pretty much any brass instrument you can think off. Dancing in the streets totally encouraged. If you can, do leave these guys a tip – obviously it’s not compulsory, but everyone’s gotta eat (especially here…). 

There are also some free entry bars where you can watch a live band play, but bear in mind these often have a one-two drink minimum purchase, plus tips. I had an awesome time at 30°/-90° on Frenchmen Street, and Snug Harbor is another popular spot there. Also on Frenchmen Street, try Spotted Cat Music Club, and Musical Legends Park on Bourbon Street. 

2. Soak up the atmosphere in Jackson Square

Not gonna lie, human statues scare the crap outta me. They are, however, pretty fun to watch (just don’t get too close…) – and there are plenty more weird and wonderful street performers to be found in Jackson Square.

Jackson Square is one of the most recognisable spots in New Orleans and well worth a wander. Sitting in the heart of the French Quarter, this historic public square is surrounded by beautiful old buildings, with the St Louis Cathedral providing an impressive backdrop.

There’s usually plenty going on here, from street performers and musicians to local artists selling their work along the surrounding railings. You can spend some time browsing the artwork, watching the performers or simply finding a spot to take in the atmosphere.

3. Step inside St Louis Cathedral

Overlooking Jackson Square in the French Quarter, St. Louis Cathedral is one of the city’s most famous sights. It’s actually the United States’ oldest continuously active Catholic cathedral site, having been a place of religious activity since 1718. The present structure is actually the third iteration of a church on the site, dating back to the 1850s.

And yes – with the iconic tiled-spires, it definitely sort of looks like a Disney castle from afar…

Entry is free, and the cathedral is open from 9.30am – 4pm daily.

4. Walk the Garden District

The Garden District is as it sounds. Full of green, and very pretty. This neighbourhood has some of the most opulent and impressive homes and mansions in the city, and it’s a lovely place to just take a walk and soak up the architecture.

Take a wander along Magazine Street and around Prytania Street to see some of the area’s most impressive historic homes. You’ll also find beautiful gardens, quirky architecture and plenty of photo opportunities along the way

You can find some awesome self-guided tour routes online, like this one, if you want to wander with purpose.

5. Discover New Orleans’ Voodoo History

New Orleans’ voodoo history is something that fascinates me, and as soon as I popped my head into Marie Laveau’s House of Voodoo, my curiosity peaked. I soon discovered there was much more to voodoo culture than the initial tourist spots and portrayals in pop culture

Voodoo has a long and fascinating history in New Orleans, built from West African spiritual traditions brought to Louisiana, combined with elements of Catholicism and Caribbean tradition. Although there are quite a few souvenir-style shops that edge onto the side of tacky, voodoo is a living spiritual tradition and it’s important to respect its history and culture.

To gain a deeper understanding of voodoo’s spiritual history beyond the horror tropes, Voodoo Authentica and Crescent City Conjure are also worth a visit, both in the French Quarter.

11. Catch a Mardi Gras parade (seasonal)

Okay, this one’s a bit time-specific, as you’ll need to be in town for Mardi Gras. Dates change every year, so it’s worth checking the official parade schedule before planning your visit.

Mardi Gras is a huge part of New Orleans culture, with weeks of celebrations leading up to Fat Tuesday, which falls on the day before Ash Wednesday. The origins of Mardi Gras date back to medieval Europe, however celebrations in New Orleans are recorded as early as the 1730s.

The street parades of today’s New Orleans Mardi Gras feature elaborate floats, colourful costumes and marching bands, with an electric atmosphere. Just show up, catch some beads, and enjoy the party!