When you take a New Orleans vacation, it’s possible to have a good time without spending a dime. And the memories made during it all? Well, they will be priceless!
Let the Good Times Roll During a Free Festival
There’s no doubt New Orleans can host one memorable party. Some of the best shindigs present amazing entertainment lineups free of charge. A few favorites are the Satchmo SummerFest, held at the end of July; and the Louisiana Seafood Festival and Crescent City Blues and BBQ Festival, held in October.
Travel through 300 Years of History
For a comprehensive introduction to Louisiana’s past, make your way to The Louisiana History Galleries at The Historic New Orleans Collection. Digital upgrades to the galleries allow for audiovisual content to complement the artifacts.
Cut a Rug
The NOLA Jitterbugs keep local tradition and fast-footed moves alive on the dance floor. Join the energetic group for gratis swing dance lessons on Wednesday evenings at the Spotted Cat Music Club on Frenchmen Street.
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Rub Elbows with Local Chefs
Our restaurants aren’t the only places to find incredible local fare. Plan a Saturday morning trip to the Crescent City Farmers Market, located Downtown. There, you can sample locally grown fruits and veggies, hear live music, mingle with chefs while they shop and enjoy live cooking demonstrations.
Settle in for Some Belly Laughs
Give ‘Em the Light: Open Mic Comedy Night at the House of Blues is a Tuesday night feel-good fest in the French Quarter. Watch performances unfold in the Voodoo Garden and, if you’re feeling extra brave, put your name on the list and take the stage.
Stroll City Park and Stop for a Side of Art
Walk among City Park‘s 1,300 acres and ancient oak trees, past the amusement park and botanical garden and stop in The New Orleans Museum of Art. The Gulf South’s premier art museum houses 4000 years of world art and offers free admission to its sculpture garden.
Treat Your Sweet Tooth
Pralines-sugar-rich, pecan-laden confections – are one of our signature snacks. Stop by a sweet shop to watch them being made, and then indulge in a free sample.
Take a Legendary Literary Tour
Romance, mystery and poetic proclamations – New Orleans has inspired some of the world’s most celebrated authors. Embark on a self-guided walking tour and see where Tennessee Williams (722 Toulouse), William Faulkner (624 Pirate’s Alley), Truman Capote (711 Royal), Thornton Wilder (623 Bourbon), Walker Percy (1820 Milan) and Anne Rice (1239 First) once lived.
Gallery Hop
New Orleans’ diversity and culture has spawned an arts community that is world-renowned. Its epicenter is in the Arts District, specifically Julia Street, which is home to more than a dozen galleries. Spend an afternoon gazing at everything from contemporary photography to Newcomb pottery. Or join in a first Saturday Art Walk and meet and mingle with featured artists.
See the Sights of Jackson Square
Soak in the culture New Orleans. As you explore this picture- perfect square in the heart of the French Quarter, you may find yourself enjoying an impromptu concert, eyeballing colorful paintings by the local artist community or snapping photos of the surrounding historic buildings, including the towering triple steeples of St. Louis Cathedral.
More To See in New Orleans
