Things to Do in New Orleans: Exploring the Big Easy
The world-famous Bourbon Street is a great place to grab a drink and enjoy the sights and sounds of Nawlins.
Must Enjoy: The Crescent City Culture
There's a reason they call New Orleans "The Big Easy" - this vibrant city offers an effortless blend of history, culture, cuisine, and music that captivates visitors from the moment they arrive. At Hotel Maison Pierre Lafitte, we believe the perfect New Orleans experience combines iconic attractions with hidden gems, all savored at a leisurely pace that allows you to soak in the city's unique atmosphere. We've crafted this ultimate 2025 Big Easy Bucket List to help you discover the best things to do in New Orleans - from must-see landmarks to must-taste culinary treasures and must-experience cultural events. As your home base in the city's heart, Hotel Maison Pierre Lafitte provides the perfect jumping-off point for these unforgettable adventures.
The French Quarter: Where History Meets Celebration
No visit to New Orleans is complete without exploring the historic French Quarter. Just steps from our boutique hotel, these charming streets offer a fascinating glimpse into the city's rich past with their distinctive ironwork balconies, colorful facades, and gas lamps that have illuminated these pathways for centuries. While Bourbon Street's legendary nightlife might draw the crowds, we encourage our guests to wander the Quarter's quieter side streets in the morning light. Stop by Café du Monde for their famous beignets dusted with powdered sugar and café au lait - the perfect fuel for a day of exploration.
Jackson Square: The Cultural Heart of the City
A short stroll from our doors brings you to Jackson Square, the iconic public space that has served as New Orleans' cultural centerpiece since the 18th century. Surrounded by historic buildings including the Cabildo and the Presbytère (both now part of the Louisiana State Museum), this vibrant square pulses with energy as street performers entertain crowds and local artists display their work along the iron fence. Dominating the square is the magnificent St. Louis Cathedral, the oldest continuously active cathedral in the United States. Step inside to admire its soaring ceilings and stunning artwork before finding a bench in the square to people-watch - a beloved New Orleans pastime.
The Garden District: Architectural Splendor
Just a short streetcar ride from Hotel Maison Pierre Lafitte, the Garden District showcases some of America's most beautiful historic homes. This neighborhood's oak-lined streets and magnificent mansions offer a different perspective on New Orleans history. We recommend booking a guided walking tour to learn about the area's architectural styles and the stories behind these grand homes. Don't miss a visit to Lafayette Cemetery No. 1, where the above-ground tombs demonstrate the unique burial traditions necessitated by the city's high water table.
The National WWII Museum: A World-Class Historical Experience
History buffs shouldn't miss The National WWII Museum, consistently ranked among the top museums in the country. This immersive experience tells the story of the American experience in "the war that changed the world" through powerful exhibits featuring artifacts, personal accounts, and interactive displays. Plan to spend at least half a day here, and be sure to experience the 4D "Beyond All Boundaries" film produced and narrated by Tom Hanks. Our front desk can arrange tickets and transportation to ensure a seamless visit.
City Park: Urban Oasis
When you're ready to escape the urban bustle, New Orleans' City Park offers 1,300 acres of natural beauty. This expansive green space houses the world's largest collection of mature live oak trees, some over 800 years old, creating a magical canopy over winding paths and serene lagoons. Within the park, you'll find the New Orleans Museum of Art, whose impressive collection spans 5,000 years of art history. The adjacent Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden features over 90 sculptures set among meandering footpaths, reflecting lagoons, and mature live oaks.
The Sazerac House: Celebrating Cocktail Culture
New Orleans' contributions to cocktail culture are legendary, and The Sazerac House offers an interactive journey through this spirited history. Learn about the creation of the Sazerac, officially recognized as America's first cocktail, and sample some of the city's signature libations. After your visit, return to Hotel Maison Pierre Lafitte where our in-house mixologists can craft these classic cocktails with an artisanal touch. While a Hurricane at Pat O'Brien's is a must-try experience, many guests tell us they prefer our refined version that balances the sweetness with premium rums. Enjoy your drink in our intimate courtyard while sharing stories of your day's adventures.
Mardi Gras World: Behind the Spectacle
Even if your visit doesn't coincide with Carnival season, you can experience the magic of Mardi Gras year-round at Mardi Gras World. This working studio offers a behind-the-scenes look at how the spectacular floats are designed and created, with artists crafting pieces for the next celebration even as visitors tour the facility. Marvel at the massive props, intricate designs, and vibrant colors that define this uniquely New Orleans tradition. You might even have the opportunity to try on authentic costumes and sample king cake, the traditional Carnival sweet treat.
Must-Eat & Drink: A Culinary Tour of New Orleans
Since 1910, Acme Oyster House has been serving up some of the freshest oysters in the city. This French Quarter institution offers these briny delicacies in every style imaginable – raw on the half shell (Photo)
New Orleans' food scene is as colorful and diverse as its history, blending French, Spanish, African, and Caribbean influences into dishes that can't be found anywhere else. Recognized as the best food city in the world in both 2024 and 2025 by leading culinary publications and travel experts, New Orleans continues to enchant food lovers with its unique flavors and dining traditions. Here are the essential culinary experiences to add to your New Orleans bucket list:
Sweet Beginnings: Beignets at Café Du Monde
We mentioned Café Du Monde earlier, but these iconic square French doughnuts deserve their own spotlight. Served hot and buried under a mountain of powdered sugar, these pillowy treats are best enjoyed with a steaming cup of chicory-laced café au lait. Open 24 hours, this French Quarter institution has been serving beignets since 1862. Our guests often tell us they visit multiple times during their stay!
The Hurricane Experience: Pat O'Brien's
Just a short walk from our hotel, Pat O'Brien's Bar is home to the famous Hurricane cocktail. This fruity rum concoction, served in a distinctive hurricane lamp-shaped glass, has been a French Quarter staple since the 1940s. The dueling piano bar provides lively entertainment as you sip this New Orleans classic in the charming courtyard.
Elegant Tradition: Jazz Brunch at Commander's Palace
For a quintessential New Orleans Sunday brunch, reserve a table for the Jazz Brunch at Commander's Palace in the Garden District. This iconic teal Victorian landmark has been serving refined Creole cuisine since 1893. Don traditional Southern Sunday attire – gentlemen in jackets and ladies in dresses add to the elegant ambiance that defines this cherished institution. Enjoy turtle soup, eggs Sardou, and bread pudding soufflé while a jazz trio weaves between tables. Their “No Photography” policy inside the restaurant caters to the many celebrities who make this a must-eat location when visiting New Orleans.
Gulf Treasures: Oysters at Acme Oyster House
Since 1910, Acme Oyster House has been serving up some of the freshest oysters in the city. This French Quarter institution offers these briny delicacies in every style imaginable – raw on the half shell, chargrilled with garlic butter and parmesan, or baked Rockefeller-style with a rich spinach topping. The lively atmosphere completes the experience, with skilled shuckers working at lightning speed behind the counter, often engaging in friendly banter with patrons. For the full experience, grab a seat at the bar, order a dozen raw oysters with horseradish and mignonette sauce, and watch as they're shucked right before your eyes. Plan ahead if you’re hungry, as you will most likely wait in line.
Local Favorite: Jambalaya at Coop's Place
For authentic jambalaya without pretense, head to Coop's Place in the French Quarter. This casual spot serves one of the city's best versions of this classic rice dish, packed with smoked sausage, chicken, and seafood. It's where our staff often goes after work - high praise in a city obsessed with food!
Sweet Spectacle: Bananas Foster at Brennan's
Witness culinary theater at Brennan's, where the world-famous Bananas Foster dessert was invented in 1951. Bananas sautéed in butter, brown sugar, and cinnamon, then flambéed tableside with banana liqueur and rum before being served over vanilla ice cream. The dramatic presentation matches the decadent flavors of this quintessential New Orleans dessert.
Morning Indulgence: Fresh Croissants at Ayu Bakehouse
Start at least one morning with the impossibly flaky, butter-rich croissants from Ayu Bakehouse. This artisanal bakery uses traditional French techniques with a New Orleans twist. The chocolate and almond varieties are particular favorites among our guests, who often request we arrange a selection to be delivered to their rooms.
Comfort in a Bowl: Gumbo at Gumbo Shop
No culinary tour of New Orleans is complete without sampling gumbo, and the aptly named Gumbo Shop serves some of the finest in the city. This hearty, roux-based soup showcases the holy trinity of Creole cooking (bell pepper, onion, and celery) along with andouille sausage, chicken, or seafood. It's the perfect lunch before an afternoon of exploration.
Must-Buy Souvenirs: Bringing a Piece of New Orleans Home
No New Orleans experience is complete without taking home a few mementos of your journey. The city offers unique treasures that capture its vibrant spirit far better than any standard souvenir.
Mardi Gras Masks and Beads
Even outside of Carnival season, you'll find exquisite handcrafted Mardi Gras masks in shops throughout the French Quarter. These artistic creations range from simple and elegant to elaborate feathered masterpieces. Pair with a few strands of quality beads (much nicer than the ones thrown from floats!) for a perfect reminder of the city's festive spirit. Hotel Maison Pierre Lafitte guests receive a 10% discount at Masquerade, our favorite mask shop just three blocks away.
Authentic Voodoo Dolls
While Hollywood has sensationalized voodoo practices, authentic New Orleans voodoo represents a complex spiritual tradition. Visit one of the city's reputable voodoo shops to learn about this misunderstood religion and purchase a handmade doll crafted with respect for the tradition. Many shops offer dolls designed to bring good luck, love, or prosperity rather than the harmful stereotypes often portrayed in media.
Louisiana Hot Sauces
Spice up your home cooking with locally made hot sauces that capture the bold flavors of Louisiana cuisine. From mild pepper sauces to fiery concoctions that challenge even the bravest palates, these bottles make practical souvenirs that will bring the taste of New Orleans to your kitchen long after your visit. The French Market offers an impressive selection where you can sample before purchasing.
Pralines from Aunt Sally's
These sweet, pecan-studded confections are a New Orleans tradition dating back to the French colonial period. Aunt Sally's has been crafting these delectable treats since 1935, using a century-old recipe. The classic creamy pralines melt in your mouth, offering the perfect sweet ending to your New Orleans adventure. We often place a complimentary Aunt Sally's praline on our guests' pillows during turndown service – just a small taste of the sweetness of New Orleans hospitality.
Must-Experience: Unforgettable New Orleans Moments
Beyond sightseeing and dining, New Orleans offers immersive experiences that connect visitors to the city's vibrant culture, complex history, and natural surroundings. These bucket list experiences capture the essence of the Crescent City in ways that will stay with you long after your visit.
The Ultimate Celebration: Mardi Gras
If your travel dates coincide with Carnival season (culminating on Fat Tuesday, which falls in February or March each year), experiencing Mardi Gras should top your bucket list. This spectacular celebration transforms the city with parades, masquerade balls, and street parties. Hotel Maison Pierre Lafitte's central location provides privileged access to the festivities while offering a peaceful retreat when you need to recharge. We provide our guests with parade schedules, viewing recommendations, and even emergency ponchos and comfortable chairs for parade watching.
Even if you visit outside of Carnival season, the spirit of Mardi Gras lives year-round at Mardi Gras World, where you can see artists crafting floats for the next celebration.
Authentic Jazz: Preservation Hall
Just steps from our hotel, Preservation Hall stands as a temple to traditional New Orleans jazz. This historic venue has hosted jazz legends since 1961 in a deliberately austere setting with no amplification – nothing comes between you and the pure, soulful sound of New Orleans jazz. The intimate space only holds about 100 people, creating an unforgettable musical experience. Our concierge can arrange priority seating to help you skip the often lengthy lines.
Mysterious Side: Voodoo or Haunted Tours
New Orleans embraces its reputation as America's most haunted city. Guided tours through the French Quarter and Garden District reveal tales of notorious crimes, mysterious disappearances, and spectral sightings that have been documented for centuries. Similarly, voodoo tours offer insight into this often misunderstood spiritual practice that has shaped the city's cultural fabric.
For guests interested in the mystical side of New Orleans, we can arrange private tours with respected local historians who provide authentic, respectful insights rather than sensationalized stories. These evening excursions reveal a different side of the city as gas lamps cast long shadows on ancient buildings.
Local Passion: Saints Game at the Superdome
Few experiences capture the spirit of modern New Orleans like attending a Saints football game at the iconic Superdome. The passionate local fans, known as the "Who Dat Nation," create an electric atmosphere that transcends sports. Even visitors with little interest in football find themselves swept up in the community celebration. If your visit coincides with football season (September through January), our concierge can help secure tickets and transportation to the game.
Wild Louisiana: Airboat Swamp Tour
Venture beyond city limits to experience the mysterious beauty of Louisiana's swamps and bayous. Airboat tours take you deep into cypress-tupelo swamps, where you'll encounter alligators, herons, egrets, and other wildlife in their natural habitat. Knowledgeable local guides share insights about the fragile ecosystem and the cultures that have thrived in these wetlands for generations.
Hotel Maison Pierre Lafitte partners with eco-conscious tour operators who prioritize wildlife conservation while providing thrilling, educational experiences. Most tours include hotel pickup and return, making this adventure conveniently accessible during your stay.
River Heritage: Steamboat Natchez Mississippi River Cruise
Step back in time aboard the Steamboat Natchez, the last authentic steamboat on the Mississippi River. Cruise options include daytime sightseeing tours, dinner cruises with live jazz, and special celebration cruises. All offer spectacular views of the New Orleans skyline and insights into the river that has shaped the city's destiny.
The gentle rhythm of the paddlewheel and the nostalgic sound of the steam calliope create a peaceful contrast to the vibrant energy of the city streets. We recommend the sunset dinner cruise for a particularly magical experience, complete with Creole cuisine and views of the city lights emerging at dusk.
Beyond the Bucket List: The Hotel Maison Pierre Lafitte Experience
The suites at Maison Pierre Lafitte place all of New Orleans Must See locations at your convenience.
While checking these iconic attractions, culinary treasures, and special souvenirs off your bucket list, remember that some of New Orleans' most magical moments happen spontaneously - stumbling upon a second line parade, discovering a hidden courtyard restaurant, or being drawn into a jazz club by the sound of a saxophone drifting onto the street. At Hotel Maison Pierre Lafitte, we pride ourselves on helping our guests experience both the iconic and the unexpected sides of New Orleans. Our knowledgeable staff can provide personalized recommendations based on your interests, arrange private tours with local experts, or simply point you toward their favorite neighborhood spots.
After a day of exploration, return to the comfort of our historic property, where modern amenities blend seamlessly with classic New Orleans charm. You'll understand why visitors have been falling in love with the Crescent City for over three centuries. We look forward to being part of your New Orleans story.
Ready to start checking items off your New Orleans bucket list? Book your stay at Hotel Maison Pierre Lafitte and experience the magic of the Crescent City from our doorstep. Contact our concierge team to arrange special experiences or customize your New Orleans adventure.