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In my opinion, New Orleans’ biggest draw is its food. While I can’t find you any of that for free, I can direct you to some frugal ways to enjoy your trip to the Crescent City.
With awesome architecture and a diverse culture, here are the top 25 free things to do in New Orleans!
Top 25 FREE Things to Do in New Orleans
Grab a guidebook and take yourself on a walking tour through the historic Algiers Point!
In the middle of the city, City Park has paddle-boats, tandem-bikes and more for rent. Or set up a hammock in the trees near the lake to relax and enjoy the sun.
Right in the middle of the French Quarter, you’ll get a great view of street performers, the St. Louis Cathedral, and Andrew Jackson riding high above New Orleans. Cafe Du Monde is only a block away!
To a piano bike combo playing throughout the French Quarter to drum circles around random corners, you will find some street performers somewhere in New Orleans. Enjoy them when you find them!
This beautiful park has playgrounds and other amenities to let you enjoy some of New Orleans’ beautiful green space.
This park is a short walk from Jackson Square. A drumline was playing while I was there, so maybe you’ll see a free show!
This isn’t totally free, but many of them are only a few dollars per person, which makes it very affordable
This garden is located in City Park and contains the work of artists from all over the world. The New Orleans Museum of Art offers a free audio tour of the Sculpture Garden, which is accessible through visitors’ cell phones and highlights all of the sculptures in the garden.
On the corner of the French Quarter is the French Market. It’s a great place to grab authentic Cajun souvenirs.
This is a park near the Mississippi River and the French Quarter and a good place to recharge after a long trek through this part of town. Plus, the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas or Entergy Imax Theater is near for entertainment.
See what local farmers are growing and pick up everything you need for a picnic at the local farmers’ market on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, Thursdays, Fridays, and Saturdays (check their website for specific hours).
Get out of the city bustle and wander through the Garden District to enjoy its historic architecture and old south greenery.
A site that must be seen on a New Orleans trip is one of its famed cemeteries. They are very interesting and unique in that they are all above ground.
The St. Charles Streetcar Line
Okay, so this isn’t free, but it is only $1.25 per ride and streetcars are a great way to see the city in a comfortable, historical way.
Request a song or enjoy the music at Pat O’Brien’s Dueling Piano Bar.
Check out the galleries on Julia St. and what street vendors are selling at Jackson Square. There’s an Art Walk that occurs on the first Saturday night of every month: galleries open their doors to the public to premiere new exhibits.
If your trip is during the Spring and on a Wednesday, there’s a free concert series at Jackson Square. In 2019, it runs from March 20th through May 22nd.
Download the app to do a free guided tour of the French Quarter of New Orleans.
Lower Ninth Ward Living Museum
This museum focuses on how Hurricane Katrina affected residents of New Orleans, and is always free to the public.
This is the oldest active congregation and church building in Louisiana. Pop inside and be awed by its antique architecture. A brochure for a self-guided tour is given for only a $1 donation.
Part of Jean Laffitte National Historic Park, this preserve is free and there are many related nature programs that are also free.
Visit the site of the Battle of New Orleans. About 5 miles from the French Quarter, you can see the battlefield and learn more about the War of 1812. If you’re visiting in January, you might even catch the reenactment.
The Arts Market of New Orleans
On the second and last Saturday of each month, head to Palmer Park to view the featured works and enjoy live entertainment.
As you walk along the streets of New Orleans, enjoy the endless stream of jazz and blues music streaming out of every wide open window!
Browse the Historic New Orleans Collection
This museum is totally free, although you do need to reserve timed tickets in advance.
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