Top 10 Things To Do in New Orleans Solo
Welcome to the land of gumbo, jazz, and voodoo magic – New Orleans, where the party never stops and the good times roll! But what if you find yourself in the heart of the city on your own? Fear not, because New Orleans has more tricks up its sleeve than a magician. From sipping Sazeracs to dancing on Frenchmen Street, we’ve compiled a list of the top 10 things to do in New Orleans solo!
Café au Solait Yourself
New Orleans doesn’t just serve coffee; it offers an experience. Whether you start your day at the crack of dawn or noon (we don’t judge), begin with a Café au Lait and some beignets. Every local has a favorite beignet, but whether you go to Café du Monde for an old-school experience or Café Beignet for hand-cut beignets, you’re sure to enjoy yourself. Grab a seat outside, take in the bustling scenes of the city, and let the powdered sugar fall where it may.
Spook Yourself With Haunted Encounters
Looking for a spooky solo adventure? If so, you’ve come to the right place. New Orleans has an eerie, supernatural side that’s bound to send shivers down your spine. Join a haunted tour through the French Quarter and learn about the restless spirits that call NOLA home. These New Orleans haunted tours will teach you all about the infamous Madame Delphine LaLaurie and the voodoo queen Marie Laveau.
If tours aren’t your thing, you can always do a self-guided tour through the iconic cemeteries of New Orleans.
Feel Jazzy on Frenchmen Street
Everyone has heard of Bourbon Street, but are you familiar with the locals' favorite Frenchmen Street? If there’s one place full of things to do in New Orleans solo, it’s Frenchmen! This lively stretch of bars and clubs in the heart of the city’s live music scene makes any solo traveler feel like a part of the family. Snag a stool at The Spotted Cat Music Club, dabble in some jazz at the Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro, or get on your dancing shoes for 30/90. Don’t be surprised if you find yourself shimmying with strangers to the infectious rhythms of a brass band.
Mardi Gras, Any Day!
Who says you must wait for Mardi Gras to get your bead game on? An iconic stop on your tour of things to do in New Orleans solo should be the Mardi Gras World, where you can get a history of Mardi Gras, explore the float den and, see the floats being prepared to roll, and get a taste of the Mardi Gras magic!
Get Swampy
Venture into the wild side of New Orleans with a swamp tour! Glide through the mysterious bayous, surrounded by cypress trees draped in Spanish moss. Look for alligators lurking beneath the murky waters and sunbathing turtles on logs. Going solo means bonding with the wildlife without anyone stealing your spotlight. Many swamp tours also provided marshmallows for everyone to throw in the swamp to glimpse an alligator eating! Remember, though, it’s a swamp tour, not a swim tour!
Sip and Savor
New Orleans is a food lovers paradise, and when you are looking for things to do in New Orleans solo, going out to eat means a private food tour without worrying about anyone’s restrictions! Try an iconic Po’ Boy at Obama’s favorite shop, Parkway Bakery and Tavern, indulge in seafood gumbo at The Gumbo Shop (the name says it all), or get dressed up and dine at the iconic Commander’s Palace. And don’t forget to slurp down a dozen oysters! After sampling the city's delicious delights, your taste buds will dance down the French Quarter.
Street Art Stroll
While wandering the colorful streets of New Orleans, take time to appreciate the vibrant street art that adorns many walls. From vibrant murals to thought-provoking graffiti, NOLA’s street art scene is like an open-air gallery waiting to be explored. Snap some pics and add a splash of creativity to your list of things to do in New Orleans solo.
Shop ‘Til You Drop
Magazine Street is a shopaholic’s dream and a solo traveler’s paradise. With over six miles of antique shops, boutiques, art galleries, bars, and cafes, you can explore at your own pace without anyone rushing you. Magazine Street has everything, whether you’re into vintage fashion, unique art pieces, or just window shopping. Plus, no one will remind you that you must fit it back in your suitcase!
Steamboat Serenity
Climb aboard the Steamboat Natchez for a picturesque cruise down the Mississippi River. The live jazz band, stunning views of the city skyline, and the breeze on your face make this experience a treasure among all the things to do in New Orleans solo.
The Bayou Bike Ride
Explore New Orleans in a different way - on two wheels! Rent a bike and pedal through the city, taking in the historic architecture, charming neighborhoods, and the enchanting beauty of the bayou. You can ride along the Mississippi River or explore the scenic City Park. Riding solo allows you to set your own pace and stop wherever your heart desires!
A Grand Finale of Things To Do in New Orleans Solo at Creole Gardens
After a whirlwind adventure each day in the city, it’s best to rest those dancing feet and satisfy your soul with Southern charm. Where better to do that than at Creole Gardens Bed and Breakfast?
Nestled in the heart of the Garden District, Creole Gardens offers a cozy, charming, and quintessentially New Orleans experience. Its historic Victorian architecture, lush gardens, and wraparound porches make it the perfect place to unwind. Imagine sipping a mint julep in a rocking chair while the sounds of jazz drift through the air - bliss!
Not only does Creole Gardens provide a relaxing oasis, but it’s also just a streetcar or walk away from so many of our favorite things to do in New Orleans solo. So you can have your jambalaya and eat it, too, without worrying about getting lost on your solo adventure!
From savoring beignets to grooving on Frenchmen Street and exploring the spooky side of New Orleans, the Big Easy welcomes solo adventurers with open arms. And when it’s time to recharge, Creole Gardens is the perfect place to rest! Pack your bags, ready your jazz hands, and enjoy the top 10 things to do in New Orleans solo! Book your stay today!