I’m going to assume that you’re a savvy traveler, so you already know that travel is expensive. And I bet you probably already know New Orleans is more than just Bourbon Street, or a place to eat and drink. Here are things we think everyone should do when they visit, that might be a bit more underrated, or even off the beaten path. All are free, or nearly free.
The New Orleans Historical Collection, 533 Royal Street. This free museum was established 50 years ago, in 1966, by General and Mrs. L. Kemper Williams. It includes several buildings in two parts of the French Quarter, and over one million items, representing over three centuries of Louisiana history.
Why you should care: If you are interested in history, take a break from the hustle and bustle of the French Quarter and spend some time checking out their collection of documents, maps, photos, and old newspapers.
The St Charles Street Car, route 12 or the green line on the RTA maps is the oldest continuously operating street car in the United States. Established in 1833, it connects the present day Central Business District to the River Bend. It’s only $1.25, which might make it one of the cheapest forms of public transit in the United States. Get off by the Latter Library, a mansion built in 1907, that was donated to the City of New Orleans to be opened as a Public Library; It’s like going back in time.
Why you should care: Plenty of cities have amazing public libraries that are worth visiting, but how many cities have public libraries that are opulent mansions?
Visit our Parks. Have an extra day? Skip the expensive swamp tours (we get it, you want to see alligators) and take a drive to Jean Lafitte National Historical Park. It’s a 40-minute drive from downtown New Orleans, in nearby Marrero, LA. They have guided tours and self-guided tours, and if it’s warm, you’ll see alligators – all for free. Don’t have access to an automobile? For $1.25, RTA will take you to City Park, located at the end of Esplanade Ave. This 1,300-acre park (almost twice as large as Central Park) features massive live oaks, a free sculpture garden, and yes, alligators. If you are already planning to visit the Latter Library, the beautiful Audubon park is nearby, and worth a visit too.
Why you should care: Plenty of cities have incredible public parks, but few boast as many alligators (well, except for Florida). They provide both visitors and residents a nice opportunity to take a break from the city.
Take a Walking Tour. A walking tour is a great way to learn some history and get a feel for a city, but they can be expensive, often $25 up front. Nola Tour Guy offers free “name your price” walking tours, everyday at 11am, of both the French Quarter, St. Louis Cemetery #1 and the Garden District. The tour takes you through the French Quarter, and includes a visit to our oldest cemetery, St. Louis #1. A visit to cemetery is a must do activity in New Orleans, find out why by reading our article about it. Nola Tour Guy is top rated on Trip Advisor. Learn more or book today.
Why you should care: Nola Tour Guy provides real stories and history of New Orleans and the French Quarter; we tell you history, we make it entertaining and fascinating we don’t tell made up ghost stories that insult your intelligence. We are so sure you’ll love the tour we let our guests pick there price. We offer the tour daily, book today.
