What makes New Orleans the ultimate playground for young adults?
When you’re in your 20s or 30s and ready for some unforgettable experiences, New Orleans (aka NOLA) should be on your bucket list. This vibrant city is more than just Bourbon Street and beignets. With rich history, live jazz, delicious food, and a nightlife that pulses till dawn, the Crescent City is a playground for adventure, culture, and good vibes.
Let’s dive into 10 exciting things to do in New Orleans for young adults, with all the juicy details, travel tips, and must-hit spots included!
1. Groove to Live Jazz on Frenchmen Street
The heart of New Orleans’ music scene
Frenchmen Street is where the locals go—a stretch bursting with live music, buzzing jazz clubs, and street performers. You’ll hear the soulful sounds of world-renowned artists playing everything from classic jazz to modern funk.
🎷 Popular venues to check out:
- The Spotted Cat Music Club – Intimate and iconic
- Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro – Dinner and a show combo
- Blue Nile – Energetic with multi-level dance floors
Pro Tip:
Hit up the Frenchmen Art Market late at night for handmade goods, art, and chilled vibes under fairy lights.
Time needed: 2-3 hours depending on your vibe
Best for: Music lovers, night owls, art fans
2. Cruise the Mississippi River on the Steamboat Natchez
Step back in time with a jazz cruise
The Steamboat Natchez Jazz Cruise is an immersive ride into New Orleans’ past, offering views of the city skyline and live jazz aboard a working paddlewheeler.
🚢 Cruise options:
- Daytime Jazz Cruise with Lunch (2.5 hours)
- Evening Cruise with Dinner & Jazz
What’s included?
- Live jazz music on deck
- Buffet-style Cajun lunch or dinner
- Views of City Park, Jean Lafitte National Historical Park, and Chalmette Battlefield
Why go:
It’s a mix of romantic nostalgia, great music, and a break from the streets.
Duration: 1.5 – 2.5 hours
Best for: Couples, music lovers, history buffs
3. Explore the Garden District & Lafayette Cemetery
Picture-perfect streets and rich history
The Garden District is packed with antebellum mansions, leafy green spaces, and Insta-worthy architecture. It’s also home to the iconic Lafayette Cemetery, known for its above-ground tombs and spooky ghost tales.
Must-see stops:
- Commander’s Palace – Elegant Creole dining
- Prytania Street – Gorgeous homes and streetscapes
- Lafayette Cemetery No.1 – A hauntingly beautiful cemetery
Take a guided walking tour:
With NOLA Tour Guy or Action Tour Guides, get insider stories on paranormal activity, Civil War secrets, and historic architecture.
Duration: 1.5 – 2 hours
Best for: History buffs, photographers, paranormal fans
4. Bar Hop Along Bourbon Street (But With a Plan)
The legendary nightlife strip—but curated for fun, not chaos
Yes, Bourbon Street is wild. But it can also be a blast if you know where to go. Skip the tourist traps and head for the Carousel Bar, or catch live performances at Maison Bourbon Jazz Club.
Top bar picks:
- Carousel Bar & Lounge – A rotating bar on the 33rd floor
- Maison Bourbon – Live traditional jazz
- Tropical Isle – Home of the “Hand Grenade” cocktail
Tips for surviving the night:
- Stick with a crew
- Don’t overdo the Hand Grenades
- Have a ride-share app handy
Ideal visit: 2 – 4 hours
Best for: Nightlife lovers, party-goers, music fans
5. Visit the National WWII Museum
One of the most powerful museums in the U.S.
Located on Magazine Street, this museum goes beyond textbooks. With interactive experiences, a 4-D movie experience, and impressive collections, this place hits hard—in a good way.
What you’ll see:
- Personal stories and artifacts
- Fully restored war planes
- Campaigns of Courage exhibits
- 4-D theater narrated by Tom Hanks
Don’t miss:
The Higgins Boat display and the Victory Theater experience.
Time required: 2.5 – 4 hours
Best for: History nerds, educational travelers, couples
6. Indulge in a Foodie Tour with Samples Galore
Eat your way through NOLA
New Orleans is a paradise for foodies. From Black history culinary roots to West African influences, every bite tells a story.
What to try:
- Beignets at Café du Monde
- Crawfish Étouffée
- Gumbo and Jambalaya
- Sweet treats from Willa Jean
Join a guided food tour:
These tours usually include 5–6 stops, food samples, and a knowledgeable guide sharing local history and flavors.
Time: 3 – 4 hours
Best for: Food lovers, cultural explorers
7. Get Spooked on a French Quarter Ghost Tour
New Orleans is one of the most haunted cities in America
If you’re into the paranormal, you’re in for a treat. The French Quarter is filled with eerie alleys, haunted houses, and spine-tingling stories from experienced guides.
Highlights:
- Haunted sites like LaLaurie Mansion
- Spooky vibes around 520 Royal Street
- Stops at creepy cemeteries and historic buildings
Best ghost tour operators:
- Haunted History Tours
- Ghost City Tours
- French Quarter Phantoms
Duration: 1.5 – 2 hours
Best for: Spooky thrill-seekers, night owls
8. Chill at City Park & Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden
An artistic escape in a 32-acre space
This green oasis offers more than just shade. Walk among modern art at the Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden, or rent a paddleboat for a relaxing float.
Activities:
- Explore New Orleans Museum of Art (NOMA)
- Visit the butterfly garden
- Play mini-golf at City Putt
- Chill at Café du Monde inside the park
Bonus:
City Park also hosts music festivals, perfect for younger crowds.
Time required: 2 – 3 hours
Best for: Art lovers, chill seekers, outdoor fans
9. Experience the Cultural Side at Backstreet Cultural Museum
A hidden gem with deep roots
This museum showcases African American and Mardi Gras Indian culture, complete with costumes, music, and community pride.
Exhibits include:
- Mardi Gras Indian suits
- Jazz funeral traditions
- Black Carnival culture
Why visit:
It’s an authentic, educational experience you won’t get anywhere else.
Time needed: 1 – 1.5 hours
Best for: Culture seekers, Black history buffs
10. Take a Swamp or Plantation Tour for a Day Trip
Outside-the-city adventures with epic scenery
Escape the urban hustle with a swamp tour or a plantation visit. Both offer a fascinating glimpse into Louisiana’s natural habitats and historical past.
Popular tours:
- Swamp tours: See gators, herons, and bayous
- Plantations: Visit Whitney Plantation, Houmas House, or Destrehan Plantation
What you’ll learn:
- Slavery and sugar economy
- Architecture and estate life
- West African heritage and resistance
Duration: 4 – 5 hours
Best for: Nature lovers, history fans, photographers
FAQ – Things to Know Before Visiting New Orleans
What is the best time of year to visit New Orleans?
Spring (March–May) and Fall (October–November) are ideal due to festivals, great weather, and fewer crowds.
Is New Orleans safe for young adults?
Yes, but like any major city, stick to well-lit areas, avoid wandering alone at night, and stay alert in crowded areas.
What should I wear in New Orleans?
Comfortable clothes and walking shoes. Summer is hot and humid, so dress light. Bring a poncho—sudden rain happens!
How do I get around New Orleans?
Use the streetcar (especially down Canal Street), ride-shares, or rent bikes for accessible options.
Are these activities good for solo travelers?
Absolutely! Join walking tours, food tours, and music events to meet people. New Orleans is social and friendly!
Can I find vegetarian or vegan food in New Orleans?
Yes! Plenty of delicious food options from plant-based po’ boys to vegan gumbo. Try places like Seed or Breads on Oak.
Conclusion: Why New Orleans Is a Must-Visit for Young Adults
New Orleans is more than a destination—it’s a living, breathing celebration of culture, music, food, and unforgettable experiences. Whether you’re grooving to jazz on Frenchmen Street, floating down the Mississippi, or getting chills on a ghost tour, this city guarantees memories that stick.
There’s something here for every vibe—the history buffs, the party people, the artists, and the foodies.
