Planning a Romantic Getaway? What Can Couples Do in New Orleans?
Looking to turn your trip into an unforgettable experience? Welcome to New Orleans, a romantic city where every street corner tells a story. Whether you’re strolling down Royal Street, enjoying live jazz music on Frenchmen Street, or sipping signature cocktails on a steamboat, the Crescent City sets the perfect tone for couples.
There’s a blend of everything: historic mansions, cultural experiences, interactive museums, and cozy cafes. No matter your vibe—relaxed, artsy, adventurous, or soulful—there’s something here to make memories with your partner.
French Quarter
A district awash with culture
The French Quarter is the heartbeat of New Orleans—and a quintessential experience for couples. Walk hand-in-hand through charming alleys, admire the iron-laced balconies, and explore hidden courtyards filled with history.
- 🎨 Visit Royal Street for art galleries and antique shops
- 🎺 Catch live traditional jazz performances around Jackson Square
- 🏛️ Step into the Historic New Orleans Collection for a peek into the city’s fascinating history
Bayou Saint John
Relaxing canoe rides towards Lake Pontchartrain
A must-do activity for nature-loving couples is paddling through the peaceful waters of Bayou Saint John. This beautiful setting is ideal for a morning or sunset canoe ride.
- 🛶 Rent a canoe or kayak for a private tour
- 🐦 Spot native birds along the route
- 🧺 Pack a picnic basket and stop for a waterside snack
See also
10 Most Popular Neighbourhoods in New Orleans
From the Garden District to the Warehouse District, discover where to stay and play.
10 Best Festivals in New Orleans
Mark your calendar for romantic events like Jazz Fest and French Quarter Fest.
The Outlet Collection at Riverwalk
Shop together with stunning views of the Mississippi River.
Southern Food & Beverage Museum
Museum with exciting food workshops and tasting sessions
Want to know how Creole cuisine came to be? This interactive experience in the Warehouse District is part history lesson, part delicious indulgence.
- 🍸 Learn about the evolution of classic cocktails like the Sazerac
- 🍤 Join a cooking class and create local dishes together
- 🧀 Enjoy complimentary samples of Southern snacks and drinks
City Park
Nature surrounding the New Orleans Museum of Art
City Park offers over 1,300 acres of green space, ideal for romantic strolls or afternoon picnics. It’s also home to the enchanting Sculpture Garden and Butterfly Garden.
- 📷 Take dreamy couples’ photos by the lagoon
- 🖼️ Explore the impressive collection at the New Orleans Museum of Art
- 🌳 Relax beneath the ancient oak trees with some beignets and coffee
Café du Monde
Coffee and beignets at the original Café du Monde
No couple should leave New Orleans without a cozy morning (or midnight) date at the iconic Café du Monde.
- ☕ Try the original café au lait and powdered beignets
- 🌙 Open 24 hours—perfect for late-night cravings
- 🪑 Grab an outdoor seat for people-watching on busy streets
Preservation Hall
Jazz concerts in the heart of New Orleans
Step into a cozy space filled with decades of musical heritage. Preservation Hall is legendary for its one-drink minimum-free, no-frills vibe that focuses solely on jazz music.
- 🎼 Book in advance—limited seats fill quickly
- 🎷 A must-visit attraction for music lovers and history buffs
- 🌆 Combine it with a pre-show dinner on Royal Street
Blaine Kern’s Mardi Gras World
Studio and museum showcasing the world-famous carnival
Want to know what goes into the magic of Mardi Gras? This interactive museum is a colorful, behind-the-scenes look at parade floats, costumes, and New Orleans creativity.
- 🎭 Dress up in costume and take couple photos
- 🖌️ Watch artists build floats in real time
- 🧃 Enjoy a tasting of local drinks and King Cake samples
Steamboat dinner cruise
Authentic steamboat ride on the Mississippi River
Board the Steamboat Natchez or Creole Queen for a romantic jazz cruise. As you dine, live bands play the blues, and the sun dips behind the New Orleans skyline.
- 🌇 Enjoy panoramic views of the Crescent City
- 🍽️ Dine on Creole classics like jambalaya and gumbo
- 🎶 Listen to a live jazz band while you drift along the water
Haunted tours of New Orleans
Haunted houses and cemeteries galore on this evening tour
Add a little thrill to your romance with a ghost tour through the historic district. From LaLaurie Mansion to Marie Laveau’s tomb, these walks dive into the city’s dark past.
- 👻 Visit haunted mansions, cemeteries, and voodoo sites
- 🕯️ Best done at night for maximum ambiance
- 💀 Perfect for couples who love spooky stories and legends
Bourbon Street
Live jazz and vibrant celebrations around every corner
Bourbon Street is loud, wild, and electric—yet it has its own charm. Couples can dance to jazz, sip on an iconic cocktail, and enjoy the energy of the city’s most famous party zone.
- 🍹 Sip a classic Hurricane at Pat O’Brien’s
- 💃 Pop into European Jazz Club for a more intimate vibe
- 🍽️ Dine at Emeril Lagasse’s nearby restaurant for a culinary twist
Where to stay in New Orleans
Crowne Plaza New Orleans French Qtr – Astor by IHG
Modern comfort meets Bourbon Street buzz.
Bourbon Orleans Hotel
Elegant and romantic with historic architecture.
Wyndham New Orleans – French Quarter
Perfect location for exploring nearby jazz clubs.
Maison Dupuy Hotel
Quaint courtyard, peaceful ambiance.
The Royal Sonesta New Orleans
Lush and lively—right in the middle of everything.
Dauphine Orleans Hotel
Quiet, classic, and ideal for couples looking to unwind.
Hotel Monteleone, New Orleans
Famous for its Carousel Bar and literary history.
Le Richelieu Hotel
Old-school charm in the heart of the French Quarter.
New Orleans Marriott
Sleek, high-rise views along Canal Street.
Omni Royal Orleans Hotel
Stately, polished, and deeply rooted in local tradition.
Frequently Asked Questions
What’s the most romantic area in New Orleans for couples?
The French Quarter and Garden District offer scenic streets, historic homes, cozy spots, and endless romantic experiences.
Where can we enjoy jazz music in an intimate setting?
Check out Preservation Hall, Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro, or European Jazz Club on Frenchmen Street for intimate jazz experiences.
Can you explore New Orleans without a car?
Yes! Most attractions, museums, and restaurants are within walking distance or accessible via the streetcar or short Uber rides.
What’s a unique couple activity in New Orleans?
A steamboat dinner cruise or Bayou St. John canoe ride adds a romantic twist to your itinerary. For a thrill, try a haunted tour together.
What’s the best time to visit New Orleans?
Spring (March–May) is ideal with festivals, mild weather, and full bloom in parks. Fall is another great time for fewer crowds and lower prices.
Conclusion
There’s no doubt about it—New Orleans is one of the best cities in the U.S. for couples. Whether you’re wandering through museums, sharing a Creole meal, or dancing to the rhythm of live jazz, you’ll find that the city doesn’t just entertain—it romances you.
With so many things to do for couples in New Orleans, each experience is another story in your love journey. Let the Crescent City work its magic—because here, every moment has soul.
