Introduction
There’s something magical about New Orleans. Whether it’s the soulful jazz drifting through Bourbon Street, the rich history etched in every corner of the French Quarter, or the flavors of gumbo and beignets that melt in your mouth—this city knows how to captivate you. In fact, over 19 million people visited New Orleans in 2023, and 2025 promises even more exciting ways to experience its culture.
Planning your trip can feel overwhelming—where do you even start in a city with so much to offer? Don’t worry, I’ve done the planning for you. Below you’ll find the best things to do in New Orleans in 2025, grouped by tours, museums, food, shopping, and day trips. Each section includes booking links, ideal times of day, prices, and insider tips so you can get the most out of your visit. Ready? Let’s dive in!
History & Culture Tours
New Orleans is steeped in history—from Creole traditions to stories of voodoo and jazz. These tours bring the city’s past to life in unforgettable ways.
French Quarter Historical Sights and Stories Walking Tour (⭐ Best Option!)
- Book here: Viator Tour Link
- Time of Day: Morning or late afternoon
- Cost: From $30
- Location: French Quarter, New Orleans, LA
- Website: French Quarter Info
- Rating: 4.9/5 (Viator)
St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 Official Walking Tour
- Book here: Viator Tour Link
- Time of Day: Mid-morning
- Cost: From $25
- Location: 425 Basin St, New Orleans, LA 70112
- Website: Save Our Cemeteries
- Rating: 4.8/5
Food & Drink Experiences
You can’t visit New Orleans without indulging in its world-famous food and cocktails. These tours let you eat and sip your way through the city.
French Quarter Food Walking Tour (⭐ A MUST!)
- Book here: Viator Tour Link
- Time of Day: Afternoon (perfect before a night out)
- Cost: From $70
- Location: French Quarter, New Orleans, LA
- Rating: 4.9/5
New Orleans Cocktail History Walking Tour
- Book here: Viator Tour Link
- Time of Day: Evening
- Cost: From $75
- Location: French Quarter, New Orleans, LA
- Rating: 4.7/5
Spooky & Haunted Tours
New Orleans is legendary for its ghost stories, voodoo legends, and haunted corners. Step into the eerie side of the city.
Ghost, Voodoo & Vampire Walking Tour
- Book here: Viator Tour Link
- Time of Day: Evening (spookiest at night!)
- Cost: From $35
- Location: French Quarter, New Orleans, LA
- Rating: 4.6/5
Museums & Educational Attractions
For those who love immersive learning, these museums are a must. They tell powerful stories of war, culture, and celebration.
National WWII Museum
- Book here: National WWII Museum
- Time of Day: Morning
- Cost: $32 (adults)
- Location: 945 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70130
- Rating: 4.9/5
Mardi Gras World
- Book here: Mardi Gras World
- Time of Day: Midday
- Cost: $25
- Location: 1380 Port of New Orleans Pl, New Orleans, LA 70130
- Rating: 4.7/5
Nature & Adventure Tours
Step outside the city and explore Louisiana’s unique bayous and wildlife on water adventures.
Swamp and Bayou Boat Tour
- Book here: Viator Tour Link
- Time of Day: Morning
- Cost: From $55
- Location: Pickup from New Orleans hotels
- Rating: 4.8/5
Airboat Swamp Tour with Pickup
- Book here: Viator Tour Link
- Time of Day: Midday
- Cost: From $89
- Location: Pickup from New Orleans hotels
- Rating: 4.7/5
Day Trips
Go beyond the city and discover stories of resilience and history on these unforgettable day tours.
Whitney Plantation Half Day Guided Tour
- Book here: Viator Tour Link
- Time of Day: Morning departure
- Cost: From $85
- Location: Pickup from New Orleans hotels
- Website: Whitney Plantation
- Rating: 4.9/5
Conclusion
From jazz-filled streets to moss-draped bayous, New Orleans is a city that doesn’t just welcome you—it pulls you in with all five senses. Whether you’re savoring gumbo in the French Quarter, stepping into a haunted alley, or floating down a swamp lined with cypress trees, these 9 things to do in New Orleans in 2025 are the perfect way to experience the Crescent City. Use this guide to book your tours ahead of time, skip the stress, and make the most of every moment in this unforgettable city.
