Free & Affordable New Orleans

A vibrant blend of history, culture, and nonstop energy, the French Quarter is New Orleans’ most iconic neighborhood and a designated National Historic Landmark. Dating back to the city’s Spanish colonial period, this district showcases some of the oldest architecture in the United States, complete with colorful facades, wrought-iron balconies, and narrow cobblestone streets.

Highlights:

• National Historic Landmark district with 18th- and 19th-century architecture
• Home to iconic restaurants, including Antoine’s and Tujague’s
• Jazz clubs, bars, and live street music around every corner
• Historic French Market with food vendors and local artisans
• One of the top tourist destinations in New Orleans

Pro Tip:

Visit early in the morning to admire the architecture and enjoy beignets before the crowds arrive—then return at night to see the Quarter light up with music and energy.

The French Quarter, 501 Basin Street, New Orleans, LA 70112

A lively celebration of music and community, the Lafayette Square Concert Series brings the rhythms of New Orleans to life each spring in one of the city’s most beautiful green spaces. Held annually from March through mid-May, this 12-week concert series fills Lafayette Square with the sounds of jazz, funk, Latin, and more every Wednesday evening.

Highlights:

• 12-week spring concert series in a historic city park
• Live performances in jazz, funk, Latin, and other genres
• Food and beverage vendors on-site during each event
• Pet-friendly with space for dancing and relaxing
• Free street parking nearby after 6:00pm

Pro Tip:

Bring a blanket or lawn chair and arrive early to grab a good spot—Wednesday evenings fill up fast with regulars who know it’s one of the best midweek experiences in the city.

Lafayette Square Concert Series, 2023 Lafayette Avenue, St. Louis, MO 63104
Phone: 314-772-5724

A symbol of New Orleans’ rich history and artistic soul, the Jackson Square is a National Historic Landmark and one of the city’s most visited and photographed locations. Located in the heart of the French Quarter and facing the Mississippi River, this picturesque park is famously known as the site where the Louisiana Purchase was signed in 1803.

Highlights:

• Site of the Louisiana Purchase signing in 1803
• Home to St. Louis Cathedral, Cabildo, and Presbytère Museums
• National Historic Landmark and major filming location
• Open-air art market with local artists and street performers
• Shops, cafes, and galleries in the historic Pontalba Apartments

Pro Tip:

Visit in the early morning for quiet views and photos, then return in the afternoon when the square comes alive with music, art, and people-watching opportunities.

Jackson Square, 700 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70116

The most iconic celebration in the Crescent City, Mardi Gras—or Fat Tuesday—is a world-famous festival that transforms New Orleans into a dazzling spectacle of music, color, and revelry each spring. Rooted in French Christian tradition and celebrated in the city since the early 1700s, Mardi Gras was officially recognized as a Louisiana state holiday in 1875 and has grown into one of the largest and most vibrant public celebrations in the world.

Highlights:

• World-famous Carnival season beginning January 6 and ending on Fat Tuesday
• Multiple parades, balls, and parties across the city
• Centered around Bourbon Street and the French Quarter
• Customs include beads, masks, and elaborate floats
• Massive tourism draw that doubles the city’s population

Pro Tip:

If you want front-row access to parades, stake out your spot early—some locals camp out hours in advance. Don’t forget a costume and plenty of water!

Mardi Gras, Celebrated citywide in New Orleans, Louisiana

Towering over Jackson Square in the heart of the French Quarter, the St. Louis Cathedral is one of New Orleans’ most recognizable landmarks and holds the title of the oldest continuously active Roman Catholic cathedral in the United States. Officially named the Cathedral-Basilica of Saint Louis, King of France, the current structure was largely rebuilt in 1850 atop earlier churches that have stood on the site since 1718.

Highlights:

• Oldest active Roman Catholic cathedral in the U.S.
• Striking architecture with central spire and iconic facade
• Located in Jackson Square in the heart of the French Quarter
• Free daily admission with self-guided tour brochures available
• Access to peaceful St. Anthony Garden behind the cathedral

Pro Tip:

Visit in the morning for a quieter experience, and be sure to step behind the cathedral to discover the tranquil St. Anthony Garden—an often-overlooked gem.

St. Louis Cathedral, 615 Pere Antoine Alley, New Orleans, LA 70116

Recommended Activities for Families

Stretching six vibrant miles from Uptown to the Garden District, Magazine Street is one of New Orleans’ premier destinations for food, shopping, art, and nightlife. Originally named after an 18th-century export warehouse—or “magazin”—this historic corridor now draws visitors with its charming architecture and eclectic mix of attractions.

Highlights:

• Six-mile stretch linking Uptown and the Garden District
• Historic architecture in Greek Revival and Victorian styles
• Dozens of dining options from global cuisine to food trucks
• Art galleries, antique shops, and boutique stores
• Lively nightlife and annual events like Art for Arts’ Sake

Pro Tip:

Spend the afternoon browsing shops and art galleries, then stay for dinner and live music. Comfortable walking shoes are a must—there’s plenty to explore on foot.

Magazine Street, New Orleans, LA – runs from Canal Street through Uptown to Audubon Park

A stunning blend of history, elegance, and Southern charm, the Garden District is one of New Orleans’ most beautiful and best-preserved neighborhoods. Originally laid out in 1806 as a planned district inspired by Greek Revival design, the area features a series of interconnected parks and canals, with street names still reflecting Greek mythology.

Highlights:

• Famous for Greek Revival and Italianate mansions from the 1800s
• Named streets inspired by Greek mythology
• Coliseum Square and historic Lafayette Cemetery No. 1
• Chic shops, galleries, and antique stores along Magazine Street
• Fine dining, cafés, and nightlife throughout the district

Pro Tip:

Take a guided walking tour to get the full history behind the homes and landmarks—or simply wander on your own and soak in the architectural beauty at your own pace.

The Garden District, New Orleans, LA – centered around Magazine Street and Coliseum Square

Located on the picturesque campus of Tulane University, the Newcomb Art Museum of Tulane University celebrates the intersection of art, history, and social engagement. Open to the public with free admission Tuesday through Saturday, the museum offers a thoughtfully curated experience that highlights both historical craftsmanship and contemporary issues.

Highlights:

• World’s largest collection of Newcomb Pottery
• Located at Tulane University’s historic Newcomb College
• Features artists from the Arts and Crafts Movement
• Rotating exhibitions on social justice and civic themes
• Free admission Tuesday through Saturday

Pro Tip:

Don’t miss the chance to see original pieces by Sadie Irvine—her work is among the most celebrated examples of Newcomb Pottery craftsmanship.

Newcomb Art Museum of Tulane University, Woldenberg Art Center, Newcomb Circle, New Orleans, LA 70118
Phone: 504-865-5328

Tucked inside Loyola University’s Monroe Library, the Collins C. Diboll Art Gallery and Visual Art Center is a quiet gem in New Orleans’ art scene. Located on the library’s fourth floor, the gallery is free and open to the public seven days a week, offering an ever-changing mix of visual experiences that celebrate global and local creativity.

Highlights:

• Home to the Cornet Collection from the Belgian Congo
• Features student work and rotating professional exhibitions
• Mediums include abstract art, prints, pottery, and photography
• Located on the Loyola University campus inside Monroe Library
• Free admission, open daily during morning and afternoon hours

Pro Tip:

Pair your visit with a ride on the historic St. Charles streetcar—stop by the gallery in the morning, then stroll through nearby Audubon Park for a full day of culture and green space.

Collins C. Diboll Art Gallery and Visual Art Center, 6363 St Charles Ave, New Orleans, LA 70118
Phone: 504-864-7248