Best Things to Do in New Orleans Before or After Your Cruise

New Orleans is a vibrant city with centuries of history, culture, and flavor that deserves more than just a quick drive to the cruise port. Whether you arrive a day early to explore or decide to stay after your cruise returns, spending time in this unique destination will enhance your overall vacation experience. This guide highlights the must-see attractions, dining experiences, and neighborhoods that make New Orleans special.

The French Quarter

The French Quarter (Vieux Carré) is New Orleans' oldest neighborhood and the heart of its cultural identity. Walking through the French Quarter feels like stepping back in time, with historic buildings featuring ornate iron balconies, courtyards, and architecture dating back to the 1700s. Royal Street is lined with art galleries, antique shops, and specialty boutiques perfect for souvenir hunting and browsing.

Bourbon Street is famous for its nightlife, live music venues, and bars, though it can be overwhelming with crowds and noise. Many visitors prefer the quieter, more refined atmosphere of the French Quarter's residential streets and smaller squares.

Jackson Square and St. Louis Cathedral

At the heart of the French Quarter sits Jackson Square, a historic plaza featuring the stunning St. Louis Cathedral, one of the oldest cathedrals in the United States. The cathedral's white-and-gold interior is beautiful and open to the public (though respectful dress is expected). The square itself is lined with artists selling portraits and artwork, street musicians performing, and shops selling everything from pralines to voodoo dolls.

On clear days, the view of the Mississippi River from Jackson Square is breathtaking. The surrounding buildings include the Cabildo (Spanish colonial government building) and the Presbytère, both now museums worth exploring if you have time.

Café Du Monde and Beignets

No New Orleans experience is complete without beignets and chicory coffee at the legendary Café Du Monde. This establishment has been serving beignets since 1862, and it's an absolute must-visit. Arrive early or late to avoid crowds, as this spot is perpetually busy with tourists and locals alike. Warning: beignets are delicious but messy. The powdered sugar will coat your clothes, so wear something you don't mind getting a little dusty, and enjoy every bite.

Cemetery Tours and Haunted History

New Orleans' above-ground cemeteries, known as "cities of the dead," are fascinating historical sites with unique above-ground tomb architecture. Guided cemetery tours explain the history of these burial grounds and the cultural reasons for this distinctive burial style. These tours are educational and atmospheric, especially at dusk. If you prefer ghost tours instead, numerous tour companies offer evening walks through the French Quarter focusing on the city's haunted history, paranormal stories, and supernatural legends.

Frenchmen Street and Live Jazz

While Bourbon Street offers loud, touristy bars and clubs, Frenchmen Street (just outside the French Quarter) features a more authentic New Orleans music scene with live jazz, blues, and funk in intimate venues. Clubs like The Spotted Cat, Snug Harbor, and Preservation Hall host local musicians playing every night of the week. Frenchmen Street has a more local, less commercialized feel than Bourbon Street—the kind of experience that makes New Orleans music culture so beloved.

The Garden District and Streetcar Ride

The Garden District is a beautiful neighborhood upriver from downtown New Orleans, famous for its grand antebellum mansions set back from tree-lined streets. The best way to experience the neighborhood is via the historic St. Charles Streetcar, which has been operating since 1835. Take the streetcar from downtown, ride past Tulane and Loyola universities, and explore the neighborhood on foot. The architecture is stunning, and the tree-canopy overhead provides shade and atmosphere.

Iconic Restaurants and Dining

New Orleans cuisine is world-famous, and no visit is complete without sampling local dishes. Commander's Palace is an upscale restaurant famous for its turtle soup, bread pudding, and sophisticated Southern cuisine. For a more casual experience, try café au lait and a beignet at Café Du Monde, or grab a po'boy sandwich from a local deli. Crawfish boils, gumbo, jambalaya, and blackened fish are New Orleans specialties found throughout the city.

National WWII Museum

The National World War II Museum is located in the Warehouse District and is one of the finest museums in the United States. Exhibits cover all aspects of World War II with interactive displays, personal artifacts, and comprehensive historical information. Plan for at least two to three hours to explore the museum properly. Even if you're not a history buff, the museum's presentation and collection are impressive and engaging.

Mardi Gras World

Mardi Gras World offers a behind-the-scenes look at how the elaborate floats used in Mardi Gras parades are created and stored. You'll see massive float sculptures, learn about the tradition of Mardi Gras, and understand the artistry involved in this famous celebration. Even outside of actual Mardi Gras season, the museum is fascinating and gives insight into New Orleans culture.

Pre-Cruise Preparation Tips

If you're exploring the night before your cruise departure, remember not to overindulge. You'll want to get adequate sleep before your early morning at the port. Heavy meals and too much alcohol the night before can leave you exhausted and uncomfortable during embarkation day. Wear comfortable walking shoes if you're exploring on foot—the French Quarter and surrounding neighborhoods are best seen while wandering. Bring sunscreen and stay hydrated.

At Ben's Travel, we believe that your cruise vacation should include memorable time in New Orleans itself, not just the ship and Caribbean destinations. Our travel specialists can help you plan pre- and post-cruise accommodations, provide detailed neighborhood guides, make restaurant recommendations, and arrange activities that complement your cruise experience perfectly. Contact Ben's Travel today to start planning your complete New Orleans vacation.