My wife and I just visited New Orleans for our 12 year wedding anniversary. We experienced the romantic, historic and adventurous sides of New Orleans. Not the party scene many people typically write and share. These are the places we visited and recommend for any couple wanting to see a more classy / family friendly side of New Orleans.
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1. New Orleans Botanical Garden:
The New Orleans Botanical Garden is a place of serene beauty and romance. The gardens are wonderfully maintained and they offer a variety of gardens containing many types of flowers, plants, sculptures and more.
Watch our video here:
Find out all the info about the garden in our full article here.
2. Riverboat / Steamboat Cruise:
The River Cruises in New Orleans should not be missed. They have the Natchez which is a Steamboat, and they have the City of New Orleans Riverboat. We rode on the City of New Orleans Jazz Brunch Cruise. It included a historic narrated tour, a live jazz band, and a delicious brunch. Find out all the info in our full article.
3. City Experiences Hop on Hop Off Bus Tour :
The City Experience Bus Tour is a must when visiting New Orleans. It’s a great way to start your adventure. The bus takes you on a guided tour of the all areas of the city. You can hop off and hop on any time during the tours and multiple buses run each day. Find out all the info in our article here.
4. Cajun Encounters Swamp Tour:
Looking for an adventure like no other? Check out the Cajun Encounters Swamp Tour. They do a wonderful job taking you through the swamps of Louisiana to see many wild animals including Alligators, Raccoons, Turtles and more.
Check out our video:
It was very informative and fun! Find out all the info in our full article.
5. Houmas House Plantation
Learn about New Orleans History through the Houma House plantation tour, River Museum, enjoy delicious food in the Dixie cafe / Carriage House and enjoy beautiful Gardens surrounding the plantation and stay the night at one of their cozy cottages.
Check out our Houmas House Video here:
The Houmas House has so many things to see and do near New Orleans.
Find out more info in our full article with everything you need to know about the Houma house.
6. National WWII Museum:
Delve into the fascinating history of World War II at the National WWII Museum. This state-of-the-art museum features immersive exhibits, personal stories, and artifacts that provide a comprehensive look at the war’s impact on the world.
Check out our video here:
Find out more info in the article here.
7. Bike around New Orleans on the Nola Bikes.
You can easily rent electric bicycles all over New Orleans. You can rent them for a small fee via an app. It’s a fun way to explore the city. Find out all the info in our article (coming soon)
8. Enjoy the Beautiful Garden District :
Take a stroll through the Garden District. You can enjoy the beautiful architecture, historic homes, and find some amazing restaurants while exploring the garden district. You can explore it via a walk, a streetcar ride, a bus tour or a bike ride.
9. Have a romantic dinner at San Lorenzo Restaurant in the St. Vincent Hotel:
There are many options for great food across New Orleans. One of them we loved and chose for our anniversary dinner was the San Lorenzo restaurant within the St. Vincent Hotel. The indoor and outdoor seating areas were beautiful, the food was delicious and the service was great!
Check out our San Lorenzo video here:
Find out all info in our foodie review article.
10. Explore the French Quarter:
No trip to New Orleans is complete without exploring the iconic French Quarter. Stroll through the narrow streets, admire the beautiful architecture, and soak up the lively atmosphere. Don’t miss the chance to visit Jackson Square, the heart of the French Quarter, where street performers and artists gather.
11. Get a delicious treat at Café du Monde:
Indulge in the quintessential New Orleans experience by savoring beignets at Café du Monde. This historic café has been serving up these mouthwatering treats since 1862, and it’s a must-visit for any food lover. They have multiple locations and they all serve the classic delicious beignets.
Watch the video here:
12. Tour the St. Louis Cemetery No. 1:
Visit one of New Orleans’ historic cemeteries, St. Louis Cemetery No. 1. Known for its elaborate above-ground tombs, this burial ground offers a glimpse into the city’s unique burial traditions and cultural heritage.
Find out more info in our article.
13. Frenchmen Street:
Experience the vibrant live music scene of New Orleans at Frenchmen Street. This bustling thoroughfare is lined with jazz clubs, bars, and restaurants, where you can dance, sing, and revel in the city’s infectious rhythm.
14. Oak Alley Plantation:
Embark on a day trip to Oak Alley Plantation, located just outside of New Orleans. Walk along the breathtaking avenue of oak trees, tour the antebellum mansion, and gain insight into the region’s plantation era.
Watch our video about the Oak Alley Plantation:
Check out our article about the Oak Alley Plantation.
15. Streetcar Ride:
Hop on one of the city’s iconic streetcars for a nostalgic journey. The St. Charles Line, in particular, offers a picturesque ride through historic neighborhoods, showcasing the city’s unique charm.
Check out our Street Car Video here:
Find out about riding the Streetcars and the Jazzy Pass here.
Bonus: Bourbon Street
Most people know New Orleans from Bourbon Street so we didn’t include it in our 15 list. But it can be worth a stop here. It can get pretty wild here so If the party scene is not for you everything else in our list will be a great fit.
We still recommend stopping by Bourbon street during the day at least. It can still get wild but the live music is great.
Check out our video of Bourbon Street here:
Conclusion:
New Orleans is a city that thrives on its vibrant culture, music, and cuisine. With its rich history, unique architecture, and lively atmosphere, the “Big Easy” offers an abundance of sights and activities for visitors to explore. Whether you’re wandering the streets of the French Quarter, enjoying live jazz, or immersing yourself in the city’s culinary delights, New Orleans promises an unforgettable experience filled with warmth and charm.