New Orleans is a city full of fun things to do and if you’re wanting to explore the outdoors you’ve come to the right place. When Hotels.com asked me to share some of my favorite New Orleans adventures I immediately compiled a list. From urban hikes, bike riding, and touring a swamp with alligators New Orleans is also full of adventure. Here are some of the best outdoor activities New Orleans has to offer!
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As travel today remains uncertain, please keep your safety and the safety of others in mind. If you’re comfortable with traveling at this time, please do so responsibly and within regulation as any travel is at your own risk.
If you do decide to travel at this time, here are some recommendations:
- Wear a face mask.
- Bring hand sanitizer and wash your hands on a regular basis.
- Check official websites before your trip to stay up-to-date on policies, closures, and the status of local businesses.
- Book a hotel with free cancellation in case you need to change your plans at the last minute.
Best Outdoor Activities in New Orleans
Ready for adventures in New Orleans? Keep ready for some ideas to add to your itinerary.
Go for a Hike
There are hiking trails in New Orleans? You can go on an urban hike in Crescent Park. If you don’t have a rental car this is the easiest “hike” to get to from the French Market District. It’s a great place to feel like your a bit way from the city without having to leave the city
Visit City Park
City Park is the largest outdoor “green space” in New Orleans at 1,300 acres! The area is huge and the best way to explore it is with a bicycle so you can cover lots of ground. However, if you’re short on time do check out the Singing Oak Tree. This tree has wind chimes that “sing” and is a cool spot just to hang for a bit.
Tour a Swamp
What’s so special about a swamp? The alligators! If you’re looking for an alligator tour, New Orleans is just the place. This is for the adventurers who really want to get out on the water for an experience they won’t forget.
Visit the Cemeteries
Would you visit a cemetery? This might sound creepy but New Orleans cemeteries are so widely visited there are even tours! In fact, if you plan on visiting St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, be sure to have a guide because you can’t visit without one. It’s the oldest and most famous cemetery in New Orleans.
Tour The City Via Bicycle
New Orleans is perfect for cycling! The city is flat and there are tons of bike lanes. It’s easy to rent a bicycle from one of the bicycle rentals in the French Quarter. Or you can go on a guided tour.
Renting a bicycle is a great way to see the city especially if you don’t plan to rent a car.
Walk Around the Garden District
Some of the most beautiful houses in New Orleans are located in the Garden District. Take a streetcar to St. Charles Street and stroll the neighborhood. These houses are charming and this makes for casual outdoor activity.
Where to Stay in New Orleans
If you’re looking for where to stay during your New Orleans adventure there are plenty of hotels in the French Quarter and throughout the city. The French Quarter is where a lot of action happens and is central to many activities. If you’re looking for something more upscale head to Uptown or the Garden District. And if you’re wanting to opt for something a bit more hip check out the Lower Garden District.
Enjoy your trip to New Orleans!
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