New Orleans is more than the famous French Quarter. It’s full of hidden spots that show off the city’s deep culture. I’ve found some of these hidden gems for you. They’ll take you away from the usual tourist spots and into the heart of the city.
At the New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum, you can learn about Voodoo’s history for just $101. Then, visit Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop, one of the oldest buildings in the U.S1.. You’ll see the city’s beautiful old buildings. Don’t miss the tours that tell stories of NOLA’s graveyards1.
Take a trip to the Steamboat Houses of Doullut, from the early 1900s1. And don’t miss the Chime Tree at The New Orleans Museum Of Art in City Park1. This tree has wind chimes painted on it, hidden among the branches.
For a bit of celebrity history, check out the pyramid tomb in Saint Louis Cemetery No. 11. It’s linked to Nicolas Cage.
New Orleans has so many hidden spots to explore. Discover these local treasures and off-the-beaten-path places. They’ll give you memories that will last a lifetime in the Big Easy.
Explore Offbeat Eateries Beyond the French Quarter
New Orleans is famous for dishes like bananas Foster and oysters Rockefeller. But there’s more to its food scene than that. Places like Mister Mao, Rosalita’s, and Le’s Baguette offer unique tastes you won’t find in the French Quarter2.
Mister Mao: Fusion of Global Flavors and Southern Influences
Mister Mao in Uptown mixes global tastes with a Southern twist3. It serves dishes from Asia, Latin America, and the South. You can try char-grilled octopus, lamb shoulder tagine, or crispy chicken with a spicy glaze.
Rosalita’s: Authentic Mexican Street Food in the Bywater
Rosalita’s in Bywater is a hidden spot for amazing Mexican street food2. It’s known for real tacos, tamales, and other Mexican dishes. The food is fresh and high-quality, making it a unique dining experience.
Le’s Baguette: Uptown Gem for Vietnamese Cuisine
Le’s Baguette in Uptown is a hidden spot for Vietnamese food3. It offers dishes like pho and banh mi with unique flavors. The place has a cozy feel and serves food that’s true to Vietnamese traditions.
Experience the Soul of Jazz in Intimate Venues
New Orleans is the birthplace of jazz, alive with a vibrant music scene. The iconic Preservation Hall is a must-see, but hidden spots truly capture the jazz soul4.
WWOZ’s Live Music Calendar: Your Guide to Local Jazz Shows
WWOZ’s live music calendar is your ticket to New Orleans’ best jazz spots. It lists nightly acts, letting you find intimate venues for real New Orleans jazz4.
New Orleans Jazz Museum: Complimentary Shows and Performances
The New Orleans Jazz Museum offers free shows and performances from Tuesday to Friday at 2 p.m. It’s perfect for families or those on a budget wanting to enjoy New Orleans’ music4.
Neighborhoods in the city are full of hidden jazz spots. Places like the historic Dew Drop Inn and Le Bon Temps Roule offer unique jazz experiences4.
New Orleans has many options for jazz lovers. Whether you want a cozy spot or a lively dive, you can find the soul of jazz in its hidden venues4.
Sip Craft Cocktails at Hidden Bars and Lounges
New Orleans is famous for its lively cocktail culture. It’s known for its mix of innovation and tradition. While Bourbon Street’s neon lights draw big crowds, the city’s hidden spots are where the real magic happens5. These places are the heart of the local cocktail scene, offering unique drinks and a tropical vibe for those who love great taste.
Cane & Table and Peychaud’s: Celebrated Local Bars
Cane & Table in the French Quarter is a top spot for craft cocktails6. It’s cozy, with a plantation-style look, and is known for its fresh, seasonal drinks. Nearby, Peychaud’s is a favorite, celebrating the famous Peychaud’s Bitters used in the Sazerac, New Orleans’ official cocktail6.
Latitude 29 and Manolito: Tropical Drink Havens
If you want a taste of the tropics, check out Latitude 29 and Manolito6. Latitude 29 feels like a tropical island with its bright decor and rum cocktails. Manolito, in the French Quarter, is all about Cuban vibes, with amazing daiquiris and mojitos that bring the Caribbean to you6.
Looking for a classic Sazerac or something tropical? New Orleans’ hidden spots are the place to be56. These secret spots offer a break from the crowds, letting you enjoy top-notch cocktails in a cozy, real setting.
Discover the Charm of Algiers Point
The Steamboat Natchez is a top choice for seeing the Mississippi River. But, there’s another boat that shows a different side of New Orleans. The Canal Ferry takes you on a 30-minute trip across the river to Algiers Point7. This area is close to the French Quarter but feels more relaxed. It’s full of local spots to eat and drink.
The Canal Ferry: Scenic Ride Across the Mississippi River
The Canal Ferry is perfect for a close-up look at the Mississippi River. The 30-minute ride gives you amazing views of New Orleans and its famous bridges8. It’s a calm way to see the city’s riverfront beauty without the crowds.
Jazz Walk of Fame and Algiers Bike Path: Explore on Foot or Bike
Once you’re in Algiers Point, you can walk or bike around. Check out the Jazz Walk of Fame, celebrating New Orleans’ music history. Or, take a bike ride on the Algiers Bike Path. You’ll find cozy cafes, bars, and hidden spots that are a break from the French Quarter’s busy life7.
| Attraction | Description |
|---|---|
| Canal Ferry | Scenic 30-minute ride across the Mississippi River, offering stunning views of the New Orleans skyline and bridges. |
| Jazz Walk of Fame | Honors the city’s rich musical heritage, inviting visitors to explore the neighborhood on foot. |
| Algiers Bike Path | A leisurely route for cycling through the charming streets of Algiers Point, away from the hustle and bustle of the French Quarter. |
Algiers Point is close to the French Quarter but feels very different. It lets visitors dive into local culture and see the city’s hidden gems. With the Canal Ferry, Jazz Walk of Fame, and Algiers Bike Path, it’s a spot you shouldn’t miss in New Orleans87.
Embrace Nature at City Park
New Orleans is known for its vibrant culture, but City Park is a hidden gem for nature lovers and families9. This 1,600-acre park is a lush oasis in the city. It has 24 miles of trails, a beautiful botanical garden, and more10. You can also find a 36-hole golf course and the oldest oak trees in the city10.
There’s so much to do at City Park, from bayou tours to bike rentals10. It’s perfect for both families and couples. The park’s beauty and culture offer a peaceful escape from the city11.
Botanical Garden and Sculpture Garden: Artistic Retreats
City Park is home to two beautiful gardens: the Botanical Garden and the Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden10. The Botanical Garden, started in 1936, shows off Art Deco designs. It’s a quiet place for nature lovers10.
Next to the New Orleans Museum of Art, the Sculpture Garden has over 60 art pieces10. You’ll find everything from modern art to a glass bridge and a mirror maze10.
Storyland and Amusement Park: Family-Friendly Fun
Storyland and the amusement park are must-sees for families10. Storyland, since 1897, is getting a new look and will reopen in September 201910. The amusement park has rides for all ages, making it a fun day out11.
City Park in New Orleans is perfect for a peaceful break or a fun day with the family11. With its beautiful gardens and fun attractions, it’s a refreshing place for everyone11.
Indulge in Beignets at Lesser-Known Spots
When you visit New Orleans, trying the city’s famous new orleans beignets is a must. These sweet French-Creole treats, covered in powdered sugar, are a key part of the local food scene12. While Café du Monde is the top spot for beignets, there are hidden places that offer great alternative to cafe du monde beignet experiences.
Café du Monde in City Park: Beat the Crowds
If you want to skip the long lines at the French Quarter’s Café du Monde, try the City Park location13. It usually has shorter lines, so you can enjoy hot beignets and café au lait easily. Hidden beignet spots new orleans here let you enjoy the beignets in a calm park setting.
Morning Call: Powder-Them-Yourself Beignets
Morning Call, near City Park, is another spot for new orleans beignets. Since 1870, it’s been a favorite for its special beignet experience. Customers can add powdered sugar to the pastries themselves, making it a fun and personal way to enjoy beignets13.
New Orleans also has many hidden spots for beignets. During Mardi Gras, The Vintage on Magazine Street offers a king’s cake beignet, mixing Carnival flavors with the classic beignet13. La Petite Grocery in the Garden District has savory blue crab beignets for those wanting something different13. Hidden beignet spots new orleans let you try this iconic treat in new ways1213.
hidden gems near new orleans
Even if you can’t make it to New Orleans’ famous Mardi Gras, you can still dive into the city’s lively carnival culture all year. Two hidden spots give you a peek behind the scenes of this cherished tradition.
Mardi Gras World: Behind-the-Scenes Tours and Workshops
Mardi Gras World lets you experience New Orleans’ carnival magic all year14. You can join guided tours to see how they make the big parade floats. You might even decorate a float yourself in interactive workshops.
Germaine Cazenave Wells Mardi Gras Museum: Costumes and Traditions
For a closer look at Mardi Gras, visit the Germaine Cazenave Wells Mardi Gras Museum at Arnaud’s restaurant. It’s filled with stunning ball gowns and traditional costumes. Here, you can learn about the history and customs of this New Orleans tradition.
| Attraction | Highlights | Address |
|---|---|---|
| Mardi Gras World | Behind-the-scenes tours, float-making workshops | 1380 Port of New Orleans Pl, New Orleans, LA 70130 |
| Germaine Cazenave Wells Mardi Gras Museum | Costume and tradition exhibits at Arnaud’s restaurant | 813 Bienville St, New Orleans, LA 70112 |
These hidden spots are perfect for both first-timers and locals. They let you explore the deep cultural roots of mardi gras new orleans. Discover the hidden mardi gras attractions new orleans and mardi gras traditions new orleans. Dive into the magic of Mardi Gras all year14.
Upscale Accommodations with Local Flavor
For travelers looking for a luxurious New Orleans stay, two hotels stand out. They offer upscale stays with a local touch: the
Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans
and
The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans
The Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans sits by the Mississippi River. It has stunning views, a heated rooftop pool, and top-notch dining at Chemin à la Mer15. This hotel is a top choice for those wanting a luxury retreat with a New Orleans vibe.
The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans is close to the lively French Quarter. It offers luxury and sophistication. Guests can enjoy the Maison Club rooms, a full-service spa, and the Davenport Lounge for live music15.
Both hotels provide top-notch service and attention to detail. This makes their new orleans accommodations unforgettable15.
| Hotel | Amenities | Unique Features |
|---|---|---|
| Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans | Riverfront views, heated rooftop pool, Chemin à la Mer restaurant | Riverside luxury, acclaimed dining |
| The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans | Newly renovated Maison Club rooms and suites, full-service spa, Davenport Lounge | French Quarter elegance, live music venue |
Looking for a riverside retreat or a French Quarter getaway? These two hotels offer luxury hotels new orleans travelers a unique new orleans accommodations experience15.
Discover Hidden Gems in the Neighborhoods
New Orleans has more than just the famous spots you hear about. It’s full of hidden gems that show off the city’s true culture and spirit16.
Treme Hideaway: Neighborhood Gathering Spot with Live Music
In the historic Treme neighborhood, Treme Hideaway is a place where people come together. It’s known for its soulful vibe and live music from local and national artists16. This cozy spot is a key part of the city’s music scene, featuring blues, jazz, and indie music.
Snake and Jake’s Christmas Club Lounge: Legendary Dive Bar
Snake and Jake’s Christmas Club Lounge is a legendary dive bar in New Orleans. It’s a shack-like place with Christmas lights always on, giving you a peek into the city’s unique spirit17. It’s a spot where you can meet locals or just enjoy the special vibe. Snake and Jake’s is a hidden gem that shows off New Orleans’ neighborhood culture.
Source Links
- https://crawlneworleans.com/new-orleans-best-kept-secrets/
- https://nola.eater.com/maps/best-hidden-hangouts-new-orleans
- https://www.neworleans.com/blog/post/off-the-beaten-path-guide-to-the-french-quarter/
- https://www.bbc.com/travel/article/20240207-an-insiders-guide-to-the-best-live-music-venues-in-new-orleans
- https://www.neworleans.com/blog/post/cozy-bars/
- https://www.neworleans.com/blog/post/craft-cocktail-bar-round-up/
- https://www.maisonpierrelafitte.com/blog/unveiling-new-orleans-hidden-gems-off-the-beaten-path-adventures
- https://booknola.com/hidden-gems-of-new-orleans-explore-beyond-the-french-quarter/
- https://risingrootedyoga.com/new-orleans-2024
- https://countryroadsmagazine.com/travel/getaways/city-park-new-orleans-things-to-do-childrens-museum/
- https://www.bayouswamptours.com/blog/nola-national-parks/
- https://atodmagazine.com/2023/01/15/new-orleans-beyond-beignets/
- https://www.aol.com/7-best-beignet-spots-orleans-100000308.html
- https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbestravelguide/2024/02/22/new-orleans-hidden-travel-gems/
- https://travelaway.me/best-places-stay-new-orleans/
- https://admirenola.com/blog/discovering-the-charm-of-new-orleans-neighborhoods/
- https://www.foratravel.com/the-journal/new-orleans-off-the-beaten-path
