New Orleans, a city known for its vibrant energy, rich history, and captivating culture. From its iconic jazz music to its mouth-watering Creole cuisine, NOLA is a destination that has something for everyone. However, even in a city as lively as New Orleans, sometimes you just need to escape the hustle and bustle. Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway, a family-friendly adventure, or a solo retreat, we've got you covered. Here are 7 ways to escape in New Orleans.
Escape the City: Explore the Great Outdoors
Just a short drive from the city, you'll find plenty of opportunities to connect with nature. The Honey Island Swamp, located about an hour outside of New Orleans, offers guided tours through its pristine wetlands. Take a boat ride through the swamp and spot alligators, birds, and other wildlife in their natural habitat. If you're looking for something a bit more leisurely, City Park is a 1,300-acre oasis in the heart of the city, featuring walking trails, lakes, and plenty of picnic areas.
Best Outdoor Escapes in New Orleans
- Honey Island Swamp: Take a guided tour through the wetlands and spot alligators and birds.
- City Park: Explore the walking trails, lakes, and picnic areas in this 1,300-acre park.
- Fontainebleau State Park: Go hiking, biking, or kayaking in this scenic park located just outside of New Orleans.
Escape the Crowds: Visit a Local Museum
While many visitors flock to the National WWII Museum and the New Orleans Museum of Art, there are plenty of other museums in the city that offer a more low-key experience. The New Orleans Museum of Art's Besthoff Sculpture Garden is a serene oasis featuring over 60 sculptures amidst beautiful gardens and walking paths. The Ogden Museum of Southern Art is another hidden gem, showcasing a diverse collection of Southern art from the 19th century to the present.
Best Museums to Escape the Crowds in New Orleans
- Besthoff Sculpture Garden: Explore the serene gardens and walking paths featuring over 60 sculptures.
- Ogden Museum of Southern Art: Discover a diverse collection of Southern art from the 19th century to the present.
- New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum: Learn about the history and culture of voodoo in this unique museum.
Escape Reality: Experience the Magic of New Orleans
New Orleans is a city that thrives on magic and mystery. Take a stroll through the French Quarter and discover the city's vibrant street performers, from musicians to magicians. Visit the New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum to learn about the history and culture of voodoo in the city. If you're looking for something a bit more unusual, take a ghost tour and explore the city's haunted history.
Best Ways to Experience the Magic of New Orleans
- Take a ghost tour: Explore the city's haunted history and visit famous haunted sites.
- Visit the New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum: Learn about the history and culture of voodoo in the city.
- Stroll through the French Quarter: Discover the city's vibrant street performers and live music.
Escape the Noise: Find a Quiet Retreat
Sometimes, all you need is a quiet retreat from the hustle and bustle of the city. The Ritz-Carlton New Orleans offers a luxurious spa and wellness center, complete with a rooftop pool and fitness center. If you're looking for something a bit more budget-friendly, the Columns Hotel features a peaceful courtyard and a relaxing bar area.
Best Quiet Retreats in New Orleans
- The Ritz-Carlton New Orleans: Treat yourself to a luxurious spa and wellness center.
- The Columns Hotel: Relax in the peaceful courtyard and bar area.
- Hotel Monteleone: Enjoy the famous Carousel Bar & Lounge and take a stroll through the historic hotel.
Escape the Ordinary: Take a Food Tour
New Orleans is a city that's all about the food, and taking a food tour is a great way to experience the city's culinary delights. From beignets to gumbo, and from po' boys to jambalaya, there's no shortage of delicious food to try. Take a tour of the French Quarter and sample the city's famous cuisine, or visit the famous Cafe du Monde for a plate of beignets.
Best Food Tours in New Orleans
- Take a tour of the French Quarter: Sample the city's famous cuisine and visit historic restaurants.
- Visit Cafe du Monde: Try a plate of beignets and cafe au lait.
- Go on a Brewery Tour: Sample local beers and learn about the brewing process.
Escape the City Limits: Take a Day Trip
Sometimes, the best way to escape the city is to leave it altogether. Take a day trip to the nearby town of Baton Rouge, where you can visit the Louisiana State Capitol and explore the city's vibrant arts scene. If you're looking for something a bit more adventurous, take a trip to the Gulf Coast and visit the beautiful beaches and barrier islands.
Best Day Trips from New Orleans
- Baton Rouge: Visit the Louisiana State Capitol and explore the city's arts scene.
- Gulf Coast: Relax on the beautiful beaches and barrier islands.
- Oak Alley Plantation: Take a tour of the historic plantation and explore the stunning grounds.
Escape to a Different Era: Visit a Historic Mansion
New Orleans is a city with a rich history, and visiting a historic mansion is a great way to experience the city's past. Take a tour of the stunning Oak Alley Plantation, with its picturesque Greek Revival architecture and stunning grounds. If you're looking for something a bit more haunted, visit the LaLaurie House, which is said to be one of the most haunted houses in the city.
Best Historic Mansions to Visit in New Orleans
- Oak Alley Plantation: Take a tour of the stunning Greek Revival architecture and grounds.
- LaLaurie House: Visit the infamous mansion and learn about its haunted history.
- Longue Vue House and Gardens: Explore the stunning estate and beautiful gardens.
We hope you've enjoyed our guide to escaping in New Orleans! Whether you're looking for a romantic getaway, a family-friendly adventure, or a solo retreat, there's something for everyone in this vibrant city. So why wait? Book your trip to New Orleans today and start exploring!
What is the best way to get around New Orleans?
+The best way to get around New Orleans is by walking or taking a streetcar. The city's historic neighborhoods are highly walkable, and the streetcar system is an affordable and convenient way to get around.
What is the best time to visit New Orleans?
+The best time to visit New Orleans is from September to November or from March to May, when the weather is mild and the crowds are smaller. Avoid visiting during the peak summer months or during Mardi Gras, when the city can get very crowded.
What is the best way to experience the magic of New Orleans?
+The best way to experience the magic of New Orleans is to take a stroll through the French Quarter and explore the city's vibrant street performers, live music, and haunted history. You can also take a ghost tour or visit the New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum to learn more about the city's mystical side.