There are so many fun things to do in New Orleans when you are on a cruise. There are many attractions, and tourist activities for everyone to enjoy. If you are going to visit for a week or just a day, there are plenty of fun things to do. New Orleans is a city that rewards curiosity. It’s not just a place you visit—it’s a place you feel, hear, and taste. With its rich history, legendary food, and ever-present music, a single day in the Crescent City can be packed with unforgettable experiences. Here’s how to make the most of one day in New Orleans.
French Quarter Foundations
Start your day in the heart of the city: the French Quarter. Begin with breakfast at one of the city’s iconic cafés. Café du Monde is the classic choice, where powdered sugar–covered beignets and strong chicory coffee have been a tradition for generations. If you prefer a quieter start, nearby coffee shops and bakeries offer hearty Southern breakfasts and a calmer atmosphere.
After breakfast, stroll through Jackson Square. Framed by historic buildings, street performers, artists, and fortune tellers, the square captures the soul of New Orleans. Step inside St. Louis Cathedral, the oldest continuously active Roman Catholic cathedral in the United States, for a moment of reflection and history.
From there, wander the surrounding French Quarter streets. Royal Street is ideal for antique shops, art galleries, and beautiful architecture, while Bourbon Street—still calm in the morning—offers a glimpse of its legendary nightlife before the crowds arrive.
Culture and History
As the morning continues, explore one of the nearby museums. The Historic New Orleans Collection offers free exhibits that dive into the city’s unique blend of French, Spanish, African, and Caribbean influences. Alternatively, take a guided walking tour focused on history, architecture, or even voodoo folklore to better understand the layers that make New Orleans unlike any other American city.
Before lunch, consider hopping on the St. Charles Streetcar. The ride itself is a moving history lesson, gliding past grand oak trees, stately mansions, and old universities. Even a short ride gives you a sense of the city beyond the Quarter.
A Taste of the City
For lunch, New Orleans delivers in a big way. Try a classic po’boy—stuffed with fried shrimp, oysters, or roast beef—or sit down for gumbo or jambalaya at a neighborhood restaurant. Seafood is a highlight here, and even casual spots often serve meals that rival fine dining elsewhere.
After lunch, take a leisurely walk through the Garden District if you rode the streetcar. Known for its elegant homes and quiet charm, this area contrasts beautifully with the energy of the French Quarter. Lafayette Cemetery No. 1, with its above-ground tombs, offers a fascinating look at local burial traditions.
Head back toward the river and visit the French Market, one of the oldest public markets in the country. Browse local crafts, spices, and souvenirs, or grab a refreshing drink to combat the Louisiana heat. From there, stroll along the Mississippi Riverfront and watch steamboats pass by, reminding you of the city’s historic role as a major port.
Music, Food, and Nightlife
As evening falls, New Orleans truly comes alive. Start with dinner at a restaurant that showcases Creole or Cajun cuisine—think étouffée, red beans and rice, or blackened fish. Pair your meal with a classic cocktail like a Sazerac or a Hurricane.
After dinner, follow the sound of music. Frenchmen Street is a favorite for live jazz, blues, and funk in more intimate venues. Unlike larger clubs, many spots here feature local musicians playing nightly, giving you an authentic taste of New Orleans’ musical heritage.
End your day with a relaxed walk under glowing streetlights, soaking in the sounds, scents, and spirit of the city. One day may not be enough to see it all, but it’s more than enough to fall in love with New Orleans.
Hop On Hop Off
These tour buses are available at 18 stops around New Orleans. The buses feature climate-controlled lower decks and open-air top decks. The entire loop is 2 hours, and you can get off the bus at anytime to continue exploring the city by foot. The tour visits places such as Canal Street, Jackson Square, the World War II Museum and the French Market. With your “hop-on hop-off pass”, you can also enjoy discounts at the Basin Street Station gift shop. With each “hop-on hop-off ticket” there is a self-guided Cemetery tour. Buses depart every 30 minutes from each stop.
NOMA and its Sculpture Garden is free to visit and every Wednesday, the New Orleans Museum of Art is free to all Louisiana residents.
There’s so much music to enjoy in the historic Jackson Square, right in the heart of the French Quarter. It is always 100% free!
It’s a beautiful sight to sit on the levee and watch the boats cruise the Mississippi. It’s especially beautiful during the sunset. You’re allowed to pack bring food and alcoholic beverages, but no glass bottles are allowed.
Cruise From New Orleans
New Orleans is the jumping off point for multiple cruise destinations these days. It may be a traditional Mississippi river cruise up the river, or your departure port if you’re leaving on a carnival or NCL cruise to the Caribbean. It’s a spot not to be missed. Between the antebellum buildings and the unique French Quarter of the city. You’re definitely in for a treat both visually and for your palate. New Orleans is famous for things like Beignets, and drive thru daiquiris stops (but I don’t recommend that). There are amazing oyster bars. And when COVID is over, I’m sure the jazz and zydeco music of the city will return.
I’m sure you’re going to end up with some beads while you are in New Orleans, but you have to earn them. You can get them almost any time of the year, even if it’s not Mardi Gras. There’s lots of unique things to see there’s such as Ripley’s Believe It or Not. Emerald Lagasse has a couple of restaurants there. A lot of famous chefs have restaurants in the area so check that out.
