Free Stuff To Do in New Orleans: 21 Can’t-Miss Activities You Won’t Believe Are Free!

This isn’t your average neighborhood park—it’s one of the largest urban parks in the U.S., and it’s packed with shaded walking paths, wide-open green spaces, moss-draped oaks, and lagoons where ducks and swans like to show off. Bring the stroller, scooters, or just your best walking shoes—there’s plenty of room to roam. Parking is free and easy to find in multiple lots throughout the park, especially near the Museum of Art and the big playgrounds.

Jackson Square is like a living postcard, with St. Louis Cathedral as the dramatic backdrop and local artists lining the fences with their latest work. You’ll find street performers, brass bands, tarot readers, and people-watching galore. It’s compact enough for a quick stroll, but lively enough to stay awhile. Best part? There’s a public restroom at the nearby French Market, and metered street parking is available if you get there early.

This hidden-in-plain-sight greenway connects the French Quarter to Mid-City with a flat, stroller-friendly path perfect for biking, walking, or letting kids burn off steam. Along the way, you’ll spot murals, play structures, and maybe even a local fitness class. Free street parking can be found near the Bayou St. John end or along some Mid-City side streets—just check the signs.

Need a break from the French Quarter crowds? Woldenberg Park runs right along the river and gives you breezy views, grassy picnic spots, and prime boat-watching—especially when the steamboat Natchez rolls by. It’s also a good place for kids to run wild without running into traffic. Bring a blanket or grab a bench, and enjoy the sounds of jazz drifting in from nearby performers. Street parking nearby is metered; your best bet is to go early or park at the nearby French Market lot.

Swampy, serene, and super underrated—this park feels like a world away, but it’s only about 30 minutes from downtown. The boardwalk trails at the Barataria Preserve section are stroller-friendly and put you face-to-face with birds, turtles, and maybe even a gator (safely from a distance, of course). There’s a visitor center with maps and restrooms, and parking is free. Perfect for families who want a breath of fresh air without an all-day commitment.

You don’t have to look far—musicians, magicians, tap dancers, and human statues are part of the everyday charm of the French Quarter. Head toward Royal Street or Decatur near Jackson Square to find the action. The kids will love the show, and there’s no fee unless you want to toss a tip. Just remember it gets crowded mid-day, so come early to grab a shady spot. Parking is tricky—try the French Market lot or walk in from further out.

Royal Street is where class meets chaos—in the best way. It’s full of quirky antique shops, art galleries, and street bands that draw their own sidewalk crowds. Even if you’re not buying anything, it’s a feast for the senses. Pedestrian-friendly (especially when parts close to cars on weekends), with plenty of photo ops and rest stops. Paid parking is available nearby, but fills fast—walk from Jackson Square if you can.

Yes, that Bourbon Street. But if you go during the day, it’s surprisingly mellow, especially toward the upper end near Canal Street. You’ll still catch live music pouring from open doors and funky sights, but without the night-time party chaos. It’s loud, it’s colorful, and it’s part of the full NOLA experience. Keep the visit short with kids, and park in a nearby garage or lot—street parking here is rare.

Tucked along the river with skyline views that seriously deliver, Crescent Park is a quieter alternative to Woldenberg. It has a cool, industrial vibe with wide walking paths, plenty of shade, and room to stretch out. There are picnic tables, a dog run, and Insta-worthy views from the “rusty rainbow” pedestrian bridge. Park near the Piety Street entrance or the French Market lot for easiest access.

This open-air garden near the New Orleans Museum of Art is one of the coolest free spots in the city. Think massive modern sculptures, mossy oaks, reflection pools, and winding paths that feel almost magical. It’s stroller-friendly and a hit with kids who love exploring the art up close. Open daily and adjacent to City Park—make a morning of it. Free parking is available in the park lots nearby.

If you’ve ever wanted to walk through the life story of a cocktail (yes, really), this place nails it. Sazerac House isn’t just for booze buffs—it’s a free, interactive journey through the history of New Orleans’ drinking culture, with exhibits you can touch, sniff, and sip your way through. You do need to book a timed reservation online, but once you’re in, it’s all free. Think slick displays, digital bartenders, and a peek at how bitters are made (it smells amazing). It’s a quick walk from the Quarter, but if you’re driving, look for a paid garage nearby—street parking is tight and often full by mid-morning.

Step inside and boom—you’re suddenly time-traveling through NOLA’s wild, weird, and wonderful past. The Historic New Orleans Collection somehow manages to feel both cozy and deep, like if a history museum had great lighting and knew how to keep things fresh. The best part? No tickets, no reservations, no catch—it’s free, every day. You’ll find rotating exhibits on everything from New Orleans jazz legends to hurricane archives, and the museum staff are genuinely friendly. It’s tucked into Royal Street in the French Quarter, so it’s perfect for a spontaneous stop. Parking in this area is basically a contact sport—try the French Market lot or nearby paid garages unless you want to circle for half an hour.

On days when the heat has you begging for AC or your kids need something that doesn’t involve sugar or screens, the public library hits the spot. The main branch is bright, welcoming, and surprisingly full of things to do—free kids’ programs, community exhibits, seasonal crafts, and a solid lineup of author talks and workshops. You don’t have to whisper, either. It’s the kind of place where you can recharge your brain, cool off, and maybe learn something unexpected. If you’re driving, metered parking along Loyola is usually your best shot, and there’s a pay lot across the street if you’re planning to hang out a while.

Even if you’re not the religious type, walking into St Louis Cathedral is one of those “whoa” moments. With its soaring ceilings, soft light, and centuries-old presence in the heart of Jackson Square, it’s the kind of place that makes you stop talking without realizing it. You can go in for free—just be respectful if there’s a service or tour happening—and it’s worth a few quiet minutes just to soak it all in. The cathedral still feels very lived-in, not just for show, which makes the experience hit differently. Since it’s right in the French Quarter, you’re better off walking from wherever you’re staying or using one of the paid lots along Decatur—street parking in this zone is basically fantasy.

Frenchmen Street isn’t some hidden gem—it’s where the locals actually go when they want music without the tourist markup. You’ll hear saxophones wailing on the sidewalk, see impromptu brass bands popping up at the corner of Chartres and Frenchmen, and catch full sets spilling out of tiny clubs. The sweet spot is around 6–8 p.m.—early enough to skip the cover charges and still catch the groove. Best part? The street itself is a show. Dance if you want, linger without pressure, and move on when the vibe shifts.

If you’re driving, good luck with street parking—it fills up fast. Best bet is a paid lot nearby on Elysian Fields or park farther out and walk in. It’s safe, but this area gets packed, especially on weekends.

Here’s the deal: Mardi Gras isn’t just one weekend or one parade—it’s a multi-week marathon of glitter, beads, and pure mayhem. And yes, watching the parades is totally free. All you have to do is show up along the official route with a chair, cooler, or a whole picnic setup like the locals do. The big routes stretch through Uptown, Mid-City, and sometimes downtown—check the map in advance so you’re not stuck scrambling. If you’ve got kids, go earlier in the day or aim for family-friendly krewes like Nyx or Tucks.

Parking turns into full-contact sport during Carnival season. Park several blocks away in a legal zone and walk it in. You do not want a ticket or tow messing up your bead haul.

This is New Orleans’ ultimate moving party—and you don’t need a wristband or RSVP. Second Lines are neighborhood parades hosted by social aid & pleasure clubs, usually on Sunday afternoons. Expect loud brass bands, dancing in the streets, and locals dressed in suits and feathers like it’s the Met Gala—but with more swagger. Anyone can follow along—just don’t cut in front of the club or get in the band’s way. Bring water, wear comfy shoes, and be ready to dance.

Routes change weekly, so check local listings the night before. Parking? It depends on the neighborhood, but street parking is usually doable if you arrive a bit early. Just don’t block driveways or park on medians—NOLA parking enforcement does not play.

October in New Orleans means the air is cooler (kind of), and Lafayette Square turns into blues central. This fest brings in legit performers—think Grammy nominees and local legends—and it’s totally free to attend. Bring a blanket or a lawn chair, grab some BBQ if you’re hungry (or pack your own snacks), and soak up hours of music under the oaks. Family-friendly, laid-back, and you can come and go as you please.

If you’re driving, parking near Poydras Street fills quickly. Your best move is a nearby garage or metered spot if you snag one early. Or just rideshare and avoid the headache.

No need to follow a flag-waving guide or stick to a group—New Orleans is built for wandering. In the French Quarter, start around Jackson Square and work your way through Royal and Chartres Streets. You’ll pass wrought-iron balconies, gas lamps, and alleyways that look like something out of a movie (because they usually are). Hit Pirate’s Alley, check out the back of the cathedral, and let your curiosity lead the way. Don’t miss the architectural plaques—every building’s got a story.

In the Garden District, start at Washington and Prytania and just start strolling. This neighborhood is all mansions, ivy-covered fences, and spooky-beautiful cemeteries. You’ll spot homes once owned by Anne Rice, Sandra Bullock, and probably someone else who’s secretly famous. Bring water—shade is hit or miss—and wear comfy shoes. It’s flat, but you’ll rack up steps fast.

Parking in the Quarter is rough. You’re better off walking in from a garage (try the French Market lot). In the Garden District, free residential street parking is usually available a few blocks off Magazine Street, but read the signs carefully—NOLA loves a tow.

Tucked away on Decatur Street, this spot is easy to miss—but if you care at all about the real roots of New Orleans (or just want solid AC and clean restrooms), this place is gold. It’s part museum, part welcome center, and totally free. You’ll find small but detailed exhibits on the city’s Native, French, African, and Spanish roots—and occasional ranger-led programs or walking talks if you time it right. It’s one of those places where 15 minutes can turn into 45 because you didn’t expect to learn that much about pirates or swamps.

It’s close to the French Market, so plan this as a cool-down stop mid-walk. It’s among the best free things to do in New Orleans this weekend. Parking is easiest at—you guessed it—the French Market lot or any paid lot along Elysian Fields. Skip the meters unless you’re only staying for a hot second.

Cemeteries are kind of a thing here—and this one is totally free to enter, unlike the more famous (and more restricted) St. Louis Cemetery No. 1. Located along Esplanade Avenue, St. Louis Cemetery No. 3 is less touristy, more peaceful, and full of above-ground tombs that tell real stories. You can walk in anytime during daylight hours, no walking tours required (although you can always avail of guided tours or search for free tours). Look for the old names, the unique statues, and the family plots that go back generations. It’s eerie but in a calm, history-soaked kind of way—not spooky.

Parking here is easier than most places in the city. There’s usually space along Esplanade or in the side streets nearby, just double-check signage and don’t block a driveway (the usual NOLA rules).