Embrace the Outdoors: New Orleans Outdoor Activities for Sunshine Seekers

New Orleans' Favorite Outdoor Activities

Explore City Park: Spend a day wandering through City Park, one of the nation's oldest urban parks, and enjoy attractions like the Botanical Garden, the Sculpture Garden and Storyland enchanted playground.

Walk or Bike along the Mississippi Riverfront: Take a leisurely stroll or bike ride along the scenic Mississippi Riverfront, which offers stunning views of the river and the city skyline.

Picnic in Audubon Park: Pack a picnic and head to Audubon Park, a picturesque green space featuring lush gardens, oak trees and walking paths perfect for a relaxing day outdoors.

Swamp Tour: Take a swamp tour to explore the unique ecosystems of the Louisiana bayous and encounter wildlife like alligators, birds and turtles in their natural habitat.

Kayak or Paddleboard on Bayou St. John: Rent a kayak or paddleboard and explore Bayou St. John, a scenic waterway that winds through the heart of New Orleans.

Visit Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve: Discover the natural beauty and cultural history of Louisiana's wetlands at Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve, which offers hiking trails, boardwalks and educational exhibits.

Bike the Lafitte Greenway: visit Rent a bike and ride along the Lafitte Greenway, a 2.6-mile linear park that connects Mid-City to the French Quarter, passing through neighborhoods, parks and cultural landmarks along the way.

Take a Garden District Walking Tour: Explore the historic Garden District on foot and admire the stunning architecture of its antebellum mansions, lush gardens and tree-lined streets.

Go Fishing: Cast a line and enjoy fishing in the waters of Lake Pontchartrain, Lake Borgne or the Gulf of Mexico, where you can catch a variety of fish species year-round.

Play Golf: Tee off at one of New Orleans' scenic golf courses, such as Audubon Park Golf Course or Bayou Oaks at City Park, and enjoy a round of golf surrounded by beautiful landscapes.

Attend an Outdoor Festival or Concert: Check out one of the many outdoor festivals or concerts held throughout the year in New Orleans, including the French Quarter Festival and Jazz Fest.

Horseback Riding: Explore Audubon Park in New Orleans on horseback with a guided ride around the beautiful park.

Relax at the Beach: Take a day trip to the nearby beaches along the Gulf Coast, such as Grand Isle or Biloxi Beach, and soak up the sun on sandy shores.

Garden District Bike Tour: Join a guided bike tour of the Garden District and learn about its history, architecture and famous residents while cruising past historic homes and landmarks.

Play Disc Golf: Try your hand at disc golf at City Park's 18-hole course, where you can enjoy a challenging game amid beautiful surroundings.

The diverse array of New Orleans outdoor activities provides an enticing blend of adventure, relaxation and cultural immersion for visitors of all ages and interests. From serene picnics in City Park to thrilling swamp tours, there's something to delight every outdoor enthusiast and ensure an unforgettable experience in the vibrant city of New Orleans.

This trip report is part of our ongoing series on travel to New Orleans. In need of further inspiration? Check out Danielle Feder’s guide, New Orleans 4-Day Itinerary.