4 Best Things for Solo Travelers to Do When Visiting New Orleans
Traveling to New Orleans on your own can be an exciting, immersive experience. From strolling through the centuries old buildings in the French Quarter to savoring classic cuisine, solo travelers can see the city’s landmarks, rich traditions and stunning architecture up close.
When traveling on your own, these are some of the best activities you can do while in New Orleans.
Gambling by Land or River
New Orleans offers a diverse gambling scene, including traditional casinos, riverboat gaming and other forms of gaming entertainment.
Located in the heart of the city, Harrah’s New Orleans, soon to be renamed Caesars New Orleans, is the premier casino to visit. It offers a wide range of gaming options, including poker rooms, slot machines and table games. While traveling solo, you can also access online casinos after a long day of exploration. According to gambling expert Vlad Grindu, the top online casinos in 2024 offer more variety than traditional casinos, allowing you to play different variations of popular classics like blackjack, slots and poker.
Riverboat casinos are a popular form of gambling in Louisiana. These floating casinos allow guests to enjoy views of the Mississippi River while placing bets. The popular riverboat gaming choices in the Big Easy are Treasure Chest Casino and The Belle of New Orleans.
Exploring the French Quarter
Established in 1718, the French Quarter has a unique blend of American, French, Creole and Spanish influences. Also known as Vieux Carré, the French Quarter is the oldest neighborhood in New Orleans, known for its cultural richness and historical significance. With colorful facades, lush courtyards and wrought-iron balconies, the architecture in this area makes for some must-see landmarks.
Must-visit places for solo travelers in the French Quarter include:
St Louis Cathedral: This cathedral is adjacent to Jackson Square and is one of the oldest active Roman Catholic churches in the United States. It is a must-see with its beautiful interior and Gothic Revival architecture.
The Cabildo: Now a museum that shows the history of New Orleans, this building was the site of the Louisiana Purchase transfer in 1803. Travelers can find this building located next to St. Louis Cathedral.
The Presbytère: This museum focuses on the history of New Orleans, which also includes the impact of Hurricane Katrina and Mardi Gras celebrations.
Jackson Square: This park is the heart of New Orleans as it is a hotspot for street performers and is surrounded by historic buildings listed above.
Bourbon Street: This is the hub of nightlife where travelers can find clubs, bars and live music venues.
Royal Street: This stretch is known for its street musicians, antique shops and art galleries.
Get Outdoors
Solo Travelers can also enjoy spending time outdoors, exploring New Orleans City Park, Audubon Park or strolling along the Mississippi Riverfront. Depending on what you’re in the mood for, other outdoor activities can include renting bikes and exploring Lafitte Greenway, kayaking the swamp or taking a walking tour.
Participating in local festivals and events is another option for solo travelers. There’s always a festival going on in New Orleans, whether it’s celebrating jazz or the poboy sandwich. If you’re a jazz fan, Louis Armstrong Park honors the jazz legend and includes Congo Square, a historic meeting place for slaves in the 1800s.
Savor the Cuisine
New Orleans boasts a rich culinary heritage blending Spanish, Creole, African and French traditions, featuring unique cooking techniques and the use of bold spices. Some significant food dishes include jambalaya, beignets, gumbo, poboys and muffulettas.
Gumbo is a hearty stew that has a variety of seafood and meats served over rice cooked in a flavorful broth. Jambalaya is a paella-like mix of rice, spices and proteins made in one pot. Poboys are French bread sandwiches filled with different ingredients like roast beef or fried shrimp. Another sandwich, the muffuletta, is popular in New Orleans and among visitors and is made using a round loaf of bread filled with layers of cheese, olive salad and meats. For dessert, a deep-fried pastry covered in powdered sugar called the beignet is a beloved treat.
Solo travelers can explore the sites, sounds and flavors of New Orleans, including trying cooking classes, going on food tours and dining at local restaurants. New Orleans offers a unique blend of history, culture and entertainment that promises an unforgettable adventure for solo travelers.
