With the rollout of vaccines across the US in full swing, expect New Orleans’ safe reopening guidelines to gradually ease. In the meantime, the city known for its fun parties and vibrant nightlife has adapted as it should. Until that time, what can you do in the city while social distancing and wearing a mask?
New Orleans offers many sights to see and activities to undertake while adhering to health protocols. Here are some options you can enjoy safely in the Big Easy.
French Quarter stroll
Founded by the French in 1718 and one of the oldest neighborhoods of NOLA, the French Quarter is cited as the Crown Jewel of New Orleans.
Take a stroll through the French Quarter and feast your eyes on beautiful homes with multi-level balconies, colored stoops, outdoor patios with bubbling fountains, and quaint shops. Often called Vieux Carré, the neighborhood is bursting with historic landmarks, iconic architecture, and unique Instagrammable spots.
Plan a self-guided walking tour of the French Quarter courtesy of the Historic New Orleans Collection.
Kayak through the swamps
For outdoor fun, kayak through the swamps surrounding New Orleans. Being in your own kayak is a great way to relax while limiting your exposure to other people. Paddle through dense forests and get up close with some local wildlife. Some tours offer a guided visit to the historic Whitney Plantation or Oak Alley.
Plan your kayak swamp tour with the recommended tour operators. Be sure to book in advance and adhere to their safety guidelines.
Spend a day at City Park
Whether you want a morning walk or an afternoon respite, New Orleans City Park is a must-visit. Sprawled across 1,300 acres, City Park is one of the oldest in New Orleans.
This outdoor oasis is the home of the world’s largest collection of mature live oaks. Stop and literally smell the roses at the Botanical Garden and break into a sweat along the park’s jogging, biking, and walking paths. You’ll also find 26 tennis courts, 12 soccer fields, two football stadiums, and an 18-hole golf course within the park grounds.
For more updates on what facilities are open, check out New Orleans City Park’s website.
Get art schooled
New Orleans is bursting with culture and arts. Visit the impressive New Orleans Museum of Art, with 40,000 collections going back 5,000 years.
Honor the heroes in The National WWII Museum, named as the official World War II museum of the United States. Immerse yourself in the Ogden Museum of Southern Art showcasing 4,000 pieces from 15 states.
Check the links above to learn about the adjusted capacity and operating hours of each venue. You can experience museum offerings both virtually and in-person.
Attend virtual concerts
You may not be physically present in a concert venue, but there’s no lack of musical performances being live streamed right where you are.
The New Orleans Jazz Museum is hosting online performances of jazz musicians. Catch their weekly livestream, ”Listen to Jazz From the Balcony,” on Facebook. Browse past live performances here. Live on Instagram, House of Blues has been streaming concerts as well. Check out the online performances presented by WWOZ 90.7 FM, the community New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Station, which operates out of the French Quarter.
As residents and tourists await the full reopening of New Orleans, the sights and sounds of the Big Easy are still yours for the taking.
If you’re thinking of moving to this vibrant city, get in touch with the top Realtor in New Orleans, LA, the Axis Realty Group, to help you with your real estate needs. We are also a certified Historic House Specialist. Call 504.336.3000 or email nicole(dotted)axisrealty(at)gmail(dotted)com today.
Learn more about our team and services here.