How to Avoid Tourist Traps in New Orleans, United States
1. French Quarter
Avoid the crowded and overpriced bars on Bourbon Street. Discover local hidden gems off the beaten path.
- Authentic Local Experience: Seek out family-run businesses away from the main drag
- Affordable Prices: Opt for casual eateries over fancy restaurants in the Quarter
- Off-Peak Hours: Avoid weekends and late nights when Bourbon Street is most crowded
2. Cafe du Monde
Skip the long lines at the touristy original location. Enjoy beignets at other nearby cafes with shorter waits.
- Quick Service Alternatives: Try smaller, less-known cafes nearby for a speedier experience
- Cafe Ambiance: Choose a cafe with a charming atmosphere to enjoy your beignets
- Off-Peak Times: Visit earlier in the day or during off-hours for shorter lines
3. Steamboat Natchez Cruise
Avoid buying tickets from street vendors offering discounted tickets. Purchase directly from the Steamboat Natchez ticket office.
- Official Ticket Sales: Buy your tickets from the official Steamboat Natchez website or their ticket office
- Avoid Scams: Avoid purchasing from unofficial sources to ensure a valid ticket
- Enhanced Experience: Purchasing directly gives you access to the best seating and onboard amenities
4. Riverside Market
Avoid overpriced souvenirs at the market. Visit local shops off Frenchmen Street for unique and affordable finds.
- Unique Souvenirs: Look for locally-made crafts and artwork in independent stores
- Price Comparison: Compare prices before purchasing to ensure a fair deal
- Local Shopping Districts: Explore neighborhoods like the Bywater or Marigny for hidden gems
5. Jackson Square Horse and Carriage Rides
Avoid long wait times for these overpriced rides. Opt for walking tours or bike rentals instead.
- Alternative Transportation Options: Choose a guided walking tour or bike rental to explore the city
- Price Savings: Walking tours and bike rentals are generally more cost-effective
- Experience More: Guided walks allow you to cover more ground and learn about the city's history
6. Café Brulot
Avoid touristy restaurants serving watered-down Café Brulot. Visit local taverns for an authentic taste.
- Authentic Taste: Try the drink at a local bar known for its strong, flavorful Café Brulot
- Avoid Overpriced Options: Ask locals or look up reviews to find affordable options
- Off-Peak Hours: Visit during off-peak hours to beat the crowds and enjoy a leisurely drink
7. Mardi Gras World
Avoid long lines by purchasing tickets online in advance. Visit during off-peak hours for a more enjoyable experience.
- Advance Ticket Purchases: Buy your ticket on the Mardi Gras World website before your visit
- Off-Peak Hours: Visit during the week or early morning to avoid crowds
- Self-Guided Tours: Opt for a self-guided tour to move at your own pace and see more floats
8. Central Grocery Deli
Avoid long lines at the deli. Grab a muffuletta sandwich from other nearby delis for a quicker experience.
- Quick Service Alternatives: Look for smaller delis nearby for a speedier experience
- Taste Comparison: Try multiple delis to find the best muffuletta sandwich
- Off-Peak Hours: Visit during off-peak times for shorter lines
9. Olympia Coffee Roasters
Avoid the crowded main location. Visit their roastery and café in the Bywater neighborhood.
- Less Crowded Location: Visit the roastery and café in the Bywater neighborhood
- Coffee Quality: Enjoy freshly roasted coffee from a local favorite
- Off-Peak Hours: Visit during off-peak times for shorter lines and a calmer atmosphere
10. Bourbon Street Bars
Avoid overpriced drinks at Bourbon Street bars. Sip cocktails in local taverns for a more authentic experience.
- Authentic Experience: Visit locally-owned bars to immerse yourself in the city's culture
- Avoid Overpriced Options: Look for hidden gems with reasonable drink prices
- Off-Peak Hours: Visit during off-peak hours to avoid crowds and enjoy a quieter atmosphere
11. New Orleans City Bus Tours
Avoid overpriced city bus tours. Rent a bike or use public transportation to explore the city on your own.
- Independent Exploration: Rent a bike or use public transport to see the sights at your own pace
- Price Savings: Biking and public transit are generally more cost-effective than bus tours
- Flexibility: You can change your route or stop whenever you want when using public transport
12. Toulouse Street Wharf
Avoid the crowds and overpriced food at the wharf. Pack a picnic or dine at local restaurants nearby.
- Pack a Picnic: Bring your own food to enjoy by the river
- Affordable Restaurants: Find budget-friendly eateries nearby for dining options
- Off-Peak Hours: Visit during off-peak times to avoid crowds and find parking easily
13. Frenchmen Street Music Venues
Avoid overpriced cover charges at touristy venues. Visit local clubs for a more authentic music experience.
- Authentic Experience: Experience live jazz at local, off-the-beaten-path venues
- Price Comparison: Research cover charges and find affordable options
- Off-Peak Hours: Visit during off-peak times to avoid long lines and crowded venues
14. The Warehouse District
Avoid the touristy restaurants in this district. Dine at local eateries nearby for a more authentic experience.
- Authentic Experience: Discover hidden gems outside of the tourist area
- Price Comparison: Research prices and find affordable dining options
- Off-Peak Hours: Visit during off-peak times to avoid crowds and longer waits
15. New Orleans Plantation Tours
Avoid touristy plantations with long lines and high prices. Choose less crowded options like the Oak Alley or Laura Plantation.
- Less Crowded Options: Choose lesser-known plantations for a more personal experience
- Price Comparison: Research ticket prices and find the best deal
- Transportation Considerations: Consider renting a car or joining a tour group for transportation convenience