Things to Do in New Orleans Today | What To Do Today

New Orleans on Friday, March 27, 2026, is buzzing with a diverse mix of activities. You can enjoy live music at various venues, explore historical museums, savor Creole cuisine, and explore the outdoors. The city's vibrant nightlife, cultural attractions, and family-friendly options ensure there's something for everyone.

1. Visit the National WWII Museum

Explore the American experience in the war that changed the world through exhibits and oral history profiles. Open 9:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.

945 Magazine Street, New Orleans, LA

9:00 AM - 5:00 PM

2. Explore the New Orleans Museum of Art

Explore art from around the world, dating from ancient times to the present day. Free admission for Louisiana residents every Wednesday.

1 Collins Diboll Circle, New Orleans, LA 70124

10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

3. Walk through the Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden

Experience 100 works of art set in a unique Louisiana landscape. Open seven days a week during regular museum hours. Free and open to all.

Enter through the New Orleans Museum of Art

10:00 AM – 5:00 PM

4. Visit the Ogden Museum of Southern Art

See the largest and most comprehensive collection of Southern art. Current exhibitions include 'In the Beloved' and 'Vicinal Visions'.

925 Camp Street, New Orleans, LA 70130

10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

5. Explore the French Market

Visit the historic French Market, open daily, featuring a Flea Market (10:00am-5:00pm) and Farmers Market (10:00am-6pm).

1100 N. Peters St., New Orleans, LA 70116

10:00 AM - 6:00 PM

6. Stroll and Shop on Magazine Street

Discover unique clothing boutiques, vintage shops, and bookstores along this six-mile stretch.

Magazine Street, New Orleans, LA

Varies by store

7. Visit the Presbytère

Explore exhibits on Mardi Gras and Hurricane Katrina at this Louisiana State Museum. Open 9:00 a.m.–4:00 p.m.

751 Chartres Street, New Orleans, LA 70116

9:00 AM – 4:00 PM

8. Enjoy a Meal at Oceana Grill

Dine at this restaurant in the heart of the French Quarter, known for its Creole and Louisiana cuisine. Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

830 Conti Street, New Orleans, LA 70112

Breakfast, Lunch, and Dinner

9. Evening Jazz at Preservation Hall

Experience traditional New Orleans jazz at this historic music venue in the French Quarter. Get tickets in advance.

726 St. Peter Street, New Orleans, LA

Nightly

10. John "Papa" Gros Band at Maple Leaf Bar

Enjoy live music with one of New Orleans' most beloved bandleaders.

8316 Oak Street, New Orleans, LA

8:00 PM

11. Sage Against the Machine at Maple Leaf Bar

See New Orleans' RATM tribute band.

8316 Oak Street, New Orleans, LA

11:00 PM

12. 10th Anniversary Party with Live Music Concert

Enjoy live music at Urban South Brewery.

Urban South Brewery

5:00 PM

13. Mia Borders Live in Concert

Enjoy live music at d.b.a. New Orleans

d.b.a. New Orleans

6:00 PM

14. Zydeco Fridays

Enjoy Zydeco music at The Dragon's Den

The Dragon's Den

7:00 PM

15. Audubon Zoo

See animals and exhibits at the Audubon Zoo.

6500 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70118

10:00 AM

16. Joe W. Brown Park

Enjoy outdoor activities.

5601 Read Blvd. New Orleans, LA 70127

7:00 AM - 9:00 PM