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Fun Things to Do in New Orleans for Couples

Two people leaning on a railing overlook a city square with a cathedral and horse-drawn carriages.

New Orleans is a dynamic city with many distinct neighborhoods and memorable spots to discover. The city has terrific restaurants and a thriving music scene. There’s something so lively about the place that it instantly gives a sense of a good time. There are a ton of fun things to do in New Orleans for couples. This blog covers the best ways couples can explore, relax, and connect together in New Orleans.

Walk Together Through the French Quarter

A walk through the French Quarter is a simple but enjoyable way for couples to connect. A few different things make the place romantic. The Quarter has historic Spanish/French architecture. The wrought-iron balconies and jazz music spilling from the bars give it an old-world, romantic feel.

What couples will like:

  • Old-Town Streets

Bourbon Street, Chartres Street, and Decatur Street preserve centuries of Spanish, French and American heritage.

  • Royal Street

Filled with art galleries, live music, and quiet corners perfect for wandering.

  • Jackson Square

Open space with street performers and a lively, festive atmosphere.

  • The French Market

Casual browsing, local foods, and unique souvenirs.

  • Live Jazz

Music spills into the streets, adding a relaxed and joyful vibe.

  • Riverfront Paths

Calm walks with views of the water, away from busy streets.

  • Evening Ambiance

Well-lit streets feel safe; evenings are lively but still inviting.

This mix of calm, excitement, and local charm makes the French Quarter unforgettable for couples.

Share a Tastebud Food Tour Experience

Oyster platter with colorful beads on table near drink and menu

Food plays a big role in New Orleans culture. A Tastebud food tour offers couples a relaxed way to explore local dishes.

Why couples love Tastebud Tours:

  • Eat Where the Locals Eat

Enjoy hidden gems and favorite local spots in the French Quarter.

  • Expert Guides

Professional guides share stories connecting food with New Orleans’ history. Narration is engaging and entertaining.

  • Signature Dishes

Taste classics like po’boys, gumbo, pralines, and Cajun favorites, some recipes dating back to the 18th century.

  • Craft Cocktails

Available for purchase on all tours, with the option to take a To-Go cup.

  • Comfortable Walking

Tours include easy-paced walking between stops.

  • Flexible Experiences

Choose from multiple tours such as:

  • Signature Tastes of New Orleans du Jour: 3 hours, French Quarter highlights.

  • Flavors of the French Quarter Bon Appétit: 3 hours of food, fun facts, and history.

  • The Original Seafood and History Tour: 3 hours exploring NOLA’s seafood culture.

  • Craft Cocktail Tour (Sip the History): 2 hours of iconic drinks and local stories.

  • Private Food Tours: Customize a private experience perfect for couples or groups.

  • Sunset Food and History Tour: 3 hours combining French Quarter history with local cuisine.

Listen to Live Jazz in a Cozy Setting

Live jazz feels close and personal in New Orleans. Small venues bring couples near the music and each other. Seating is close, which makes holding hands feel natural. Soft lights and simple rooms create a warm mood. The music fills the space without feeling loud or crowded.

Jazz sounds smooth, slow, and full of feeling. It invites couples to relax and stay present together. Many places allow quiet talk between songs. This balance makes the experience feel easy and natural. 

Some cozy spots feel especially welcoming for couples. For example, 

  • The Spotted Cat offers small stages and live energy.
  • Preservation Hall feels historic, simple, and deeply rooted in tradition.
  • Frenchmen Street offers many small clubs close together.

Each space offers a different sound and mood. Listening to jazz here feels authentic and local.
New Orleans gave birth to this music. Sharing it live creates a meaningful memory together. It often becomes a favorite part of the trip.

Stroll Along the Mississippi Riverfront

The Mississippi Riverfront has a peaceful atmosphere. The wide promenade invites relaxed walking while allowing couples to soak in the scenery. The river moves slowly, which sets a calm rhythm. Boats and steamboats pass by throughout the day. The view is beautiful and relaxing.

Public art and sculptures appear along the walkway. These details add interest without breaking the calm mood. Benches invite couples to sit and enjoy the scene. 

The riverfront stretches along the edge of the French Quarter, offering easy access to the city’s historic streets and vibrant atmosphere. Couples can move seamlessly between leisurely walks along the water and nearby restaurants, cafes, and bars for a relaxed meal or quick bite. At sunset, the sky casts soft golden and pink hues across the river, reflecting off the water and creating a warm, romantic glow. Some couples opt for a riverboat cruise, enjoying music, drinks, and the gentle movement of the Mississippi for a longer, more immersive experience. Others prefer a simple, unplanned stroll, letting the sights, sounds, and breezes of the river guide their evening at their own pace.

This area suits both quiet moments and special evenings. It allows couples to rest, admire the city’s beauty, and share a memorable time.

Explore Historic Neighborhoods Side by Side

Historic neighborhoods in New Orleans feel calm, welcoming, and perfect for couples. Areas away from busy zones give space to slow down and enjoy each other’s company. The Garden District, Marigny, Bywater, and Uptown offer calm, welcoming settings that feel perfect for couples.

Highlights for couples:

  • Quiet Streets

Conversation flows easily without heavy foot traffic. Walks feel personal and unrushed.

  • Colorful Homes

Shotgun houses and Creole cottages add local character. The Garden District features large homes and shaded sidewalks, perfect for a leisurely, romantic stroll.

  • Artistic Vibes

Marigny and Bywater feel lively and creative, with murals, galleries, and street art.

  • Local Cafés and Shops

Stop for coffee, pastries, or browse unique boutiques along the way.

  • Music and Food

Jazz and local food shops appear at every turn as you explore the city.

  • Parks and Relaxation Spots

There are multiple places to pause, relax, and enjoy the surroundings.

  • Streetcar Rides

These add a yesteryear charm and nostalgia to the city, especially in the Garden District.

Visit a Museum at a Comfortable Pace

Museums offer a calm break from busy streets. Couples explore exhibits at their own speed.

Why couples enjoy museums:

  • Shared Discovery

Museums provide structured activities. Couples can explore together, sparking conversations that range on topics related to art and history.

  • Romantic Escapes

Museums are generally comfortable and quiet places. They offer a romantic contrast to late nights. 

  • Cultural Deep Dive

These places give couples a deep dive into the cultural soul of New Orleans. They learn about jazz history, Creole culture, and local stories.

  • History Buffs

Museums like The National WWII Museum or The Historic New Orleans Collection let couples bond over significant American stories.

Recommended Museums for Couples:

  • New Orleans Museum of Art (NOMA): Classic works and a beautiful sculpture garden.

  • The Historic New Orleans Collection: Focuses on the city’s rich past and cultural heritage.

  • Ogden Museum of Southern Art: Highlights regional creativity, art, and culture.

Simple Moments Matter Most

New Orleans offers many things to do in New Orleans for couples, but simple experiences often matter most. Shared moments create the strongest memories. Food, music, walking, and conversation shape the experience. Couples who slow down feel the city more deeply. Activities like strolling the French Quarter, enjoying live jazz, visiting museums, and joining a Tastebud food tour combine to create meaningful shared experiences. These moments turn trips into lasting stories.

FAQs

What can couples do in New Orleans?
NOLA is known for its historic charm and music scene. Couples can roam the French Quarter and enjoy live jazz. Taking a Tastebud Food Tour is another exciting way to spend time in New Orleans.

What is the #1 attraction in New Orleans, Louisiana?
The French Quarter is the number 1 attraction. The historic center has lively streets and colonial architecture that never fails to amaze anyone. The National WWII Museum is another great place to visit. The highly acclaimed museum dedicated to WWII pulls huge crowds every day. 

How to spend 2 days in New Orleans?
 Day one can include a French Quarter walk, a Tastebud food tour, and live jazz at night.  Day two can include visiting the Garden District, a museum, and a riverfront stroll. Add brunch, cafés, or a carriage ride for a relaxed pace.

What activities do couples enjoy together?
Couples enjoy varied activities in New Orleans. The most enjoyable activities include taking a food tour and listening to live jazz in intimate settings. You can also see many couples exploring museums. Many are also found roaming the French Quarter hand in hand.

What is the coolest street in New Orleans?
 Frenchmen Street is the coolest street for music lovers. It has small clubs, live jazz, and a lively yet intimate vibe. The street is perfect for evening walks and enjoying local culture.

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