Summer in New Orleans (25 Ways to Beat the Heat)

1. Treat yourself to a Snowball

Get your chill on with an iconic New Orleans treat, the snowball (or sno-ball). This irresistible mound of shaved ice topped with flavored syrup comes in all sorts of sweet flavors (each one tastier than the last).

You can find snowballs all over the Crescent City, but for a taste of the original, head to Hansen's Sno-Bliz. It's been around since 1939. Plum Street Snowball is another popular spot that's been serving the frosty treat since 1945.

2. Find a Shady Spot in Jackson Square

The French Quarter is on everyone's New Orleans bucket list, but it gets hot (and to be honest, stinky) when the sun starts beating down.

When you need a break, grab a bottle of water, then head to Jackson Square. (There's a CVS kitty corner from the park at Decatur and St. Peter.) The benches around the edge of the square are usually shaded from the sun. It's the perfect place to cool off and do a little people watching.

3. Cool Off with an Ice Cold Cocktail

One of the benefits to visiting New Orleans in the summer is that you can carry a cool cocktail around with you in a go-cup. It's like instant air conditioning!

There are bars on seemingly every corner in the French Quarter (and throughout the rest of the city, too), and many iconic cocktails were created there, so take advantage. Here are just a few to try:

• In terms of classic, cooling New Orleans drinks, you can't do much better than an ice cold Hurricane from Pat O’Brien’s.
• For a truly unique atmosphere, grab a seat at the Carousel Bar in the Hotel Monteleone and try their classic Vieux Carre, or one of the many other delicious drinks on offer.
• Stop by the historic Napoleon House and relax with a refreshing Pimm's Cup.
• Want to enjoy a beautiful sunset along with your cocktail? Head to the Hot Tin Rooftop Bar at the Pontchartrain Hotel in the Garden District for panoramic views of the city.

4. Go Bowling

Beat the heat at one of my favorite places in New Orleans: Rock ‘n’ Bowl! My husband and I got married in NOLA, and we had our rehearsal dinner here, so it holds many wonderful memories. And with bowling, food, drinks, and live music, you are sure to have a great time here, too!

5. Visit a Museum

Museums are notorious for cranking the A/C, and New Orleans is home to a number of world class museums, so why not take advantage? Here are a few of my faves, from the classic to the kooky:

• Mardi Gras World - See colorful Mardi Gras props and floats being built up close, then try a slice of King Cake. Tip: Check out my guide to Mardi Gras World for a sneak peak!
• Ogden Museum of Southern Art - You'll find a diverse array of works created by southern artists here. Pair it with a visit to the nearby WWII Museum or Contemporary Arts Center across the street.
• The National WWII Museum - This is the second most popular museum in the US, and for good reason: it's amazing. Planning on spending about half a day here (at least).
• New Orleans Pharmacy Museum - A must see museum in the French Quarter. Make sure to time your visit to catch the daily tour. Tip: Check out my guide to the New Orleans Pharmacy Museum before your visit!
• New Orleans Museum of Art - Enjoy the wide-ranging exhibits at this popular museum, then check out the sculpture garden and City Park when you're done.

6. Perk Up with an Iced Coffee

If you're like me and can't start your day without a little pick-me-up, you'll be happy to know that New Orleans has the BEST iced coffee! You can get an iced coffee at pretty much any coffee shop, of course, but here are a couple of my faves:

• French Truck Coffee - Their NOLA Iced Coffee is perfection, and they have locations throughout the city!
• Cafe Du Monde - Pair a pile of sugary beignets with an Iced Cafe Au Lait. So good.

7. Catch a Movie

Want to be entertained and air conditioned? Go to a movie!

• If you love vintage movie theaters and saving money, then check out The Orpheum, a gorgeous Beaux Arts-style venue in the Central Business District. Movies in their Summer Series are free.
• For an option with old school charm head to the Prytania Theatre. Their single screen theater in Uptown has been in business for over 100 years, but they have a newer theater in Canal Place downtown, too.
• The Broad is another independent theater you'll love. Grab a cocktail or beer before the show, then enjoy the movie.

8. Ride a Streetcar

Want to see the sights, but can't bear to walk around in that New Orleans summer heat? Riding a streetcar is one of the best things to do in New Orleans! Check out the streetcar map first, then grab a window seat and enjoy the breeze (not all streetcars are air conditioned) on one of these routes:

• St. Charles Streetcar: Ride this popular line through the Garden District and Uptown. Along the way, you'll pass historic mansions, Loyola University, Audubon Park, and more. Hop off before you get too far and take my Garden District walking tour or peek through the gates of the (currently closed) Lafayette Cemetery No. 1!
• Canal Streetcar: This line has two routes. Both start on Canal Street, but one goes to the beautiful City Park (and New Orleans Art Museum) and the other goes to Cemeteries (good for exploring the cemeteries at the end of Canal Street). Check the front of the streetcar (or ask the driver) before you get on to make sure you're headed to the right place.
• Riverfront Streetcar: This route starts near the Jazz Museum and runs along the edge of the French Quarter (near the river), passing by the French Market, Woldenberg Park, Jackson Square, Audobon Aquarium, and Riverwalk Outlets, before ending at the Convention Center.
• Rampart - Loyola Streetcar: The newest NOLA streetcar! It runs from the Union Passenger Terminal to Elysian Fields Ave, passing by modern buildings, classic New Orleans architecture, Louis Armstrong Park, St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, and St. Claude Arts District along the way. Get off at the end and explore the Faubourg Marigny, Bywater, and St. Roch neighborhoods.

9. Visit a Brewery

New Orleans is home to numerous breweries, so you can easily sip your way around town. Parleaux Beer Lab is a favorite of mine. They have a great outdoor space that's wonderful in the evening and on cooler days. But you have lots of other options, including Brieux Carre, Port Orleans, NOLA Brewing, and more!

10. Listen to Live Music

One of the best ways to beat the heat in NOLA is by listening to music! Jazz, brass, R&B, soul, the options are practically endless.

You'll find live music almost everywhere, including on the street, but start by taking a walk down Frenchmen Street. All you have to do is wander in somewhere and grab a stool. You probably won’t be disappointed!

Looking for some more options? Listen to live jazz almost any night of the year at Preservation Hall, or head Uptown to Tipitina’s.

11. Start Your Day Early (or Late)

It doesn't hurt to be a little strategic when figuring out your schedule. Plan your outdoor activities for the morning, late afternoon, or evening. Basically, anytime the sun won't be directly overhead. And stick to the shady side of the street!

12. Go Shopping

One of my favorite New Orleans summer activities is shopping. Truly the perfect way to escape the heat! You'll find shops throughout the city, but here are a few favorite spots to get you started:

• Royal Street: The French Quarter is full of shops. Many are super cheesy and full of touristy junk though. For better luck, head down beautiful Royal Street, where you’ll find everything from antiques to art to cute boutiques.
• Magazine Street: Head to Magazine Street for unique shops selling home decor, clothes, antiques, gifts, and so much more! Take the #11 bus (more convenient) or the St. Charles Streetcar (you'll have to walk a few blocks) to get there from the French Quarter.
• French Market: A visit to NOLA isn’t complete with a stroll through the French Market. It stretches for six blocks along the edge of the French Quarter, and you’ll find everything from candy to souvenirs to clothes, as well as daily flea and farmers markets.
• Mall: Looking for a quiet escape from the French Quarter? Head to Canal Place, an upscale mall located on (you guessed it) Canal Street. It's filled with the types of stores you'd find in any mall, but the air conditioning can't be beat.
• Book Shops: Did you know that NOLA has an amazing literary scene? If you're an avid reader, a visit to a least one of New Orleans Best Bookstores is a must.
• Souvenirs: For fun New Orleans themed souvenirs and accessories, stop by Fleurty Girl, which has locations in the French Quarter and Garden District.

13. Take a Cooking Class

Want to learn more about New Orleans food? Book a hands-on or demo class at the New Orleans School of Cooking, located in the French Quarter. You'll learn how to make classic dishes like jumbalaya, bananas foster, bread pudding, and more. They also have a cute gift shop that's worth checking out, even if you don't have time for a class.

14. Hit the Pool

A swim is the perfect way to relax and cool off on a hot New Orleans day, and many hotels have one. Here are a few options to consider:

• The Chateau LeMoyne has a quiet pool, nestled in a pretty courtyard.
• If you're staying at an Airbnb or somewhere that doesn't have a pool, you can purchase day passes for the The Roosevelt, Hotel Monteleone, and other hotel pools through Resort Pass.
• The Country Club (in Bywater) is also worth mentioning. It's not a hotel, but you can purchase a day pass to use the pool.
• Hotel pools are sometimes 21+ only. If you're traveling with kids, you can visit a public pool instead. Check out Lemann Pool (Treme), Lyons Pool (Irish Channel), and Whitney Young Pool (Uptown), or search for other pools here.

15. Indulge in a Sweet Treat at Angelo Brocato

For a delicious treat with lots of history behind it, stop by Angelo Brocato. This Italian ice cream parlor has been serving up amazing gelato, cannoli, and other pastries  for over 100 years. It's hard to go wrong here, but a scoop of gelato or granita, or a slice of spumoni is a wonderfully indulgent way to beat the New Orleans heat.

16. Attend a Summer Festival

You may not stay super cool attending an outdoor festival, but you'll be having so much fun that you'll forget all about that crazy humidity. Or maybe not, but at least everyone else will be sweating, too!

Check out these annual festivals before planning your visit:

• Pridefest: Celebrate LGBTQ+ culture through food, parties, a parade, and more.
• French Market Creole Tomato Festival: Creole tomatoes are an essential ingredient in many New Orleans dishes, and this event celebrates them with music, food, a Bloody Mary market, and more.
• Louisiana Cajun-Zydeco Festival: Enjoy Cajun country's best music and food.
• Sankofa Bayou Fest: Enjoy the outdoors with kayaking, fishing, birdwatching, horseback riding, and more.
• New Orleans Wine and Food Experience: This nationally renowned food and wine festival has raised over $1.5 million for local non profits!
• Juneteenth Festival: This multi-day event celebrate local Black culture.
• Essence Festival of Culture: This celebration of Black culture and music features some of the biggest names out there.
• Running of the Bulls: Celebrate Spain's famous running of the bulls New Orleans style. Instead of being chased by bulls, you'll be running from a roller derby team.
• Bastille Day Fête: Toast New Orleans' French culture with music, food, and drinks.
• Satchmo Summerfest: Listen to some of NOLA's top musicians, many of whom will be paying tribute to Louis. Plus, enjoy food, drinks, and Satchmo Seminars.
• White Linen Night: Put on your fave white linen outfit, then head to Julia Street for an evening of gallery hopping, art shopping, food, and drink.
• Dirty Linen Night: Enjoy dirty martinis and dirty rice while strolling Royal Street. And make sure to wear those linen clothes you might have dirtied the weekend before during White Linen Night.
• Red Dress Run: A fun run in a red dress that raises money for charity.
• Southern Decadence: This celebration of LGBTQ+ culture has has been nicknamed Gay Mardi Gras. Enjoy drag shows, contests, DJs, music, a parade, and other events.
• Health and Yoga Festival: Relax at this multi-day gathering of movement, music, and connection featuring yoga, workshops, sound baths, and live experiences.

17. Pop into a Gallery

If you're an art lover, gallery hopping is the ideal way to spend a steamy day! Cool off by popping in and out of galleries along Julia Street in the Arts District or Royal Street in the French Quarter. You'll also find galleries along Magazine Street in the Garden District and St. Claude in Marigny / Bywater.

18. Ride a Bike

If you're going to be outside exploring anyway, why not create your own breeze by riding a bike? Look for Blue Bikes stations throughout the city, which you can rent by the hour. I had fun riding one through City Park recently.

Prefer to join a tour? You've got lots of options!

• Creole Odyssey Bike Tour - This small group tour takes you off the beaten track into neighborhoods you might not explore otherwise.
• Heart of the City Bike Tour - On this small group tour, you'll explore the areas of the city just beyond the French Quarter.
• Culinary Bike Tour - Eat your way through the city as you learn about New Orleans culture.
• Music Party Bike Ride - Enjoy a nighttime ride on light-up bikes accompanied by a DJ playing NOLA Bounce, Hip Hop, Soul, R&B, and Pop music.

19. Go Gambling at Caesars

Feeling lucky? Step onto the casino floor at Caesars New Orleans (formerly Harrah's). I have to admit that I've only been here once in all the times I've been to New Orleans. There is just sooo much else to do. But if you enjoy gambling and are feeling flush, it wouldn't be the worst place to kill a few hours while enjoying some drinks, and perhaps most importantly, soaking up the A/C!

20. Take a Riverboat Cruise

Feel the breeze on your face as you cruise down the Mississippi on a historic paddle-wheel boat. You'll feel like you're stepping back in time. It's definitely one of the best New Orleans summer activities.

There are a number of tours and boats to choose from, including the historic Steamboat Natchez and the Creole Queen. If your time is limited, this 75 minute sightseeing cruise is a good option. For a tour that stops at Chalmette Battlefield (site of the 1815 Battle of New Orleans), check out this popular historic cruise. You could also do a daytime jazz cruise or evening jazz cruise, both of which offer an add-on meal option.

21. Enjoy a Glass of Wine

Sometimes a cold glass of wine is the perfect antidote to a hot day. I love St. James Cheese Company (in Uptown or the Warehouse District) for this! They serve great wines, mouthwatering pimiento cheese, and delicious sandwiches, among other delicious dishes. The laidback Delachaise in Uptown is also favorite spot, and I've spent many an afternoon / evening there. Bacchanal Wine is another great place to relax in the backyard (or stick to the inside bar).

22. Keep the Kids Cool

Are you traveling with children? Make sure to plan a fun kid-friendly activity!

The Louisiana Children's Museum is full of creative exhibits to keep them entertained, like a kid-sized grocery store and a working art studio. Or check out the Audubon Aquarium and immerse your family in an underwater world. Once you're done at the aquarium, head next door to the Audubon Insectarium to explore the world of bugs and butterflies.

Spending the day at the Audubon Zoo? After checking out the animals, get wet at the Cool Zoo splash park. You'll find a Gator Run, jumping water spouts, a huge alligator water slide, spider monkey soakers, water-spitting snakes, and more!

23. Learn about New Orleans History

Want to discover a little New Orleans history? Pop into the Visit Jean Lafitte's French Quarter Visitor Center, which is part of Louisiana's National Parks system.

This petite visitors center is great for kids and adults. Check out maps, images, and interactive exhibits that share the Louisiana delta's history while you soak up the A/C. Kids can earn a badge through the junior rangers program, and there's even a cute gift shop.

You'll also want to check out The Historic New Orleans Collection, it's free and a great place to learn about the people, places, and traditions of New Orleans and the Gulf South. The previously mentioned WWII Museum is also amazing and worth a visit! And for a foodie's perspective on history, check out the Southern Food and Beverage Museum.

24. Cool Off at a Yummy Restaurant

Plan your visit around great restaurants, and you're sure to stay cool while being well fed! One of my favorite spots is The Daily Beet, which serves light, healthy salads, grain bowls, and fresh juices. All perfect for hot summer days in New Orleans! They have a couple locations, one in the CBD and one in the Garden District.

Looking for some other options? Here are a few spots I keep going back to:

• Po-Boys: I love Killer Po-Boys in the French Quarter. They have options that will keep both meat eaters and vegans happy, which is not easy to find in NOLA!
• Muffaletta: You can’t beat Central Grocery in the French Quarter, but make sure to stop by early, because they often run out. If you ask nicely, they’ll make you a vegetarian muffaletta. Grab your sandwich and some drinks, then find a shady spot along the Mississippi River for a picnic.
• Beignets: Get in line for a table at Cafe Du Monde, then order a big plate of beignets to share (or not), along with an iced cafe au lait to wash it all down. See if you can get a spot in the air-conditioned indoor section if you're especially hot.
• Food Hall: Need something to please a group? Head to St. Roch Market, which has options for everyone.
• Upscale: Blow your budget at Commander’s Palace, Galatoire’s, Jacques-Imo’s, or one of the many other iconic New Orleans restaurants.
• Something Different: Stop by District Donuts, N 7, Juan’s Flying Burrito, or Pomelo.

Looking for more plant based ideas? Check out my list of Vegetarian Friendly New Orleans Restaurants!

25. Ride the Ferry to Algiers

Want to escape the French Quarter for a while? Catch the ferry at the foot of Canal Street and cross the Mississippi to Algiers Point. This charming, quiet neighborhood feels totally removed from the bustle of the French Quarter.

When you arrive, head to one of the bars and restaurants just steps from the ferry terminal. Once you're fortified, check out the cute houses lining the quiet streets. Is the sun starting to go down? Head up the levee path to watch it set over the city.

Check out my guide to Algiers Point for more tips on exploring this picturesque neighborhood.

Want to see all the sights in New Orleans, but don't want to do a lot of walking in the sweltering weather? Jump on a Hop On Hop Off Bus.

You'll enjoy a breeze on the open-top bus as you're guided around the French Quarter and the Garden District. Hop off at numerous spots to do more exploring, or stay on for the whole ride. It's up to you. Just make sure to wear a hat to avoid a sunburn!