The Best Hidden Gems to Add to Your New Orleans Itinerary

Many people picture the lively French Quarter and bustling Bourbon Street when they think of New Orleans. But there’s so much more to explore in the Crescent City beyond the usual hotspots. If you truly want to experience NOLA like a local, you’ll want to step off the beaten path and explore some of its hidden gems.

From stunning skyline views and Instagram-worthy murals to peaceful walking trails and laid-back wine bars, this guide will take you to some of the lesser-known spots that make New Orleans special. 

Photo-Worthy Hidden Gems in New Orleans

Algiers Point

The best way to get a shot of the entire New Orleans city skyline is to cross the Mississippi River. Hop aboard one of the nation’s oldest ferry lines to take a scenic ride to Algiers Point, one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods. Enjoy leisurely sightseeing and the best city skyline views as you make your way across the river.

Once there, you’ll find a charming, historic neighborhood filled with Victorian cottages and a laid-back vibe. Right next to the ferry landing, The Mississippi River Trail levee has a paved path for walking, jogging, or biking (also a great riverside spot for a picnic) and the Jazz Walk of Fame (download a self-guided audio tour). 

There’s also a shaded playground at nearby Confetti Park if you have children in your group. If you haven’t packed a picnic, well-loved dive bars and casual neighborhood restaurants will keep you happy until you head back to the ferry. 

Greetings Tour Mural at Magazine & Josephine

Greetings from NOLA! Looking for an Instagram-worthy backdrop for your next group photo? Head to the corner of Magazine and Josephine in the Lower Garden District/Irish Channel. There you’ll find a vibrant mural that showcases New Orleans’ creative spirit. 

It’s one of over 70 modern-day postcard attractions in over 30 states designed and painted by artist Victor Ving and photographer Lisa Beggs. Their goal is to use public art to create timeless landmarks and attract tourists to nearby small businesses. (So be sure to check out the local businesses near this spot after you snap a photo!)

Scenic Spots in City Park

Spanning 1,300 acres, City Park is one of the largest urban parks in the U.S. Featuring majestic oak trees, lagoons, and art installations, it’s pretty dreamy too. City Park is a great spot to escape for a relaxing walk, picnic, or paddleboat ride. It also has two fine arts museums, a sculpture garden, an amusement park, golf, tennis, soccer, softball, equestrian stables, restaurants, and more. 

Sculpture Garden

An extension of the New Orleans Museum of Art, which is also located within City Park, the Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden is home to over 90 stunning sculptures by renowned artists worldwide. With a peaceful garden setting and a path meandering across Big Lake and through towering pine and magnolia trees, this outdoor exhibit is free to enter and perfect for art lovers.

Couturie Walking Trail

When you’re in New Orleans, you don’t even need to leave the city to experience nature. Hidden in the heart of the city inside City Park, the Couturie Forest trail meanders through native trees and scenic waterways. It’s a beautiful place to exercise or wander and look for wildlife – it’s common to spot multiple species of birds and fish as you stroll along the trail. 

City Park Golf

Did you know an entire golf course is located within City Park? Two actually. A 36-hole golf complex, Bayou Oaks at City Park is open to the public and great for golfers of all skill levels, with affordable fees and clubs to rent. 

The South Course is a 250-acre championship golf course, lined with historic oak trees and lagoons. Designed by renowned golf course architect Rees Jones, it’s a par 72 course perfect for all skill levels. The par 68 North Course is shorter in length and has both 9 and 18-hole rounds available. 

If you’re looking for something a bit more family-friendly, there’s also mini golf in City Park. After spending some time with your family at Carousel Gardens, Storyland, and the Botanical Garden (also located within City Park), you’ll find City Putt right across from the entrance. 

City Putt has two 18-hole mini-golf courses to choose from: one highlighting cultural themes and cities across Louisiana, and another celebrating the city of New Orleans with a focus on historic sites, city streets, and iconic themes.

Waterfront Views in New Orleans

Crescent Park

Stretching for 1.4 miles along the Mississippi River in the Bywater, this waterfront green space has beautiful views of the river and Downtown New Orleans. Crescent Park is also a great place for walking, biking, sunset views, and relaxing by the river. The paved greenway trail in Crescent Park will lead you right to the French Market when you’re done.

Unique Food and Drink Spots in New Orleans

Bacchanal Wine

A cozy wine bar in the Bywater, Bacchanal Wine offers an intimate, laid-back experience away from the tourist crowds. Stop into the wine shop and grab a bottle and some cheese to enjoy at home in your vacation rental. Or spend an evening on the lush open-air patio, while you sample wine and dine on small plates. With regular live music outside and a Treehouse bar and dining area inside, it’s the perfect spot to relax and enjoy a backyard party in NOLA.

The Country Club 

The Country Club is one of NOLA’s best-kept secrets. A hidden oasis in the Bywater close to the French Quarter, The Country Club is a restaurant and bar with a pool! The restaurant and bar serve a locally-inspired menu, an award-winning wine program, and creative cocktails. 

You can easily spend a relaxing afternoon here, enjoying their fun weekend Drag Brunch (reserve your table a few months in advance for this popular event) or hanging by the pool. Day passes are available (no reservations, walk-in only), so you can treat yourself to a little poolside indulgence while you’re in NOLA.

A Truly Local Experience

Second Lines

You’ve no doubt heard of the Mardi Gras parades New Orleans is famous for. But did you know there are parades and events happening year-round? If you want a true New Orleans cultural experience, check out WWOZ’s Second Line schedule. These lively parades, put on by social aid and pleasure clubs, second lines, Black Masking Indians, Baby Dolls, and brass bands, are filled with music, dancing, and local energy. 

The first line is the parade’s main section, which consists of the club itself and the brass band. The second line is your invitation to participate by walking along, dancing, and enjoying the music (just stay behind the rope). 

Second Lines usually happen regularly from August to June, pausing for Carnival and Mardi Gras. Check the schedule to see if events are going on while you’re in town so you can experience the heart of NOLA culture.

Experience New Orleans Like a Local

New Orleans is full of surprises, and these hidden gems offer a whole new perspective on the city’s charm beyond the usual tourist attractions. Whether you’re sipping wine at Bacchanal, strolling through the Sculpture Garden, catching a second line parade, or taking in the skyline from Crescent Park, you’ll find unforgettable experiences tucked away in every corner of the city.

If you’re looking for a place to stay while you’re in town, our vacation rentals put you right in the heart of NOLA. Plus we’ll give you our local insider tips on these locations and even more options to explore New Orleans off the beaten path. We can’t wait to host you here in NOLA!