As colleges and universities prepare for Fall Break, New Orleans buzzes with the energy of hundreds of young adults getting ready to make the most of their time off school. With its lively bars, unique atmosphere, and one-of-a-kind landmarks, the Big Easy attracts students from Louisiana, Texas, Mississippi, Alabama, and Florida (among many others) to its historic districts.
If you are considering spending your Fall Break in NOLA, this City Sightseeing guide is for you! From yummy breakfasts to exciting nightlife, these 6 things to do during Fall Break in New Orleans will definitely not disappoint.
Cheer on the New Orleans Saints
Few things scream “Fall Break” better than a football game! Head on down to cheer on the New Orleans Saints at one of their home games on October 13th or October 17th. The first matchup pits the Saints against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers while the Thursday night showdown is against the Denver Broncos.
With home games played at Caesars Superdome, you can attend while also having convenient access to New Orleans’ Central Business District. Known as the Mercedes-Benz Superdome until 2021, this indoor stadium is one of the largest of its kind in the world and fits about 73,000 people. Blend in with the crowd of black and gold (whether you typically root for the Saints or not) and enjoy a day in the NFL instead of the NCAA!
Visit the National WWII Museum
Barter for some extra credit in your U.S. history course when you visit New Orleans’ National WWII Museum. Both educational and engaging, the museum is a leading cultural institution dedicated to preserving the history and legacy of World War II.
Located on a six-acre campus in downtown New Orleans, the establishment includes five pavilions with exhibits, theaters, and a restoration workshop. Open daily (with the exception of certain holidays), guests can explore the hundreds of artifacts and installations that recognize and creatively demonstrate the impact of the world war.
Eat Up During New Orleans’ Oyster Season
In New Orleans, October marks the beginning of oyster season! Running until April, oyster season offers a great chance to sample these briny treasures fresh from the Gulf of Mexico. Renowned for its oyster bars and restaurants even in the off-season, New Orleans offers an array of signature dishes, including charbroiled, fried, or half-shell oysters.
If you’re looking to try some of the best seafood in the Big Easy, scratch your itch for oysters at Drago’s Seafood — famous for its original charbroiled oysters — or Felix’s Restaurants & Oyster Bar, which provides a laid-back setting for savoring the dish along with other local delights. Finally, for something truly New Orleans, visit with Mr. Ed’s Oyster Bar & Fish House and make sure to order its fantastic oyster po’ boy!
Don’t Miss the Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival
An annual celebration of music and food held in Lafayette Square Park, the Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival is known for attracting top blues musicians and fans. Other than the music, the festival is also known for its wide selection of barbecue vendors that offer regional variations of popular meat and veggie dishes, including smoked chicken, sausage gumbo, vegan red beans, and ribs.
After grabbing a snack, wander through the local arts market and check out the handmade crafts, jewelry, and home furnishings available for purchase. You never know what might make a good souvenir to take back to your dorm!
Party All Night Long at Frenchmen Street
For a true foray into the heart and soul of New Orleans, plan a trip to Frenchmen Street in the French Quarter. Known for its lively music scene, Frenchmen is the best place to listen to local bands playing jazz, blues, funk, and reggae. Avoid the tourist crowds on Bourbon Street and wander through iconic music venues, including the Spotted Cat and Blue Nile.
If you’re not interested in the music scene, fear not! Frenchmen Street is also well-known for its many quirky art galleries, late-night eateries, and a buzzing night market where you can purchase some handcrafted souvenirs. Get ready to grab a beignet, sip a cocktail, and dance the night away with your ultimate Fall Break getaway to Frenchmen Street!
Book a Hop On Hop Off Tour with City Sightseeing
Need a safe and convenient way to get around New Orleans during Fall Break? Reserve your Hop On Hop Off tickets with City Sightseeing! Our distinctive buses are a great way to see the most iconic parts of the city while allowing you the chance to disembark at any of our 19 stops.