Stay Cool: 7 Refreshing Experiences for a New Orleans Summer
Therefore, bid the summertime blues, “Adieu!” Check out these 7 refreshing ways to keep your cool in New Orleans in the summer.
1. See the Sights from a Paddlewheeler
Hop aboard an authentic New Orleans paddlewheeler like the Creole Queen, and take in the sights as you cruise the mighty Mississippi River. Many cruises include extras like live music, a dinner or brunch option, or historic tours. The New Orleans Steamboat Company also offers various cruises, tours, and events on their vessels, the steamboat Natchez and the riverboat City of New Orleans.
2. Get Your Fill of Irresistible Food and Drinks
The temperature isn’t the only thing that heats up during a New Orleans summer. You’ll also find hot deals on food and drinks, starting in June with the Wine and Food Experience and Restaurant Week New Orleans. In August, COOLinary offers a perfect chance to try some of NOLA’s top restaurants at unbeatable prices.
3. Take Advantage of the Hotel Pool
Take a break from sightseeing to lounge by a hotel pool, sip on a classic New Orleans cocktail, and unwind. The hotel you are staying at doesn't have a pool? Many NOLA hotels offer day passes to use their pools during the summer. A rooftop pool is also a great way to check out the city views.
4. Visit the Theatre
What better way to soak up refreshing A/C and amazing entertainment than a visit to the theatre? See what’s playing at the historic Saenger Theatre, the charming Le Petit Theatre, or The Orpheum. See your favorite artists perform at The Mahalia Jackson Theatre or the legendary Caesar’s Superdome.
5. Find Your Favorite Sno-ball
Don’t let anyone tell you it’s just a snow cone. A New Orleans sno-ball is so much more and you have to experience it yourself to understand how perfect a summer treat it is. With dozens of flavors and creative twists (try a stuffed sno-ball) to choose from, it may take you several tries to find your favorite.
6. Tour the Many Museums
Explore the rich history of New Orleans, its music, people, and more from one of the city’s many fantastic museums. Whether exploring the small but intriguing New Orleans VooDoo Museum or taking a 360-degree tour of the entire city from Vue Orleans, there’s something for everyone.
Visit the historic Cabildo, or admire stunning masterpieces at the New Orleans Museum of Art. If you can’t visit New Orleans during carnival, get a glimpse of this magical time with a tour of Mardi Gras World. Other not-to-be-missed museums in the Big Easy are the New Orleans Jazz Museum, Ogden Museum of Southern Art, and the National WWII Museum.
7. Visit the Aquarium and Insectarium
The Audubon Aquarium and Insectarium put hundreds of amazing creatures under one roof. See curious critters, explore hands-on exhibits, and learn about these amazing creatures in a unique, state-of-the-art facility.
Summer in New Orleans Means Great Times and Great Deals
You’ll always find something to do in New Orleans and summertime is no exception. The city boasts many popular festivals and special events during June, July, and August. So pack your sunscreen and head to NOLA. There are plenty of ways to beat the heat, and you’ll find great NOLA hotel deals during the summer month