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11 Must-See Attractions in New Orleans During Super Bowl LIX

Super Bowl fever is hitting New Orleans, and you’re in for more than just touchdowns and overpriced stadium snacks. The Crescent City is the ultimate playground for culture, music, and indulgence. And while the big game is the main event, there’s a lot more to discover outside the football field.

From historic churches to magical oak trees and sugary beignets that could change your life, New Orleans is a city that knows how to celebrate – whether it’s sports, music, or the pure joy of living.

What’s on this list? A mix of iconic landmarks, hidden gems, and tasty stops that every Super Bowl attendee needs to experience.

Think we missed a must-see hotspot? Drop your favorite NOLA gems in the comments!


St. Louis Cathedral

The ornate interior of St. Louis Cathedral, featuring soaring arches, stained glass windows, and detailed religious artwork with visitors admiring the beauty.
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Ever wanted to take your Instagram-worthy church selfie but with more soul (and less judgment)? St. Louis Cathedral is your spot. Situated in Jackson Square, it’s a slice of French and Spanish colonial history and also one of the best photo ops in the city.

This stunning structure dates back to 1727 and happens to be the oldest continuously active cathedral in the U.S. Step inside and find yourself mesmerized by the stained glass and murals – or simply use it as a great excuse to dodge the afternoon heat.

Street Music

A lively street band performing in front of a historic building, featuring a pianist, a trombone player, and other musicians entertaining a crowd on Royal Street.
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Nothing screams “New Orleans” louder (figuratively and literally) than its street music scene. Walk through any corner of the French Quarter, and you’re bound to encounter a trumpet solo that’ll make you question why you quit lessons in 6th grade.

Music runs through the veins of this city, and during Super Bowl week, the performances will likely truly level up. From jazz to funk to spontaneous crowd sing-alongs, it’s auditory art at its finest. And don’t be shy – tip the band, clap along, or join the group of strangers dancing like everyone’s watching, even if no one really is.

LaBranche House

A historic French Quarter building adorned with intricate wrought iron balconies decorated with greenery and festive Mardi Gras beads.
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Ever wanted a home with iron lace balconies so ornate it belongs in a Southern Gothic novel? Enter the LaBranche House. Located on Royal Street, this historic 1835 beauty is an architectural icon. You’ve probably seen its signature design in about 500 travel brochures, but it’s worth admiring in person.

The best part? It’s free to admire. Stroll by, admire the balconies – and maybe wonder for a second if you should’ve pursued a career flipping historic homes. Don’t forget to grab a praline snack from a street vendor while walking past.

Tour and Welcome Center

A bustling tour center in the French Quarter with signs advertising ghost, swamp, and city tours, offering visitors a glimpse into local attractions.
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To the rookie traveler, navigating New Orleans can feel like orchestrating an elaborate heist (minus George Clooney). That’s why the Tour and Welcome Center is where your magical Super Bowl adventure should begin.

Located near the Superdome, this spot offers maps, tips, and possible access to tours ranging from historical ghosts to swampy alligators (keeping it versatile, NOLA style). Think of it as your pregame strategy session, but instead of X’s and O’s, you’re planning an attack on jambalaya spots.

Parades

A lively Mardi Gras parade in the French Quarter at night, featuring costumed participants, glowing decorations, and festive crowds enjoying the celebration.
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New Orleans doesn’t do anything halfway, and parades are no exception. Expect Super Bowl celebrations to spill onto the streets with confetti, brass bands, and possibly a guy walking an alligator on a leash (yes, seriously).

And if a likely Super Bowl parade doesn’t fill your cup, Mardi Gras parades might also happen during your stay. They begin in January and often occur on Friday and Saturday evenings.

Storyland

Entrance to a whimsical children's park featuring colorful statues of Humpty Dumpty and Little Bo Peep with her sheep, welcoming visitors under a vibrant "Storyland" sign.
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If you’re traveling with kids (or just enjoy themed parks), pop over to Storyland in City Park. It’s a whimsical escape filled with larger-than-life fairy-tale sculptures. “Humpty Dumpty” might not be as impressive as a 30-yard touchdown pass, but hey, sometimes variety is the spice of life.

It’s ideal for a morning visit – and don’t forget to grab a beignet at the park cafe afterward. Needed fuel from all the walking, obviously.

City Park

A grand neoclassical colonnade reflected in a tranquil body of water, with palm trees and lush greenery surrounding the elegant structure.
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Speaking of City Park, this sprawling green space is like the MVP of NOLA outdoor escapes. It’s bigger than Central Park and is a one-stop shop for exploring trails, activities, and beautiful landscapes.

Don’t miss out on exploring the gardens or checking out the historic Pavilion – it’s been around longer than most of the buildings in the area. And keep an eye on the geese (they’re braver than most football fans on game day).

Anseman Oak

A sprawling oak tree draped with Spanish moss in a park setting, with sunlight filtering through its massive branches and a winding path leading into the distance.
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Hidden deep in City Park’s lushness, Anseman Oak is the kind of tree that looks like it’s about to offer you life advice. This centuries-old behemoth is a natural historian, standing tall through hurricanes, Mardi Gras celebrations, and now your Super Bowl getaway.

Catch it during golden hour for an unbeatable photo opportunity – it truly glows in that magical Louisiana light. Also, wear bug spray. Trust us; no touchdown celebration cheers can drown out the buzz of mosquitos.

The Streetcars

A classic red and yellow streetcar labeled "Canal" with the number 2003, moving along tracks in front of historic buildings with palm trees lining the street. The tram features vintage-style windows and advertisements on the side.
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Why walk when you can tram? The iconic New Orleans streetcars are like mobile balconies rolling through the city, offering scenic rides and nostalgia on tap. Hop on the St. Charles Line for a tour of gorgeous mansions, oak-lined avenues, and history.

At $1.25 a ride, it’s possibly the most budget-friendly adventure in the city (outside of people-watching on Bourbon Street). Heads up – always carry exact change. Those streets may be magical, but the conductors don’t take Venmo.

Abbott’s Frozen Custard

An interior view of an ice cream shop with a rustic brick wall, colorful decorations, and a sign that reads "Frozen Custard is French Style Ice Cream." Various toppings are displayed in clear containers, and a small American flag is on the counter.
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Ice cream is great, but have you tried frozen custard that’s so creamy it borders on life-altering? Abbott’s Frozen Custard will make you re-evaluate every scoop you’ve had in your life. Located near the Garden District, it’s the perfect stop after exploring.

Try the chocolate almond fudge swirl and tell us it’s not one of the best calls you’ve made this trip. Just don’t linger too long or the praline toppings may disappear mysteriously (by you, obviously).

Cafe Du Monde

A well-known cafe with a red and white sign reading "Cafe Du Monde Coffee & Beignets," featuring a green and white striped awning. Several blue rental bikes are parked in front, and outdoor seating is available under an open-air patio.
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If you don’t stop at Cafe Du Monde for beignets and a cafe au lait, did you even go to New Orleans? This French Market staple has been sprinkling powdered sugar happiness since 1862.

There are several in New Orleans, depending on where you are exploring. The busiest is the one located at Jackson Square, near the bulk of the tourist attractions. So expect to wait in line here. We also stopped at the one in City Park (because who can have too many beignets).

Pro tip? Don’t wear black. Powdered sugar has no respect for your outfit choices.


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