
Visiting New Orleans for the First Time? Here's What to See and Do
Keep your cool in New Orleans with our picks for the best first-timer activities.
Many visitors stumble across the park or follow the sounds of trumpets, saxophones, and vocalists drifting out of this typical New Orleans courtyard. The stage is small and performances are often impromptu, but the setting and music make for a great place to rest your feet during a day of sightseeing while listening to authentic New Orleans jazz and blues. Tables and chairs are scattered among statues of legendary musicians including Fats Domino, Pete Fountain, and Chris Owens. Café Beignet occupies the back of the courtyard and serves Cajun-style breakfast, coffee, and cocktails all day.
Tucked off Bourbon Street between Bienville and Conti streets, Musical Legends Park is really more of a square, and is easily missed unless you're looking for it. Parking in the area is limited, but the park is within easy walking distance to all French Quarter attractions.
The park is open year-round, but may be closed on select days of the week. There is no set schedule for performances, but live bands hit the stage periodically all day, with the most performances in the late afternoon and evening.
Famous as the French Quarter’s most boisterous and boozy thoroughfare, Bourbon Street is also one of the best places in New Orleans to hear live music. Dozens of venues and clubs dot the stretch of Bourbon between Canal and Esplanade; from high-capacity classics like the House of Blues, One-Eyed Jack’s, and B.B. King’s Blues Club—to historic hideouts including Fritzel’s European Jazz Pub and Preservation Hall. Check out Tropical Isle's Bayou Club for authentic Cajun and Zydeco sounds; or hit up The Swamp and Famous Door for a non-stop party.