Top 9 Fun Indoor Activities in New Orleans to Try in 2024
The Big Easy is known for world-class dining, warm Southern breezes and a vibrant meeting of cultures from around the world, but did you know there are tons of incredible indoor activities in New Orleans for the occasional rainy day?
For fine-dining aficionados and music lovers alike, bad weather won’t stop you from soaking up the rich history and unique blending of cultures that occurs in New Orleans.
So, what is there to do indoors in New Orleans? Read on for some of the most engaging and delightful indoor activities in New Orleans for both children and adults.
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- Best Indoor Activities in New Orleans for Adults
- Fun Indoor Activities in New Orleans for Kids
- Free Indoor Activities in New Orleans
Best Indoor Activities in New Orleans for Adults
1. Book a Cooking Class
In a city with such diverse influences from all over the world, New Orleans food is legendary and the city is blessed to be one of the best culinary scenes in the United States.
Take a chance to learn from an expert chef when you take cooking classes in New Orleans. Whether you want to delve into classic French cooking, whip up local favorites or explore far reaches of Thai or Japanese cuisine, these classes give you hands-on experience so you can nail some notoriously tricky yet delicious dishes with confidence.
A perfect date idea in New Orleans or a group activity for adults, these classes are a fun way to make memories together.
2. Breakfast at Brennan’s
Brennan’s has been a staple in the local restaurant scene since 1946 and even today it holds the same charm. Serving up classic Creole creations, it offers a colorful yet chic ambiance and the best of French and Spanish cuisines.
This indoor activity in New Orleans is perfect for hosting out-of-town guests or passing the time with local acquaintances.
3. Hit the Casino
You don’t have to gamble to have fun at Harrah’s Casino. This sprawling center is full of indoor activities in New Orleans including 2,000 slot machines, nine restaurants and plenty of attractions like bowling or a live performance.
A rainy day in New Orleans won’t stop you, and the casino keeps the party going all night.
Fun Indoor Activities in New Orleans for Kids
4. Visit the Audobon Insectarium
Use all of your senses with a visit to the Audobon Insectarium for an indoor activity in New Orleans that kids will love. This place isn’t just for kids though, as the peaceful yet engaging environment makes a nice spot for indoor date ideas or winter activities when the weather outside could be better.
It’s practically an indoor playground in New Orleans, complete with hundreds of fluttering butterflies all around you plus over 50 displays of unique insects from the humble honey bee to all sorts of arthropods from around the world.
5. Go Under the Sea at the Aquarium
Another indoor activity in New Orleans that captures both children and adults, the Audobon Aquarium of the Americas is one of the best in the nation.
Recently renovated and re-imagined, kids and adults of all ages can experience the vibrant underwater world of the Caribbean and the Amazon rainforest (and beyond!) all in one place.
From mystical manta rays to white alligators or African penguins, there are over 250 species on display here. This indoor kid activity in New Orleans never grows old as the exhibits are constantly changing and new animals come to call the aquarium home.
6. Appreciate History at the National WWII Museum
Honor fallen service members and explore not-so ancient history at the National WWII Museum. A rainy day in New Orleans is the perfect excuse to learn about our nation’s history, and this museum is massive, spanning four buildings with relics from floor to ceiling.
Old-fashioned war planes hang from the ceiling and there are plenty of interactive exhibits to see what life was like for the servicemen and women of the time.
There’s also a theater on-site with two showings a day that make for great fall activities.
Free Indoor Activities in New Orleans
7. Listen to Live Music
Known as the birthplace of Jazz, when it comes to indoor activities in New Orleans, live music should be high on your list. Check out a local open mic night to discover up-and-coming talent and if you arrive early enough, there’s usually no cover charge.
This free indoor activity in New Orleans will soothe your soul and have you swaying along to the beat before you know it. Ideal for a date or a lively weekend night with friends, choose from all sorts of Jazz, R&B or blues clubs to set the tone for a fun night.
The Jazz Museum offers a great depiction of the long-standing history of jazz in the city, plus it’s a totally free indoor activity in New Orleans French Quarter.
8. Stroll the French Market
Find inspiration or simply enjoy the free sights and smells of the French Market for a classic indoor activity in New Orleans. This covered promenade features craft bazaars, restaurants and a daily flea market and farmers market.
There’s plenty to see and do here even if you don’t want to spend any money. Open since 1791, it’s a long-standing piece of local history everyone should see at least once.
9. Watch the Storm From the Porch at The Chloe
If it’s just some thunder and rain that has you seeking indoor activities in New Orleans, get the best of fresh air and protection from the elements when you enjoy a drink from the porch at The Chloe.
This beautiful 19th-century style home-turned-hotel is the epitome of luxury and class. Drinks start at just $10, so while it’s not technically free it’s very affordable!
Turn it into a staycation and book a room here to enjoy the pool, spa and more. The restaurant on-site serves up modern Creole fare that will have your mouth watering.
While you may hope to stroll along the river, it’s best to have a backup plan with some engaging indoor activities in New Orleans. With great food and tons of museums, there’s no shortage of opportunities for memorable team-building activities in New Orleans or special date nights.
What is it like when it rains in New Orleans? The streets get slow but indoor businesses come alive from jazz bars to state-of-the-art fitness centers or quaint restaurants offering Haitian, Spanish, French and American dining for all tastes.
For even more fun things to do in New Orleans, check out other experiences happening on Classpop!
