New Orleans, Louisiana may be known for Mardi Gras and it’s loud, party energy, but there’s actually a lot for senior citizens to do in the “Big Easy” other than party on Bourbon Street. Here’s a list of some great activities for seniors in the city of New Orleans.
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What to do in New Orleans: Top Activities for Seniors in the Big Easy
1. Enjoy Jackson Square
Jackson Square in New Orleans is world famous. Known as "Place d'Armes," in the 18th century, it was later renamed to honor former U.S. President Andrew Jackson, who was a soldier responsible for helping the U.S. win the Battle of New Orleans during the War of 1812. In the square is a beautiful, famous statue of Jackson on his horse. Take a minute to relax in the square or walk around and look at the beauty surrounding it like the historical buildings such as the St. Louis Cathedral and the Presbytere and Cabildo. Many local artists also use the space in Jackson Square to create and display their works of art and it can be a very intriguing, relaxing experience to visit the Jackson Square.
2. Stroll through the Garden district
If you’re visiting New Orleans, you must take some time to explore the beautiful Garden District in the city. Take a stroll though the Garden District, away from the noisy downtown New Orleans to take in the beauty of some of the most stunning homes in the area and the gorgeous gardens surrounding them. It’s a very historic area of the city with most homes built in the early-mid 1800s with Greek-style architecture and English gardens. You can also visit great antique and vintage clothing shops in the district as well.
3. Visit the National World War II Museum
The National World War II Museum in New Orleans is a beautiful museum where you can explore and learn about the Second World War through a wide variety of great exhibitions that include letters from the war, weapons from the war, recruitment posters, films on the war and more. The museum offers a discount for seniors and if you want to go back and visit the museum a second day, tickets are just $6 for that day. There are all kinds of temporary and permanent exhibits offered by the museum and it offers a very in-depth look at a pivotal time in world history.
4. Visit the Ogden Museum of Southern Art
The Ogden Museum of Southern Art was founded in 2003 and allows visitors to experience the rich history and beauty of the American South through art with spectacular exhibits and educational programs. The exhibits cover southern art from the 1700s to present day of well-known artists but also unique works from lesser-known artists that can be very interesting to visitors. Take some time out of your day for this quieter venture in New Orleans and you’re sure to enjoy learning and appreciating the works produced by the American South. The museum also offers a discount for seniors.
5. Explore the French Quarter and it’s Restaurants, Shops and Entertainment
Spend an afternoon exploring the French Quarter and you’re sure to enjoy it. The French Quarter is a section of New Orleans that also houses the Jackson Square, and in this are of New Orleans you can experience a unique atmosphere wandering through this historic area filled with stunning architecture, great restaurants and bars while listening to street performed music and other entertainment. It can become a crowded area on weekends, so weekdays would be the best time for seniors to explore this area for a quieter, less-busy feel. There are beautiful shops to pop in and out of that offer local jewelry, clothing and antiques and you can really get a taste of New Orleans by eating in some of these local restaurants. This area will test all of your senses and if you want to get a feel for what New Orleans is all about, explore the French Quarter full of rich history and a fun atmosphere, even for seniors.
This article was written by Cameron Lafontaine.