New Orleans may be famous for its music, festivals, and incredible food, but there’s much more to this city than its well-trodden attractions. If you’re craving an authentic experience off the beaten path, New Orleans offers an array of hidden gems that only locals and the most curious travelers usually discover.
Whether you’re a long-time resident or are looking to buy a home, rent an apartment, or find a rental home in New Orleans, you’re sure to find a gem to add to your list beyond the usual tourist attractions in this Rent. guide.
Unearth New Orleans’ best-kept secrets
From interactive art installations to charming boutiques, these hidden gems invite you to discover the authentic spirit of the Crescent City.
1. Visit the Music Box Village
Explore this interactive art installation and music venue, where each whimsical structure doubles as a musical instrument. The Music Box Village in New Orleans’ Bywater area showcases interactive “musical houses” – sculptures that double as instruments,” James Smith with Only By Land shares. “Visitors can explore and play these unique structures, creating a blend of sounds. At sunset, performances transform this hidden gem into a magical playground of architecture and music.”
2. Discover Century Girl Vintage
For those seeking a touch of nostalgia, Century Girl Vintage is a delightful destination in New Orleans. “Located on the cutest little block of the famed Magazine Street, Century Girl Vintage is your go-to luxurious boutique for the most refined, carefully curated, vintage gems,” Landry Braud of Landry Has Landed recommends. “Whether you’re looking for glamorous jewelry, luxurious silk slips and nightgowns, whimsical hats, and accessories, or even a sparkling designer gown for your next big event, this hidden gem vintage boutique truly has it all! There is no better place in the city for one-of-a-kind vintage, designer pieces.”
3. Explore Faubourg Tremé
Known as the birthplace of jazz, Tremé is filled with vibrant history, culture, and local artistry. “While visiting New Orleans, be sure to explore historic Faubourg Tremé. It’s the oldest black neighborhood in America, which is more than just its pretty pastel creole houses and the setting for award-winning PBS and HBO films,” shares Jim Ferri, editor of NeverStopTraveling. “A special attraction in Treme, the Backstreet Cultural Museum, displays the largest collection of Mardi Gras Indian regalia. It’s worth touring to see the collection, and also learn about jazz funerals and other African-American traditions. End your day of sightseeing and having drinks in the Frenchmen Street area, with its string of low-cost music clubs.”
4. Seek out Saint Roch Cemetery and Chapel
Unlike other cemeteries in New Orleans, Saint Roch Cemetery is home to a shrine dedicated to the patron saint of healing. Inside the chapel, you’ll find a unique collection of crutches, prosthetics, and personal mementos left by those who believed Saint Roch healed them. This spiritual and mysterious place offers insight into the city’s deep-rooted folk traditions.
5. Stroll through the Frenchmen Art Market
Immerse yourself in local culture at the Frenchmen Art Market, where talented artists showcase handcrafted jewelry, paintings, and unique pieces. Located just outside the French Quarter, this open-air market provides a refreshing alternative to the city’s bustling souvenir shops, offering visitors the chance to connect with local artists and discover one-of-a-kind mementos.
6. Savor authentic New Orleans cuisine
A visit to New Orleans wouldn’t be complete without tasting one of its most beloved culinary staples: the po’ boy. This iconic sandwich, served on crisp French bread and generously stuffed with ingredients ranging from fried shrimp and oysters to roast beef dripping with gravy, tells the story of New Orleans’ diverse flavors and history.”Looking for an authentic PoBoy in the French Quarter? The place to go is Johnny’s PoBoys. It is the oldest family-owned and operated PoBoy shop in the Quarter. The sandwiches to get are the Roast Beef PoBoy or any of the Seafood Poboys,” recommends Tommy Centola of Creole Cajun Chef.
Another famous must-see spot is Cafe Du Monde, known for its pillowy beignets and strong coffee. “Cafe Du Monde is an iconic cafe by the Mississippi River in New Orleans, which introduced Baguest and chicory coffee to the city,” Madhurima Chakraborty, travel writer and blogger of Orange Wayfarer.
He continues: “As you step out of the French Quarter dotted with ornate buildings, seats Cafe Du Monde, the century-old building across Jackson Square. Except for occasional hurricanes, the Cafe serves locals and tourists relentlessly 24/7. Chicory coffee is a remnant of the war days when the Civil War blockade forced NOLA locals to find a way to continue drinking coffee. They mixed endive root with chicory, resulting in a bitter-tasting, less acidic version of coffee. Pair it with crispy golden brown fried beignets with white sugar dusted on top, and let it melt in your mouth!”
7. Sip and read at Baldwin & Co. Bookstore and Cafe
For a cozy spot that blends culture and caffeine, Baldwin & Co. is a must-visit.”If you love books, coffee, or both, it’s worth venturing out of the French Quarter to the nearby Marigny neighborhood for a visit to Baldwin & Co,” Jessie Beck, founder of Where’s Jessie B. recommends. “Opened in 2021, this independent, black-owned bookstore and cafe has a small but extremely well-curated collection of books —including many by local authors. At the cafe, order a coffee from their literary-themed menu, such as the Notes of a Native Son, a latte with garam masala syrup, then head out to their spacious courtyard to enjoy.”
8. Rest and relax at The Lanaux Mansion
Step into a piece of cinematic and historic charm at the Lanaux Mansion, a landmark that’s captured the imagination of filmmakers, historians, and visitors alike. “You might recognize the Lanaux Mansion from “The Curious Case of Benjamin Button” or one of the other films and shows in which it’s appeared. Since 1879, the house has played host to not only actors and movie crews, but to prominent figures of history and culture,” explains Nik Dessle with The Lanaux Mansion. “Some even claim there’s a ghost among its list of distinguished guests. Don’t let that scare you, though. Our luxurious guest suites offer every modern comfort, and our grand parlors are perfect for your big events — all where the festive French Quarter meets the famous music scene of Frenchmen Street.”
9. Unleash your fun side with a unique dance experience
For a fun and exhilarating way to spend your time in New Orleans, look no further than this unique dance studio located in The Shops at Canal Place. “Pole Perfect Fitness is one of New Orleans’ best-kept secrets, located right in The Shops at Canal Place, across from Caesar’s Palace and next to the Four Seasons, right on the very first corner of the famous French Quarter,” shares owner and founder Kimberly Lobert.
“This hidden gem offers pole dancing classes and unforgettable parties for any occasion—whether it’s a birthday, bachelorette, or just for fun. With classes and parties available seven days a week, it’s a must-see destination for anyone looking to add excitement, FUN, and lifetime memories to their time in New Orleans.”
10. Stay in style at a boutique hotel
New Orleans boasts a unique architectural charm that elevates overnight stays, offering an experience far more memorable than in other cities. “Looking for a boutique hotel in the French Quarter? You’ll find hidden gems such as the Hotel Villa Convento, which some say was “the House of the Rising Sun,” shares Bobbi Mannino with Best New Orleans Hotels.
Experience New Orleans, off the beaten path
With so much to discover beyond its iconic sights, New Orleans offers a world of hidden treasures that capture the heart of the city. For those looking to give back to the community, consider opportunities such as Rustic Pathways. “On a Rustic Pathways student travel program in New Orleans, teens have the chance to experience hidden gems like the vibrant French Market in the historic French Quarter. While exploring this lively area, taste local beignets, hear live music, and discover the unique culture that makes New Orleans so special. It’s one of the many experiences waiting for students in the Big Easy.”
From historic cemeteries and musical gardens to intimate bars and open-air art markets, each hidden gem adds a layer to New Orleans’ charm. Step away from the crowds and let these unique experiences show you the Crescent City’s mysterious, unforgettable side.