When one ponders the Big Easy, images of jubilant parades, savory stews and melodic tunes may come to mind. Perhaps it’s Mardi Gras, gumbo, or jazz music echoing down Bourbon Street. But there is so much more to discover with group activities in New Orleans.
This vibrant city serves up a rich gumbo pot of team building adventures like scavenger hunts and cooking classes. Not forgetting its cultural tapestry where history sings from every corner – be it the haunting tales at the Historic Voodoo Museum or melodious strains wafting out from Preservation Hall.
Or maybe you’re craving a taste of authentic Creole cuisine? Why not whip up your own gastronomic delights guided by expert chefs?
Fancy an escape into nature? The bayou is calling for those who crave thrilling swamp tours. And sports enthusiasts won’t be able to resist the pulse-pounding events that’ll have them cheering non-stop. So book a hotel with your crew and read on!
Authors
A mother of three, Maegan Lopez has lived a life full of adventure and travel. Born and raised in Oklahoma, she developed a love for exploring new places at a young age. As Maegan’s other half, Danny Lopez is an avid traveler who has worked in the hotel industry for 8 years. He noticed that groups got the best discounts in the industry and wanted to share that knowledge with others. Maegan and Danny couldn’t run this site without Makenna Hamm. To learn more , see the About Us page.
*To support our research, we may receive compensation when you book with our partner.
Team Building Activities in New Orleans
If you’re looking for team building activities for your group that mix fun with fostering collaboration, New Orleans is a city to consider. It’s teeming with opportunities.
Culinary Team Building Activities
In New Orleans, chow and beverages are more than just nourishment; they’re an indispensable element of the local lifestyle. So why not engage your team members in culinary workshops? This will give them a taste of this rich food culture while promoting teamwork.
A cooking class at Antoine’s, one of the oldest family-run restaurants in America, could be just what you need. Here everyone can develop their culinary skills by learning to prepare traditional Creole dishes under expert guidance.
Outdoor Team Building Adventures
The great outdoors provides perfect opportunities for adventurous team building events. Scavenger hunts are excellent group activities in New Orleans that encourage problem-solving and communication among participants in your group.
Let’s Roam offers ten different scavenger hunts, ghost tours, and bar crawls across New Orleans making it ideal even if some members work remotely.
Cultural Experiences in New Orleans
New Orleans, the heart of jazz and a city steeped in rich culture, offers vibrant experiences for all visitors.
Exploring the French Quarter
The French Quarter, one of NOLA’s most famous neighborhoods, brims with energy. Stroll along its historic streets or catch some soulful tunes at Preservation Hall. Known for preserving New Orleans Jazz heritage, this iconic venue is an absolute must-visit.
Beyond music, the quarter boasts remarkable architecture that tells stories from bygone eras. Don’t forget to marvel at landmarks like St. Louis Cathedral – an embodiment of history and beauty.
Mardi Gras Celebration
No mention of cultural experiences would be complete without discussing Mardi Gras. This festive season showcases spectacular parades that fill every corner of New Orleans with excitement and color.
Fancy dressing up? You’ll fit right into the crowd. Be prepared to be dazzled by beautifully adorned floats passing down Bourbon Street under confetti-filled skies.
Uncovering Voodoo Culture
Voodoo is deeply woven into NOLA’s fabric – it’s not just about dolls and spells as pop-culture might suggest. To truly understand voodoo’s significance within local traditions and practices visit New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum.
“Voodoo is more than religion; it represents centuries-old patterns connected to family loyalties…familial customs recognized as faces on altars” says historian Martha Ward.
You’ll learn how voodoo has shaped the city’s history and continues to influence its culture. You might even find it fascinating enough to join a guided tour of the sacred Voodoo temples around the city.
Experience Orleans Jazz
ew Orleans is a city that hums with the sound of trumpets, saxophones, and trombones. It’s in every corner tavern and street-side performance – it’s where jazz music lives.
Food and Drink Scenes in New Orleans
New Orleans, or as some like to call it, the Big Easy, is a city that lives and breathes its food culture. It’s an experience that goes beyond just consuming food. Here you can explore culinary delights ranging from Creole cooking classes to intriguing food tours.
Cooking Classes in NOLA
Antoine’s, one of the oldest family-run restaurants, offers unique cooking experiences for group travelers. They provide hands-on lessons on how to prepare traditional dishes that capture the essence of New Orleans’ cuisine.
You can learn everything about local delicacies – gumbo, jambalaya or beignets – straight from expert chefs who are passionate about their craft.
The Bourbon Street Bar Crawl Experience
No visit to New Orleans would be complete without a stroll down iconic Bourbon Street. But this isn’t your typical walk – this is a curated bar crawl. A true celebration of libations awaits as you explore historic bars serving classic cocktails with live music adding to the charm.
Fresh Seafood and Live Music at Frenchmen Street
A short walk away from Bourbon street lies another gem – Frenchmen Street. Known for its vibrant night life scene filled with live jazz performances by talented musicians echoing through every corner while feasting on fresh seafood cooked right off the boat.
Night Market Shopping at Frenchmen Art Market
In between enjoying savory bites and soothing melodies, don’t forget to stop by The Frenchman Art Market—a nocturnal bazaar where artists display their handmade crafts under twinkling lights—an experience not-to-be-missed when exploring NOLA after dark.
Culinary Skills at the Food Tour
culinary scene. Taste the distinctive tastes of extraordinary meals, find out about their roots and cultural importance, and even get some cooking knowledge en route. It’s a delicious journey through New Orleans’ rich food heritage that you don’t want to miss.
Outdoor Adventures in New Orleans
New Orleans is more than just vibrant nightlife and delicious cuisine. It’s a city teeming with outdoor adventures that offer an exciting blend of history, culture, and natural beauty.
Nature Lovers’ Paradise: Jean Lafitte National Historical Park
If you’re seeking serenity away from the hustle-bustle of the city streets, look no further than Jean Lafitte National Historical Park. The park brims with bayous where wildlife thrives amidst moss-draped cypress trees. It’s truly a paradise for nature lovers.
Hiking Trails At Jean Lafitte National Historical Park And Preserve
Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve‘s diverse ecosystems offer unique outdoor adventures suitable for all fitness levels. From walking tours along boardwalk trails through marshes or swamp boat trips into bayous – there’s something here for every group size or preference.
A Swamp Tour Adventure
Besides its historic significance, NOLA is also known for swamp tours. These journeys into Louisiana’s wetlands are both educational and fun. You’ll learn about the area’s unique ecosystem while spotting alligators or catching sight of a nutria darting through the waterways.
Hiking Trails Abound
New Orleans isn’t just about music and food – it has some surprisingly beautiful hiking trails too. Discover the local wildlife and vegetation by taking a hike.
Congo Square in Louis Armstrong Park: A Cultural Treasure Amidst Greenery
This historical site nestled within Louis Armstrong Park gives you not only green space but also an insight into African American history. And who knows? You might even stumble upon impromptu jazz performances here.
Paddleboarding on Bayou St. John
An adventurous way to explore this picturesque waterway right in the heart of Mid-City New Orleans. If you’re lucky, you might spot some local wildlife too.
Reconnect with Nature in City Park
Spanning 1,300 acres and featuring numerous attractions including the New Orleans Botanical Garden and Storyland for kids, City Park is a must-visit.
The park also boasts of several biking and walking trails. It’s perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
Sports Events in New Orleans
New Orleans, a city brimming with life and energy, offers sports enthusiasts a range of thrilling events.
Experience the Excitement of Football Games
The city’s passion for football is undeniable. Whether it’s college or professional games, you can always find locals cheering on their teams at packed stadiums.
Besides watching the action live, join fellow fans at tailgate parties to soak up the lively atmosphere before kick-off.
Catch Live Basketball Matches
If basketball is more your style, don’t miss out on seeing NBA team New Orleans Pelicans in action. The Smoothie King Center comes alive as spectators watch players deftly maneuver around opponents to score points.
Rugby: A Rising Star Sport in NOLA
Although not traditionally popular across America,rugby has found a loyal fanbase here. Home team NOLA Gold Rugby draws crowds eager to experience this high-energy sport that combines elements from soccer and American football.
Pick Up Pace With Marathon Running
Apart from traditional sports like football and basketball,marathon running also finds its place among fitness enthusiasts in New Orleans. Annual marathons offer both seasoned runners and beginners an opportunity to challenge themselves while taking in scenic views along routes traversing iconic locations within the city.
Workshops in New Orleans
If you’re seeking a method to get more involved with the atmosphere of The Big Easy, workshops are an outstanding selection. These learning experiences offer hands-on activities in New Orleans that can cater to various interests in your group.
Culinary Workshops
New Orleans is renowned for its culinary scene. Why not try your hand at mixology classes or chef experiences?
From Creole cooking lessons to cocktail making sessions, these culinary skills workshops give you the perfect opportunity to learn directly from local experts.
Art and Craft Workshops
The city’s vibrant art scene offers numerous opportunities for creative exploration. You could find yourself sketching in City Park or crafting traditional Mardi Gras masks with local artisans.
New Orleans GlassWorks & Printmaking Studio, one of the largest glassworking studios in the South, regularly holds introductory courses where you get hands-on experience with glassblowing techniques under professional guidance.
Musical Workshops
In a city known as much for its live jazz as it is for its gumbo, music workshops are another great option. Venues like Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro and Spotted Cat Music Club often host jam sessions where seasoned musicians share their knowledge and passion.
Dance Classes
Nola Spaces, situated near Frenchmen Street (the beating heart of NOLA’s live music scene), offers dance classes ranging from salsa to swing – there’s something suitable whether you’re new on your feet or a seasoned dancer.
Voodoo Workshops
Curious about the mysterious and often misunderstood world of voodoo? The New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum offers workshops that delve into this unique aspect of the city’s history. Learn about traditional practices, symbols, and rituals directly from practitioners who carry on these traditions today.
Main Attractions in New Orleans
Visit some of the most iconic attractions in NOLA such as Preservation Hall or take a ride on the historic streetcars.
The streetcars of New Orleans, with a heritage that dates back over 150 years, are an integral part of the city’s character and offer stunning views as you ride. They’re iconic symbols of NOLA’s rich past.
Riding these historic streetcars, you’ll witness breathtaking city views while experiencing an integral part of New Orleans’ charm.
If you want to feel the rhythm and soul that gives life to this vibrant city, don’t miss out on Preservation Hall. A renowned place in the US, Preservation Hall is famed for its live jazz shows.
A Musical Melting Pot: Frenchmen Street and Beyond
New Orleans is also famous for its music scene with streets like Frenchmen pulsating with sounds from various live jazz clubs such as Snug Harbor or The Spotted Cat. These places give birth to magical nights filled with toe-tapping tunes and unforgettable memories.
Mixology classes can be another fun way to spend your evening in NOLA if you fancy learning how cocktails get their kick.
The Cultural Mosaic: Garden District Tours & More
For architecture enthusiasts or simply those who appreciate beauty, walking tours around areas like the picturesque Garden District can offer awe-inspiring sights. Stroll along oak-lined avenues admiring antebellum mansions that whisper tales from bygone eras.
You could even hop onto one of the well-known Orleans Streetcars, which serve not only as transport but also guides through fascinating chapters of local history.
Spiritual Sojourns: Lafitte National Historical Park & Voodoo Museum
Take a day trip to the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve. Immerse yourself in nature’s beauty, learn about the culture of enslaved people, or explore wetlands Acadian Cultural Center for an enriching experience.
then a trip to NOLA’s enchanting corners is something you shouldn’t miss. Explore the mysteries that this vibrant city has to offer.
Day Trips from New Orleans
From the heart of New Orleans, explore beyond its bustling streets and discover a wealth of culture in neighboring areas.
Historic Plantations
Take a day trip to nearby plantations such as Oak Alley or Laura Plantation. You’ll step back in time and get an insightful glimpse into the lives of enslaved people. It’s a sobering experience that paints a more complete picture of Southern history.
Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve
An escape to nature can be found at Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve. This wetland area offers beautiful walking trails through swamps teeming with wildlife like alligators, raccoons, snakes, and many bird species.
The park also houses several cultural centers including the Acadian Cultural Center where you can learn about Cajun traditions first-hand.
Garden District Tours
A short streetcar ride away lies the Garden District. Spectacularly grand mansions from the antebellum era remain in beautiful condition throughout the Garden District, each one more impressive than its predecessor. The district tours give you detailed insights into their rich histories.
For literature lovers, seeing author Anne Rice’s former home will certainly add thrill to your tour.
Congo Square & Louis Armstrong Park Trip
If music stirs your soul then taking a stroll around Congo Square within Louis Armstrong Park is perfect for you.
It was here where slaves gathered on Sundays to play music which eventually gave birth to jazz.
The square is a National Historic Landmark and also features several sculptures including one of Louis Armstrong himself.
Mississippi River Boat Cruise
If you’re looking for a relaxed day out, consider hopping on board the Steamboat Natchez. Enjoy live jazz as you cruise down the Mississippi river while enjoying delicious local cuisine.
The Steamboat Natchez offers both daytime and evening cruises.
Conclusion
Exploring group activities in New Orleans is like opening a treasure chest. You’ve unearthed the vibrant energy of team building adventures, from scavenger hunts to culinary workshops that bring out your inner chef.
You’ve strolled through history on the cobblestones of the French Quarter and delved into the intriguing voodoo culture at historic museums. From this journey, you’ve realized there’s more to NOLA than meets the eye.
The city’s rich cuisine beckoned you with Creole cooking classes and food tours. You answered nature’s call by exploring bayous and national parks outside its bustling center.
Sports events ignited your competitive spirit while unique workshops catered to diverse interests. Lastly, let’s not forget those iconic streetcars which truly encapsulate New Orleans’ charm!
In essence: Dive in, experience all it has to offer – because there are endless opportunities for unforgettable group experiences here in The Big Easy!