15 Fun Things to Discover in New Orleans in the Spring
Spring sneaks in on a warm breeze bringing a harvest of new adventures. Take a walk through our list of 15 fun things to do in New Orleans this Spring to discover a season of refreshing fun and energizing eats.
EAT
Raw Republic
“More than Juice.” Cold-pressed and filtered from organic fruits and vegetables, the shelf-life of these nutrient-rich products only lasts three days. Why? No chemical preservatives and a guarantee of freshness. The ready-to-grab section has plenty of bottled goodness there for the choosing. Additionally, their complete menu boasts a variety of nut “mylks”, tonics, smoothies, organic meals and snacks.
Seed
Newly reopened by the owners of District Donuts.Sliders.Brew, Seed sits invitingly on Prytania Street. The street-facing windows decorated with potted greenery punctuate the plant-based menu they offer to their patrons. Bar snacks, tacos, sandwiches, soups and even a stunning list of craft cocktails are featured herein.
The Daily Beet
This trendy, clean-lined Juice Bar and Cafe has three perfect locations to fuel your energy in either Uptown, St. Roch or the Central Business District. The Daily Beet is passionate about partnering with local farmers because they love providing sustainable nutrition. Their mission statement deftly sums it up below:
"Our ingredients speak for themselves. Our menu is carefully crafted to promote and enhance the well-being of our city. Dining at The Daily Beet will energize your body, fuel your mind, and enrich your daily life.”
Surrey’s
The oldest organic juice bar in the city, Surrey’s Cafe is open seven days a week. Come for breakfast or lunch at one of their two quirky and colorful locations on Magazine Street. Classics like Bananas Foster French Toast or Shrimp and Grits are favorites, while others like the Huevos Rancheros and Carnitas show off the cafe’s Latin flair. There are even plenty of vegan and vegetarian options to tempt your taste-buds.
Satsuma
This lively spot also serves up cold-pressed juices for breakfast and lunch alongside a delicious menu. Satsuma’s desire to provide healthier cuisine to their community can be tasted in their “unaltered” ingredients; where their “customers [do not] have to guess whether or not there is high fructose corn syrup, preservatives or additives in the food [they] serve.” Try one of their three locations on Dauphine, Maple or Magazine Street.
EXPLORE
Jean Lafitte National Historical Park & Preserve
The six unique sites of this park consist of over 20,000 acres scattered across south Louisiana. A great day trip from the city, Barataria Preserve (shown above) features elevated walking trails throughout the verdant swamp and bottomland forests. You can also take a canoe tour to soak up the Spring sunshine and cool breezes.
Crescent City Farmer’s Markets
For 25 years, CCFM has been creating lively community spaces and supporting the local economy. They proudly provide access to fresh produce and healthier, affordable food-goods to locals and visitors alike. CCFM sets up shop at six different locations across the city, five days a week (Tuesday-Saturday), rain or shine.
Picnic in City Park
If those oak trees could talk, what stories they could tell! With over 1,300 acres of wide open spaces, City Park has been enchanting those who walk its grounds for over 150 years. Its winding walking trails, bike paths and stone bridges pave the way to a welcoming respite for the perfect afternoon picnic.
Bike on Lafitte Greenway
Lafitte Greenway winds from Armstrong Park at the edge of the French Quarter all the way to City Park for 2.6 miles. This paved bicycle and pedestrian path is equipped with LED trail lighting and ADA curb ramps as well as 500 shade trees along its route.
Spring Garden Show: April 4th-5th
Whether a landscape professional or simply an admirer of the beautiful flora, the 41st Annual Garden Show has a little something for everyone. Held at the New Orleans Botanical Garden, the exhibit will feature cooking demonstrations, live music, arts and crafts, and even a Children’s Discovery Tent.
FEST
St. Patrick’s Day Parades: March 13th-15th
We can’t guarantee you’ll find a pot of gold but you’re likely to catch a lucky load of vegetables! Alongside flowers and beads, cabbages, carrots and onions are typical parade throws on this route. If you feel a fancy for such a treat, try Molly’s at the Market's signature Frozen Irish Coffee. And of course, don’t forget to wear green!
French Quarter Festival: March 16th-19th
Arguably one of the biggest free music festivals in the country, French Quarter Fest fills the heart of downtown with the sounds of big name artists and local musicians alike, along with the intoxicating scent of Cajun cuisine.
BUKU Music + Art Project: March 20th-21st
BUKU has a vibe all its own with a stellar lineup of EDM, hip-hop and indie rock artists. Art demonstrations, a live graffiti gallery, and food vendors of all types join performances from four music stages. Stroll along the Riverfront and inside the “den” at Mardi Gras World to find all this festival has to offer.
Tennessee Williams New Orleans Literary Festival: March 25th-29th
Bibliophiles and literary enthusiasts will relish in this festival created to honor the world-famous playwright. An impressive lineup of authors, actors and speakers will be hosting over 30 panels and classes, presenting theatrical performances and other numerous events. Also, you won’t want to miss the “Stella!” shouting contest in the French Quarter.
Crawfish Festival: April 27th-29th
With a musical lineup that is sure to keep your toes tapping and over 6,000 pounds of boiled Louisiana crawfish, this fun festival will be a true feast for the senses. Hosted by Central City BBQ, general admission is $35 per person.
