10 Adventures for Non-Walkers
Sit Down and Explore New Orleans!
When Fats Domino sang about “Walkin’ to New Orleans,” it sounded like a good idea, but what if you’re one of the 40 million Americans with arthritis or back or knee problems? Here are ten things you can do in New Orleans that don’t require a lot of walking.
1. Take a Jazz Cruise on the Steamboat NATCHEZ
One of the best views of New Orleans is from the river aboard the Steamboat NATCHEZ, the last authentic steamboat on the Mississippi River. On these two-hour cruises, you can visit the engine room, listen to the calliope, experience live jazz, get your fill of authentic Creole cuisine, and drink in spectacular views. Make reservations.
2. Discover the French Quarter from a Royal Carriage
See the French Quarter the way it was meant to be seen from your seat in a mule-drawn carriage. You’ll feel like Rhett Butler or Scarlett O’Hara as you clippity-clop through the streets of the Vieux Carré, listening to colorful stories from your professional driver who is also a licensed tour guide.
3. Enjoy a Hop-On Hop-Off Tour
Hop on and off as much or as little as you like with a Hop-On Hop-Off Tour. See the French Quarter, the Garden District, and the CBD on a two-hour City Tour, narrated by your tour host. Hop off wherever you like – the next bus will be along in 30 minutes. Learn more.
3. Sign Up for a Cooking Demonstration with New Orleans School of Cooking
For nearly 40 years, the New Orleans School of Cooking has introduced visitors from around the world to the unique food and spicy culture of New Orleans. Classes are held seven days a week in their beautifully renovated 1830s molasses warehouse at 524 St. Louis Street in the French Quarter. Well-known chefs will show you how to make New Orleans specialties such as gumbo, jambalaya, and pralines, seasoned with a pinch or two of trivia. Learn more.
4. Explore the Louisiana Swamp
Just a short drive from New Orleans are a number of breathtaking cypress swamps, home to alligators, egrets, cranes, and gorgeous swamp irises. Some companies have shuttles that will pick you up from your hotel. Learn more.
5. Experience a Gray Line Tour
Gray Line offers several tours that don’t require very much walking. Their Super City Tour, a 2 ¼ hour experience that covers 40 square miles, is a great introduction to the Crescent City. They also offer a shorter City Express Tour. Or take the time to go back in time on a Plantation Tour. Learn more.
6. Celebrate our Culture: Mardi Gras World
Come see where the famous Carnival floats are made, try on costumes, and eat a piece of traditional Mardi Gras King Cake. While technically a walking tour, Mardi Gras World has lots of room for wheelchairs to maneuver and lots of seating along the way if you need to rest your back. Learn more.
7. Take a Streetcar Ride to See the Mansions on St. Charles Avenue
Experience all the grandeur of St. Charles Avenue on the historic St. Charles Streetcar, the oldest continuously operating streetcar line in the world. For just $1.25, you can go back in time. Note: Unlike the red streetcars, the green streetcars are not wheelchair accessible. Learn more about the magnificent mansions on St. Charles Avenue.
8. Try Your Luck at Caesar’s Casino
Harrah’s is right on the streetcar line at the foot of Canal Street. Inside, you’ll find all the latest slot machines and table games, along with buffets and restaurants serving the food New Orleans is famous for. Find out more.
9. Hop a Streetcar to City Park
Take one of the bright red streetcars on Canal Street to City Park to see the 600-year-old live oak trees, the Botanical Gardens, the sculpture gardens, and more. The park is also home to the New Orleans Museum of Art, which houses some 40,000 pieces of art, including works by Degas, Matisse, Monet, Picasso, Renoir and Rodin. Note: Both the red streetcars and the museum are fully accessible to wheelchairs. Learn more about City Park.
10. Listen to Authentic Jazz at Preservation Hall
Since 1961, folks have been experiencing intimate jazz concerts at Preservation Hall on St. Peter Street in the French Quarter. Here’s your chance to see some of New Orleans’ finest performers. Like Louis Armstrong said, “Preservation Hall. Now that’s where you’ll find all of the greats.” Learn more.
Transportation
Streetcars, cabs, ride-share services like Uber and Lyft, pedicabs, mule-drawn carriages…New Orleans may be one of America’s most walkable cities, but we have a backup plan for people who need help getting around. Learn more.
Where to Stay
If walking is a challenge, we suggest you find lodging in the French Quarter where most of the attractions are. You might even book a room with a balcony on Bourbon Street so you can be a part of the fun without having to go anywhere. Start planning.