The best things to do in New Orleans

“Craving something better than the algorithm? The Broad Theater mixes indie gems with mainstream hits and, yes, the popcorn actually tastes like popcorn. Slide through this week for the snack bar and a pre or post movie sip in the cozy bar, then debrief with friends like it’s your personal film club.”

From the New Orleans newsletter, August 4, 2026

“Cool Zoo Waterpark at Audubon Zoo comes with all-day splash access that turns a regular zoo visit into a heat-proof hang. Let the kids run wild, you cool off, then roll back to see the animals refreshed. Simple, local, and exactly what August ordered.”

From the New Orleans newsletter, August 13, 2026

“New Orleans Country Club is a members-only spot where locals golf without the crowds, cool off at the pool, and lean on club catering when it’s time to feed a crew. A polished, close-to-home hangout for keeping your games and gatherings in one place.”

From the New Orleans newsletter, September 8, 2026

“If your 7-iron’s been feeling dramatic, Joseph M. Bartholomew Municipal Golf Course is an 18-hole, par-72 public track with room to test every shot and settle some friendly rivalries. Book a tee time, then keep the crew around the clubhouse for post-round storytelling and maybe plotting that rematch.”

From the New Orleans newsletter, August 22, 2026

“Designed by Rees Jones, Bayou Oaks South Course packs 18 holes with 46 bunkers, sneaky water, and tee boxes from 5,039 to 7,297 yards, so you can bring the crew and still find your challenge. Par 72, pure City Park vibes, and a great excuse to chase a personal best.”

From the New Orleans newsletter, August 14, 2026

“Forbes Theater, inside the National WWII Museum, is a versatile event venue locals lean on for everything from intimate meetings to grand receptions, plus conferences, weddings, and cultural performances.”

From the New Orleans newsletter, August 31, 2026

“Golf course featuring a links-style layout, a driving range, and a banquet hall.”

“Lakewood Golf Club in Algiers pairs 18 holes of Ron Garl design with the area’s only short game practice facility, so your chips and pitches stop behaving like tourists on Bourbon. Daily fee play, a solid tournament scene, and a year-round junior program keep locals coming back.”

“Solomon Victory Theater inside The National WWII Museum screens Beyond All Boundaries, a 4D, Tom Hanks narrated epic remastered in 2025 and exclusive to the Museum that carries you from Pearl Harbor to V-J Day with rare archival footage, immersive effects and a 120-foot screen. Give your week a little perspective.”

From the New Orleans newsletter, August 20, 2026

“Need an excuse to take Friday off? English Turn Golf & Country Club brings a Jack Nicklaus Signature, par-72 championship ride through lagoons, oaks, and artful bunkers, then rewards you with a stately clubhouse and easygoing vibes for post-round bites, neighborly catch-ups, or just lingering a little longer.”

From the New Orleans newsletter, August 26, 2026

“Bayou Oaks at City Park pairs a forgiving Rees Jones redesigned South Course with a North Course that survived Hurricane Katrina, plus a legit driving range, instructors, a stocked shop, and Filmore in the Oaks for that post-round bite or beer when the putts stop falling.”

From the New Orleans newsletter, September 16, 2026

“Complex featuring 18-hole courses with Louisiana & New Orleans themes, plus a snack bar.”

“Host of the Zurich Classic golf tournament, this course features a clubhouse and a pro shop.”

“Short golf course situated within a park that's also a venue for weddings and other events.”