What to Do in New Orleans in November

What to Do in New Orleans in November?

Last updated on November 7th, 2023

What to do in New Orleans in November? Here are the best things to do in New Orleans this fall! 

The fun doesn’t stop just because summer is over in New Orleans. In fact, the cooler weather that the fall season ushers in is perfect for doing all the outdoor activities you wouldn’t dare do in the summer. 

You could do outdoor activities in the summer in New Orleans – you might just melt, though. 

However, suppose you’re considering paying the city a visit this fall. In that case, you may wonder: “What to do in New Orleans in November?”

Well, as someone who loves the city of New Orleans (and the fall weather), I’m giving you the best things to do in New Orleans during November. 

You will learn about the best things to do in New Orleans and tips about traveling in the city during the fall. 

After reading this post, you’ll know exactly what to do in New Orleans in November. 

This post is all about what to do in New Orleans in November. 

This post may contain affiliate links, which means I’ll receive a commission if you purchase through my links, at no extra cost to you. Please read the full disclosure for more information.

What to Do in New Orleans in November?

Watch a Broadway Show

One of my favorite things to do alone in New Orleans is to watch a Broadway show. Interestingly enough, New Orleans is known to have some of the best theaters in the US, so there are plenty of venues to choose from. 

Orpheum Theater, Saenger Theatre, and The Civic Theater are the best spots to watch larger productions. 

Eat Po-Boys at the Oak Street Po-Boy Fest

The Oak Street Po-Boy Fest is one of the most popular New Orleans festivals in November 2023. Every year, the city throws this massive celebration of one of New Orleans’s favorite dishes, Po-Boys. 

Listen to some live music & eat some delicious Po-boys!

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Live it Up at a Fall Concert.

New Orleans has concerts all throughout the year. Although November is especially ideal for going to a show because the temperature is much cooler. 

So, check to see if your favorite artist is performing when you’re visiting.

Go to the New Orleans Film Festival

Another fantastic festival in November is the New Orleans Film Festival. Every year, New Orleans puts on this epic film festival where you can watch over 150 Oscar-qualifying films and attend in-person events, parties, and more. 

If you’re a movie-lover, make sure to check out this festival. 

things to do alone in New Orleans

Take a Cooking Class at the New Orleans School of Cooking

One of my most fun experiences in New Orleans was visiting the New Orleans School of Cooking. This place is the perfect spot to try some of NOLA’s traditional dishes (and learn how to make them at home!) 

The school offers two experiences: watch a chef make the meal or you can make it yourself. Either way, you’re in for a treat. 

Insider Tip: They also have a gift shop selling ingredients the cooks used in the dish so you can replicate it at home. 

Eat a Big, Delicious Bowl of Gumbo

You can’t visit New Orleans without eating some gumbo! And luckily for you, just about every restaurant in the city serves. Although, not all gumbos are created equally. 

Here are the best places to grab the perfect bowl of gumbo:

Visit the Celebration in the Oaks

Every year to bring in the holiday season, the city throws its largest fundraiser, Celebration in the Oaks. City Park gets decked out with some of the most beautiful Christmas lights. So, if you want to enjoy some holiday fun, grab the family & go check out the lights. 

The celebration runs from November 23 – December 30th. 

New Orleans November

Get Beignets from Cafe du Monde in the French Quarter

Another of New Orleans’s favorites you can’t miss is the beignets. One of the most famous places to get these tasty treats is Cafe du Monde in the French Quarter. Even if you aren’t a big sweet person, you must try one at least!

Go See the Epic Bayou Classic

The epic Bayou Classic game is held every Thanksgiving weekend. And it’s a time when fans of both teams show up & show out (in the best way!). The rivalry between Grambling State University & Southern University goes all the way back to the 1930s, and it isn’t about to stop now. 

So, grab a ticket & enjoy the fun & competitive atmosphere at the Bayou Classic. 

Get a Taste of Carnival at the Bayou Bacchanal

Known as the original Caribbean Carnival of New Orleans, the Bayou Bacchanal is a festival you don’t want to miss! This annual celebration showcases the Caribbean culture with head-to-toe costumes, delicious food, live music, and more. So you know it’s going to be a good time…

This is a two-day extravaganza, so make sure to plan accordingly.

Is November a good month to visit New Orleans?

ABSOLUTELY. In fact, November and December are considered the best months to visit the city. Temperatures are still warm but not so hot that your skin is burning off, AND the crowds are way smaller. And what do smaller groups of people mean?

Smaller crowds = cheaper rates for hotels & transportation.

So, not only are these months more enjoyable than the others, but you can also save money when traveling during this timeframe. Um…yes, please. 

In particular, I recommend traveling to New Orleans in November because activities & festivals are happening the entire month. Even if you skip the celebrations (not advised!), you can still feel the infectious excitement buzzing around the city during November. 

What to Do in New Orleans in November?

Is it better to stay downtown or in the French Quarter?

This depends on what you’re trying to see and do in New Orleans. If this is your first time visiting, I recommend staying in the French Quarter simply because it’s an excellent central location. This means you don’t have to travel far to see all the popular attractions. 

Here are the top French Quarter hotels I recommend:

If you’d rather not stay in the French Quarter, other nice & safe areas to stay in include the Central Business District, the Warehouse District, and Bayou St. John. 

Central Business District

As you can guess by the name, the Central Business District is the central area for business in New Orleans. While it’s not as fancy & historic looking as the French Quarter, it is only a quick walk or ride away. 

The Central Business District is also close to the city’s sports facilities, Superdome & the Smoothie King Center. So, sports fans in town for a game will find this location ideal. 

Best Hotels in the Central Business District:

Warehouse District

If you’re a foodie looking for a taste of New Orleans, the Warehouse District is the place for you! This neighborhood is the perfect spot to explore the city’s good eats. 

Additionally, the WWII museum is located in the neighborhood. 

Best Hotels in the Warehouse District:

Bayou St. John

The Bayou St. John neighborhood, the city’s oldest, is ideal for jazz lovers or anyone visiting solely for the Jazz Festival. This area is the furthest from the French Quarter and tends to be much quieter. However, Bayou St. John is super close the City Park, which hosts several concerts & other events throughout the year. 

The only con (if you consider it as such) is that there aren’t many hotels. You’d be much better off staying in a bed & breakfast. 

Best Bed & Breakfasts in Bayou St. John:

Where to Eat in New Orleans?

New Orleans is well-known for its INSANELY DELICIOUS cuisine. If you did nothing but taste food all over the city, you’d have a wonderful time. And you’d probably be leaving a few pounds heavier, but calories don’t count on vacation!

The city is full of unique spots to dine at, so you should definitely explore on your own. But here are some of my favorite restaurants in New Orleans:

These are only some of the many tasty restaurants in New Orleans. Have fun exploring!

things to do in new orleans in November 2023

What is November like in New Orleans?

Now I’ve reviewed how amazing the Big Easy is in the fall months. But what’s the weather like? Temperatures range from mid-70s to high 50s (Fahrenheit). November is also one of the cloudier months, so you will experience gloomier days with some showers. 

However,  you’re probably wondering, “Is November hurricane season in New Orleans?” And the answer is yes. Hurricane season in New Orleans runs from the beginning of June to the end of November. 

Does that mean it’s unsafe for me to visit during November? Because November falls in the hurricane season, there is certainly a possibility that a tropical storm will occur. However, New Orleans typically sees storms of this nature during late summer to early fall. 

So, it is possible to visit during November & not experience a hurricane. With that being said, travel at your own risk. If you visit during the hurricane season, plan for emergencies. 

Do I need a car in New Orleans?

Luckily, you do not. The city is highly walkable; however, if you don’t feel like walking, there are other modes of transportation like rideshare apps, streetcars, or even bicycles. 

If you would feel more comfortable renting a car for your visit to New Orleans, by all means, get the car. However, you may spend extra time (and $$$) looking for parking. 

What to wear in New Orleans in late November?

While temperatures are warmer in New Orleans, I suggest packing layers. T-shirts, long pants, and a light jacket or hoodie. The days reach mid-to-upper 70s, but temperatures can drop to the 50s during the night. So, you’ll want clothing that keeps you cool during the daytime but warm at night. 

Also, good walking shoes are imperative. I recommend bringing closed-toe shoes, especially for the night, but you can get away with sandals during the day. 

And lastly, make sure you bring a travel umbrella or raincoat, just in case it rains while you’re out and about. 

This post is all about what to do in New Orleans in November. 

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What to Do in New Orleans in November?

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Jacquelyn

Jacquelyn is the owner of La Vie de Jacquelyn, a travel blog that helps people make the most of their traveling experiences. When she isn’t exploring the world or writing blog posts, she’s loving on God & His people.