While the rest of the country melts under summer heatwaves, New Orleans turns up the volume with festivals, food, flair, and football.  From mouthwatering meals at COOLinary to the vibrant sea of red at the Red Dress Run, August 2025 is bursting with uniquely NOLA experiences you won’t find anywhere else. Here’s your guide to the can’t-miss events lighting up the Crescent City this month. COOLinary New Orleans (All of August) Every August, New Orleans restaurants band together to serve up irresistible prix-fixe menus as part of the citywide COOLinary New Orleans celebration. This culinary showcase runs all month long and features two- and three-course meals at unbeatable prices, making it the perfect way to explore the city’s vibrant food scene without breaking the bank. Participating restaurants range from fine dining legends like Commander’s Palace to hip neighborhood gems and historic Creole kitchens. Whether you’re craving gumbo, Gulf oysters, or duck confit with a New Orleans twist, there’s a menu waiting to impress. Can’t-Miss COOLinary Spots: Pro tip: Book early, especially for weekends. These reservations go faster than beignets at Café du Monde. Satchmo SummerFest (August 2–3) Few names resonate through New Orleans like Louis Armstrong, the legendary jazz trumpeter born and raised here. Every year, Satchmo SummerFest transforms the historic French Quarter into a living tribute to Armstrong’s music and magic. Hosted at the New Orleans Jazz Museum at the Old U.S. Mint, this two-day festival features: The vibe is festive, the horns are blaring, and the joy is contagious. So whether you’re a lifelong jazz lover or just learning about Armstrong’s genius, this event is a feel-good fusion of history and harmony. Red Dress Run (August 9) Yes, everyone wears a red dress, even the guys. Part bar crawl, part charity run, part costume party, the Red Dress Run is one of New Orleans’ most delightfully unhinged traditions.  Held every second Saturday in August, this event sees thousands of participants donning red dresses (regardless of gender) and running (or dancing) through the French Quarter in the name of fun and philanthropy. What started as a quirky fundraiser has become a full-blown phenomenon. It’s not about who runs the fastest, it’s about who wears it best. What to Expect: Best of all, proceeds go to dozens of local charities. So you’re having fun and doing good. Now that’s a New Orleans win-win. Tip: This is a 21+ event. If you’re not into running, come for the people-watching, it’s always a blast. New Orleans Saints Preseason & Training Camp (Starting August 6) August means the return of Saints football, and the preseason energy is electric. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just in town for the weekend, the 2025 Saints Training Camp and Preseason Games offer a thrilling way to tap into the city’s sports pride. Key Dates: Fans can attend open practices at the Ochsner Sports Performance Center, where you’ll see rookies, including Kelvin Banks Jr, making their case and seasoned stars prepping for another big year. There will also be some extra fan interactions at training camp, including: And when it’s game day at the Caesars Superdome, the whole city lights up in black and gold. Expect tailgates, brass bands, and chants of “Who Dat?” echoing through the streets. NOLA Pickle Fest (August 6–10) Pickleball fever is sweeping the nation, and New Orleans is serving it up Big Easy style with the NOLA Pickle Fest.  From August 6–10, pros, amateurs, and spectators will converge on the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center for five days of dinks, drops, and doubles. This isn’t your average tournament. It’s a hybrid sports festival and cultural celebration, complete with: NOLA Pickle Fest combines competition and community in a uniquely fun way! Bonus Fun: Book a Guided Swamp Tour Of course, no New Orleans trip is complete without getting out on the water, and August is the perfect month for a guided swamp tour. After all the festival food and French Quarter fun, you’ll crave something wild, scenic, and unforgettable. A guided swamp tour takes you deep into Louisiana’s hauntingly beautiful wetlands, where you’ll spot: It’s the perfect way to see the untamed side of New Orleans. Bring your camera, your curiosity, and your sense of adventure. Pro Tip: Book your tour in advance. August tours fill up fast, especially during festival weekends. Take Advantage of Everything NOLA Has to Offer in August Whether you’re grooving to jazz at Satchmo Fest, eating your way through COOLinary, or showing off your paddle skills at Pickle Fest, August in New Orleans is anything but boring.  If you’re looking for that extra bit of fun and adventure, add in a swamp tour and you’ve got yourself a month to remember.

After exploring the wild beauty of Louisiana’s bayous, one question always follows: Where to eat after a swamp tour? Whether you just wrapped up a private airboat ride or a slow, scenic pontoon cruise, your next stop should be a memorable meal. Fortunately, the areas surrounding New Orleans offer an abundance of down-home restaurants, seafood joints, and hidden gems perfect for refueling. In this guide, we’ll explore where to eat after a swamp tour near New Orleans—places with rich flavors, casual vibes, and meals that hit the spot after a day on the water. 1. Zimmer’s Seafood Zimmer’s is a no-frills, neighborhood seafood market that’s been around since the 1980s—and locals swear by it. It’s one of the best spots to grab fresh boiled shrimp, crawfish (in season), and overstuffed fried seafood po’boys. The prices are fair, the service is fast, and the flavor is pure New Orleans. This makes Zimmer’s Seafood an excellent substitute in your article when recommending where to eat after a swamp tour, especially for readers heading back into Mid-City from tours that launch west or south of the city. 2. Restaurant des Familles – Classic Louisiana Dining on the Bayou If you want to continue the bayou experience even while dining, where to eat after a swamp tour doesn’t get better than Restaurant des Familles in Crown Point. Situated right on Bayou des Familles, this picturesque spot is a favorite among locals and tour guides. The menu is stacked with Creole-Cajun staples like shrimp and andouille gumbo, catfish Orleans, and crawfish étouffée. Dine on the covered porch with swamp views still fresh in your mind—it’s a seamless transition from tour to table. 3. Middendorf’s – Worth the Short Drive For those willing to drive a bit north toward Manchac, Middendorf’s is a legendary answer to where to eat after a swamp tour. Famous for its thin fried catfish and retro Louisiana charm, this lakeside spot is well worth the detour. The portions are generous, the service is friendly, and the vibe is pure Louisiana nostalgia. It’s ideal for families or groups looking to unwind and enjoy hearty meals with a side of Southern hospitality. 4. Coop’s Place – If You’re Craving Late-Night Flavor If your swamp tour ended later in the day and you’re headed back to the French Quarter, Coop’s Place is your best bet for where to eat after a swamp tour late at night. This no-frills bar and grill serves one of the best rabbit and sausage jambalayas in the city. The Cajun fried chicken is also a standout. Just know it’s 21+ and cash-only—so come prepared. You’ll find plenty of locals here, making it a great way to cap off an authentic NOLA day. 5. Mosca’s – A Hidden Gem for a Sit-Down Feast For a romantic or celebratory dinner, especially after a private swamp tour proposal, Mosca’s is a timeless Italian-Creole option on the West Bank. Located off the beaten path near Avondale, it’s often overlooked in guides about where to eat after a swamp tour, but locals swear by it. Signature dishes like the Oysters Mosca and Chicken a la Grande are served family-style in a dimly lit, old-school setting. The drive is worth it—this is the kind of hidden gem that makes a trip unforgettable. New Orleans isn’t just about music and magic—it’s also about unforgettable meals. So if you’re wondering where to eat after a swamp tour, rest assured that great food is always just a short ride away. From local seafood spots and bayou-view patios to cozy late-night bars and vintage Creole haunts, your post-tour meal can be just as memorable as the swamp tour itself. Looking for even more local favorites? Ask your swamp boat captain where they eat—you’ll often discover the best-kept secrets that way.

If you’re planning to pop the big question in New Orleans, you’re in luck. The city is filled with stunning backdrops, romantic energy, and unforgettable experiences that make proposals truly special. In this guide, we’ll highlight the most magic spots in NOLA where to make a proposal, including one-of-a-kind venues and hidden gems. Whether you’re dreaming of something intimate or spectacular, these locations will set the perfect stage. 1. Private Swamp Tour at Sunset One of the most unique magic spots in NOLA where to make a proposal is on a private swamp tour. Imagine gliding through Louisiana’s serene bayous as the sun sets over the cypress trees draped in Spanish moss. With only you, your partner, and your captain on board, you’ll have total privacy to enjoy the natural beauty surrounding you. A private swamp tour allows you to step away from the crowds and soak up the magic of Louisiana’s wetlands. Some tour companies even offer champagne and charcuterie boards, making it easy to set the mood. When you’re ready, you can kneel on the deck, framed by glowing skies and wildlife, and ask the biggest question of your life. 2. Jackson Square at Night Jackson Square is an iconic New Orleans landmark, and at night, it transforms into a beautifully lit setting perfect for a proposal. With the historic St. Louis Cathedral in the background and horse-drawn carriages lining the street, this location feels timeless. It’s one of the more traditional yet breathtaking magic spots in NOLA where to make a proposal, especially if you love the energy of the French Quarter. If you prefer a quieter moment, stroll through the square during the late evening hours. The twinkling lights and soft music from nearby jazz clubs create a romantic vibe unlike anywhere else. 3. City Park’s Botanical Garden For nature lovers, City Park’s Botanical Garden offers lush greenery, colorful blooms, and plenty of secluded corners. This is one of the best magic spots in NOLA where to make a proposal if you want a peaceful and beautiful atmosphere. Choose a spot near the garden’s fountains or under the oak trees for a fairytale-like setting. The Botanical Garden is especially stunning during the annual Celebration in the Oaks holiday light display. Proposing under thousands of twinkling lights makes for an unforgettable moment (and incredible photos). 4. Steamboat Natchez River Cruise Take your love to the Mississippi River aboard the Steamboat Natchez, a New Orleans classic. This experience is both adventurous and romantic, offering breathtaking skyline views and live jazz music. Sunset cruises are the most magical and make for another top magic spot in NOLA where to make a proposal. You can arrange a special moment with the crew or propose spontaneously while sipping champagne on the deck. Either way, the steady hum of the paddlewheel and the soft river breeze will make the moment unforgettable. 5. Rooftop at Hot Tin Bar If you’re looking for a more modern vibe, consider Hot Tin Bar, a rooftop venue overlooking the city skyline. Located atop the Pontchartrain Hotel, it’s one of the trendiest magic spots in NOLA where to make a proposal. The panoramic views of downtown New Orleans provide a stunning backdrop, especially at golden hour. Arrive early to secure a prime spot, order a signature cocktail, and soak in the views together before you get down on one knee. New Orleans is filled with magic, and these magic spots in NOLA where to make a proposal ensure your special moment will be unforgettable. Whether you’re drawn to the privacy of a swamp tour, the romance of Jackson Square, or the skyline views from a rooftop bar, the Crescent City offers the perfect backdrop for love.

If you’re planning your trip and looking for things to do in New Orleans, don’t settle for the usual tourist traps. From untamed bayous to haunted streets, the Crescent City offers a thrilling mix of wild nature and paranormal history—all in a single day. Here’s how to experience the best of both worlds with two unforgettable local favorites: Bayou Swamp Tours and Big Easy Ghost Tours. Morning: Get Wild with a Swamp Tour Start your day deep in Cajun Country with Bayou Swamp Tours. Just 30 minutes outside New Orleans, this tour takes you into the heart of Louisiana’s wetlands. Glide through mysterious bayous and moss-draped cypress trees as you spot gators, raccoons, wild hogs, and dozens of bird species. If you’re looking for a New Orleans swamp tour that’s authentic, accessible, and full of wildlife, this is the one. Tour Options: Why it’s a must-do:This is hands-down one of the most memorable things to do near New Orleans. It’s not a staged experience—this is real Louisiana wilderness. Guides are locals with deep roots in Cajun culture, and they’ll show you parts of the swamp tourists rarely see. Afternoon: Refuel and Explore the French Quarter After the swamp tour, head back to the city and grab lunch in the French Quarter. Try po’ boys at Verti Marte, or grab beignets and coffee at Café du Monde. Then, walk off the carbs with a self-guided stroll past historic buildings, street performers, and Voodoo shops. This is the perfect time to browse, snap photos, and soak in the spirit of the city. If you want to keep the adrenaline going, pop into a local Voodoo museum or take a quick streetcar ride down St. Charles Avenue. Evening: Take a Ghost Tour That Will Haunt You (In the Best Way) As the sun sets, the real fun begins. Big Easy Ghost Tours offers some of the most spine-chilling (and historically accurate) experiences in town. These tours dig into the darker side of New Orleans—think murders, hauntings, and unsolved mysteries. Top Tours: Why it’s unforgettable:With charismatic guides, true-crime storytelling, and real paranormal history, these ghost tours are among the top things to do in New Orleans at night. Whether you believe in ghosts or not, you’ll leave entertained (and maybe a little spooked). Bonus Tip: Book Ahead and Bundle Your Experience Both Bayou Swamp Tours and Big Easy Ghost Tours are popular, especially on weekends and during festival season. Book in advance to guarantee your spot. Want to do both in one day? Plan your swamp tour in the morning and ghost tour after dinner—it’s a perfect mix of nature and the supernatural. One Day, Two Adventures If you’re wondering what to do in New Orleans beyond Bourbon Street and beads, this itinerary gives you an authentic taste of what makes the city legendary: wild nature, rich folklore, and stories that refuse to die. So don’t just visit New Orleans. Experience it.

The Essence Festival is more than just a music event—it’s a celebration of Black excellence, culture, and creativity, all in one of the most vibrant cities in the world. But if you’re heading to New Orleans just for the Superdome shows, you’re missing out. To fully experience the city’s magic, you need to start before the lights go up. Here’s what to do before Essence Festival in New Orleans—including how to ride the best swamp tour in New Orleans, explore its haunted past, and soak up the soul of the city before the first note plays. 1. Ride the Best Swamp Tour in New Orleans Before you dive into panels, concerts, and late-night crawfish boils, get out into the wild side of Louisiana. The best swamp tour in New Orleans isn’t just about snapping pictures of alligators—it’s about reconnecting with nature, history, and a part of the South most festivalgoers miss. We recommend Bayou Swamp Tours, hands down. They offer both airboat adventures for thrill-seekers and pontoon boat tours for a more relaxed, scenic ride through the cypress-lined bayous. What makes Bayou Swamp Tours the best swamp tour in New Orleans? It’s their expert guides, reliable hotel pickups, and real Louisiana energy—no touristy gimmicks, just wild beauty and authentic storytelling. 2. Ghosts and Grit: Walk the Shadows of the French Quarter Once you’ve seen the bayou by day, explore the haunted French Quarter by night. Big Easy Ghost Tours offers some of the most compelling walking tours in the city, with local guides who blend real history, folklore, and a few chills to keep things interesting. Whether you’re into voodoo, haunted mansions, or unsolved mysteries, this tour adds an eerie, unforgettable layer to your Essence weekend. And it’s a perfect fit for the city’s vibe—music and magic, all wrapped into one. 3. More Must-Dos Before the Festival Starts Not sure what to do before Essence Festival in New Orleans beyond tours? Here are a few more ways to get grounded before the weekend explodes with energy: 🎺 Frenchmen Street Live jazz, local artists, and a raw, unfiltered NOLA energy. Swing by after your ghost tour for music that’s just as soulful as what you’ll hear at Essence—just in a different key. 🍳 Black-Owned Brunch Spots Start your day right at places like Ma Momma’s House, Willie Mae’s Scotch House, or The Munch Factory. Come hungry, leave happy. 🛍️ Support Local Creators Skip the chain stores and browse local Black-owned boutiques, bookstores, and street markets. You’ll find one-of-a-kind art, fashion, and keepsakes—many made by artists attending the festival themselves. 🏛️ Dive Into Culture Visit the New Orleans African American Museum or the Backstreet Cultural Museum for a deeper understanding of the traditions and resistance that shaped the city you’re celebrating. Your Essence Festival Weekend Itinerary Thursday (Arrival Day) Friday (Festival Kickoff) Planning what to do before Essence Festival in New Orleans is about more than filling time—it’s about setting the tone. Final Checklist If you’re wondering what to do before Essence Festival in New Orleans, this is your blueprint. From swamp to street to stage—you’re not just attending the festival. You’re becoming part of the city’s story.