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New Orleans can be an expensive city, but it when it comes to finding fun things to do, it doesn’t have to be. You can “ball” on a budget here.
This article will tell you some of the very best things you can do in New Orleans for absolutely free or cheap.
How Much Spending Money Do You Need In New Orleans?
If you’re planning on visiting New Orleans, don’t think you have to spend a lot of money. The truth is you can get by on a very modest amount.
You should plan to spend around $191 per day on your vacation in New Orleans, which is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors. Past travelers have spent, on average, $36 on meals for one day and $41 on local transportation. Also, the average hotel price in New Orleans for a couple is $200.
The Best Free Or Cheap Things To Do In New Orleans
Check Out The Library
You’d be surprised how romantic it could be to lose yourself among the thousands of books inside your local library. Why not pick a day and time and get together to read the best of Hemingway, Alice Walker and other great authors?
Choose a branch of the New Orleans Public Library System.
Check Out a Sports Game
Photo by Jep Gambardella: https://www.pexels.com/photo/a-woman-in-orange-blouse-looking-at-her-date-5083581/ The Saints and Pelicans are two of the hottest tickets in town. The only issue is that tickets for both are kind of expensive!
What will you do? If you can’t get inside the game, don’t sweat it. Go to a sports bar instead. It will be much cheaper!
Here are some great sports bars in New Orleans.
Enjoy The Greenspace At Confetti Park
451 Pelican Ave, New Orleans, LA 70114 | (504) 658-3201
“Confetti park had a neighborhood vibe,” says one visitor, “with a welcoming atmosphere. an amazing brass band of youth, lead the music of the parade, while the dancing boy energetically lead us down the neighborhood’s streets. homemade floats, bikes, scooters and roller skates followed the music. wonderful time, and we are grateful for the experience.”
Try Some Beignets At Café Du Monde
- Riverwalk: 500 Port of New Orleans Pl #27, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 218-7993
- French Market: 800 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70116 | (504) 525-4544
- City Park: 56 Dreyfous Dr, New Orleans, LA 70124 | (504) 766-0250
Here’s what one reviewer says about Cafe Du Monde (French Market): “Yummy Yummy! It is worth the wait for this classic of New Orleans. No trip would be complete until you have powder all over yourself! There are multiple lines, so be sure to keep an eye out for the quickest one. Also note that seating is VERY limited, so I recommend you have someone scout tables while another waits in line if you plan on eating at a table.”
Read the NolaFi.com Guide On Best Nola Beignets.
Visit The National WWII Museum
945 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 528-1944
It goes without saying that the National WWII Museum holds many of the city’s secrets. Etched on the walls are the names of the proud war dead, heroes not only in New Orleans but across America.
How Much Does The National WWII Museum Cost?
Museum Pricing Visitors with Disabilities $19* WWII Veterans FREE Members FREE Beyond All Boundaries $7 Enjoy Some Live Music On Frenchmen Street
532 Frenchmen St, New Orleans, LA 70116 | (504) 766-6193
Frenchman Street is one of the places where you can enjoy a whole concert just from the curbside. Many musicians congregate there to play.
One spot that you should definitely check out is Blue Nile.
Here’s what one reviewer says about Blue Nile. “We loved the vibe and decor of The Blue Nile! The feel was so much better than the insane, frat party vibe on Bourbon Street. After a long day walking around exploring the French Quarter we stopped here for cocktails while listening to the Washboard Chaz Blues Trio. The band was rocking and had great energy and banter with the audience.
“The cocktails are expensive ($15-20), but the fleur de lis cocktail was absolutely divine! (Grey Goose vodka, essence of peach & rosemary, elderflower, and tonic!) This place was the perfect experience to wrap up our first day in New Orleans. We’ll definitely be back again!”
Here are some other live music spots in New Orleans.
Take A Walk In City Park
1 Palm Dr, New Orleans, LA 70124 | (504) 482-488
Here’s what one park lover says about City Park. “In our three-day visit we came here three times. Insanely gorgeous trees, so many activites to choose from . The Sculpture garden is a must-see. Would have loved to do the light up swan boat in the evening. We ended up visiting the art museum because it looked all enticing from the park. There isn’t enough time in one visit to enjoy it all. Bring bug spray and lots of water!”
Want to know what places make for the best Instagram-worthy photos around the Crescent City? We’re going to show you.
Shop Palace Market
619 Frenchmen St, New Orleans, LA 70116
In addition to the great live music on Frenchmen, there’s a market that you can buy all types of wonderful arts and crafts. Find cheap bracelets and other jewelry that won’t bust your budget at Palace Market, which regularly hosts around 40 maker booths every night.
Explore Bourbon Street
Known for its wild bars, and red-light district vibes, Bourbon Street is one of those places you at least want to walk down in the early evening. If you can avoid the overzealous reveler, Bourbon Street is a must-visit to document the colorful charm of one of America’s oldest cities.
Check Out Preservation Hall
726 St Peter, New Orleans, LA 70116
One of the most musically important sites in New Orleans, Preservation Hall seems to play a tune when you look at each wall.
Preservation Hall is relatively cheap to enter. The cost is for General Admission tickets is $15 in advance. $20 at the door.
Final Word
Want to submit your New Orleans event? Do so here:
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One of the best things about New Orleans, Louisiana is the number of fun activities you can partake in for FREE! From exploring the markets to admiring the city’s many parks, there’s a lot to do for no-cost.
New Orleans is more than your normal run-of-the-mill city; it is the cultural epicenter of the Southeast, from restaurants to its parks, the city stands out as a place to visit and live.
Looking for something to do in the city? What To See And Do In New Orleans.
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Looking at the latest housing outlook, it’s easy to think buying a home is unattainable, but that’s not true at all.
Getting pre-approved for a mortgage is the first step to homeownership in America. The process is quick and relatively painless — if done right.
This article will tell you how to get pre-approved for a mortgage so that when it’s time to buy a home, you’re all set.
Here’s How To Get Pre-Approved For A Mortgage
You might be saying “why should I get pre-approved anyway?” Well, that’s the only way a lender can approve you for a mortgage.
Keep reading to see how the process will be done and what you can do to be in the best position possible for getting a home.
Why You Need To Get Pre-Approved For A Mortgage
Shopping for a home without being pre-qualified for a mortgage is pretty much pointless. That’s why you need to get the process started by getting pre-approved.
Lenders will only take you serious if you are pre-approved, which is why that is the first question they will typically ask before they spend time with you.
The way the process works is by going through a mortgage pre-qualification and mortgage pre-approval.
What Is A Mortgage Pre-Qualification?
A mortgage pre-qualification is a quick process that involves the lender asking you a series of questions to gauge your readiness for purchasing a home.
Lenders may typically inquire of your finances, your assets and any debts you have. After that, it’s time to pull your credit.
What Is A Mortgage Pre-Approval?
With a mortgage pre-approval, the lender pulls your credit to see how in debt you are as well as how much money you can borrow toward the purchase of a home.
You’ll need a credit score above 600 to get the best rates.
Here are some things you can do to make sure you’re ready to get pre-approved without issues.
Contrary to popular belief, lender inquiries for pre-approved have no bearing on your credit score, so you won’t have to worry about your creditworthiness dropping.
One thing you do want to do beforehand is make sure your credit is A-OK.
Check Your Credit Report
.You can check your report from each of the three credit bureaus online at AnnualCreditReport.com.
Your credit history is one of the main things that lenders consider when it comes to determining whether you get pre-approved.
What Documents Do You Need?
When it’s time to get pre-approved, the lender will typically ask for a summary of your finances. This can be determined by collecting the following documents.
- Personal ID
- W-2 forms
- Pay stub.
- Tax returns
- Bank statements
How Long Does Pre-Approval Take?
Although it sounds like a long process, pre-approval can be done relatively quickly. The key is to have all your ducks — documents — in a row.
The good news is that you can actually get pre-qualified online with the major banks. All you have to do is fill out an online application with your respective financial institution.
Final Word
Getting pre-approved for a mortgage can be an exciting process, but you need to do it right so that there aren’t any problems. AS a reminder, keep all your documents together so that you have everything you need.
After it’s all said and done, you should receive your pre-approval letter in about a week and a half. After that, you can begin your home search with confidence.
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A scoop of goodness can make everything alright in the city. Yes, we’re talking about ice cream.
This article is going to show you some favorite places to get ice cream in New Orleans. We’ve included real-life comments from customers who know where to go.
Where To Get The Best Ice Cream In New Orleans
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With the Super Bowl coming up, it’s a great time to snag a big-screen TV for less. Yes, you can buy a nice TV and save money.
In this article, we’ll show you some of the best smart TVs on the market for streaming.
What Kind Of TV Is Best For Streaming?
Smart TVs typically provide a better experience when it comes to streaming. The reason is because the video resolution is top quality.
Because smart TVs come equipped with internet-ready connections and apps, you can stream on them with relatively few problems.
Don’t make the mistake of buying a nice TV that doesn’t come with a media streamer built in. That means it should be a Chromecast, Roku, Amazon Fire TV or something like that.
Amazon Fire TV 55″ Omni Series 4K UHD smart TV With Alexa
Samsung UN65TU7000 65″ 4K Ultra HD Smart LED TV
Sony 75 Inch 4K Ultra HD TV X80K Series
SAMSUNG M5 Series 27-Inch FHD 1080p Smart Monitor & Streaming TV
TCL 65-inch 6-Series 4K UHD
Hisense ULED Premium 65-Inch U7G Quantum Dot QLED
Amazon Fire TV 65″ Omni Series 4K UHD smart TV with Dolby Vision & Alexa
Final Word
With the right TV, you can stream some great content from the Internet or local network to your TV.
If you already have a smart TV, you may just need a streaming device. Here are the best add-on streaming devices for your TV.
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Update: The New Orleans Saints beat the best team in the NFL on Sunday, the Philadelphia Eagles, but were still eliminated from the playoffs.
The Saints’ gritty 20-10 victory made it three in a row for the surging team from New Orleans, but Tampa Bay’s win over the Carolina Panthers locked up the division for the Tom Brady-led team.
The Saints will try to make it four in a row against the Panthers next week.
Heading into the weekend, there was a small possibility that the New Orleans Saints could make the playoffs, even given how bad they’ve played their 2022 schedule. Of course, they’re longer are in control of their own destiny.
Can The Saints Make The Playoffs?
The Saints can no longer make the playoffs after Tampa Bay’s win against the Panthers, but here’s how it could have all happened if the ball bounced the right way.
For the Saints to have made the playoffs with nine losses, here’s the mathematical formula that needs to happen.
- New Orleans has to win its last two games, including against Carolina.
- Tampa Bay needs to lose its last three games.
For the Saints to have mace the playoffs with 10 losses, here’s the mathematical formula that needs to happen.
- New Orleans has to win one of its last two games, including against Carolina.
- Tampa Bay needs to lose its last three games.
What Are The Remaining Games In The NFC South?
The Saints remaining games are:
Vs. Carolina (7-9), Sunday, Jan. 8, 2023, 1 p.m., FOX
Tampa Bay’s remaining games are:
at Atlanta (6-10), Sunday, Jan. 8, 2023, 1 p.m., FOX
Carolina’s remaining games are:
at New Orleans (6-9), Sunday, Jan. 8, 2023, 1 p.m., FOX
Saints Head Coach Dennis Allen says New Orleans displayed “Big Boy NFL Football” in the victory against Cleveland.
Final Word
The Saints are trying to right the ship after a horrendous first half of the season, but the NFC South has been so bad this year, that anything is possible. Hopefully that “anything,” includes some Saints winning football.
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The federal government is once again making it possible for millions of Americans to test themselves for COVID-19 at no cost.
No matter if you live in a large city like New Orleans, Louisiana, or a smaller place, you can get several free COVID tests to use at your convenience.
How To Get A Free COVID Test At Home
Most at-home COVID tests are of the antigen variety, according to the FDA. Although the at-home tests are not flawless, they are expedient and convenient for millions of Americans who want to know if they have been exposed to the virus.
Currently, U.S. households can receive a set of four free at-home tests sent by the Postal Service. Here’s what to know about the tests:
- Limit of one order per address
- Includes 4 individual rapid antigen COVID-19 tests.
- Shipping started the week of December 19, 2022
- Order at covidtests.gov.
FDA-authorized over-the-counter (OTC) at-home COVID-19 tests for self-testing at home or other locations are a fast and convenient COVID-19 testing option.
The City of New Orleans has approved at-home COVID-19 tests for residents in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic. The city health department and fire departments have partnered to give out free COVID testing kits.
The tests are available while supplies last.
Home COVID Tests: What You Need To Know
Due to the enormous interest from the public for home COVID-19 test kits, New Orleans Health Department (NOHD) has distributed home COVID tests at select New Orleans Public Libraries (NOPL) branches.
Final Word
Home COVID tests are just one part of a multi-pronged strategy to combat the coronavirus raging in the city.
U.S. health officials have recommended that all Americans already vaccinated from either the Pfizer, Moderna or Johnson & Johnson shot get booster shots.
Here’s where to get a COVID booster shot.
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It seems that many people you and I know are sick right now. One reason for that is because COVID-19 cases are increasing across the United States, including in New Orleans, Louisiana..
Are My Symptoms COVID, Flu or RSV?
Respiratory illnesses like influenza and RSV are also making people sick.
Do you have COVID, the flu or RSV? This article will tell you how to know and what to do about it.
Do I Have COVID?
The best way to tell if you have COVID is by taking a test.
Most at-home COVID tests are of the antigen variety, according to the FDA. Although the at-home tests are not flawless, they are expedient and convenient for millions of Americans who want to know if they have been exposed to the virus.
Currently, U.S. households can receive a set of four free at-home tests sent by the Postal Service. Here’s what to know about the tests:
- Limit of one order per address
- Includes 4 individual rapid antigen COVID-19 tests.
- Shipping started the week of December 19, 2022
- Order at covidtests.gov.
FDA-authorized over-the-counter (OTC) at-home COVID-19 tests for self-testing at home or other locations are a fast and convenient COVID-19 testing option.
Do I Have The Flu?
The flu virus is cycling through the United States right now, which is typical during the colder months.
How can you tell if you may have the flu? You might have influenza if you exhibit any number of the following symptoms: fever, cough, sore throat, runny or stuffy nose, body aches, headache, chills and/or fatigue. Some people may experience vomiting and diarrhea, though this is more common in children.
Where to get your flu shots in New Orleans.
Do I Have RSV?
On the other hand, you may have the newest ailment that has emerged over the past several months. RS.
Respiratory syncytial virus, or RSV, is a respiratory virus that presents like a cold. The symptoms are typically mild and cold-like and people usually feel better in about a week’s time.
What If I Was Exposed To COVID But Don’t Have Symptoms?
The CDC says that if you happened to have been exposed to someone who has COVID and you do not have symptoms, you should wait at least five full days after your exposure before testing. If you test too early, you may have an inaccurate result.
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New Orleans is known for its seafood, and that includes oysters served in a variety of ways. Are you hungry, read on.
This article will tell you which restaurants have the best oysters on a half shell.
Where Do Locals Go For Oysters On A Half Shell?
Bourbon Street has plenty of oyster joints, of course, you can’t go wrong with Acme, which is perhaps the most renown spot in the city. No matter how you like them — raw, chargrilled, or Rockefeller style — you can get them in New Orleans.
Now let’s get into where you can get the best oysters in the Crescent City.
Superior Seafood & Oyster Bar
4338 St Charles Ave, New Orleans, LA 70115 | (504) 293-3474
Here’s what one customer says about Superior. “Just the best in every way. Oysters on the half shell were delicious. Briny and so fresh tasting. Best I’ve had in recent memory (and I’m an oyster lover). The NY strip was amazingly tender. Would have thought it was a filet, but had better flavor than a filet. Cooked just right. Service was terrific. Kudos to Mark especially, and the others.”
Creole House Restaurant & Oyster Bar
509 Canal St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 323-2109
Here’s what one diner says about Creole House. “We came in out of the rain and enjoyed this spot! We had the Mardi Garitas and decided to share Bacon Garlic Oysters. The oysters were the BEST we’ve had on this trip! Highly recommend this place!”
Basin Seafood & Spirits
3222 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70115 | (504) 302-7391
Olde Nola Cookery
205 Bourbon St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 525-4577
Here’s what one customer says about Olde Nola Cookery: “The oysters were fresh and sweet. The batter was just right, with a touch of heat. Served with cocktail sauce, they were great with or without the sauce. For the main fair, I had Etoufee, Red Beans and Rice with a small piece of Sausage, and Gumbo.”
Here’s what a customer says about Ole Nola.
Acme Oyster House
724 Iberville St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 522-5973
Here’s what a visitor to Acme Oyster House says. “If Chargrilled oysters are your thing then this is the place for you! One of the best in town. I always overeat everytime we visit. Love the staff as well. Always so welcoming.”
Mr. Ed’s Oyster Bar & Fish House
512 Bienville St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 309-4848
Here’s what one customer says about Mr. Ed’s Oyster Bar. “Without a doubt, the best baked oysters I have ever had!!! Delicious, meaty, and amazingly awesome. Please don’t change a thing. Great casual vibe. Awesome waitress!”
Felix’s Restaurant & Oyster Bar
739 Iberville St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 522-4440
Here’s what one diner says about Felix’s. “Super busy at night when we came. Had to wait in line. That just mean the food is worth it. Grilled oysters were the best I ever had! Big props to Asante! He embodied that Nola energy and utmost hospitality. Even though it was really really busy, we felt that we were really taken care of. He is the definition of grace under pressure.”
Coterie Restaurant & Oyster Bar
135 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 529-8600
Here’s what one diner says about Coterie Restaurant & Oyster Bar. “Best freaking raw oysters Ive ever had. The chargrilled oysters had really good flavor as well. Michael was great made sure we got the best oysters.”
Gallier’s Restaurant & Oyster Bar
129 Carondelet St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 267-5672
Here’s what one customer says about Gallier’s. “Went here on a whim, so thankful we did. We love oysters rock. We make our own at home. The oysters here are the best we’ve ever had. Hand down. The creamy cheese sauce was the best ever, delicious, and the biggest oysters we have EVER seen. Juliette was refreshingly friendly, attentive, pleasant, she did not make us feel rushed at all and it was packed.”
Final Word
New Orleans has one of the best restaurant scenes in the Southeast, and with state of Southern cooking and an emphasis on the culinary arts at an all-time high, that’s saying something.
When New Orleans’ food is mentioned on a national level, it somehow always reverts back to gumbo, which is the best around, although the city’s eateries certainly represent those dishes well, there’s so much more.
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The only thing better than mimosas for brunch are bottomless mimosas! New Orleans has several great restaurants that offer this generous option.
Where Can I Get Bottomless Mimosas In New Orleans?
This article will show you where you can get bottomless mimosas in New Orleans, Louisiana.
Apolline
4729 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70115 | (504) 894-8881
Here’s what one customer says about Apolline. “Came here for brunch, the food was delicious and the staff was amazing. Mimosas were truly bottomless. Our glasses were never more than half empty, the waiters were so attentive without being overbearing. Very relaxing and enjoyable, will be back next time I’m in town.”
Brown Butter Southern Kitchen & Bar
231 N Carrollton Ave Suite C, New Orleans, LA 70119 | (504) 609-3871
Here’s what one customer says about Brown Butter Southern Kitchen. “Brunch place with bottomless mimosas with good balance of champagne. I ordered the Honey Cluck’n Biscuit, and it is MASSIVE. I definitely had a lot left for a later meal or snack. It was tasty but very heavy. The biscuit is soaked in the hot honey and it was a bit of unruly to eat.”
Basin Seafood & Sprits
3222 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70115 | (504) 302-7391
Here’s what a customer says about Basin Seafood & Spirits. “Four of us had bottomless mimosas, and maybe we’re not hardcore enough, but our carafe was never empty. Appetizers were brought quickly(by my standards) and the mains in the right amount of time.”
Flamingo-A-Go-Go
869 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 577-2202
Here’s what one customer says about Flamingo-A Go Go. “Loved loved loved. This was our first stop after getting to our hotel which was around the corner. How can you go wrong with bottomless mimosas? Loved the food and service. We came back several times during our stay and were never disappointed.”
The Country Club
634 Louisa St, New Orleans, LA 70117 | (504) 945-0742
Here’s what one diner says about The Country Club. “Super chic brunch spot with yummy food. This place is perfect for a bachelorette weekend brunch. They have bottomless mimosas with a purchase of an entree which doesn’t get better than that. The service was magnificent as well. I am so glad i was able to brunch here.”
Lucy’s Retired Surfer’s Bar & Restaurant
701 Tchoupitoulas St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 523-8995
Here’s what a diner says about Lucy’s. “We stumbled upon Lucy’s while exploring outside the French Quarter. The bar has a good vibe, pretty good food, and whimsical ocean themed drinks. The endless mimosas were great. You may have to wait a little bit for the service, overall a great experience.”
Copper Vine
1001 Poydras St, New Orleans, LA 70112 | (504) 208-9535
Here’s what one eater says about Copper Vine. “We choose to add the bottomless mimosas option for $25 each and we all thought that was a great idea! It was nice because we were able to switch up what kind of juices we wanted with our Champagne each time we ordered a new drink! They also let us take a to-go cup Would love to go back and try their dinner, but would 100% recommend their Brunch!”
Birdy’s Behind the Bower
1320 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | (504) 302-2992
Here’s what one customer says about Birdy’s. “Delicious food and great service in a clean, trendy atmosphere. We stopped by for brunch right before a flight and BOY did they take care of us with the bottomless mimosas. Menu was on the small side but everything sounded so good, it didnt matter.”
Final Word
What’s not to like about orange juice, champagne? When you need a drink, New Orleans bars does not disappoint.
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Just because New Orleans and the Gulf Coast haven’t experience a hurricane in 2022, this year is still likely to be above average for storm activity.
That’s the word from the experts at the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration, which tracks storms in the hemisphere.
Atlantic Hurricane Season Could Still Be Above Average
The NOAA’s Climate Prediction Center recently issued an update that forecasts an above-normal Atlantic hurricane season but have tweaked the likelihood down to 60% from 60% in May 2022.
“We’re just getting into the peak months of August through October for hurricane development, and we anticipate that more storms are on the way,” said NOAA Administrator Rick Spinrad, Ph.D. “NOAA stands ready to deliver timely and accurate forecasts and warnings to help communities prepare in advance of approaching storms.”
When Is Hurricane Season In New Orleans?
The peak months of hurricane season are August through October, although big storm season officially ends each year on November 30.
This year, there are a number of named storms that still need to be formed.
The latest status update on major storms comes as Tropical Storm Ian churns toward Florida’s east coast. The storm is expected to be a Category 3 if it continues its trajectory.
Over the weekend, residents in the Florida peninsula and Florida Keys were warned to prepared for a hurricane, which could hit the area as a Category 3 hurricane or higher.
Meanwhile, New Orleans weather is very normal this time of year: Cool in the mornings and hot in the afternoons. Perfect weather for some football.
