10 Reasons to Visit New Orleans in Summer 2022
Sure, NOLA gets hot and humid in the summer, and it's the kick-off of hurricane season. But it's also a great time to snag amazing deals on hotels and food and catch some very special events. Visiting New Orleans in the summer means COOLinary restaurant deals, Essence Fest, Satchmo Fest, July 4th celebrations, and so much more.
Plus, there are numerous ways to beat the heat when you're exploring the Big Easy. From outstanding museums, ducking into a French Quarter lounge for a cocktail, or getting up-close and personal with a shark.
If your summer travel plans bring you to New Orleans in 2022, here are some things that make it worth it.
1. COOLinary Deals
The annual culinary spectacular COOLinary New Orleans takes place in August. Those ready to indulge their taste buds with fantastic cuisine can score great deals on brunch, lunch, and dinner at some of the city's top restaurants.
2. Satchmo Summerfest
This annual bash celebrates the life and music of the legendary Louis Armstrong. Satchmo Summerfest takes place on August 6th and 7th, 2022, at the New Orleans Jazz Museum
3. July 4th Festivities
Fireworks, food, music, and much more are how NOLA celebrates July 4th. You’ll find tons of ways to honor our nation’s independence, including a dazzling fireworks display over the Mississippi River.
4. Summertime Cocktails
What better way to cool off than with a tasty frozen cocktail, simply perfect during the summertime weather. Step into the oldest bar in the United States, Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop, for a Voodoo Grape Slush. Or grab a refreshing fruit and juice blend at the Organic Banana in the historic French Market.
5. Amazing Museums
When it’s hot outside, head inside one of the many incredible museums in New Orleans. Explore fantastic works of art and stunning exhibits at the New Orleans Museum of Art (NOMA) or interactive history at the WWII Museum. Other highlights are the Lousiana State Museum and the New Orleans Jazz Museum.
6. Audubon Aquarium of the Americas
Come face to face with over 250 species of underwater life and more at the award-winning Audubon Aquarium of the Americas. There’s also a new shark exhibit that you don’t want to miss.
7. The Cool Zoo
The Audubon Zoo is one of the top zoos in the country, home to amazing creatures and showcasing unique habitats. You and the kids can take a break from the heat with some splashing and tubing at the Cool Zoo, located on the zoo grounds.
8. Essence Fest
One of the biggest events in the country takes place July 4th weekend in New Orleans every year. The Essence Festival of Culture celebrates African-American culture through music, food, and empowering events. Everyone that loves to have a good time is welcome to attend this transformative experience.
9. Tales of the Cocktail
The Tales of the Cocktail Foundation will celebrate 20 years with a comprehensive event complete with tastings and talks. Although the event is designed to educate industry professionals, it’s also an excellent outing for cocktail enthusiasts.
10. Red Dress Run
This charity event is a favorite of locals and visitors and is definitely something to behold. Participants fill the city streets in their best red dress (and we mean everyone wears a red dress). It’s a day of drinking, raucous fun, and yes, technically, a run, all hosted by the local running club, the Hash House Harriers.
No matter how you decide to spend your NOLA summer fun, stay in cool comfort at the Andrew Jackson Hotel. You might even meet a ghost during your visit since it’s one of the most haunted hotels in the city.