September is a great time to visit New Orleans. The weather is still warm and humid, but the city begins its transition toward fall, and the calendar is filled with festivals, live music, cultural events, and football.
This guide covers the best things to do in New Orleans in September, including our top 10 recommendations, September events, nighttime activities, free things to do, and family-friendly attractions.
We've also included plenty of year-round activities, so you'll have options whether it's sunny, rainy, hot, or relatively comfortable during your visit.
And don't miss our New Orleans walking tours throughout the city.
Things to Do in New Orleans Year-Round
Top 10 Things to Do in September
September Events in New Orleans
New Orleans Weather in September
Top 10 Things to Do in New Orleans in September
September is a great month to experience many of the things that make New Orleans special.
Here are our top 10 recommendations for visitors this month.
1. Experience Southern Decadence
Southern Decadence is one of New Orleans' biggest Labor Day weekend traditions.
The multi-day celebration takes place throughout the French Quarter and includes parties, live entertainment, brunches, and a parade.
Southern Decadence attracts visitors from around the country and is one of the city's largest annual events.
For current dates and event information, check the Southern Decadence website.
2. Take a French Quarter Walking Tour
No trip to New Orleans is complete without exploring the French Quarter.
This historic neighborhood is home to Jackson Square, St. Louis Cathedral, the Cabildo, Bourbon Street, Royal Street, the French Market, and some of the city's most beautiful architecture.
Our French Quarter walking tour is a great way to learn about the history behind the buildings and landmarks you'll see.
We also offer a French Quarter ghost tour for those who want to explore the neighborhood after dark.
3. Listen to Live New Orleans Music
Music is one of the defining features of New Orleans.
You can hear jazz, blues, funk, brass bands, and other styles throughout the city, from dedicated music clubs to restaurants and neighborhood bars.
September is particularly good for music lovers because several music events take place throughout the month.
See our guide to where to hear live music in New Orleans for recommendations.
4. Take a New Orleans Swamp Tour
Get outside the city and explore the wetlands surrounding New Orleans on a swamp tour.
Depending on the tour, you may see alligators, birds, turtles, and other wildlife while learning about the area's unique ecosystem.
September can still be very hot, so bring water, sunscreen, and insect repellent.
5. Explore the Garden District
The Garden District is one of the most beautiful neighborhoods in New Orleans.
You'll find historic mansions, elaborate gardens, St. Charles Avenue, Lafayette Cemetery, and plenty of fascinating local history.
You can explore on your own with our self-guided Garden District tour or join our Garden District and Lafayette Cemetery walking tour.
6. Learn About Hurricane Katrina and New Orleans' Recovery
Hurricane Katrina profoundly changed New Orleans and the surrounding region. For visitors interested in understanding the city's history and how it recovered from the disaster, September is an especially meaningful time to learn more.
You can visit the Katrina National Memorial Foundation collection, which is currently exhibited at the New Orleans African American Museum. The collection includes photographs, personal stories, artwork, and historical material documenting Katrina and its aftermath.
You can also take our self-guided Hurricane Katrina tour to learn about locations connected to the storm and its aftermath.
Important for 2026: The Presbytère's Living with Hurricanes: Katrina and Beyond exhibit is normally one of the best places to learn about Katrina, but the museum is closed for building upgrades from July 27 through September 30, 2026.
7. Visit New Orleans Museums
September weather can be hot, humid, or rainy, making museums an excellent option.
Some of the city's most popular museums include the National WWII Museum, New Orleans Jazz Museum, the Presbytère, the Cabildo, and the New Orleans Museum of Art.
The Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden is another worthwhile stop and offers free admission.
You may also want to consider a New Orleans tourist attraction pass if you're planning to visit several paid attractions.
8. See a New Orleans Saints Game
September marks the beginning of football season, and Saints games are a big part of New Orleans culture.
If you're visiting when the Saints are playing at home, consider getting tickets or experiencing the excitement at a local sports bar.
Even visitors who aren't huge football fans can enjoy the atmosphere surrounding a Saints game.
Check the New Orleans Saints schedule for games during your visit.
9. Explore NOLAxNOLA
NOLAxNOLA celebrates the New Orleans music scene with performances at venues throughout the city.
The event takes place in late September and early October, making it a particularly good choice for visitors who love live music.
10. Go to the Alligator Festival
If you're willing to venture outside New Orleans, the Alligator Festival is one of the most unusual events you can attend during September.
The festival takes place in Luling, Louisiana, about 25 miles west of New Orleans, and celebrates Louisiana's Cajun culture with live alligators, live music, carnival rides, Cajun food, craft booths, and more.
The 2026 Alligator Festival takes place September 24–27 at Westbank Bridge Park. Admission is $5, with free admission for children 10 and under.
For more information, visit the Alligator Festival website.
Save Money With a New Orleans Attraction Pass
If you plan to visit several paid attractions during your trip, a New Orleans attraction pass can be a good way to save money.
Depending on the pass you choose, you can get admission to popular New Orleans attractions and experiences, including museums, cruises, tours, and other activities.
Before purchasing a pass, make a list of the attractions you want to visit and compare the individual admission prices with the cost of the pass. A pass is generally most useful for visitors who plan to see several attractions during a short visit.
Some passes also offer additional benefits, such as skip-the-line access or discounts on other New Orleans activities.
Watch our video below to learn more about New Orleans attraction passes and how they work.
Learn more about New Orleans attraction passes to see what's included and decide whether one is right for your trip.
September Events in New Orleans
One of the best reasons to visit New Orleans in September is the variety of events taking place throughout the city.
Because event dates and performers change from year to year, check the official event websites before making plans.
Southern Decadence
Southern Decadence takes place over Labor Day weekend and is one of the city's largest annual celebrations.
The event centers around the French Quarter and includes parties, entertainment, and a parade.
Visit the Southern Decadence website for the latest information.
NOLAxNOLA
NOLAxNOLA celebrates the city's legendary music culture with performances at venues around New Orleans.
It's an excellent event to look for if you're visiting in late September.
Check the NOLAxNOLA website for the current schedule.
New Orleans Saints
Football season begins in September, and the Saints' home games bring an entirely different kind of energy to the city.
Check the New Orleans Saints schedule to see whether they are playing at home during your visit.
Hispanic Heritage Month
Hispanic Heritage Month begins September 15 and continues through October 15.
New Orleans has a long and fascinating Hispanic history, and the month is an opportunity to experience cultural events, food, music, and other celebrations.
Live Music, Theater, and Comedy
You'll find concerts, theater productions, comedy shows, and other performances throughout New Orleans in September.
Because schedules change frequently, check local event calendars for performances taking place during your visit.
Things to Do in New Orleans at Night in September
New Orleans is famous for its nightlife, and there are plenty of things to do after dark in September.
The evenings can still be warm, but they're often more comfortable than the middle of the day.
For even more ideas, see our guide to 40+ Things to Do at Night in New Orleans.
Take a Ghost Tour
New Orleans has no shortage of ghost stories, haunted buildings, legends, and tales of notorious crimes.
Our New Orleans ghost tours explore some of the city's darker history.
Our French Quarter Ghost Tour is a popular option for visitors looking for something to do after dark.
Listen to Live Jazz
Music doesn't stop when the sun goes down.
Head to Frenchmen Street, the French Quarter, or one of New Orleans' many music venues to hear live performances.
Our guide to live music in New Orleans has suggestions for where to listen.
Explore Frenchmen Street
Frenchmen Street is one of the best places in New Orleans to hear live music.
You can walk along the street, listen to musicians, and move between venues throughout the evening.
Learn more with our Frenchmen Street and Marigny walking tour.
Take an Evening Food Tour
New Orleans' food scene is just as exciting after dark.
Try classic dishes, cocktails, desserts, and other local specialties while exploring the city's historic neighborhoods.
See our New Orleans food tours for options.
Free Things to Do in New Orleans in September
You don't have to spend a lot of money to enjoy New Orleans.
For even more budget-friendly ideas, see our guide to free things to do in New Orleans.
Explore Bayou Sauvage
Bayou Sauvage Urban National Wildlife Refuge offers opportunities for wildlife viewing, fishing, and walking.
It's a great option for visitors who want to experience a different side of New Orleans.
Take a Self-Guided Tour
We offer several free self-guided tours of New Orleans that you can explore at your own pace.
Options include:
- French Quarter
- French Market
- Frenchmen Street
- Garden District
- Lafayette Cemetery
- Hurricane Katrina sites
Visit the Sculpture Garden
The Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden is next to the New Orleans Museum of Art and is free to visit.
It's a good choice on a comfortable September day.
Enjoy Live Music in the French Quarter
New Orleans is famous for its live music, and you don't have to spend a lot of money to hear great musicians. In the French Quarter, you can often find live performances in bars, clubs, restaurants, and other venues throughout the week.
You may also hear musicians performing outdoors as you walk through the neighborhood, particularly along Bourbon Street, Royal Street, and Frenchmen Street.
For a complete list of places to hear live music, check out our guide to Live Music in New Orleans. You can also check the live music schedule to find performances happening during your visit.
Tip: If you're looking for a free way to hear live jazz, check the schedule at the New Orleans Jazz Museum, which hosts free performances on select days.
Take a Stroll Through Palace Market
If you're looking for something different to do in New Orleans at night, head to Palace Market on Frenchmen Street. This open-air art market features handmade artwork from local artists, including paintings, jewelry, sculpture, and other unique creations.
The market is located at 619 Frenchmen Street, next to the lively music scene on Frenchmen Street, making it easy to combine with an evening of live music.
Palace Market is open seven nights a week, generally from 7 PM until midnight, with later hours Thursday through Saturday. Hours can change, so it's a good idea to check current listings before visiting.
Family-Friendly Things to Do in New Orleans in September
September can be a fun month for families visiting New Orleans.
For more ideas, see our guide to things to do with kids in New Orleans.
Cool Down at Cool Zoo
September can still be extremely hot in New Orleans, making Cool Zoo Waterpark at Audubon Zoo a particularly good choice for families visiting early in the month.
Cool Zoo features a lazy river, water slides, interactive splash areas, and other ways to cool off. You can also spend time exploring Audubon Zoo before or after visiting the waterpark.
For 2026, Cool Zoo is:
Weekends Only: August 3 – September 6
Open: Labor Day (September 7)
Because Cool Zoo has a limited seasonal schedule, check the Cool Zoo website before your visit.
NOTE: Tickets for Audubon Zoo are included with some New Orleans tourist passes!
Cool Down With a Sno-Ball
September can still be very hot, making a New Orleans sno-ball an excellent way to cool down.
You'll find sno-ball stands throughout the city offering traditional and creative flavors.
See this guide to the best New Orleans sno-ball stands.
Visit the Louisiana Children's Museum
The Louisiana Children's Museum offers interactive exhibits designed for children and families.
It's also a particularly good option if rain interrupts your outdoor plans.
Visit the Pharmacy Museum
The New Orleans Pharmacy Museum offers a fascinating look at the history of medicine and pharmacy.
The historic building and unusual collection can make this a fun stop for older children as well as adults.
Explore the Sculpture Garden
The Besthoff Sculpture Garden provides plenty of outdoor space to explore.
If the weather becomes too hot, you can head into the New Orleans Museum of Art afterward.
Take a Family-Friendly Walking Tour
A walking tour is a great way for families to see more of New Orleans while learning about the city's history.
Browse our New Orleans walking tours for current options.
New Orleans Weather in September
September is still hot and humid in New Orleans, although temperatures generally become more comfortable as the month progresses.
September is also the peak of hurricane season, so it's important to check the forecast before and during your trip.
For average temperatures, rainfall, hurricane information, and advice about what to pack, read our complete guide to New Orleans Weather in September.
Things to Do in New Orleans Year-Round
September is just one of many great times to visit New Orleans.
If you're looking for more ideas, see our complete guide to Things to Do in New Orleans.
You can find attractions, neighborhoods, food, nightlife, free activities, and other ideas for planning your trip.
You can also explore the city with our New Orleans walking tours.
