Looking for fun things to do, but can’t afford expensive dinners or Uber rides? Arcade has your back. Here are some fun and free or inexpensive activities to do in New Orleans! 

Take the streetcar

With a fare of only $1.25, the streetcar is affordable and offers a unique taste of the city. The St. Charles Avenue line can be accessed from the neutral ground on St. Charles, right across from Gibson Hall, and will take you all the way through the Central Business District. The Canal streetcar can be accessed from Canal Street and goes to City Park, a beautiful park known for its famous oak trees. No matter your destination, taking the streetcar is a great experience, especially on a warm spring day with the windows down.

Go on a picnic

New Orleans has some truly great parks, including some within walking distance of campus. Audubon Park, located just across the street from Gibson Hall, features a scenic walking and biking path as well as ample green space for you to lay down your picnic blanket. Grab some snacks, put on your favorite tunes and enjoy some beautiful New Orleans weather. 

Look for student discounts

Many museums or attractions offer a discounted rate to students. The New Orleans Museum of Art offers admission to the museum for $8 for university students with ID, and admission is free for those 19 and under. The museum is home to an outdoor sculpture garden, which offers tickets to students for $3. The university also often offers free events and programming for students. Check out the Tulane JAUNT series, Tulane After Dark, and other clubs or organizations on campus for fun and free, or discounted, programming. 

Experience the city on foot

New Orleans is a beautiful and historic city, and you can spend a whole day just wandering around its precariously paved roads and unique neighborhoods. Take a walk in the Lower Garden District, Marigny or Bywater Historic District and just enjoy the architecture and atmosphere of the neighborhoods. Freret Street, Magazine Street and Oak Street are all close to Tulane’s campus and known for their walkability.