How to Meet New People in New Orleans

Millions of people travel to New Orleans every year for the food, the atmosphere, the ghost tours, the jazz and the bayou … so it should be easy to meet new people if you live there, right?

Well, there’s a difference between meeting people in the middle of Bourbon Street and meeting people who actually make New Orleans their home year round. Here are some tips for making new friends in the Big Easy.

If You’re Single and Ready to Mingle

The New Orleans Singles Network

Sometimes it can be hard to tell who is a local and who is a tourist in NOLA. One easy way is to join a singles group that organizes events. The New Orleans Singles Network holds monthly trivia events, which is a fun way to start meeting new friends. Once you join the group, you will be notified of other events as they are scheduled.

Mixology

Almost as famous as the street itself, the signature cocktails of Bourbon Street offer unique experiences for visitors. Learn how to mix a true Sazerac, Hurricane, Vieux Carré and other cocktails at New Orleans Drink Lab.

If You Have Kids

Puzzling Adventures

Part self-guided walking tour, part scavenger hunt, part choose your own adventure, Puzzling Adventures sends you on a quest around New Orleans, which you can complete as quickly or slowly as you want. All-ages appropriate, it’s a great way to learn about your new city, have some fun as a family and maybe meet some new friends along the way.

Check Out the Museums

In a town known for its party atmosphere, it might surprise you there are a bunch of child-friendly things to do. Here are some of the best:

Louisiana Children's Museum - With a myriad of activities centered around themes of literacy, STEM, environment, health and wellness, and arts and culture, there is something for every interest and age.

Audubon Nature Institute - The Audubon Nature Institute includes the Audubon Insectarium, the Audubon Zoo, the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas and the Planetarium. With so much to do and see, you’re bound to run into new people with kids your age.

If You’re Quiet

Meditate

Let’s face it, New Orleans is pretty high energy, and that can be draining for introverts. Take a break from the beads and the hustle and join a meditation group. You can meet like-minded souls while grounding yourself and recharging. Meditate New Orleans offers weekly guided meditation, private and group sessions, singing bowl sessions and offers workshops on mindfulness.

Learn a New Skill

With its blend of French, Spanish, Caribbean and African influences, the cuisine of Louisiana is unlike any other. Why not learn about the style of cuisine, and maybe make some new friends along the way? The Mardi Gras School of Cooking offers classes on everything from how to make a basic roux, to old school favorites like gumbo and jambalaya.

When you’re getting settled in a new city, it can take a bit of time to figure out what to do with your belongings as you adjust to your new location.

Storage Post has self-storage locations in and around New Orleans with a variety of sizes of self-storage units and 24-hour security system, climate-controlled units, dollies, handcarts, packing materials and 24/7/365 access.