Pride Journey Outdoors: New Orleans

New Orleans has always been a favorite destination of the LGBTQ community. The city is steeped with history, culture, music, nightlife and of course, incredible food. For those who aren't comfortable strolling down Bourbon Street yet, there are many options for a socially-distant vacation to The Big Easy.

Armstrong Park

Located at the edge of the French Quarter sits this public park that honors Jazz legend Louis Armstrong. Once on Rampart Street, be sure to look for the photographic arched entrance. Once inside you'll find sites like Congo Square (a historic meeting place for slaves in the 1800s and now a place for live music), sculptures, duck ponds and lots of open spaces for relaxing. If you exit on the other side of the park, you’ll enter the historic treme neighborhood, perfect for an afternoon stroll to take in the many architectural wonders of NOLA.

Country Club

The Bywater’s Country Club is an urban oasis and favorite among the queer community. For a small cover charge, you’ll have access to the Country Club pool and hot tub and get to mingle with other members of the LGBTQ community in a safe and welcoming environment. They also host a phenomenal drag brunch with local drag artists.

Paddleboarding & Kayaking

Rent a paddleboard / kayak from NOLA Paddleboard or other vendors along Bayou St. John and paddle along the bayou. Not only is paddleboarding a great workout, but it’s also a fantastic way to see parts of City Park, Mid City and Gentilly neighborhoods from a unique vantage point and while maintaining social distance. We recommend stopping along the way to soak up some sun.

Swamp Tours

Just 25 minutes from New Orleans, explore moss draped cypress trees and bayous teeming with wildlife in historical Jean Lafitte National Park. Tours have knowledgeable guides who will help you get up close and personal with the wildlife and learn about South Louisiana’s ecosystem. One of our favorite tour operators is Jean Lafitte Swamp Tours, we even took NOLA’s very own drag queen on a private tour.

Click HERE to view LGBTQ Travel Directory

Photos Courtesy of Visit New Orleans

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