A horse drawn carriage on a street with French Quarter in the background

Marching Through the Quarter: New Orleans for Student Groups

New Orleans isn’t just a destination. It’s a rhythm, a flavor…a feeling. It’s where the streets pulse with vibrant music, the food tells a story, and every corner reveals a unique layer of American culture. Known as the birthplace of jazz music and a melting pot of French, African, Caribbean, and American traditions, New Orleans offers student groups an immersive educational experience unlike any other.

Here, students don’t just study music – they live it. From brass bands on street corners to historic cathedrals echoing with choir performances, the city engages young performers and learners in ways textbooks never could. Whether your group is there to perform, explore history, or experience a rich cultural mix, New Orleans delivers unforgettable educational value.

Why New Orleans for Students?

New Orleans offers a learning environment where performance students can attend live jazz shows, participate in clinics, and even perform in iconic locations like Jackson Square, the French Market, or along the Riverwalk. The compact layout of the French Quarter and surrounding neighborhoods makes New Orleans highly walkable, cutting down on transportation needs and maximizing your group’s time at attractions. It’s one of those rare cities where you can transition from a historic walking tour to a live jazz performance, to a world-class museum, all within a few blocks.

Beyond music, New Orleans brings students face-to-face with important cultural and historical themes. The intersection of colonial history, African American heritage, and resilience through natural disasters like Hurricane Katrina makes the city a living classroom. Its museums, churches, neighborhoods, and food all have stories to tell – and lessons to teach.

A street sign on a pole

Things to Do in New Orleans

1. French Quarter Walking Tour

The French Quarter is the heart of New Orleans, and a walking tour through its narrow, storied streets is a must for any student group. Learn about Creole architecture, jazz history, voodoo folklore, and the evolution of the city through centuries of cultural exchange. Most tours are customizable to match educational goals, from music and art to social studies and language.
Jackson Square, a historic public plaza within the Quarter, is a top spot for student performances – especially for marching bands and choirs. The energy here is unbeatable, and the foot traffic guarantees an enthusiastic audience. (Note: Permits are often required.)

2. Preservation Hall

No visit to New Orleans is complete without a stop at Preservation Hall, the city’s most revered jazz venue. Book a private educational session where students can meet jazz musicians, ask questions, and learn about improvisation, musical history, and New Orleans’ contribution to American music. The intimacy and authenticity of this experience are unmatched.

3. The National WWII Museum

Ranked as one of the best museums in the country, the National WWII Museum presents World War II history in a highly interactive and emotional format. Through interactive exhibits, multimedia displays, and theatrical presentations, students are drawn into the human stories of the war. The museum ties directly into high school history curricula and promotes powerful discussions around leadership, sacrifice, and resilience.

4. Steamboat Natchez Jazz Cruise

Take your group out on the Mississippi River aboard the Steamboat Natchez – a historic paddlewheel boat complete with live Dixieland jazz, sweeping river views, and optional group meals. This relaxing cruise provides a cultural and scenic break from walking tours, while still reinforcing the city’s connection to river trade, music, and Southern heritage.

5. City Park & New Orleans Museum of Art

City Park offers a breath of fresh air. Literally. It’s one of the largest urban parks in the country and home to the New Orleans Museum of Art (NOMA), which features student-friendly exhibits and rotating collections. The adjacent Besthoff Sculpture Garden is free to visit and makes a wonderful outdoor stop for both art appreciation and group downtime.

6. Garden District Tour

For a different view of New Orleans, take your group to the Garden District, known for its pristine 19th-century mansions, tree-lined streets, and Southern Gothic charm. Guided walking tours can delve into post-Civil War history, local legends, and architectural styles. It’s a quieter, more residential contrast to the French Quarter and ideal for structured daytime exploration.

7. Mardi Gras World

Behind the flamboyant floats and dazzling costumes of Mardi Gras is a fascinating world of artistry and tradition. At Mardi Gras World, students go behind the scenes to learn how the floats are designed and constructed. It’s a great tie-in for art, design, and cultural studies – plus it’s colorful, hands-on, and full of photo ops.

8. St. Louis Cathedral

The St. Louis Cathedral, located in the heart of Jackson Square, is the oldest continuously active Roman Catholic cathedral in the U.S. Beyond its historical and religious significance, it often hosts student choir performances, especially around the holidays or during special events. The acoustics and ambiance make it a memorable experience for both performers and audience.

A trolleys on a street

Other New Orleans Experiences

  • New Orleans Jazz Museum – Located in the Old U.S. Mint, this museum focuses on the history and impact of jazz, brass bands, and legendary figures like Louis Armstrong.
  • The Cabildo & The Historic New Orleans Collection – These museums explore Louisiana’s colonial history, the Louisiana Purchase, and local cultural evolution.
  • Audubon Aquarium of the Americas – Located right on the riverfront, it features marine life native to the Gulf and Caribbean, including touch tanks and conservation exhibits.
  • French Market – A lively spot for lunch, people-watching, and picking up souvenirs. Many vendors are student-friendly with grab-and-go options.
  • Swamp Tours – Located just outside the city, these tours introduce students to Louisiana’s unique wetlands, wildlife, and environmental science topics.

Best Time to Go

The best months for student travel to New Orleans are March and April. Temperatures are warm but comfortable, gardens are in bloom, and the city hums with life without the sweltering heat of summer.

One caution: Mardi Gras typically falls in late February or early March. While it’s a cultural marvel, the crowds, prices, and adult-themed celebrations may not make it the best fit for younger student groups. Late April offers many of the same vibrant experiences with fewer crowds and less expensive costs.

Summer brings intense heat and high humidity, along with an increased risk of hurricanes. Fall is another beautiful option weather-wise, but can be harder to coordinate with school calendars.

Travel Tips For Groups

  • Footwear Matters: The French Quarter is compact but filled with uneven sidewalks and cobblestones. Encourage students to wear supportive shoes.
  • Stay Hydrated: Even in spring, humidity can sap energy quickly. Bring refillable water bottles and plan rest stops.
  • Plan Performances in Advance: Spots like Jackson Square and churches often require permits or advance coordination. Secure your spot early.
  • Structure is Key: While the city is safe in most areas, a guided tour ensures age-appropriate, educational experiences – especially in a city with vibrant nightlife. Let Southwestern Travel help plan your guided tours with some of the best local vendors!
  • Savor the Local Flavors: Introduce students to New Orleans cuisine like gumbo, po’ boys, and beignets – but label spicy items clearly!
  • Street Music Etiquette: Live music is everywhere. Use the moment to teach music appreciation and tipping etiquette with small bills on hand.
  • Restroom Awareness: Public restrooms are limited in certain areas. Plan your route around museums, parks, or restaurants with available facilities.

March to a New Beat with Southwestern Travel Group

New Orleans offers student groups a once-in-a-lifetime chance to connect with music, culture, and history in a way that’s visceral, unforgettable, and deeply inspiring. Whether your students are performing on historic streets or diving into the stories of American resilience and creativity, the city leaves a lasting impression for years to come.

Let Southwestern Travel Group take the lead on planning a seamless, enriching experience of you in the Big Easy. From securing performance venues to arranging guided tours, meals, and downtime activities, we handle every detail so you can focus on what really matters.