New Orleans isn’t just a city with personality—it IS personality. Think of that friend who’s always the life of the party. They throw surprises your way and keep you on your toes. This Labor Day Weekend, that friend is embracing the etched, enduring, and elegant spirit of Southern Decadence—New Orleans’ premier LGBTQ event of the year.
We’ve already covered the must-dos for Southern Decadence. However, there are certain pitfalls to avoid when visiting New Orleans. Most travel guides skip these warnings. You end up learning them the hard way instead. Here are seven things you shouldn’t do while visiting New Orleans for Southern Decadence.
Don’t Disrespect the Locals’ Way of Life
New Orleans boasts rich history, traditions, and customs. As you explore the city, you’ll meet diverse people who take pride in their heritage. As a visitor, you must respect their customs. Don’t make fun of them.
For example, be sensitive about voodoo. It’s a legitimate religion that matters to the community. The same goes for fortune tellers, palm readers, and other spiritual practices. They might seem unfamiliar to you. You don’t have to believe in these things. However, you should respect their meaning for locals. Speaking of fortune tellers—don’t forget to tip them. Karma has a way of coming back around.
Don’t Confuse Open-Container Laws with Chaos
In New Orleans, you can drink almost anywhere in the French Quarter. Your beverage just can’t be in a glass container. That said, enjoy your drinks like an adult. Don’t drop them. Don’t leave them on the street.
Trust me—no one wants to step in your spilled vodka soda. Nobody wants to see you stumbling around like a drunk mess either. Let’s cheers to that. Remember to always drink responsibly. Don’t drink and drive.
Don’t Keep Your Wallet in Your Back Pocket
New Orleans loves its booze. Unfortunately, it also has its share of pickpockets. Opportunistic crime thrives in tourist areas. Pickpockets love tipsy tourists who aren’t paying attention.
When visiting New Orleans, avoid becoming their next target. Keep your wallet secure in your front pocket. Let’s be honest though—you’ll probably be parading around in a jockstrap 90% of the time. Put your valuables in a chest bag instead. You’ll be fine.
Don’t Fall for Tourist Traps
New Orleans has so much more to offer than neon-colored hurricanes and oversized fishbowl cocktails on Bourbon Street. While these sugary, food-dyed drinks might look fun, they’re made with the cheapest booze around and will leave you with a hangover worthy of its own funeral parade. Want to drink like a local? Skip the gimmicks and order a classic Sazerac at the Roosevelt Hotel or a French 75 at Arnaud’s. For something unique, let the talented mixologists at Cure craft you a drink you won’t find anywhere else. Your head—and your Instagram feed—will thank you.
The same advice applies to where you go. While Bourbon Street may be iconic, don’t limit yourself to just the French Quarter. Sticking only to this area is like staying in Times Square when visiting New York—it’s just one part of the city. Venture out to the Garden District for stunning architecture or head to the Marigny for its funky vibe and vibrant music scene. New Orleans is bursting with incredible food, music, and culture waiting to be discovered beyond the touristy spots. Explore it all!
Don’t Bother Renting a Car
Thinking about renting a car for your NOLA adventure? Hard pass. The crater-sized potholes will eat your rental for breakfast. The city’s roads are an ever-evolving obstacle course. I’m not saying you’ll fall into a sinkhole. But I’m not not saying that either.
Parking is another nightmare. Car break-ins are rampant. You don’t want to spend Southern Decadence on the phone with Hertz. You’ll be explaining why your window is missing. Plus, the best parts of New Orleans are built for wandering on foot. Roll by on a historic streetcar. Hop a quick Lyft instead.
The French Quarter, Marigny, and Garden District are super walkable. They burst with sights and surprises at every corner. Skip the rental. Put on something fabulous. Get lost in this magical, pothole-riddled wonderland. Your feet and wallet will thank you.
Don’t Forget Food Is Culture
New Orleans isn’t just about the French Quarter and Marigny—real explorers know the Westbank (lovingly called “The Wank”) is where the hidden gems are. If you have more than just a wild weekend, cross the Mississippi and prepare for an adventure. The Westbank is home to a vibrant Vietnamese community, where you can slurp steaming pho at a strip-mall joint in Gretna or feast on crawfish spring rolls, banh mi, and seafood platters that’ll make your taste buds second-line. Leave your diet at home and dig in.
For some fresh air between meals, head to TPC Louisiana in Avondale. Even if you’re not into golf, the Zurich Classic in mid-April turns the course into a four-day party with rowdy crowds and cold drinks. It’s all part of the fun that makes the Westbank worth the trip.
And while we’re on food—bottoms, stop starving yourselves! New Orleans has a rich culinary scene that’s a must-try. From gumbo and po’boys to beignets, every bite is steeped in culture. Skip the “bottom’s diet” of ice cubes and indulge in local flavors instead. Whether you’re dining at a fancy restaurant or grabbing snacks from a street vendor, you’ll find plenty of options, including low-fat proteins and fiber-rich eats. Food in New Orleans isn’t just about taste—it’s an experience. So gorge on something new, soak in the culture, and maybe even leave with a colorful nickname for your next drag persona.
Don’t Be That Tourist
When visiting New Orleans, it’s important to embrace the city’s unique culture with respect and open-mindedness. Here are a few tips to help you avoid being “that tourist” and truly connect with the soul of The Big Easy.
Locals Are Your Best Resource
New Orleanians are proud of their city and love sharing its hidden gems. Whether you’re in the French Quarter or Bywater, don’t hesitate to ask street performers, shopkeepers, or neighbors for recommendations. You’ll get creative directions like, “Head down three blocks and turn where you see the blue mural,” which often lead to unforgettable finds—like a soul food spot Yelp hasn’t discovered or a dive bar with live brass and a welcoming bartender. Chatting with locals isn’t just acceptable—it’s encouraged. Who knows? You might make a new friend along the way.
Respect the Haunted Side
New Orleans is steeped in ghost stories and supernatural lore, which are deeply rooted in the city’s history. Ghost tours can be a lot of fun, but approach them with respect. These tales are tied to real events and lived experiences, so keep an open mind. Don’t heckle guides or mock local legends. If eerie encounters aren’t your thing, stick to daytime history walks instead. And remember to tip your guides for sharing their stories—both living and otherwise.
Don’t Twerk in Front of Brass Bands
Brass bands are the lifeblood of New Orleans, and their street performances are a must-see. Dance along and enjoy the music, but don’t turn it into a spectacle. Twerking, especially for TikTok, can feel disrespectful to the musicians and the city’s rich cultural history. As Lizzo pointed out, twerking has Afro-descendant origins, tied to centuries of Black resilience and expression. Honor the performers and the culture by dancing with joy—without making it a joke or a performance.
Ignore the Zealots on Bourbon Street
Every year, during events like Southern Decadence, preachers and conspiracy theorists descend on Bourbon Street to spread negativity. It’s tempting to argue, but don’t take the bait. Engaging only fuels their fire. Instead, channel Michelle Obama’s wisdom: “When they go low, we go high.” Focus on your fun and let the haters shout into the void while you enjoy the uninhibited magic of The Big Easy.
By respecting the culture, history, and spirit of New Orleans, you’ll have an authentic experience while ensuring you’re a welcome guest in this incredible city.
And to Wrap it All Up…
Visiting New Orleans is like diving into a jambalaya of culture, music, food, and fun. Your experience should be as rich and varied as a bowl of gumbo. Don’t let haters bring you down. Treat your taste buds to something other than ice cubes. Give the French Quarter a break—there’s a whole city waiting.
Lace up your walking shoes. Keep an open mind. Get ready to explore everything NOLA has to offer. Go on now, and let the good times roll!
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10 Things You Have to Do During Southern Decadence in New Orleans