New Orleans isn’t just about drinking (though it’s very good at that). Here’s everything you can do during the day before the real fun starts.
Golf
TPC Louisiana
The Big One
Home of the Zurich Classic. Championship course designed by Pete Dye. If your crew takes golf seriously, this is the play.
- Location: Avondale (45 min from French Quarter)
- Green fees: $150-250 depending on season
- Book ahead: Required, especially weekends
City Park Golf Course
The Local Pick
Recently renovated 18-hole course in beautiful City Park. Solid course, good price, close to the city.
- Location: Mid-City (15 min from French Quarter)
- Green fees: $50-80
- Book ahead: Recommended for groups
Audubon Golf Course
The Quick Round
18 holes in Audubon Park. Not challenging for serious golfers, but convenient and scenic.
- Location: Uptown (10 min from French Quarter)
- Green fees: $30-50
- Book ahead: Walk-ons usually fine
English Turn Golf & Country Club
The Upscale Option
Private club that allows outside play. Jack Nicklaus design. Great condition, full experience.
- Location: English Turn (30 min from French Quarter)
- Green fees: $100-150
- Book ahead: Required
Fishing
Louisiana fishing is world-class. Redfish, speckled trout, and more—all within an hour of the city.
What to Expect
Most charters include:
- All tackle and bait
- Fishing license
- Cooler with ice for your catch
- Captain who knows the spots
You bring: sunscreen, food/drinks (beer allowed), and a good attitude.
Half-Day Trips (4-5 hours)
Perfect for bachelor parties. You’re back by early afternoon with time to recover.
- Cost: $150-200/person (4-6 guys per boat)
- Book ahead: 2-3 weeks minimum
Recommended Charters
Cajun Fishing Adventures Solid reputation, good for groups. They’ll split you across multiple boats.
Louisiana Fishing Charters Good for beginners. Patient captains, fun experience.
Reel NOLA Fishing Closer to the city, shorter drive time.
Casino
Harrah’s New Orleans
The Only Game in Town
Louisiana’s only land-based casino, right on Canal Street. Open 24 hours.
What they have:
- Full poker room
- Table games (blackjack, craps, roulette)
- Slots
- Sports betting
Bachelor party tips:
- Thursday-Saturday nights are busiest
- Poker room takes reservations for groups
- Drink service is free if you’re gambling
- The steakhouse (Besh Steak) is actually good
Swamp Tours
Don’t write this off. A swamp tour is legitimately one of the most memorable things you can do in Louisiana.
What You’ll Do
- Ride an airboat through the bayou
- See alligators (guaranteed)
- Learn about Cajun culture
- Drink beer on a boat
Recommended
Cajun Encounters Most popular option. Boats leave from Slidell (30 min from city). They offer hotel pickup.
- Duration: 2-3 hours total
- Cost: $30-40/person
- Best time: Morning (cooler, more active wildlife)
Airboat Adventures Smaller operation, more authentic feel. Better for groups who want less tourist, more real.
Other Options
Gun Range
NOLA Tactical Indoor range with rentals. Full auto available (really). Good for a morning activity.
- Location: Metairie (20 min from French Quarter)
- Cost: $50-100/person depending on rentals
Axe Throwing
Stumpknockers Exactly what it sounds like. Good for competitive crews.
- Location: Warehouse District
- Cost: ~$30/person for an hour
Escape Room
The Escape Experience Multiple rooms with different themes. Good for groups up to 8.
- Location: CBD
- Cost: ~$35/person
Food Tour
Tastebud Tours Walking tour through the French Quarter with food stops. More sophisticated option.
- Duration: 3 hours
- Cost: ~$70/person
Sample Day Schedules
The Golfer’s Day
- 8am: Tee time at TPC
- 1pm: Lunch at the clubhouse
- 3pm: Back to house, pool
- 7pm: Dinner and night out
The Fisherman’s Day
- 5am: Leave for charter (yes, early)
- 10am: Back from fishing
- 11am: Pool and recovery
- 6pm: Dinner (maybe cook your catch)
- 9pm: Night out
The Mixed Day
- 10am: Swamp tour
- 1pm: Lunch in the Quarter
- 3pm: Casino or pool
- 7pm: Dinner
- 10pm: Frenchmen Street
Questions about activities? Contact us.