A city known for its over-indulgence, New Orleans can also be the perfect place to relax and reset. Maybe you’d like to get a workout in, or a healthy meal in between all the fried foods and endless cocktails. Between our spas, parks, and healthy restaurants, everyone can experience wellness in New Orleans. Check out our guide below. 

Omni Royal Orleans
Photo courtesy of the Omni Royal Orleans Hotel
Omni Royal Orleans

Plan Your Wellness-Inspired Stay

Discover walkable neighborhoods and hotels with wellness amenities below.

One of the best parts about New Orleans is how walkable it is! The French Quarter, downtown, and Arts/Warehouse District are prime examples. Their proximity to restaurants, hotels, and attractions make them great neighborhoods to stay in. Browse our self-guided neighborhood walking tours here to get a feel for each neighborhood and decide which suits your fancy.

We can't forget about the luxury offerings at some of our hotels. Spa Aria is a retreat inside Hotel Monteleone while Omni Royal Orleans has a heated pool that can't be beat. Better yet, most hotels here have gyms that you can work out in during your stay. But if you'd like to get out and about to experience wellness, we've got a lot in store for you below.

Start Your Day with Mindful Movement 

Break a sweat with these workout classes sure to leave you feeling good.

A New Orleans workout doesn’t have to cost you anything. Move Ya Brass offers no-cost cardio classes and running meetups throughout the week at different locations in the city. Also, the New Orleans Recreation Development Commission has more than a dozen parks and facilities, some equipped with basketball courts, swimming pools, and workout classes, that are free and open to the public. There’s even an archery range and fishing lessons available. 

Drop into a local gym for specialty workout classes. Uptown at Spyre Center, you can do it all. Book a day pass or monthly membership to use the gym, go for a swim and enjoy workout classes, such as yoga and water aerobics. They also offer therapies such as acupuncture or hydrotherapy. Dry float, meditation, sauna, massage, and a wellness café are also available. Romney Studios is another fitness center in New Orleans that offers everything from “bounce” (trampoline) classes to Pilates and yoga. Check out our page on drop-in exercise classes here.

Hit the trails and go for a jog. You can find our guide to running in New Orleans here. Or, maybe you prefer water to land. Hop in a kayak and cruise down Bayou St. John or stand on a paddle board rental for the ultimate balance test.

If you’re looking for a workout that’s unique, look no further than Stumpy’s Hatchet House. Think about it: what could be more stress relieving than axe throwing and air conditioning? Plus, there’s a donut shop next door.  

The Spa at the Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans
Image courtesy of Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans
The Spa at the Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans

Explore Restorative Spas and Wellness Treatments 

Treat yourself to a spa service on your next visit to New Orleans.

New Orleans is full of spas ready to provide you with some must needed rest and relaxation. For a luxury hotel spa experience, check out the Waldorf Astoria Spa at the Roosevelt Hotel or the spa at the Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans. Woodhouse Day Spa, NOLA Organic Spa, and Earthsavers Spa are all great day spa options that offer a variety of services, from massages to manicures. Float NOLA offers flotation therapy, facial and skincare treatments, massage therapy, and more to rejuvenate clients based on their needs. See even more of our top picks for spas here. 

Connect with Nature Around the City

Boost your mood by spending time outdoors in one of our great parks.

There’s nothing quite like the tranquility of the great outdoors. In New Orleans City Park, it’s easy to find a spot to yourself, whether under the moss-covered oak trees that run along City Park Avenue or in the Couturie Forest off Harrison Avenue. Also in City Park is the Sydney & Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden, which has free admission. Other off-the-beaten path outdoor relaxation spots include Longue Vue House & Gardens, and The Fly at Audubon Park. The Batture is another great hidden gem nature spot where you can enjoy views of the Mississippi River.

Enjoy Nourishing, Feel-Good Food and Drinks

Eating healthy is easy in NOLA, with flavorful meals and non-alcoholic drinks galore.

New Orleans is a city for foodies—and that includes those looking for a healthy meal. Find vegan dining options here, vegetarian options here, and more healthy dining options here. Some of our favorite meals include the vegan hot sausage po-boy from Meals from the Heart Café, the Wellness Bowl from The Daily Beet, and the chicken kale Caesar salad from Birdy’s. Check out our blog on mocktails in New Orleans here.