New Orleans is a treasure trove of creative hobbies, local clubs, and hands-on classes that reflect the city’s rich, diverse culture. Whether you’re a longtime resident looking for a fresh pursuit or a newcomer diving into the local scene, there’s something for everyone, from gardening and pottery to cooking, music, and even disc golf. Here’s a guide to some of the unique hobbies you can explore in the Crescent City.
1. Gardening and Urban Farming
For those with a green thumb or anyone interested in sustainable living, New Orleans offers community gardening programs and urban farming workshops. Consider joining the New Orleans Botanical Garden’s gardening classes in City Park, where they cover everything from native plants to sustainable gardening practices. Another option is Grow Dat Youth Farm, which hosts various workshops and community events focused on growing fresh, local produce. Both spaces are ideal for networking with fellow gardening enthusiasts.
2. Pottery and Ceramics
The city’s pottery scene is thriving, with plenty of classes and studios catering to beginners and experts alike. Byrdie’s Pottery Studio in the Marigny offers hands-on workshops where you can create functional pottery pieces while learning the basics of wheel-throwing and hand-building. Byrdie’s fosters a supportive community vibe, making it a welcoming space for all skill levels. Clay Center of New Orleans in Gert Town is another excellent spot, offering classes for everyone, whether novices or advanced in pottery.
3. Cooking Classes
New Orleans’ culinary heritage makes it the perfect place to learn how to cook iconic local dishes. The New Orleans School of Cooking in the French Quarter is a staple, offering classes on how to make Creole and Cajun classics like gumbo, jambalaya, and pralines. For those who prefer hands-on training, check out Langlois Culinary Crossroads, which provides intimate, interactive cooking classes that showcase the city’s rich culinary roots.
4. Music Lessons and Jams
As the birthplace of jazz, New Orleans has no shortage of music workshops and venues where you can learn an instrument or join a jam session. NOLA School of Music offers music classes for aspiring musicians of all ages, and Louisiana Academy of Performing Arts provides private lessons in various instruments, from brass and woodwind to drums and guitar. For those interested in the local music scene, many bars and clubs host weekly jam sessions where budding musicians can play alongside seasoned performers.
5. Disc Golf at City Park
Disc golf has gained a loyal following in New Orleans, thanks to the scenic 18-hole disc golf course in City Park. Surrounded by ancient oak trees and picturesque landscapes, the course provides a relaxing yet challenging experience for players of all skill levels. The New Orleans Disc Golf Club frequently organizes events and meetups, making it easy to connect with others passionate about the sport. The course in City Park is a great spot to hone your skills or simply enjoy a leisurely game with friends.
6. Art Classes and Craft Workshops
For those looking to nurture their artistic side, New Orleans is filled with studios and workshops. New Orleans Academy of Fine Arts offers classes in painting, drawing, and mixed media. For those interested in crafts, The Green Project provides DIY workshops focused on sustainability, like furniture repurposing and upcycling materials into art. New Orleans GlassWorks & Printmaking Studio is also an excellent spot for hands-on classes in glassblowing and printmaking, adding a unique touch to the art scene here.
7. Dancing and Social Clubs
Dancing is a cherished part of New Orleans culture, and you can find classes ranging from traditional swing to salsa and zydeco. NOLA Jitterbugs offer lessons in swing and jazz-era dancing, often followed by social dancing events. For Latin dance enthusiasts, Mulate’s Cajun Restaurant hosts Cajun and zydeco nights with live bands, providing the perfect place to test out your steps.
New Orleans offers a rich mix of traditional and modern hobbies. Whatever your interest, there’s a place for you to learn, grow, and meet others who share your passion. Whether you’re honing your skills on the City Park disc golf course, cooking up a gumbo, or molding clay, New Orleans provides an unforgettable backdrop to pursue new passions.