The culturally-rich workshops in New Orleans stand among the most hands-on ways to experience authentic local life. The city’s best instructional offerings focus on three main areas: cooking, crafts, and cocktails. Standout experiences include small-group Cajun cooking classes where you’ll master jambalaya and gumbo, intimate perfume-making workshops in the French Quarter, and traditional mask-making sessions perfect for Mardi Gras season. I especially love the cooking workshops at the New Orleans School of Cooking – their instructors share fascinating cultural commentary while teaching classic recipes.
These are our favorite workshops across the Crescent City.
Key Points
- New Orleans offers a variety of immersive cooking classes, including Creole cuisine demonstrations, hands-on experiences, and cocktail walking tours.
- Creative workshops in the city allow visitors to make unique keepsakes like Mardi Gras masks and personalized perfumes or colognes.
- Cultural experiences like Cajun roux cooking classes and private writing sessions with authors provide opportunities to learn about local traditions and skills.
- The classes and workshops in New Orleans prioritize accessibility and inclusivity, accommodating various dietary needs and skill levels.
- Many of the culinary and creative experiences in New Orleans are highly rated and popular among both locals and travelers.
New Orleans Demonstration Cooking Class With Meal
The New Orleans Cooking Demonstration Class is a popular and highly-rated culinary experience that allows visitors to learn about the rich Creole cuisine of Louisiana.
Located in a converted 19th-century molasses warehouse, the class teaches participants to prepare classic dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, and pralines.
The full-meal experience includes generous sampling of the prepared dishes, complemented by local beer, iced tea, and coffee. Recipes are provided to take home, and dietary restrictions are accommodated.
Knowledgeable local chefs lead the interactive demonstrations, sharing insights into the history and cultural influences of Louisiana cuisine.
With a maximum of 68 participants per class, the experience promises an engaging and delicious exploration of the region’s culinary traditions.
Read our full review: New Orleans Demonstration Cooking Class With Meal Review
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New Orleans: Ceramic Mardi Gras Mask Workshop
Aside from the popular cooking demonstration class, New Orleans also offers visitors the chance to create their own unique Mardi Gras keepsake at a ceramic Mardi Gras mask workshop.
During this 2-hour experience, you will learn the art of mask-making using traditional techniques and materials. Under the guidance of a local artist, they’ll design and hand-craft a vibrant, one-of-a-kind mask that captures the spirit of the city’s iconic Mardi Gras celebration.
The workshop is perfect for all skill levels and provides a fun, interactive way to take in New Orleans’ rich cultural heritage. Priced at around Kč 1,076 per person, it’s a memorable activity for both first-time and repeat visitors.
Read our full review: New Orleans: Ceramic Mardi Gras Mask Workshop Review
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New Orleans Hands-On Cooking Class With Meal
One of the most popular visitor experiences in New Orleans is the hands-on cooking class that allows participants to learn authentic Louisiana cuisine from professional chefs.
With over 995 reviews and a 98% recommendation rate, this class is a badge of excellence. Participants will enjoy a small group setting, a full meal with complimentary beverages, and a souvenir apron.
The menu features iconic Creole and Cajun dishes like yam-crab bisque, gumbo, and bananas Foster. Wheelchair-accessible, the class caters to dietary needs for a small fee.
Beginners and experienced cooks alike rave about the knowledgeable instructors and delightful atmosphere, making it an enriching way to experience New Orleans’ vibrant food culture.
Read our full review: New Orleans Hands-On Cooking Class With Meal Review
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New Orleans: Cooking Class & Cocktail Walking Tour
This unique tour in New Orleans combines a hands-on cooking class with a cocktail walking exploration, offering participants a well-rounded cultural experience.
Over 4 hours, visitors will learn to prepare traditional New Orleanian dishes like jambalaya and gumbo from a professional chef.
After the cooking class, a guide leads a walking tour through the French Quarter, highlighting the city’s rich cocktail history since 1850. Guests sample three of the Big Easy’s celebrated cocktails while learning about the architecture and culture.
With a minimum age of 21, this activity provides an immersive way to discover New Orleans’ renowned food and drink scene.
Read our full review: New Orleans: Cooking Class & Cocktail Walking Tour Review
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Hands-on Cajun Roux Cooking Class in New Orleans
Visitors to New Orleans can dive into the city’s celebrated culinary heritage with a hands-on Cajun roux cooking class.
Located in the French Quarter, this top-rated experience earns rave reviews from 99% of travelers. The class caps at just 10 guests, ensuring personalized attention from the engaging chefs.
Participants will learn to prepare classic Cajun and Creole dishes like chicken and andouille sausage gumbo, shrimp étouffée, and bananas Foster, while enjoying included wine or soda.
With a convenient downtown meeting point and positive reviews highlighting the fun, informative instruction, this cooking class offers an immersive taste of New Orleans’ vibrant food culture.
Read our full review: Hands-on Cajun Roux Cooking Class in New Orleans Review
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Private Writing Class With an Author
Anyone interested in honing their writing skills can enjoy a private session with a published author in the vibrant literary setting of New Orleans’ French Quarter.
The 1.5-hour class costs $100 per person and offers expert advice and constructive feedback on submitted works. Participants can focus on story beginnings, overall improvement, or specific questions.
The casual coffee shop atmosphere allows for a personalized experience, and writers are encouraged to email their samples in advance for a more effective critique.
With a flexible structure and an experienced instructor, this private writing class is an excellent opportunity to elevate one’s craft.
Read our full review: Private Writing Class With an Author Review
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New Orleans Cooking Class and Cocktail Walking Tour
Nestled in the heart of the French Quarter, the New Orleans School of Cooking provides a delightful blend of culinary and cocktail experiences.
Their combined cooking class and cocktail walking tour is a must-try for food and history enthusiasts. Led by engaging chefs and knowledgeable cocktail experts, the 4-hour experience teaches participants to prepare classic Louisiana dishes like jambalaya and gumbo, while also exploring the city’s historic bars and sampling iconic cocktails.
With generous food and drink tastings, a custom spice packet, and a stroll through the Vieux Carré, this tour offers a well-rounded introduction to New Orleans’ vibrant culinary and cocktail scene.
Read our full review: New Orleans Cooking Class and Cocktail Walking Tour Review
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New Orleans: Ceramic Tarot Birth Cards Workshop
A unique opportunity awaits in New Orleans, where aspiring artists can craft their own personalized tarot birth cards at a captivating Ceramic Tarot Birth Cards Workshop.
Over 1.5 hours, you will learn the art of ceramic making as they create their own tarot card featuring their birth details.
No prior experience is necessary, as expert instructors guide attendees through the process of shaping, stamping, and painting their unique piece.
This hands-on workshop allows visitors to enjoy New Orleans’ vibrant creative culture while crafting a one-of-a-kind memento.
Priced at €53.49 per person, the Ceramic Tarot Birth Cards Workshop offers a memorable and artistic experience.
Read our full review: New Orleans: Ceramic Tarot Birth Cards Workshop Review
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New Orleans: Create Your Own Perfume or Cologne Workshop
Aspiring perfumers flock to New Orleans for the captivating Create Your Own Perfume or Cologne Workshop. In just 1.5 hours, participants craft three unique fragrances from over 300 oils.
With one-on-one guidance, they bottle their favorite scent to take home. Along with a workbook and certificate, they receive a complimentary gift bag worth $45.
The small group size of 4 ensures personalized attention. Conveniently located downtown, the workshop welcomes all, including wheelchair users.
With overwhelmingly positive reviews, it’s a popular date idea. Flexible booking and a hassle-free cancellation policy make planning a breeze.
Whether a perfume enthusiast or simply curious, this workshop offers a memorable olfactory experience in the heart of New Orleans.
Read our full review: New Orleans: Create Your Own Perfume or Cologne Workshop Review
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New Orleans: Cajun and Creole Cooking Class With Meal
Tucked in the heart of New Orleans, the New Orleans School of Cooking offers an immersive Cajun and Creole cooking class. Priced from $37.50 per person, the 2-2.5 hour workshop teaches participants to make classic dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, and bread pudding.
Guests enjoy a 3-4 course meal, complete with local drinks, and receive recipe copies to recreate the flavors at home. With high ratings for the knowledgeable instructor and exceptional value, this cooking class is a must for foodies visiting the city.
The flexible schedule includes morning and afternoon sessions, covering a variety of regional specialties. Wheelchair accessible and with free cancellation, it’s an engaging way to dive into New Orleans’ rich culinary heritage.
Read our full review: New Orleans: Cajun and Creole Cooking Class With Meal Review
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New Orleans: Food Walking Tour & Cooking Class Experience
For those seeking a more immersive culinary experience in New Orleans, the Food Walking Tour & Cooking Class Experience offers the perfect blend of exploration and hands-on learning.
During this 5.5-hour adventure, you will embark on a 3-hour walking tour through the French Quarter, discovering famous eateries and the local culinary scene.
The experience then transitions into a 2-hour cooking class, where travelers will learn to prepare authentic Louisiana dishes through a live demonstration.
With 6-7 food and beverage tastings, you will savor iconic flavors, receive recipes, and enjoy a lunch they’ve prepared themselves.
This small-group tour, limited to 8 people, ensures an engaging and personalized experience.
Read our full review: New Orleans: Food Walking Tour & Cooking Class Experience Review
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Sum Up
New Orleans is a vibrant city with an array of workshops and classes to take in its rich culinary and cultural heritage. From hands-on cooking classes to ceramic mask-making, there’s something to suit every interest. Whether you’re a foodie or an art enthusiast, these experiences offer a unique and interactive way to explore the city’s diverse offerings.