A vibrant city in the Deep South, New Orleans has plenty to experience and explore year-round. Whether you’re planning to soak up the soulful music scene during festival season or skipping the crowds during the quieter months, it’s an ideal destination even if saxophones aren’t your thing. Immerse yourself in everything The Big Easy has to offer—a rich cultural history, an eclectic art community, gorgeous Creole architecture and mouthwatering Cajun cuisine—all while making choices that reflect your compassion for animals.
Where to eat
Meals from the Heart Café | Just a five-minute walk from the iconic Café du Monde, egg- and dairy-free beignets are waiting for you to get your powdered sugar fix. The broad vegan menu also offers po’boys and gumbo.
Breads On Oak | At the opposite end of the French Quarter, you can find a classic New Orleans muffaletta—or in this case, “muffanada”—served with vegan Italian ham and olive salad.
The Dog House | This bar, restaurant and off-leash dog park combo in Mid-City requires that all canine guests are spayed/neutered and go through a membership process to confirm a clean bill of health. Their menu features cocktails such as “Iced Zoomies” and “Odie’s Revenge,” a meat-free bánh mì and a rotating selection of dog treats.
Where to go
NOLA City Bark | This dog park provides 4.6 acres of play space, plus doggie pools. They are permit-only.
The Witches Brew Tour Company | From ghost stories to torturous tales of Madame LaLaurie, there’s lots of spooky folklore to discover. Leashed dogs and service animals are allowed on most tours, though only certified service animals are allowed inside the cemeteries.
Ghost City Tours | This company also offers pet-friendly options.
How to get around
New Orleans Regional Transit Authority | Bringing your pup and hoping to use public transportation? Be sure to research any animal policies ahead of time. The historic streetcars are open to service animals, as well as pets in carriers that fit on your lap.
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Pete Marovich/For the HSUS
Sign up to attend TAFA 2025
Taking Action for Animals (TAFA) brings together volunteers, advocates and animal welfare organizations from across the U.S. for one shared goal: to better the lives of animals and people alike. TAFA will take place in New Orleans from August 1-3, 2025.