New Orleans in the summer isn't always the easiest. It get's really hot, really humid, and it's just difficult to get things done. But on the other hand--the city clears out a bit, and you can actually drive through the French Quarter without being stuck in an hour of traffic. So, surviving the summer in New Orleans is possible. And here are some of the amazing things that make it all worthwhile. Here's the ultimate summer bucket list in New Orleans.

1) Stand in line for a snowball from Hansen's.

I always like to kick-off the summer with a long sweaty wait for the best snowballs in New Orleans. After all, there are no shortcuts to quality. 4801 Tchoupitoulas St.

2) Bayou Boogaloo, 500 N Jefferson Davis Pkwy

This early summer festival from May 20-22 on Bayou St. John offers nice music and a great way to regroup with the crew to see who's going to stick around for the summer.

3) Have a stuffed grape leaf at the New Orleans Greek Fest, 1200 Robert E Lee Blvd.

This delicious and fun Lakeview festival offers a great way to spend the afternoon immersed in Greek culture. May 27th - May 29th

4) Go See the Zephyrs Play Baseball

This is a great way to spend a summery afternoon--and don't forget to buy some peanuts!

5) Chow down on some Creole tomatoes

This mid-June festival is a great way to beat the heat and of course enjoy some delicious tomatoes! Creole Tomato Festival, June 11th-12th, French Market

6) Get a Hot Dog at Dat Dog

With three locations throughout New Orleans, all the different possible flavors and topping combinations make a dog from here truly special.

7) Go Swimming at One of the NORDC Pools.

There are a huge number of NORDC pools that will be opening up May 31st for summer fun!

8) Snag a ticket to Essence Fest in the Superdome.

This Annual blowout over July 4th weekend in the Superdome is featuring Mariah Carey, Tyrese, and Kendrick Lamar.

9) Take a “Run With the Bulls”

This annual festival in New Orleans, San Fermin in New Orleans, is July 8-10 2016.

10) Celebrate Bastille Day in Style.

Sometimes called the most french city in America, Bastille Day, July 14th, is a special day in New Orleans and celebrated throughout. The fest at Spanish plaza is especially nice.

11) Check Out the Cool Zoo at Audubon Park.

This newest attraction at Audubon Zoo offers lots of opportunities for little ones to enjoy the water.

12) Get Ice Cream from Creole Creamery, 4924 Prytania St

The Ice Cream here is amazing--and the sundaes can't be beat either!

13) Break out your best white digs.

14) Aquarium of the Americas, 1 Canal St.

When you just need a good blast of great air conditioning while exploring the beauty of the aquarium.

15) Satchmo Summer Fest, 400 N. Peters St.

When the dog days of summer crop up, there's something to look forward to -- this annual celebration of Louis Armstrong, August 5-7.

16) Visit the Ogden Museum, 925 Camp St.

The Ogden Museum offers a great weekly live music program from 6pm - 8pm on Thursdays.

17) Put on a Red Dress and go for a run.

Whether you are accustomed to wearing a dress or not, this run gives everyone the chance to feel what it's like to let it all hang out in a sexy red dress. This year, it's August 16th.

What do you do to survive a NOLA summer? One thing is for sure; this summer bucket list in New Orleans has got you covered with plenty to see and do.