New Orleans-6-day-itinerary

New Orleans 6-Day Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival and French Quarter Exploration

  • Morning: Arrive in New Orleans and check-in to your hotel or B&B in the French Quarter. Recommended stay:
    • Hotel Monteleone ( historic hotel with a famous Carousel Bar)
    • Lafitte Guest House (cozy B&B with a charming courtyard)
  • Lunch: Try a Po’ Boy sandwich at Parkway Bakery and Tavern (try the alligator sausage!)
  • Afternoon: Explore the French Quarter, starting from Jackson Square. Visit:
    • St. Louis Cathedral
    • Cabildo (Louisiana State Museum)
    • Preservation Hall (intimate jazz venue)
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Dooky Chase’s Restaurant (try the gumbo and jambalaya) followed by live music at the Spotted Cat Music Club.

Day 2: History, Architecture, and Cemeteries

  • Morning: Visit the National WWII Museum (recommended for history buffs)
  • Lunch: Grab a coffee and beignet at Cafe du Monde
  • Afternoon:
    • Take a guided tour of the St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 (book in advance)
    • Explore the Garden District, known for its stunning antebellum mansions
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Coop’s Place (try the red beans and rice) followed by a stroll along the Mississippi River.

Day 3: Music, Food, and Nightlife

  • Morning: Visit the New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park (free admission)
  • Lunch: Try some delicious Creole cuisine at Mother’s Restaurant
  • Afternoon:
    • Explore the French Market, a historic outdoor marketplace
    • Take a steamboat ride along the Mississippi River (optional)
  • Evening:
    • Enjoy live music at the Howlin’ Wolf or the Maple Leaf Bar
    • Try some beignet-flavored coffee at Morning Call in City Park

Day 4: Outdoor Activities and Bayou St. John

  • Morning: Take a kayak tour of Bayou St. John (book in advance)
  • Lunch: Grab some lunch at Parkway Bakery and Tavern (again, try the alligator sausage!)
  • Afternoon:
    • Visit City Park, home to the Besthoff Sculpture Garden and the New Orleans Museum of Art
    • Take a stroll around the Bayou St. John neighborhood
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at The Joint BBQ (try the brisket) followed by some live music at the Blue Nile.

Day 5: Mardi Gras, Voodoo, and Cocktails

  • Morning: Visit the Mardi Gras Museum of Costumes and Culture (optional)
  • Lunch: Try some gumbo at the Gumbo Shop
  • Afternoon:
    • Explore the New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum (quirky and fascinating)
    • Take a cocktail tour of the city, visiting famous bars like the Carousel Bar & Lounge or the Sazerac Bar
  • Evening: Enjoy dinner at Antoine’s Restaurant (oldest continuously operating restaurant in the US) followed by some live jazz at Preservation Hall.

Day 6: Brunch and Departure

  • Morning: Treat yourself to brunch at Atchafalaya (try the shrimp and grits)
  • Departure: Spend the morning shopping for souvenirs or exploring any last-minute sights before departing New Orleans.

Things to Know

  • Be prepared for crowds and lines, especially during peak season.
  • Don’t drink tap water; stick to bottled or filtered water.
  • Be respectful of the city’s history and culture.
  • Tipping is expected in bars and restaurants (15-20%).
  • Don’t leave valuables unattended.

Transportation

  • Use public transportation: buses, streetcars, or ride-hailing services like Uber or Lyft.
  • Consider purchasing a Jazzy Pass for unlimited rides on public transportation.

Tips and Other Things of Interest

  • Learn some basic Creole phrases to show respect for the local culture.
  • Be prepared for variable weather; pack layers and waterproof gear.
  • Don’t miss the famous New Orleans street performers, like the jazz bands or jugglers.
  • Take a day trip to nearby plantations, like Oak Alley or Laura Plantation.
  • Try some of the city’s unique desserts, like beignet-flavored ice cream or king cake.

This itinerary should give you a good taste of what New Orleans has to offer. Laissez les bons temps rouler!