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Best of New Orleans

Jazz courtyards, Creole kitchens, and lantern-lit alleys beyond Bourbon Street.

10 daysLocal gems
Trip length
3-day5-day7-day10-day
Best time to visit: February to May

Spring brings mild weather and the city's biggest festivals, from Mardi Gras to Jazz Fest. Summers are hot and humid, and hurricane risk peaks in late summer and early fall.

Day 1·A Taste of the Quarter

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  1. Food

    Café Du Monde

    Start with classic beignets and café au lait – a must-do, even with the crowds.

  2. Sightseeing

    Jackson Square

    Soak in the historic atmosphere, browse local art, and admire St. Louis Cathedral.

  3. Shopping

    French Market

    Wander through this historic market for souvenirs and local crafts.

Day 2·Creole Charm & Garden District Grandeur

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  1. Food

    Commander's Palace

    Enjoy a sophisticated jazz brunch (reservations highly recommended) in a culinary institution.

  2. Sightseeing

    Lafayette Cemetery No. 1

    Explore the beautiful above-ground tombs – a spooky and fascinating experience.

  3. Shopping

    Magazine Street

    Browse unique boutiques, art galleries, and antique shops.

Day 3·Treme's Soul & Preservation Hall's Jazz

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  1. Sightseeing

    Louis Armstrong Park

    Walk through the birthplace of jazz and home to Congo Square.

  2. Sightseeing

    Backstreet Cultural Museum

    Discover the vibrant traditions of Mardi Gras Indians, jazz funerals, and social aid & pleasure clubs.

  3. Nightlife

    Preservation Hall

    Experience traditional New Orleans jazz in an intimate, historic setting (arrive early!).

Day 4·Bayou Beauty & Swamp Serenity

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  1. Activity

    Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve (Barataria Preserve)

    Take a scenic swamp tour to spot alligators and learn about the bayou ecosystem.

  2. Sightseeing

    Oak Alley Plantation

    Marvel at the iconic alley of oak trees leading to a historic antebellum mansion.

  3. Sightseeing

    Laura Plantation

    Gain insight into Creole life and the complexities of plantation history.

Day 5·Art, Spirits & Culinary Delights

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  1. Sightseeing

    New Orleans Museum of Art (NOMA)

    Explore diverse collections and the Outdoor Sculpture Garden in City Park.

  2. Activity

    Sazerac House

    Learn about the history of America's first cocktail with complimentary tastings.

  3. Food

    Cochon Butcher

    Indulge in delicious, innovative takes on Southern and Cajun-inspired sandwiches and charcuterie.

Day 6·Garden District Grandeur & Uptown Charm

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  1. Transport

    St. Charles Avenue Streetcar

    Ride the historic streetcar through the picturesque Garden District and Uptown.

  2. Rest

    Audubon Park

    Enjoy a relaxing stroll, picnic, or bike ride in this expansive urban oasis.

  3. Food

    Domilise's Po-Boy & Bar

    Savor an authentic New Orleans po'boy at a beloved local institution.

Day 7·Museums, Voodoo & Evening Jazz

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  1. Sightseeing

    The National WWII Museum

    Dedicate ample time to this comprehensive and moving tribute to World War II.

  2. Sightseeing

    Voodoo Authentica of New Orleans Cultural Center & Museum

    Learn about the fascinating history and practices of Voodoo in New Orleans.

  3. Nightlife

    Bacchanal Fine Wine & Spirits

    Enjoy live jazz in a vibrant backyard setting with great food and wine – a true local gem.

Day 8·Faubourg Marigny & Frenchmen Street Fervor

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  1. Rest

    Washington Square Park

    Relax in this charming neighborhood park in the Marigny.

  2. Nightlife

    Frenchmen Street (Night)

    Immerse yourself in the live music scene, hopping between clubs for diverse sounds.

  3. Nightlife

    The Spotted Cat Music Club

    Catch some authentic New Orleans jazz in a lively, intimate club.

Day 9·St. Roch & Bywater Bites

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  1. Food

    St. Roch Market

    Explore this vibrant food hall with a variety of local vendors and cuisines.

  2. Sightseeing

    Studio Be

    Discover powerful street art and murals by local artists in an industrial setting.

  3. Nightlife

    Bacchanal Fine Wine & Spirits

    Return for more backyard jazz or simply enjoy their fantastic wine selection and food.

Day 10·Last Bites & Lingering Memories

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  1. Rest

    Morial Convention Center

    If time allows, you might catch a special event or simply enjoy the riverfront views nearby.

  2. Food

    Central Grocery Co.

    Grab a classic muffuletta to go for a delicious farewell to New Orleans.

  3. Rest

    Walk along the Mississippi River

    Enjoy a final stroll and soak in the city's unique ambiance.

Make it your own

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