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Best of New Orleans

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

3 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·French Quarter Charm & Culinary Delights

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  1. Food

    Cafe Du Monde Original French Market Coffee Stand

    Classic beignets and cafe au lait to start your New Orleans experience.

  2. Sightseeing

    Jackson Square

    Iconic historic park, perfect for people-watching and admiring St. Louis Cathedral.

  3. Nightlife

    Preservation Hall

    Timeless, intimate venue for traditional New Orleans jazz. Get tickets in advance!

  4. Food

    Carousel Bar & Lounge

    Enjoy a craft cocktail on a revolving carousel bar.

  5. Food

    Brennan's

    Indulge in classic Creole cuisine in a beautiful setting. Try the Bananas Foster!

Day 2·Garden District Grandeur & Artsy Adventures

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  1. Food

    Commander's Palace

    A New Orleans institution for refined Creole dining, especially for brunch or lunch.

  2. Sightseeing

    Lafayette Cemetery No. 1

    Wander through one of the city's oldest and most atmospheric above-ground cemeteries.

  3. Shopping

    Magazine Street

    Browse unique boutiques, art galleries, and local shops.

  4. Sightseeing

    The National WWII Museum

    A powerful and comprehensive museum commemorating the war effort.

  5. Nightlife

    Bacchanal Wine

    Relax in the backyard with live jazz, delicious food, and a great wine selection. A true local gem!

Day 3·Faubourg Marigny & Jazz's Heartbeat

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  1. Nightlife

    Frenchmen Street

    Immerse yourself in live music, particularly jazz, at numerous clubs.

  2. Shopping

    New Orleans Healing Center

    A community hub with shops, food, and cultural events.

  3. Food

    St. Roch Market

    A beautifully restored food hall with a variety of local vendors and cuisines.

  4. Nightlife

    Spotted Cat Music Club

    Catch some of the best traditional jazz in an intimate setting.

Make it your own

Start from this curated plan — Runes copies it into your trips so you can tweak dates, budget, pace, and stops. Personalized to your style soon.

Or plan your own New Orleans trip