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Back to Explore New Orleans, LA

Best of New Orleans

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

8 daysLocal favorites
Trip length
3-day5-day8-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

  • 1
    Cafe Du Monde

    Start your day with iconic beignets and cafe au lait.

  • 2
    Jackson Square

    Immerse yourself in history and admire local artists.

  • 3
    St. Louis Cathedral

    Visit this stunning landmark, the oldest continuously active cathedral in the US.

  • 4
    Central Grocery

    Grab an authentic muffuletta for a classic New Orleans lunch.

Day 2 · Garden District Grandeur & Cemetery Stories

  • 1
    Lafayette Cemetery No. 1

    Take a self-guided tour of this historic and atmospheric above-ground cemetery.

  • 2
    Commander's Palace

    Enjoy a decadent jazz brunch or a memorable dinner in a Garden District institution.

  • 3
    Magazine Street

    Explore blocks of unique boutiques, art galleries, and antique shops.

Day 3 · Museums, Voodoo & Evening Jazz

  • 1
    New Orleans Museum of Art

    Discover diverse collections in City Park, a serene escape.

  • 2
    New Orleans Voodoo Museum

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

  • 3
    Preservation Hall

    Experience intimate, traditional New Orleans jazz in a historic setting.

  • 4
    Frenchmen Street

    Dive into the vibrant live music scene, a local favorite for jazz and blues.

Day 4 · Swamp Adventures & Local Eats

  • 1
    Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve - Barataria Preserve

    Take a scenic boardwalk stroll through the Louisiana wetlands and spot alligators.

  • 2
    Parkway Bakery & Tavern

    Savor a classic New Orleans po'boy, a beloved local sandwich.

  • 3
    St. Roch Market

    Enjoy a variety of gourmet food stalls and drinks in a beautifully restored market.

Day 5 · Streetcar Views & Oak-Lined Avenues

  • 1
    St. Charles Streetcar

    Ride the historic streetcar through the Garden District and along oak-lined avenues.

  • 2
    Audubon Park

    Enjoy a leisurely walk, jog, or picnic in this expansive urban park.

  • 3
    Columns Hotel

    Sip cocktails on the porch of this iconic Garden District mansion.

Day 6 · Creole Cooking & Bacchanal Bites

  • 1
    New Orleans School of Cooking

    Learn to make classic Creole dishes and enjoy a delicious meal.

  • 2
    Bacchanal Fine Wine & Spirits

    Relax in the backyard with live jazz, good food, and a vast selection of wine.

  • 3
    Marigny Opera House

    Catch a performance or admire the architecture of this unique arts venue.

Day 7 · Art, History & Mississippi Views

  • 1
    The National WWII Museum

    Spend time at this world-class museum, incredibly well-regarded.

  • 2
    Mardi Gras World

    Get a behind-the-scenes look at how Mardi Gras floats are made.

  • 3
    Steamboat Natchez

    Enjoy a relaxing jazz cruise on the Mississippi River.

Day 8 · Last Bites & Local Finds

  • 1
    Brennan's

    Indulge in a classic New Orleans breakfast, especially their Bananas Foster.

  • 2
    French Market

    Browse for souvenirs, local crafts, and fresh produce at this historic market.

  • 3
    Faulkner House Books

    Explore this charming independent bookstore located in William Faulkner's former residence.

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.

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