New Orleans 2 Day Itinerary

Day 1: Explore the French Quarter and Beyond

Morning

  • Breakfast: Start your day with beignets and coffee at Cafe du Monde (open 24/7) in the heart of the French Quarter. This iconic cafe is a must-visit for any NOLA traveler.
  • French Quarter Tour: Begin your exploration of the French Quarter with a guided tour. You can choose from various companies, but I recommend taking a self-guided walking tour to get an initial feel for the area.

Afternoon

  • National WWII Museum: Visit the National WWII Museum (open 9 am - 5 pm) to gain insight into America’s role in World War II. The museum is a thought-provoking experience that will leave you with a deeper understanding of history.
  • Lunch: Head over to Coop’s Place for some delicious Cajun cuisine. Try their famous red beans and rice, or go for the more adventurous option - alligator sausage!
  • Garden District Tour: Take a stroll through the beautiful Garden District, known for its stunning antebellum mansions. You can also take a guided tour to get a deeper understanding of the history behind these grand homes.

Evening

  • Dinner: Make your way to Dooky Chase’s Restaurant (open 11 am - 9 pm) for some classic Creole cuisine. Be sure to try their gumbo and jambalaya!
  • Frenchmen Street Live Music: End the night by taking a stroll down Frenchmen Street, known for its lively music scene. You can catch live jazz at one of the many clubs or bars along this street.

Day 2: Explore Beyond the French Quarter

Morning

  • Breakfast: Start your day with breakfast at Atchafalaya (open 11 am - 10 pm), a unique restaurant that’s part Creole cuisine, part Cajun cooking. Try their shrimp and grits!
  • Marigny Tour: Take a self-guided walking tour of the Marigny neighborhood, known for its vibrant art scene and eclectic shops.

Afternoon

  • Cafe Beignet: Visit Cafe Beignet (open 11 am - 10 pm) for another round of beignets and coffee. This cafe is also located in the heart of the French Quarter.
  • Lunch: Head over to Parkway Bakery and Tavern (open 11 am - 9 pm) for some delicious burgers and sandwiches. Try their famous fried chicken!
  • New Orleans Museum of Art: Visit the New Orleans Museum of Art (open 10 am - 5 pm), which features a diverse collection of art from around the world.

Evening

  • Dinner: Make your way to Commander’s Palace (open 11 am - 9 pm) for some upscale Creole cuisine. Be sure to try their gumbo and jambalaya!
  • French Quarter Live Music: End the night by taking a stroll down Bourbon Street, known for its lively music scene. You can catch live jazz at one of the many clubs or bars along this street.

Things to Know

  • The French Quarter is a very walkable neighborhood.
  • Be sure to try some beignets and coffee at Cafe du Monde.
  • The National WWII Museum is a must-visit for any history buff.
  • The Garden District is worth taking a guided tour of.
  • Don’t forget to try some gumbo and jambalaya!

Transportation

  • The best way to get around the French Quarter is on foot. However, if you’re short on time or need to travel to another neighborhood, there are plenty of taxi and ride-sharing options available.
  • If you prefer to take public transportation, there are buses that run throughout the city.

Tips and Tricks

  • Be sure to try some local cuisine at one of the many restaurants in the French Quarter.
  • Don’t forget to tip your servers - 15-20% is standard.
  • If you’re visiting during Mardi Gras season, be prepared for large crowds and long lines.
  • If you’re visiting during the summer months, be sure to bring sunscreen and a hat to protect yourself from the sun.