New Orleans, USA-2-day-itinerary

New Orleans, Louisiana

A 2-day itinerary for traveling in the vibrant city of New Orleans.

Day 1: Friday

Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM)

  • Start at Cafe du Monde: Begin your day with a classic beignet and coffee experience. This iconic cafe is a must-visit for any NOLA traveler.
  • Walk to Jackson Square: Take a short stroll from Cafe du Monde to the historic Jackson Square, surrounded by street performers, vendors, and beautiful architecture.
  • Visit St. Louis Cathedral: Take in the stunning views of the Mississippi River and explore the historic St. Louis Cathedral.

Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM)

  • Lunch at Dooky Chase’s Restaurant: Try some delicious Creole cuisine, like gumbo or jambalaya, at this legendary restaurant.
  • Explore the French Quarter: Wander through the charming streets and alleys of the French Quarter, admiring the architecture and stopping by local shops.
  • Visit the National WWII Museum: Spend a few hours learning about World War II history at this world-class museum.

Evening (6:00 PM - 10:00 PM)

  • Jazz on Frenchmen Street: Head to Frenchmen Street, known for its lively jazz scene, and catch a performance at one of the many clubs.
  • Dinner at Coop’s Place: Enjoy some mouthwatering Cajun cuisine, like red beans and rice or fried chicken, at this casual restaurant.

Day 2: Saturday

Morning (9:00 AM - 12:00 PM)

  • Breakfast at Willa Jean Bakery & Cafe: Treat yourself to a delicious breakfast, like biscuits and gravy or eggs benedict.
  • Explore the Garden District: Take a short streetcar ride from the French Quarter to the picturesque Garden District.
  • Visit Lafayette Cemetery No. 1: Explore this historic cemetery, known for its above-ground tombs.

Afternoon (1:00 PM - 5:00 PM)

  • Lunch at Parkway Bakery and Tavern: Try some amazing po’ boys or sandwiches at this popular eatery.
  • Visit the New Orleans Museum of Art: Spend a few hours admiring local art and exploring the scenic Besthoff Sculpture Garden.

Evening (6:00 PM - 10:00 PM)

  • Dinner on Magazine Street: Enjoy dinner and drinks on this lively street, lined with restaurants, bars, and shops.
  • End the night at Preservation Hall: Experience an intimate jazz performance in this historic venue.

Where to Stay

Consider staying in a hotel or Airbnb in the French Quarter or nearby Garden District for easy access to main attractions.

Recommended Hotels:

  • Hotel Monteleone (Luxury)
  • Lafitte Guest House (Boutique)
  • Hotel Provincial (Mid-range)

Transportation

  • Streetcars: The famous St. Charles Avenue streetcar line connects the French Quarter and Garden District.
  • Buses: Several bus lines cover most areas of the city, including major attractions.

Tips:

  • Be prepared for crowds and long lines at popular tourist spots.
  • Don’t miss out on trying local cuisine and drinks like gumbo, jambalaya, beignets, and Sazerac cocktails!
  • Be respectful of local residents and businesses, especially in the vibrant French Quarter.

Other Things to Know:

  • Hurricane Season: Check weather forecasts before traveling (June 1 - November 30).
  • Safety: Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night.
  • Tipping Culture: Show appreciation for good service by tipping waiters and bartenders 15-20%.

Getting Around:

  • Use the official New Orleans Public Transportation website or app to plan routes and track buses.
  • Consider purchasing a Jazzy Pass for unlimited public transportation access.

By following this itinerary, you’ll experience the best of NOLA’s food, music, history, and culture in just two days.