New Orleans-5-day-itinerary

Laissez les bons temps rouler! A 5-Day New Orleans Itinerary:

Where to Stay:

  • French Quarter: Immerse yourself in the heart of the action. Hotels like The Roosevelt or Hotel Monteleone offer historic charm and central locations.
  • Garden District: Experience elegant mansions and lush gardens. Consider The Columns Hotel or a charming Airbnb.
  • Warehouse/Arts District: Explore vibrant nightlife, art galleries, and trendy restaurants. Look into hotels like The Eliza Jane or the Ace Hotel.

Transportation:

  • Walking: The French Quarter is easily walkable.
  • Streetcar: Iconic and affordable, perfect for exploring Uptown and Garden District (St. Charles Avenue line).
  • Ride-sharing: Uber and Lyft are readily available.
  • Bicycle rentals: Explore the city at your own pace.

Things to Know:

  • Weather: Hot and humid summers, mild winters. Pack accordingly!
  • Tipping: Standard 15-20% in restaurants and bars.

Day 1: French Quarter Immersion

  • Morning: Explore Jackson Square, admire St. Louis Cathedral, listen to street musicians.
  • Lunch: Enjoy a Po’Boy at Johnny’s Po Boys or Mother’s Restaurant.
  • Afternoon: Wander through the French Market for souvenirs and local crafts. Take a haunted history tour.
  • Evening: Dine on Creole cuisine at Gumbo Shop or Muriel’s Jackson Square. Catch live jazz at Preservation Hall or The Spotted Cat Music Club.

Day 2: Garden District Charm & History

  • Morning: Stroll down St Charles Avenue, admire the grand mansions, and hop on a streetcar.
  • Lunch: Grab a casual bite at Commander’s Palace (reservations recommended) or enjoy a picnic in Audubon Park.
  • Afternoon: Visit Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 for its unique above-ground tombs. Explore Magazine Street’s boutiques and art galleries.
  • Evening: Indulge in fine dining at Cochon or Lilette. Enjoy cocktails at the historic Carousel Bar & Lounge in the Hotel Monteleone.

Day 3: Beyond the Quarter

  • Morning: Take a swamp tour to encounter alligators, turtles, and unique birdlife.
  • Lunch: Savor fresh seafood at Acme Oyster House or Drago’s Seafood Restaurant (famous for charbroiled oysters).
  • Afternoon: Visit City Park, explore the New Orleans Museum of Art, and enjoy the botanical gardens.
  • Evening: Catch a performance at the Saenger Theatre or experience the nightlife on Frenchmen Street.

Day 4: Music & Culture

  • Morning: Explore the vibrant music scene on Frenchman Street, hopping between clubs like d.b.a. and The Maison.
  • Lunch: Grab beignets and café au lait at Café du Monde (be prepared for a line!).
  • Afternoon: Visit the New Orleans Jazz Museum or the Louisiana State Museum to delve deeper into the city’s history and culture.
  • Evening: Enjoy a cooking class focusing on Creole or Cajun cuisine.

Day 5: Farewell Feast & Shopping

  • Morning: Wander through the French Market for last-minute souvenirs.
  • Lunch: Indulge in a final Po’Boy at Parkway Bakery & Tavern.
  • Afternoon: Relax in Jackson Square, enjoy people-watching, and soak in the atmosphere.

Tips:

  • Book accommodations and tours in advance, especially during peak season.
  • Bring comfortable shoes – you’ll be doing a lot of walking!
  • Stay hydrated, especially in the summer months.
  • Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against theft.
  • Don’t be afraid to strike up conversations with locals – they’re friendly and full of knowledge about their city.

Have an amazing time exploring the magic of New Orleans!