New Orleans Usa 2 Day Itinerary

New Orleans: A Jazzy 2-Day Itinerary

Welcome to the vibrant city of New Orleans! This itinerary blends iconic experiences with hidden gems, ensuring a taste of the Big Easy’s unique charm.

Where to Stay:

  • Budget:

    • **Hostel: ** The Treme Hotel (centrally located, social atmosphere)
    • Airbnb: Consider neighborhoods like Bywater or Marigny for local vibes.

  • Mid-Range: Hotel Peter and Paul (historic charm in the French Quarter), The Eliza Jane (boutique hotel with modern amenities).

  • Luxury: The Roosevelt New Orleans, A Waldorf Astoria Hotel (grand dame of Canal Street), Windsor Court Hotel (elegant accommodations and fine dining)

Things to Know:

  • Weather: Hot and humid summers, mild winters. Pack accordingly!

  • Transportation: Walking is best in the French Quarter. Utilize streetcars for longer distances. Ride-sharing apps are readily available.

  • Safety: Be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Stick to well-lit areas and avoid displaying large sums of cash.

Day 1: French Quarter Immersion

  • Morning (9:00 AM):

    • Start with a beignet breakfast at Café du Monde.
    • Wander through Jackson Square, enjoy street performers, and admire St. Louis Cathedral.

  • Afternoon (12:30 PM):

    • Lunch at Coop’s Place for Cajun classics like jambalaya or gumbo.
    • Take a guided walking tour of the French Quarter to learn about its history and architecture.

  • Evening (6:00 PM):

    • Dinner at Gumbo Shop for authentic Creole dishes.
    • Catch live jazz at Preservation Hall or Fritzel’s European Jazz Pub.

Day 2: Beyond the Quarter

  • Morning (10:00 AM):

    • Explore City Park, ride a streetcar along St. Charles Avenue, and admire the grand mansions.

    • Visit the New Orleans Museum of Art (NOMA) for world-class art collections.

  • Afternoon (1:00 PM):

    • Lunch at Parkway Bakery & Tavern for legendary po’boys.

    • Explore the vibrant Tremé neighborhood, known for its musical heritage and colorful shotgun houses.

  • Evening (6:00 PM):

    • Dinner at Dooky Chase’s Restaurant, a historic landmark serving soul food classics.
    • Enjoy a cocktail on Frenchmen Street, known for its lively bars and music venues.

Transportation Tips:

  • Streetcars: The St. Charles Avenue line is a scenic ride through the Garden District.

  • Ride-Sharing: Uber and Lyft are readily available.

  • Walking: The French Quarter is easily walkable.

Additional Things of Interest:

  • Swamp Tours: Experience Louisiana’s unique ecosystem.

  • Cemetery Tours: Discover the fascinating above-ground burial practices.

  • Shopping: Explore Magazine Street for antiques, boutiques, and art galleries.

  • Festivals: New Orleans hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, including Mardi Gras (February/March), Jazz Fest (late April/early May).

Enjoy your time in New Orleans! Laissez les bons temps rouler! (Let the good times roll!)