Planning a week in New Orleans? You're in for a treat! This vibrant city, known for its rich history, incredible food, and lively music scene, offers an unforgettable experience for every type of traveler. Our comprehensive 7-day itinerary will guide you through the best of the Big Easy, from the iconic French Quarter to the lush Garden District. Whether you're a first-time visitor or returning to rediscover the magic of NOLA, this guide will help you make the most of your time in the Crescent City.
Before getting into details, here are some other recommendations near in this city:
Start your week in New Orleans by immersing yourself in the heart of the city - the French Quarter. After checking into your hotel, head straight to Jackson Square, the historic park surrounded by beautiful architecture and street performers[1]. Admire the stunning St. Louis Cathedral before indulging in the quintessential New Orleans experience at Café du Monde - beignets and chicory coffee[2].
In the afternoon, take a stroll down Bourbon Street to soak in the lively atmosphere. For dinner, explore the local cuisine at one of the many renowned restaurants in the area. Cap off your evening with a visit to Preservation Hall for an authentic jazz performance that will transport you to another era[3].
Begin your day with a trip to the Garden District. Admire the stunning antebellum mansions and take a guided tour of Lafayette Cemetery No. 1[4]. After lunch, hop on the historic St. Charles Avenue streetcar for a scenic ride through the city.
In the afternoon, dive into history at the National WWII Museum, consistently ranked as one of the best museums in the country. As night falls, join a ghost tour through the French Quarter to learn about the city's spooky legends and haunted locations.
Start your day at the French Market, where you can shop for local crafts, souvenirs, and sample some of the city's famous hot sauces. For lunch, take a cooking class at the New Orleans School of Cooking to learn the secrets of Cajun and Creole cuisine.
In the evening, treat yourself to dinner at a renowned restaurant like Dooky Chase's or Commander's Palace. Finish the night with live music on Frenchmen Street, where you can hop between venues like The Spotted Cat Music Club.
Take a day trip outside the city to experience the unique ecosystem of Louisiana's swamps. Join an airboat tour to spot alligators, birds, and other wildlife in their natural habitat. In the afternoon, visit Oak Alley Plantation or Whitney Plantation for a sobering look at the region's complex history.
Dedicate this day to exploring the city's artistic side. Start at the New Orleans Museum of Art and its beautiful Sculpture Garden. Spend the afternoon in City Park, one of the oldest urban parks in the country. You can rent a boat, visit the New Orleans Botanical Garden, or explore the Audubon Zoo.
Immerse yourself in the city's vibrant music scene. Start with a tour of Mardi Gras World to learn about the history and creation of the famous parade floats. In the afternoon, explore more of Frenchmen Street's eclectic music venues.
For dinner, try one of the city's famous po'boy sandwiches before heading back to Preservation Hall for another dose of traditional jazz. If you're lucky, you might catch a second line parade - a quintessential New Orleans experience.
On your final day, take a leisurely stroll down Magazine Street for some last-minute shopping. Enjoy a farewell meal at one of the city's iconic restaurants, perhaps trying the famous Bananas Foster at Brennan's.
As you depart from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport, you'll leave with a heart full of memories and a desire to return to this magical city.
New Orleans is a city that captivates visitors with its unique blend of cultures, flavors, and sounds. From the historic charm of the French Quarter to the natural beauty of the surrounding swamps, a week in New Orleans offers a diverse and enriching experience. Whether you're savoring beignets at Café du Monde, dancing to live jazz on Frenchmen Street, or exploring the haunted history of the city, New Orleans promises an unforgettable adventure.
So, are you ready to let the good times roll in the Big Easy? Start planning your week in New Orleans today and discover why this city holds a special place in the hearts of travelers from around the world.