New Orleans 10 days

A historic luxury hotel famous for its Carousel Bar, a revolving bar with a circus theme. It's a great starting point to get a feel for the city's grandeur.

• Enjoy a classic Sazerac at the Carousel Bar.
• The hotel lobby is a beautiful place for people-watching.

Enjoy Creole cuisine with a view of Jackson Square. Known for its lively atmosphere and excellent seafood dishes.

• Try the Pecan Crusted Gulf Fish.
• Ask about the resident ghost, Pierre Antoine Lepardi Jourdan.

The heart of the French Quarter, a historic park with artists, street performers, and St. Louis Cathedral as its backdrop. It's perfect for a leisurely stroll and soaking in the vibrant atmosphere.

• Get your fortune told by one of the many psychics.
• Watch the talented street artists create masterpieces.

Part of the Louisiana State Museum, located in the historic Cabildo building next to St. Louis Cathedral. It chronicles Louisiana's rich history, from its colonial past to the present day.

• See the building where the Louisiana Purchase was signed.
• Don't miss the exhibit on the Battle of New Orleans.

An iconic music venue for traditional New Orleans jazz. It offers an intimate and authentic experience, with no drinks or food served, just pure music.

• Tickets often sell out, book in advance.
• Arrive early for a good spot as seating is first-come, first-served.

A famous New Orleans bar known for its dueling pianos and signature Hurricane cocktails. It's a lively spot with a large courtyard and a historic, albeit touristy, charm.

• Try the Flaming Hurricane for the full experience.
• Enjoy the dueling pianos in the main bar area.

Ride the historic St. Charles Avenue streetcar, the oldest continuously operating streetcar line in the world. It's a scenic and affordable way to see beautiful mansions and oak-lined streets.

• Hop on near Canal Street to ride the full length.
• Sit back and enjoy the architecture.

A legendary fine-dining establishment in the Garden District, renowned for its exquisite Creole cuisine and impeccable service. It's a New Orleans institution for a special meal.

• Make reservations well in advance, especially for weekend jazz brunch.
• Dress code is business casual; no shorts or t-shirts for dinner.

Explore the stunning mansions and lush gardens of the Garden District with a guided tour. Learn about the history and architecture of this affluent neighborhood.

• Many tours depart from near Commander's Palace.
• Look for famous homes like the Anne Rice Vampire Lestat House.

A quintessential New Orleans music venue known for its vibrant atmosphere and live funk, blues, and R&B bands. It's a local favorite for an authentic music experience.

• Check their schedule for nightly performances.
• Often features local legends and up-and-coming artists.

Visit the site of the decisive Battle of New Orleans during the War of 1812. Explore the visitor center and walk the grounds to learn about this pivotal moment in American history.

• Rangers offer free tours of the battlefield.
• Great views of the Mississippi River.

Experience the unique ecosystem of the Louisiana bayou on a guided boat tour. See alligators, diverse birdlife, and learn about Cajun culture and the natural environment.

• Tours often include transportation from the French Quarter.
• Bring insect repellent and sunscreen.

A local institution offering authentic Cajun food, including boudin, cracklins, and plate lunches. It's a casual spot with incredible, down-to-earth flavors.

• Try the boudin balls and smoked sausage.
• A great place to buy local snacks and seasonings.

Home to a diverse collection spanning centuries and cultures, with a notable strength in French and American art, as well as a significant collection of glass and Asian art. The adjacent sculpture garden is a must-see.

• Explore the Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden for free.
• Check for special exhibitions.

One of the oldest urban parks in the US, featuring beautiful oak trees, lagoons, botanical gardens, and walking paths. It's a peaceful escape from the city bustle.

• Rent a paddle boat on the lagoon.
• Visit the historic Storyland playground.

Located in the French Quarter, this museum celebrates the history of jazz music in New Orleans through interactive exhibits and a vast collection of artifacts. It's housed in the historic Old U.S. Mint.

• See instruments played by jazz legends.
• Enjoy live jazz performances often held on site.

The epicenter of live New Orleans music, with numerous clubs and bars offering everything from traditional jazz to funk and blues. It's a more local alternative to Bourbon Street.

• Walk the street and pop into different clubs.
• Many clubs have a cover charge, but it's usually reasonable.

Learn the secrets of Creole and Cajun cuisine in a hands-on cooking class. You'll enjoy the fruits of your labor for lunch, making it a delicious and educational experience.

• Book classes in advance as they fill up quickly.
• Great for couples and small groups.

One of the oldest public markets in the United States, offering a vibrant array of local produce, seafood, spices, souvenirs, and prepared foods. It's a great place to sample local treats.

• Try beignets and cafe au lait from Cafe Du Monde (nearby).
• Sample local hot sauces and seasonings.

Wander through the historic streets of the French Quarter, admiring the unique architecture, wrought-iron balconies, and hidden courtyards. Discover unique shops and art galleries.

• Get lost in the charming side streets.
• Look for local artists selling their work.

A classic New Orleans restaurant serving traditional Creole dishes in a lively, old-school atmosphere. It's a beloved institution known for its seafood and formal yet friendly service.

• Dress code is business casual; no shorts or t-shirts.
• The Friday lunch crowd is legendary, but reservations are recommended any time.

The oldest and most famous of New Orleans' above-ground cemeteries. It's known for its unique tombs and the final resting place of Marie Laveau, the Voodoo Queen.

• Access is by guided tour only. Book in advance.
• Be respectful of the historic tombs.

Explore another of New Orleans' unique above-ground cemeteries. St. Louis Cemetery No. 3 is less crowded than No. 1 and offers a different perspective on the city's burial traditions.

• This cemetery is accessible without a guide, but a tour provides historical context.
• Home to the tomb of playwright Tennessee Williams.

A research center and museum dedicated to the history and culture of New Orleans and the Gulf South. It offers fascinating exhibits on local art, history, and culture, often with a literary focus.

• Admission is free, though donations are welcome.
• Check their schedule for special lectures or exhibits.

A historic bar and restaurant in the French Quarter, known for its Pimm's Cups and classic New Orleans ambiance. It's a great spot for a relaxed evening drink.

• Enjoy the live classical music that often plays in the background.
• Try their muffuletta sandwich.

Take a scenic harbor cruise on a genuine steamboat along the Mississippi River. Enjoy narrated history, live jazz, and views of the New Orleans skyline.

• The daytime cruise offers great views and music.
• Consider the dinner jazz cruise for an evening experience.

Explore the diverse aquatic life of the Gulf of Mexico, the Mississippi River, and beyond. It features stunning exhibits and is located right on the riverfront.

• Don't miss the jellyfish and shark exhibits.
• Great for all ages.

A beautiful urban park stretching along the Mississippi River, offering walking paths, green spaces, and excellent views of the river traffic and the city skyline. It's a perfect spot for a relaxing stroll.

• Enjoy the various sculptures and monuments within the park.
• Watch the steamboats and barges pass by.

A legendary music venue that has hosted countless New Orleans musicians and touring artists. Known for its intimate atmosphere and incredible live performances across various genres.

• Check their schedule for who is playing; it varies nightly.
• A true New Orleans music experience.

Dedicated to preserving and showcasing the vibrant African-American cultural traditions of New Orleans, including Mardi Gras Indian suits, jazz funerals, and second lines. It offers a unique glimpse into local heritage.

• The museum is small but packed with incredible artifacts.
• Consider calling ahead to confirm hours.

An iconic landmark in New Orleans, renowned for its authentic Creole cuisine and its role in the Civil Rights Movement. It's a place where history and delicious food meet.

• Try the Gumbo Z'herbes or the Fried Chicken.
• Reservations are recommended.

A beautiful park in the Tremé neighborhood, dedicated to the legendary Louis Armstrong. It features Congo Square, a historic site where enslaved Africans gathered to play music and dance.

• Visit Congo Square to learn about its historical significance.
• Enjoy the statues and peaceful atmosphere.

A unique wine shop and bar with a lively backyard atmosphere, offering a wide selection of wines and small plates. It's a local favorite for a relaxed evening with live music.

• Pick out a bottle of wine and enjoy it in the courtyard.
• Live music typically starts in the late afternoon/early evening.

One of Louisiana's most iconic historic plantations, famous for its breathtaking avenue of ancient oak trees. Tour the grand antebellum mansion and learn about its history.

• Allow ample time for the drive and tour.
• The grounds are beautiful for photos.

Located near Oak Alley, Laura Plantation offers a different perspective on plantation life, focusing on the stories of the women and enslaved people who lived and worked there. It's a more intimate and historically nuanced tour.

• Consider purchasing a joint ticket for both plantations if time allows.
• The Creole architecture is distinct.

A popular sandwich shop and butcher known for its delicious house-cured meats, artisanal sandwiches, and Southern-inspired small plates. It's a lively spot with a rustic, modern vibe.

• Try the Muffuletta or the Muffuletta Po-Boy.
• Great for a casual and satisfying dinner.

An iconic French Quarter institution famous for its elegant Creole dining and its invention of Bananas Foster. It's the quintessential New Orleans brunch experience.

• Book reservations far in advance, especially for weekends.
• Don't miss the Bananas Foster, prepared tableside.

Home of the original Muffuletta sandwich, this Italian deli is a New Orleans classic. Grab a half or whole sandwich to enjoy or take with you.

• The sandwiches are large, perfect for sharing.
• A great spot for picnic supplies or souvenirs.

A world-famous open-air coffee shop located in the French Market, serving beignets and cafe au lait 24 hours a day. It's a must-visit for a classic New Orleans treat.

• Be prepared for a line, but it moves quickly.
• The powdered sugar on beignets gets everywhere – embrace it!