Thinking of spending 3 days in New Orleans and unsure where to start? Here’s the ultimate itinerary to ensure you make the most of your weekend getaway.
When you have three days in New Orleans, expect to dive deep into its vibrant food, music, and nightlife scenes. It’s perfectly acceptable to spend your time eating, drinking, and dancing — in fact, it’s highly encouraged!
Kick off your trip by exploring the historic French Quarter. Stroll around its picturesque streets with a to-go drink in hand, a unique legal perk in New Orleans. The city’s motto is “let the good times roll,” and that’s exactly what you’ll be doing here.
This itinerary will guide you through where to eat, drink, and stay, along with top activities to enjoy in New Orleans. On your first day, immerse yourself in the French Quarter. Start with a stop at Café du Monde near Jackson Square for their famous beignets — delicious fried dough covered in powdered sugar, best enjoyed with coffee.
Spend the morning wandering around the French Quarter. You can take a free walking tour offered daily by Free Tours By Foot, starting at the Andrew Jackson statue. Don’t forget your camera — the French Quarter is incredibly photogenic.
By lunchtime, you’ll be hungry again. New Orleans is renowned for its Cajun, Creole, and soul food. Look for deals in the French Quarter on Groupon, where you might find promotions for various restaurants.
In the afternoon, rejuvenate with a coffee and head to the Moonwalk Riverfront Park for a leisurely stroll along the Mississippi River. You might visit the Audubon Aquarium or take a ferry from the Canal Street Terminal to Algiers for cityscape views.
For dinner, Steamboat Natchez offers a two-hour dinner cruise with live music. Alternatively, dine at the Hotel Monteleone’s Criollo Restaurant and then enjoy a drink at the Carousel Bar. Finish your night on Bourbon Street, known for its lively atmosphere and people-watching opportunities, but also consider Lafitte’s Blacksmith Bar & Shop for its historical charm.
On day two, recover with brunch at the Ruby Slipper Cafe. If you’re up for an adventure, take a swamp tour to see the local wildlife. If not, explore City Park, which is home to attractions like the New Orleans Botanical Garden and the New Orleans Museum of Art. Don’t miss Parkway Bakery & Tavern for an authentic po’ boy sandwich.
Spend your second evening on Frenchmen Street, a hub of live music venues. Here, you can listen to a variety of genres and enjoy street performances. For late-night eats, try Dat Dog for an alligator sausage topped with crawfish etouffee.
By your third day, you might be tired from all the festivities, so take it slow. Head to Treme, one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods, for coffee at Treme Coffeehouse or Fatma’s Cozy Corner. Visit the New Orleans African American Museum or Louis Armstrong Park, which includes Congo Square and the New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park.
Before you leave, try a New Orleans classic dish at the Gumbo Shop or dine in the scenic courtyard of The Court of Two Sisters. If you have time, visit the Historic Voodoo Museum or Marie Laveau’s House Of Voodoo.
After exploring and experiencing so much, you’ll have earned your New Orleans party stripes. Remember to stay hydrated, listen to local recommendations, book early for festivals, and do your research to avoid tourist traps.
Most visitors arrive through Louis Armstrong International Airport and can use various transport options including the Airport Express Bus, shuttle services, taxis, or rideshare apps to get to their accommodations in the heart of the city.
While staying in the French Quarter offers easy access to many attractions, consider neighborhoods like the Bywater or Mid-City for a more local vibe. The Bywater is particularly artsy and just a quick trip to the French Quarter.
With countless festivals happening year-round, New Orleans always offers something exciting. Whether you’re here for Mardi Gras, Jazz Fest, or just a spontaneous weekend trip, you’ll likely be planning your return before you even leave. Enjoy your adventure in the Big Easy!
