New Orleans Usa 4 Day Itinerary

Four-Day Itinerary for Exploring New Orleans, USA

Day 1: French Quarter & Bourbon Street

Places to Go:

  1. French Quarter: Start your day with a stroll around the historic French Quarter, the city’s oldest neighborhood. Admire the vibrant architecture, colorful buildings, and charming streets. Map
  2. Royal Street: Browse art galleries, antique shops, and souvenir stores on this charming street filled with local artists’ works.
  3. St. Louis Cathedral: Visit this iconic landmark overlooking Jackson Square, a national historic landmark.
  4. Bourbon Street: Experience the lively nightlife and music scene of Bourbon Street after dark. Map

Activities:

  1. Ghost Tours: Explore the haunted history of New Orleans with a guided ghost tour.
  2. Steamboat Natchez River Cruise: Take a scenic cruise along the Mississippi River and enjoy jazz music while learning about the city’s rich history.
  3. Visit Jackson Square: See artists painting, fortunes told, and street performers in this lively square.

Where to Eat:

  1. Café du Monde: Try the famous beignets at this 24/7 open café.
  2. Gumbo Shop: Dig into some delicious Creole cuisine, especially their signature gumbo dishes.
  3. Cochon: For a more upscale dining experience, visit Cochon for innovative Cajun and Southern dishes.

Where to Stay:

  1. Hotel Monteleone: A historic hotel located in the heart of the French Quarter, offering comfortable rooms and a beautiful Carousel Bar.
  2. The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans: For a luxurious stay with stunning views of the city, consider this five-star hotel.

Things to Know:

  1. Tips for Taxis/Ride Shares: It’s customary to tip taxi or ride-share drivers around 10-15%.
  2. Cash is King: Many businesses in New Orleans prefer cash, so make sure to have some on hand.
  3. Laissez les bons temps rouler: This Louisiana French phrase means “Let the good times roll,” and it’s a great motto for your visit!

Day 2: Garden District & Musical Landmarks

Places to Go:

  1. Garden District: Explore this beautiful neighborhood known for its well-preserved antebellum mansions. Map
  2. Lafayette Cemetery No. 1: Visit one of the oldest and most famous cemeteries in New Orleans, featuring above-ground tombs.
  3. Magazine Street: Browse boutiques, antique stores, and art galleries on this trendy street.

Activities:

  1. Preservation Hall: Experience traditional New Orleans jazz music at this iconic venue.
  2. Treme Neighborhood: Visit the birthplace of jazz and explore this vibrant community with a guided tour or on your own.
  3. Swamp Tour: Take a day trip to the Louisiana swamps to see alligators, wildlife, and learn about the area’s history.

Where to Eat:

  1. Commander’s Palace: Enjoy Creole cuisine in a historic mansion setting for lunch or dinner.
  2. Dooky Chase’s Restaurant: Taste traditional New Orleans dishes at this beloved local eatery.
  3. Willie Mae’s Scotch House: Try the famous fried chicken at this iconic soul food restaurant.

Day 3: Mississippi River & Museums

Places to Go:

  1. National WW2 Museum: Dedicate your day to learning about American history during World War II at this world-class museum.
  2. Insectarium: Visit the largest museum dedicated entirely to insects and their importance in our world.
  3. Audubon Aquarium of the Americas: Explore various aquatic habitats from around the world and see a variety of marine life.
  4. Frenchmen Art Market: Browse local artwork and souvenirs at this bustling market on Frenchmen Street.

Where to Eat:

  1. Café Amelie: Enjoy Creole cuisine in a beautiful courtyard setting.
  2. GW Fins: For fresh seafood, visit GW Fins, known for its oyster bar and Louisiana-inspired dishes.
  3. Bayona: A fine-dining restaurant offering creative New Orleans cuisine with a contemporary twist.

Things to Know:

  1. Museum Hours: Most museums are closed on Mondays, so plan your visits accordingly.
  2. Transportation: The New Orleans Regional Transit Authority (RTA) provides bus and streetcar service throughout the city. Consider purchasing a Jazzy Pass for unlimited rides. More info

Day 4: Food Tour & Music Festival

Activities:

  1. New Orleans Food and Histories Walking Tour: Join a guided walking tour to explore the city’s food culture and history.
  2. Music Festivals: Check out what music festivals are happening during your visit, such as Jazz Fest or Voodoo Fest.
  3. French Quarter Festival: If you’re visiting in April, don’t miss this free festival showcasing local musicians and food vendors throughout the French Quarter.

Where to Eat:

  1. Johnny’s Po-Boys: Try a classic po’boy sandwich at this beloved local eatery.
  2. Café Reconcile: Support a great cause by dining at this restaurant that provides job training for young adults in need.
  3. Muriel’s Jackson Square: Enjoy dinner at this historic restaurant with ghost stories and Creole cuisine.

Tips:

  1. Weather: New Orleans has a subtropical climate, so pack lightweight clothing and be prepared for both heat and rain.
  2. Hours: Many restaurants close earlier than in other cities, so plan your dinners accordingly.
  3. Safety: As with any city, be aware of your surroundings, especially at night. Stick to well-lit areas and don’t flash expensive items.

Enjoy your trip to New Orleans! Let the good times roll!