New Orleans: Rhythms of the Crescent City

New Orleans is a city like no other—where jazz was born, spirits dance through the streets, and every bite tells a story of cultures woven together over centuries. With its unique blend of French, African, and Creole heritage, you’ll taste, hear, and feel the heartbeat of the South in every neighborhood.

Useful Tips Before You Go
Pack light, breathable clothing and comfortable shoes for walking on cobblestone streets. Carry cash for smaller shops and tips. Uber and streetcars are great for getting around. Always check the weather—it can be unpredictable! Respect local customs, tip generously (20% is standard), and greet people with warmth—New Orleans prides itself on its Southern hospitality.

Day 1: The French Quarter – Icons, Eats & Jazz

Start with a classic breakfast at Café du Monde—their beignets and café au lait are legendary. Walk off the sugar at Jackson Square, take in the St. Louis Cathedral, and explore the Cabildo Museum, where the Louisiana Purchase was signed.

Next, grab a muffuletta at Napoleon House—pair it with a Pimm’s Cup in the shaded courtyard. Meander through the French Market, and pick up local art and souvenirs.

In the afternoon, stop by the Sazerac House for a free cocktail museum experience with tastings, and then stroll past MS Rau Antiques—a museum-level gallery of rare art, jewelry, and curiosities.

Dinner is at Cane & Table, serving refined tropical/Cuban-Creole fusion. Then, catch a show at Preservation Hall, New Orleans’ most iconic jazz venue. If you still have energy, slip into the Carousel Bar for a spinning nightcap or visit Potions, the vampire speakeasy behind Fritzel’s (ask for Tobi, and say Kim sent you!).

Don’t miss: Frenchmen Street if you want more jazz and bar hopping.

Day 2: Garden District Charm, Swamps & Southern Soul

Begin your day on the St. Charles streetcar to the Garden District. Snap photos of majestic mansions, and grab candied bacon donuts from District Donuts Sliders Brew. Walk Magazine Street for boutique shopping and art.

Explore Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 (if open), then indulge in Willie Mae’s Scotch House—hailed as having the best fried chicken in America.

In the afternoon, head out for a swamp and bayou tour, spotting gators and learning about Louisiana’s wetland ecosystem. Upon return, join a Cajun & Creole cooking class at the New Orleans School of Cooking—you’ll leave full, entertained, and with local recipes in hand.

Dinner is at Paladar 511, a trendy, highly rated local favorite blending Italian and Southern cuisine. End your night with a bourbon at Barrel Proof or The Rusty Nail, two excellent cocktail bars known for strong pours and a great vibe.

Day 3: Local Flavor, Art, & Farewell Fun

Start light with coffee and a pastry at Petite Clouet in Bywater. Then, join a French Quarter food tour—you’ll sample gumbo, pralines from Laura’s Candies, crawfish étouffée, and po’boys (Domilise’s and Parkway Bakery are top-tier).

Spend your afternoon exploring the New Orleans Jazz Museum, Voodoo Museum, and Studio Be—a stunning, politically charged warehouse of contemporary Black art.

Lunch is at Coquette, consistently rated one of the city’s top restaurants. Afterwards, explore Bevolo Gas & Electric Lights—a shop that started post-WWII and still handcrafts the city’s signature lanterns.

As night falls, stroll over to Frenchmen Street. Catch a set at The Spotted Cat or Blue Nile. For your final dinner, savor fresh Gulf seafood at Peche, then unwind with live music and wine under the stars in the garden at Bacchanal.

Wrap up your trip with a stop at Pat O'Brien’s—order a hurricane (they invented it!), and toast to an unforgettable trip.

🔖 Bonus List: Worth Saving for Next Time

If you're staying longer or planning a return, consider:

Commander's Palace – Iconic brunch spot; book early.
WWII Museum – Top-rated and deeply moving.
Court of Two Sisters – Famous jazz brunch buffet.
Antoine’s – Birthplace of Oysters Rockefeller, $25 lunch special.
Brennan’s – Invented Bananas Foster.
Joc-imo’s – Don’t miss the alligator cheesecake.
Saba – Modern Israeli fare, wildly popular.
Saint Germain – Tasting menu in a backyard setting.
Mardi Gras Museum of Costumes & Culture
Tujague’s – Oldest stand-up bar, invented the Grasshopper drink.
The Chart Room, Molly’s, and Fahey Pub – Beloved industry bars.
Carousel Bar at Hotel Monteleone – Fun and historic.
Irish Cultural Museum
Pete’s Blacksmith Bar – Ask for the Purple Drank.
Napoleon House’s Italian Grocer – For authentic muffuletta ingredients.
Dragos and Felix’s – Chargrilled oysters.
Kingfish, Oceana, Ko-shaun – More excellent dining options.
St. Louis Cemetery, Jazz Historical Park, Apothecary bar – Unique niche spots.