New Orleans, LA

New Orleans, or NOLA, is a city full of life, rhythm, and flavor. Known for its jazz music, Creole and Cajun cuisine, vibrant festivals, and historic charm, the Crescent City is unlike anywhere else in the U.S. Whether you’re strolling the French Quarter, tasting beignets at Café du Monde, or cruising the Mississippi, New Orleans is an experience for all the senses.

New Orleans (NOLA) in 3 days

New Orleans is a city that moves to its own beat; where jazz drifts through the streets, flavors burst from every dish, and history lives around every corner. From the lively French Quarter to the oak-lined Garden District, NOLA blends culture, cuisine, and charm into an unforgettable getaway.

Where to stay in NOLA

The Roosevelt (Waldorf Astoria), Hotel Monteleone (famous Carousel Bar) for a luxury setting.
The Pontchartrain Hotel (Garden District), Henry Howard Hotel for a boutique experience.
The Old No. 77 Hotel & Chandlery, Holiday Inn French Quarter for budget friendly options.
For a unique experience stay in a charming B&B in the Garden District or Marigny for local flavor.

Best Times to Visit NOLA

Spring (February–April): Mardi Gras, festivals, and mild weather.
Fall (October–November): Pleasant temps, fewer crowds, and great for outdoor exploring.
Winter (December–January): Cooler, festive, and budget-friendly.
Summer (June–September): Hot, humid, and rainy. Its best for deals but prepare for the heat.

Suggested 3-Day Itinerary

📍 Day 1: French Quarter & Riverfront

Morning: Beignets + café au lait at Café du Monde.
Stroll Jackson Square and admire St. Louis Cathedral.
Lunch: Napoleon House or Central Grocery for a muffuletta sandwich.
Afternoon: Walk along the French Market, then explore Bourbon Street.
Evening: Dinner at GW Fins (seafood) or Arnaud’s (classic Creole). Catch live jazz on Frenchmen Street.

📍 Day 2: Garden District & Museums

Morning: Take the St. Charles Streetcar to the Garden District for a Garden District & Lafayette Cemetery tour.
Lunch: Commander’s Palace (famous for Creole cuisine).
Afternoon: Explore the National WWII Museum or Ogden Museum of Southern Art.
Evening: Dinner at Cochon (Cajun Southern cooking). Optional: Ghost tour or Mississippi River steamboat cruise.

📍 Day 3: Culture & Local Flavor

Morning: Brunch at Ruby Slipper Café or Elizabeth’s.
Midday: Visit City Park (New Orleans Museum of Art + Sculpture Garden) or take a swamp/bayou tour.
Lunch: Grab po’boys from Parkway Bakery.
Afternoon: Browse boutiques in the Marigny or Bywater neighborhoods.
Evening: Final dinner at Dooky Chase’s Restaurant (soul food landmark) or a jazz brunch at Court of Two Sisters.

Travel Tips

Bring comfortable walking shoes. The French Quarter’s cobblestone streets can be tough.
Make reservations for popular restaurants and tours.
Keep cash handy for tips, small shops, and street performers.
Stay hydrated. Humidity is no joke!