Ultimate 3-Day New Orleans Itinerary: Best Things to Do & See

Start your adventure at Cafe du Monde, the iconic open-air coffee stand famous for its powdery beignets and rich chicory coffee—an essential New Orleans breakfast tradition since 1862.

Cafe du Monde

Wander through Jackson Square, the lively heart of the French Quarter, where street performers, local artists, and the majestic St. Louis Cathedral set a quintessential New Orleans scene.

Jackson Square

Visit The Presbytere for a fascinating look at Mardi Gras traditions and the city’s resilience after Hurricane Katrina, housed in a beautiful historic building right off Jackson Square.

The Presbytere

Enjoy a classic Creole lunch at Napoleon House, a 200-year-old landmark serving muffulettas and Pimm’s Cups in an atmospheric, French Quarter setting.

Napoleon House

Stroll along Frenchmen Street, renowned for its vibrant live music clubs, funky art markets, and authentic local bars—a true hub of New Orleans nightlife with fewer crowds than Bourbon Street.

Frenchmen Street

Cap off your night at The Spotted Cat Music Club, a beloved jazz venue where local musicians serve up swing and blues in an intimate setting.

The Spotted Cat Music Club

Ride the historic St. Charles Avenue streetcar to the Garden District, marveling at grand antebellum mansions and oak-lined streets on a self-guided walking tour through one of the city’s most picturesque neighborhoods.

Garden District

Stop for brunch at Commander's Palace, a legendary spot for refined Creole fare and their famous 25-cent martinis in a bright, blue Victorian building.

Commander's Palace

Explore the hauntingly beautiful Lafayette Cemetery No 1, known for its ornate above-ground tombs and evocative atmosphere—a must for fans of history and Southern Gothic lore.

Lafayette Cemetery No 1

Relax with a drink and some people-watching at The Columns, a stately hotel bar with a sweeping front porch overlooking St. Charles Avenue—perfect for soaking up local ambiance.

The Columns

Head to Tipitina's, a legendary music venue in Uptown that has hosted jazz, funk, and blues legends since 1977—catch a live show and experience true New Orleans rhythm.

Tipitina's

For late-night eats, grab a po’boy at Domilise's Po-Boy & Bar, a humble, family-run sandwich shop beloved by locals for its fried shrimp and roast beef po’boys.

Domilise's Po-Boy & Bar

Start your day with a stroll through City Park, a sprawling urban oasis featuring ancient oaks, scenic lagoons, and the world’s largest collection of mature live oaks.

City Park

Pop into the New Orleans Museum of Art (NOMA), nestled within City Park, to admire its impressive collection of fine art and the enchanting Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden.

New Orleans Museum of Art

Explore the Bywater neighborhood and grab lunch at The Country Club, a colorful local favorite known for its creative Southern fare, lush garden patio, and vibrant poolside scene.

The Country Club

Discover vibrant street art and quirky shops along Royal Street, a hub for local galleries, antique stores, and talented musicians performing on the cobblestone sidewalks.

Royal Street

Dine at Coop's Place, a funky French Quarter haunt serving up spicy jambalaya, rabbit & sausage gumbo, and other Cajun specialties in a laid-back, locals-approved setting.

Coop's Place

Experience classic cocktails and a speakeasy vibe at Bar Tonique, a craft cocktail bar on Rampart Street known for creative libations and a welcoming, unpretentious atmosphere.

Bar Tonique