New Orleans is full of life. It’s loud, colorful, spicy, and unforgettable. Every corner has a story. Every street has music. If you’ve got five days in this city, you’re in for a wild mix of food, history, and fun. This guide walks you through how to spend your time without rushing. You’ll taste real gumbo, hear jazz that hits your soul, and feel the energy that only New Orleans can give.
Day 1: Dive Into the French Quarter
Start your trip right in the heart of the city. The French Quarter is what most people picture when they think of New Orleans.
Walk through Jackson Square. The big white church you’ll see is St. Louis Cathedral. It’s beautiful both inside and out. Street artists paint nearby. Musicians play in front of the square. Sit for a moment and take it all in.
Head to Café du Monde. Grab a beignet and a coffee. It’s touristy but worth it. Powdered sugar will be everywhere. That’s part of the fun.
Wander down Royal Street. It’s full of art galleries, antique shops, and street performers. Don’t miss the music. Many performers here are incredibly talented.
For lunch, try Gumbo Shop or Napoleon House. Both serve classic Creole dishes.
Spend your afternoon learning some history. Visit The Historic New Orleans Collection or the Pharmacy Museum. They’re small but full of cool facts.
Dinner calls for something lively. Book a table at The Court of Two Sisters. There’s often live jazz and good food. After dinner, walk Bourbon Street once. It’s loud and wild. One stroll is enough.
Day 2: Garden District and Uptown Charm
Day two is for slowing down a bit. Take the St. Charles Streetcar from the French Quarter to the Garden District. It’s a lovely ride.
Walk around and admire the big old mansions. You’ll see houses with iron balconies, oak trees, and Southern charm. Look for Lafayette Cemetery No. 1. It’s one of the oldest in the city. You can’t always go inside, but it’s still worth seeing.
Have brunch at Commander’s Palace. Make a reservation ahead. Their turtle soup and bread pudding are legendary. And yes, jackets are required for men.
Spend your afternoon shopping or browsing on Magazine Street. It stretches for miles. You’ll find vintage shops, bookstores, local crafts, and great little cafés.
Take your time. Sit and sip an iced coffee. Chat with the locals. The vibe here is more relaxed.
Dinner in Uptown is a treat. Try Jacques-Imo’s for quirky charm and amazing food. Get the alligator cheesecake if you’re feeling adventurous.
Day 3: Music, Culture, and the Marigny
Now it’s time to dive deeper into the sounds of the city.
Start at the New Orleans Jazz Museum. It’s in the Old U.S. Mint near the French Market. You’ll learn about the roots of jazz and the musicians who shaped it.
Then walk over to Frenchmen Street. This area is packed with music clubs. Even in the afternoon, you might hear bands warming up.
For lunch, grab a po’ boy sandwich at Verti Marte or Dat Dog. Eat it while walking if you’re short on time.
Next, explore Treme. It’s the oldest Black neighborhood in the U.S. and a major part of New Orleans culture. Stop by the Backstreet Cultural Museum to learn about second lines, Mardi Gras Indians, and more.
In the evening, return to Frenchmen Street. Check out The Spotted Cat Music Club or d.b.a. for some real live jazz. You won’t need a ticket. Just walk in, buy a drink, and enjoy the music.
Dinner can be simple tonight. Try Three Muses or Marigny Brasserie. Both are nearby and have a great local feel.
Day 4: Swamps, Cemeteries, and Voodoo Stories
Get out of the city today for something different. Book a swamp tour. You’ll head out to Cajun country and see gators, mossy trees, and bayous. It’s quiet, eerie, and peaceful all at once.
There are many companies offering tours with hotel pickup. Some are on airboats. Others on slow pontoons. Either way, bring sunscreen and bug spray.
After the tour, come back and explore the city’s cemeteries. St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 is the most famous. It’s home to the tomb of voodoo queen Marie Laveau. You’ll need a guide to enter, so book a walking tour in advance.
While you’re in the area, visit Voodoo Authentica. It’s a real shop, not just for tourists. You can learn about the history and culture behind the practice.
Dinner tonight? Go with Coop’s Place. It’s loud, fun, and has killer jambalaya. Or try Sylvain for a bit more comfort and craft cocktails.
Day 5: Art, Chill, and One Last Bite
Your last day should be easy and sweet.
Start with brunch at Elizabeth’s in the Bywater. Try the praline bacon. It’s as good as it sounds.
Then walk it off with a stroll along the Crescent Park. It runs along the river with great views of the skyline and bridges. The Piety Street Arch is a cool spot for photos.
Make your way to The New Orleans Museum of Art in City Park. It’s not too big, but it’s filled with beautiful pieces. If you have time, also visit the Sculpture Garden outside. It’s free and peaceful.
Spend your last afternoon doing something light. Maybe a steamboat ride on the Natchez. Maybe just walking around the Quarter again and finding a new favorite corner.
For your final dinner, make it special. Book a table at GW Fins or Herbsaint. Enjoy a slow meal. Toast your trip. Think about all the food you’ve eaten and music you’ve heard.
On your way back to your hotel, stop for one last beignet or a drink by the river. Listen to the city. Let it sink in.
New Orleans has a way of sticking with you. Not just for the food or music, but for the feeling. It’s wild and sweet. It’s soft and bold. In five days, you’ll taste all of it.
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