New Orleans is the kind of destination that you can easily get lost in, as you attempt to soak up the vibrant culture and soulful flavor of the city. While it's certainly possible to spend a week or more exploring the sights and sounds of the city, you can definitely enjoy a wondrous weekend in the Big Easy and still leave with a deeper appreciation for this community.
Our curated two-day New Orleans travel guide can be used as a foundation for your weekend getaway, while still giving you the flexibility needed to personalize your experience.
Day 1 — The Full French Quarter Experience
The French Quarter is perhaps the most iconic neighborhood in New Orleans, so any two-day adventure should include plenty of time for exploration in this vibrant, eclectic corner of the city. You can strike the right travel balance by blending the top attractions in New Orleans with a touch of local charm.
Begin Your Day With a Beignet
There's no reason to wait a moment longer — once you have arrived in New Orleans and you are ready to start your trip, you need to begin with a beignet. Of course, the legendary Café du Monde is a top contender for the best beignets. Pair your fluffy, powdery pastry with a café au lait to fortify yourself for the festivities that lie ahead.
Tour the St. Louis Cathedral
Defining the skyline of Jackson Square and representing the history and tradition of the city, the St. Louis Cathedral is an iconic, must-visit attraction. Tours are available daily from 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m., unless there is a private event scheduled. Keep in mind that no food or drink is allowed in the cathedral, and guests should remove their hats before entering.
Spend the Afternoon at The Presbytère
If you only have time to visit one museum in New Orleans, make it The Presbytère. Located just steps away from St. Louis Cathedral, this museum houses two permanent collections that showcase the spirit, tenacity and perseverance of the local people. Here, you can explore two immersive exhibits:
- Mardi Gras: It’s Carnival Time in Louisiana is a permanent exhibit that showcases the rituals and festivities of Mardis Gras, and how it has become embedded in daily life in New Orleans.
- The Living with Hurricanes: Katrina and Beyond is a permanent exhibit that takes an in-depth look at one of the country's most devastating disasters, with an emphasis on the rebuilding and renewal efforts that have shaped the city in the hurricane's aftermath.
Dine at the Italian Barrel for Dinner
Skip over the restaurants that tourists frequent in the heart of the French Quarter, and opt for a local dining spot instead. The Italian Barrel is conveniently situated in the French Quarter, and it boasts fresh Italian cuisine with a touch of Creole flavor. The head chef at the restaurant is an Italian native who still serves her mom's homemade Tiramisu to guests.
Soak Up the Sounds of Jazz on Frenchmen Street
Described as the best place in New Orleans to hear authentic jazz music, Frenchmen Street is just a short walk away from the Italian Barrel. Meander down the street to soak up the eclectic energy that buzzes throughout New Orleans after dark, and find a jazz club where you can enjoy a cocktail as you listen to the smooth notes that are traveling through the air.
Day 2 — A Touch of Local Charm in Uptown
After spending an entire day seeing the top attractions in New Orleans, consider a more relaxed pace for your second day in the city. This is the perfect time to check out Uptown, a picturesque neighborhood that offers more insight into what residential life is like in New Orleans.
Start Out at Surrey's for Breakfast
Best known for its funky vibe and relaxed atmosphere, Surrey's Café and Juice Bar serves up sweet and savory breakfast meals that are sure to satisfy you before you embark on another day of exploring. You'd be remiss if you didn't order a glass of one of their fresh-squeezed organic juices — Surrey's is, after all, the oldest organic juice bar in the city.
Ride the St. Charles Streetcar Line
The St. Charles Streetcar Line is one of the oldest continuously-operating streetcar lines in the country, making the journey an authentic New Orleans experience that you don't want to miss. In addition, this line provides a convenient and affordable way to reach the Garden District, where you can stroll around and soak up the magnificent architecture that surrounds you.
Shop for Souvenirs on Magazine Street
After your ride up and down the line, you will find yourself near Magazine Street, which is the best place for souvenir shopping in New Orleans. Most of the shops and boutiques on Magazine Street are locally-owned, giving you the opportunity to support the people who live here while bringing home one-of-a-kind gifts.
Soak Up the City's Natural Beauty at Audubon Park
Located near the 6000 block of Magazine Street, Audubon Park is the perfect place to relax and unwind after two full days of exploration. This tranquil space is shaded by live oak trees, so you may find yourself tempted to relax on a bench and watch New Orleans pass you by. However, there are plenty of opportunities for fun as well, as this park is home to a walking path, playgrounds, lagoon, public pool and zoo.
Experience Authentic Creole Flavor at Clancy's
Near Audubon Park you will find Clancy's, a Creole restaurant in Uptown that provides a quintessential New Orleans experience. Consider fried oysters with brie or the lemon ice box pie, which are two of its signature dishes. This upscale restaurant is known for its refined-yet-lively atmosphere, making it the perfect finish to your New Orleans getaway.
Book Your New Orleans Weekend Getaway Today
Paying homage to the food, music, people, culture and architecture of New Orleans, the International House Hotel is the best place to stay for your weekend trip to the city. Situated near the French Quarter and within reach of the top things to do in New Orleans, our boutique hotel offers a bespoke experience for guests searching for authenticity and luxury.
Book your stay at the International House Hotel, and discover the pure joy of New Orleans.
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