Three Days in New Orleans: Jazz, Food & French Quarter Fun
There’s nowhere quite like New Orleans, where every street corner hums with jazz, the air is thick with the scent of Creole spices, and history blends seamlessly with modern charm. Whether you’re drawn in by the city’s world-famous cuisine, the lively music scene, or the architectural beauty of the French Quarter, three days in the Big Easy will leave you enchanted and hungry for more.
This itinerary is designed to help you experience the best of New Orleans—from iconic jazz clubs to legendary eats—while soaking in the vibrant energy that makes this city one of a kind. Pack your appetite, put on your most comfortable walking shoes, and get ready for an unforgettable adventure.
Day 1: Exploring the French Quarter & Savoring Local Flavors
Start your morning in the heart of New Orleans: Café du Monde. This legendary spot has been serving up powdered sugar-dusted beignets and café au lait since 1862, and no visit is complete without indulging in this classic treat. From there, take a leisurely stroll down Royal Street, where you’ll find historic architecture, art galleries, and street musicians filling the air with soulful tunes.
By midday, head to Central Grocery & Deli for an authentic muffuletta, a massive Italian sandwich packed with cured meats, cheese, and olive salad. After lunch, tour the Preservation Hall, one of the city’s most famous jazz venues, or explore the Historic Voodoo Museum for a glimpse into New Orleans’ mystical past. Wrap up the evening at Napoleon House, a 200-year-old bar known for its signature Pimm’s Cup cocktail and a menu steeped in Creole tradition.
Day 2: Garden District Charms & Live Jazz Nights
Trade the lively streets of the French Quarter for the charm of the Garden District, a neighborhood filled with antebellum mansions, oak-lined streets, and historic cemeteries. Hop on the St. Charles Streetcar for a scenic ride through one of the most picturesque areas of the city. Stop by Lafayette Cemetery No. 1, one of the most famous above-ground cemeteries, and admire its hauntingly beautiful tombs.
For lunch, enjoy a meal at Commander’s Palace, a New Orleans institution known for its turtle soup and legendary jazz brunch. Afterward, return to the French Quarter and reserve your evening for an unforgettable jazz experience at The Spotted Cat Music Club on Frenchmen Street. This intimate venue is a local favorite, featuring some of the best live jazz in the city.
Day 3: Swamp Adventures & a Taste of Creole Culture
No trip to New Orleans is complete without experiencing Louisiana’s swampy bayous. Book a swamp tour and glide through the mysterious waters of Honey Island Swamp or Jean Lafitte National Park, where you can spot alligators, bald eagles, and moss-draped cypress trees. These eco-tours offer a unique perspective on the region’s wildlife and folklore.
Back in the city, spend your afternoon diving into Creole cuisine with a cooking class at New Orleans School of Cooking. Here, you’ll learn to prepare classics like gumbo, jambalaya, and pralines—and, of course, taste everything along the way. As the sun sets, head to the Carousel Bar & Lounge inside Hotel Monteleone for a cocktail experience like no other. The rotating bar, paired with live music, is the perfect way to toast to your final night in the Big Easy.
