New Orleans, a city brimming with history, culture, and delicious cuisine, offers so many things to do in a day! From savoring beignets to partying on Bourbon Street, every corner of the city has something to offer. Whether you’re a traveler just stopping in or in the city on business with time to spare, here’s a guide to experiencing the best of New Orleans in just one day.
Morning: A Taste of the French Quarter
Kick off your day with a classic New Orleans breakfast! Enjoy famous beignets (deep-fried dough squares dusted with powdered sugar) and a rich café au lait at Café du Monde or indulge in shrimp and grits and bananas foster french toast at Ruby Slipper. After breakfast, take a leisurely stroll through the French Quarter. Wander along the picturesque streets lined with historic architecture and charming boutiques. Don’t miss Jackson Square, where you can admire St. Louis Cathedral and experience street performers, artists, and local vendors.
Midday: Louisiana Heritage and Lunch
Whether you’re looking for art, history, or even something a bit weird, New Orleans has a museum for that! Visit the National WWII Museum renowned for offering visitors a compelling journey through the war’s major events and powerful exploration of the wartime experience. The Cabildo and The Presbytère, located in Jackson Square, offer exhibits on Louisiana’s unique history and culture. For a taste of art and heritage, the New Orleans Museum of Art, located in City Park, showcases art ranging from classic to contemporary pieces and even a sculpture garden. If you’re looking for the darker side of New Orleans history, The New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum highlights the traditions of Voodoo culture, while The Museum of Death highlights, well, what it seems. A casual creole lunch is a must in the Crescent City! Stop at a deli or cafe like Cochon Butcher or Katie’s for a Louisiana lunch specialty such as a po’boy, muffaletta, boudin, or cup of gumbo.
Afternoon: The Mississippi Riverfront
Spend the afternoon along the mighty Mississippi River. Take a river cruise on the Creole Queen Paddlewheeler as you learn the rich history of the city. Hit the shops at the Riverwalk Outlets. Or visit the Audubon Aquarium, one of the top aquariums in the U.S., to experience more than 3,600 animals including rare species like African penguins and white alligators. After your time on the riverfront, hop on a streetcar to get a unique view of the city on this historic form of transportation with a pickup spot located just outside the aquarium.
Evening: 5-Star Dinner and a Nightcap
Dinner at a renowned historic restaurant is an absolute must on a trip to New Orleans. Indulge in classic creole dishes such as turtle soup and oysters rockefeller in an elegant setting at famous establishments such as Commander’s Palace, Galatoire’s, Brennan’s, and Arnaud’s, just to name a few. After dinner, dive into New Orleans’ legendary music scene. Head to Frenchmen Street, where you’ll find lively clubs and bars offering live music such as The Spotted Cat Music Club and DBA. Of course no visit to New Orleans is complete without a stroll down Bourbon Street! Grab a local cocktail, or three, and hit the bars on the most famous nightlife street in America.From savoring iconic dishes to soaking up the vibrant nightlife, the Crescent City promises a day full of unforgettable moments. Embrace the city’s unique charm and rhythm, and you’ll leave with memories as rich and diverse as the city itself! If you have extra time in the city, be sure to experience the exotic nature found in the Louisiana swamps. Visit TourBigEasy.com to book your New Orleans swamp tour excursion with us today!
