Picturesque, vibrant and jazzy, New Orleans, Louisiana is a dazzling destination for a short trip or weekend getaway! That said, planning a New Orleans Itinerary can be perplexing.
Everyone knows to go to Bourbon Street, but what else is there to see? Let us assure you: There are many incredible things to do in New Orleans!
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To help fellow travelers discover more of the city, we have created a perfect 3 Days in New Orleans Itinerary that highlights the top attractions, must-try foods and the best NOLA bars.
3 Days New Orleans Itinerary
In our itinerary for New Orleans, we feature must-see sights, the most delicious things to eat, the top places to listen to music and a few legendary bars. Yes, we squeeze all that into a 3-day trip to New Orleans!
Planning a Weekend in New Orleans
NOLA has long been a Prime US Weekend party destination. With booze flowing and beads flying, revelers sip drinks until the wee hours of the morning.
To be honest, my first time in New Orleans was spent entirely on the world-famous Rue Bourbon. However, as I planned a return trip, my fuzzy memory prompted me to actually do a little research before arriving.
While Bourbon Street is a blast, there really is a whole lot more to experience. Deciding to meet friends for a long weekend in New Orleans, I was tasked with planning a New Orleans 3 Day Itinerary.
The New Orleans Weekend Itinerary I came up with for my NOLA girls’ trip included bar hopping at night, but went outside the French Quarter for daytime sightseeing and neighborhood exploration.
As you begin to make your NOLA travel plans, staying organized is key. Use our Printable Travel Planner to track all the details!
Best New Orleans Itinerary for 3 Days
We feel we’ve devised the ideal way to visit New Orleans in three days. In addition to our detailed itinerary, we share our top recommendations to make it as easy as possible to plan your vacation.
Save, Pin or Bookmark this NOLA Itinerary for your trip to Louisiana!
DAY 1 of Your New Orleans 3-Day Itinerary
Kick off your 72 hours in New Orleans by getting a full dose of the French Quarter. See the sights, discover delectable tastes and go barhopping on Bourbon.
Explore New Orleans French Quarter
A must on every New Orleans travel itinerary, the French Quarter is the heart of the city. Elegant architecture and lively music fill the colorful lanes. Immersing yourself in the historic French Quarter is a must do in New Orleans.
Start at the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park Visitor Center. The small museum is one of the free things to do in New Orleans. The onsite rangers are helpful with questions and there’s free bathrooms.
After learning about the city, get your bearings by strolling the picturesque streets. While wandering is highly encouraged during your 3 Day New Orleans Itinerary, you will want to make sure to take in these top sights.
Jackson Square
A National Historic Landmark, Jackson Square is a central hub of activity in the French Quarter. Created in 1721 (but rebuilt after the 1788 Great New Orleans Fire), the space is styled after Place des Vosges in Paris. With a central fountain and wrought iron fencing, it is undeniably beautiful.
The square is named for General Andrew Jackson, who would later become the 7th US President. With his equestrian statue and a fountain at it’s center and surrounded by wrought iron fencing, it is undeniably beautiful.
St. Louis Cathedral
Located on Jackson Square, the St. Louis Cathedral ranks as the oldest cathedral in the United States and is a New Orleans must see sight.
Visitors are free to go inside the church. Interested guests can take a self-guided tour (brochures are available for a small donation) or join one of the docents for a guided tour.
The Cabildo
Also located on Jackson Square, The Cabildo is a historic Spanish colonial building that once served as City Hall. The building now houses the Louisiana State Museum.
Visiting the museum during your 3 day trip to New Orleans will help you even better understand it’s history. The collection features photographs, the timeline of the building and a celebration of all things NOLA.
Faulkner House Books on Pirates Alley
On a small side street behind the cathedral, Faulkner House is an inconspicuous bookshop. Once the home of famed American author, William Faulkner, his books – as well as Louisiana literature and rare finds – are available to peruse.
Café Du Monde
Take a quick break from your New Orleans sightseeing to get a taste of a much loved NOLA treat: a beignet. It’s the absolute best dessert to eat in New Orleans and the place to get them is at Café du Monde.
Since 1862, this coffeeshop has perfected the art of these puffed and powdery French-style donuts. In fact, beignets are as much a part of New Orleans culture as Mardi Gras!
While Café Du Monde is the most popular place to get the iconic sweet treat, it isn’t the only spot. If you want to taste test the best beignets in New Orleans, stop by Café Beignet on Royal Street to try their powdered sugar treats, too.
Moonwalk Riverfront Park
A brick promenade perched along the Mississippi River, the Moonwalk Riverfront is a pedestrian walkway offering fine views of the mighty waterway. It’s also a great way to get to our next New Orleans Must See sight, the French Market.
New Orleans French Market – Shops of the Colonnade
Originally established as a Native American trading post, for more than 200 years the French Market has been a bustling center of commercial activity. Although today it seems more geared toward tourists, visitors can shop, eat and enjoy at the vibrant market hall.
Lunch in the French Quarter
If you are getting hungry, take a break from your exploration of the French Quarter and stop at Coop’s Place for lunch.
Seafood Gumbo and Rabbit & Sausage Jambalaya are the house specialties – but the menu offers an array of Southern favorites. Note that Coop’s Place is 21+ only.
If you are planning an itinerary for New Orleans with kids, check out Oceana Grill instead. Here they serve divine Louisiana Crab Cakes, delicious Oysters and fun Alligator Bites.
Royal Street
A shopping and dining destination, Royal Street features grand architecture, antique shops and fine art galleries. However, the real reason we suggest going is for the excellent street musicians!
Musical Legends Park
This small space features several life-size statues of some of New Orleans most well-known local musicians. It’s also hosts live music performances and the location of another Café Beignet!
New Orleans Ghost, Voodoo and Vampire Tour
There is no way that you can be in New Orleans for 3 days without getting a glimpse of the city’s spooky side.
As nighttime approaches, go all in on a New Orleans Ghost Tour. Local guides lead participants through the streets of the French Quarter sharing the history and horrors that have occurred through the centuries.
Dinner in the French Quarter
We feel food is a very important part of your NOLA itinerary! For your evening meal, indulge at one of the classic French Quarter restaurants serving iconic New Orleans eats.
Napoleon House
Founded in 1914, Napoleon House specializes in Muffuletta and Po-boy sandwiches and is a New Orleans institution. Steeped in history, the casual eatery is a bit eclectic, and the Muffuletta’s are out of this world!
Acme Oyster House
Serving up seriously good seafood since 1910, Acme Oyster House is the place to go for grilled oysters during your 3 day itinerary for New Orleans. Order ahead online or get there early to avoid the long line!
Brennan’s
This New Orleans fine dining establishment is credited with creating Bananas Foster. Although the posh restaurant is usually quite pricey, during happy hour they offer nibbles and bubbles at a discount in their Roost Bar and Courtyard.
Antoine’s
To really take it up a notch, make reservations at Antoine’s, the city’s Crème de la Crème in French-Creole cuisine. The historic eatery is credited with creating Oysters Rockefeller and is well-known for their Baked Alaska.
Bourbon Street
End your first day in the Big Easy appropriately on Bourbon Street. Bounce your way up the street, partaking in various drink specials and potent cocktails at some of the best bars in New Orleans.
Old Absinthe House
This Classic boozer has quirky decor and thousands of business cards from previous patrons adorning the walls. It’s a great place to kick off a night on Bourbon.
Little Tropical Isle
Moving along Upper Bourbon Street (which is actually the southern end) work your way toward the glowing neon signs.
Stop for a sugary sweet Hand Grenade at Tropical Isle, one of the many must-have drinks in New Orleans.
Cats Meow
Take your turn on the microphone at this world-famous karaoke bar or angle for a balcony spot that overlooks the street (ask about happy hour specials).
This block is the epicenter of Bourbon Street nightlife, so pop into any other place that looks entertaining!
Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar
A Bourbon Street favorite, Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop is housed in one of the oldest buildings in New Orleans (it dates to 1722). Try a one of their famous frozen cocktails and sing along to the piano tunes!
Lucky Dogs
If you get hungry as the night rolls along, fill up with a cheap hot dog from one of the roving Lucky Dogs food carts. They are a staple of New Orleans night life!
DAY 2 of Your 3 Day Itinerary New Orleans
Today you will venture out of the French Quarter. Check out a few must-see NOLA sights, visit a museum, then end your day listening to live jazz.
Breakfast at Café Fleur de Lis
In the morning, you may need a rebound from your big night out on Bourbon. Enjoy a savory Southern-style breakfast at Café Fleur de Lis.
The small greasy spoon serves generous portions of classic fare. I enjoyed the Creole Country Breakfast, but their Shrimp and Grits get rave reviews from fellow patrons.
St. Louis Cemetery No. 1
Dating to 1789, the St. Louis Cemetery is the oldest in the city. The above-ground graves – a NOLA oddity – are burial sites for numerous famous citizens, including Voodoo Queen Marie Laveau. This New Orleans cemetery can only be visited on a guided tour. Find out more!
NOLA Green Space
Before you eat again, stretch your legs and fill your lungs with fresh air at one of the best parks in New Orleans!
City Park
Larger than Central Park in New York City, New Orleans City Park is an expansive urban green space that features a multitude of attractions.
Besides the lush landscapes, paths and lakes, top things to see are the New Orleans Museum of Art and Sculpture Garden, the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park and the Botanical Gardens.
If you have yet to taste the iconic beignets from Café du Monde (or are ready for another round), you can pop into their City Park location!
Louis Armstrong Park
Marking the northwestern boundary of the French Quarter, Louis Armstrong Park is easy to reach on foot.
The space is loaded with statues, walking paths, art installations and water features. It’s one of the interesting places to visit during your 3 day New Orleans trip.
Lunch Outside of the French Quarter
Our top picks for a midday meal are located between City Park and the French Quarter. Alternatively, board an old steamboat for a sightseeing cruise and have lunch on board!
Katie’s
Katie’s, which was featured on Diners, Drive-ins and Dives, is still a local favorite that specializes in oysters and seafood. Definitely try the savory crawfish beignet!
Willie Mae’s Scotch House
Family-owned and operated, Willie Mae’s was established as a neighborhood eatery in 1957. Today, it is known for churning out famous fried chicken, red beans and rice and soul food favorites to hungry patrons.
Steamboat Cruise with Lunch
Learn about the history of New Orleans and take in the spectacular scenes along the Mississippi from one of the last surviving steamboats.
The historic Natchez Steamboat takes passengers on a journey that includes narration about some of the remarkable events the shaped New Orleans. Book it!
Alternate Option: Hold off until tonight and upgrade your riverboat experience with an evening Dinner and Jazz Show aboard the Natchez. Find out more!
New Orleans Museums
If you haven’t run out of steam, a great activity to include on your weekend in New Orleans Itinerary is visiting a museum.
World War II Museum
Located south of the French Quarter in the Warehouse District, this is one of the best museums in New Orleans.
Packed with artifacts and interactive displays, the state-of-the-art venue details the events of World War II in an informative and engaging way. Buy your tickets!
Audubon Aquarium
After a long renovation, the Audubon Aquarium – along with the Butterfly Garden and Insectarium – reopened in 2023. With nearly 10,000 animals and over 500 species, it certainly lives up to the hype!
Early Evening Jazz at Preservation Hall
Whether a jazz aficionado or novice listener, attending a concert at Preservation Hall is an iconic New Orleans experience.
The intimate jazz performances at Preservation Hall are a NOLA tradition that began as jam sessions in a gallery. Today, visitors can buy tickets for bench seating or standing room only for a memorable performance put on by local New Orleans jazz musicians.
Marigny District and Frenchmen Street Jazz
For dinner, drinks and more entertainment head for Marigny. Frenchmen Street is teeming with cool jazz clubs and hip restaurants – offering a tamer atmosphere compared to Bourbon St.
In our opinion, this authentic corner of NOLA is not to be missed on your Weekend New Orleans, Louisiana Itinerary. So, we are highlighting a few of our favorite things to do.
Sazerac at The Maison
The Maison is one of the best venues for live jazz and dinner. With a soulful ambiance and an amazing drink list (Sazerac is a New Orleans original), it’s the perfect place to start the evening.
Marigny New Orleans Restaurants
Barrilleaux’s and Marigny Brasserie are top choices for both Creole and American favorites. Or go for a unique hot dog from Dat Dog (where you can get an Alligator or Crawfish Sausage topped with Etouffee).
Best Bars in Marigny
After dinner, create your own bar crawl on Frenchman Street that is highlighted by jazz music. A few of our favorite spots in Marigny are Blue Nile, d.b.a. and The Spotted Cat.
DAY 3 of your New Orleans Itinerary
On the last day of your Three-Day Itinerary New Orleans, delve into one of the best-preserved neighborhoods, then go alligator-spotting in the swampland!
Brunch at Ruby Slipper Café
Start your day at one of the hottest brunch spots in New Orleans. Established in 2008 after Hurricane Katrina, the popularity of Ruby Slipper quickly grew.
Proudly proclaiming that they live for brunch, the bennies and omelets are incredible…as well as the mimosas and bloodys!
Garden District NOLA
This area provides a perfect escape from the crush of the French Quarter – and is a must-see neighborhood for your New Orleans Itinerary 3 Days.
Hop on a streetcar for a ride along St. Charles Avenue into the Garden District, where the streets are lined with historic mansions and magnolia trees.
Best Things To Do in New Orleans Garden District
We feel it is best to simply wander through the Garden District, letting your senses and curiosity lead the way. That said, there are some sights that are not to be missed.
Be sure to seek out the Garden District Book Shop (a local favorite), Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 (free to roam on your own) and Commander’s Palace (a NOLA landmark restaurant since the late 1800s).
Next, make your way to the southern boundary of the district and Magazine Street. The 6-mile thoroughfare stretches south from Canal St. to Audubon Park along the curve of the Mississippi River and features boutique shops and hip eateries.
The Rum House (known for Caribbean tacos), District Donuts Sliders Brew (serving delicious sliders and donuts) and Joey K’s (a casual Creole spot) are all good choices for lunch.
Top Tip: To ensure you don’t miss a thing, book a spot on a highly rated New Orleans Garden District Tour.
NOLA Airboat Tour
On a small-group swamp tour, participants experience the Mississippi River and Barataria Preserve by airboat. It’s one of the top things to do near New Orleans!
Passengers will ride through swamp, marsh and lakes in search of alligators, bald eagles and other wildlife. Plus, this tour includes round-trip transport from New Orleans. Get the details!
Those interested in a full day excursion can opt for a combo Swamp Boat and Plantation Tour. Participants are taken deep into the bayous in search of wildlife, treated to a traditional southern lunch and then visit two of Louisiana’s plantations.
More Things To Do in NOLA
We have shared our top suggestions for what to see in New Orleans in 3 days. However, there are many more activities you can add to your NOLA vacation itinerary. We’ll start out with a few museums and then move on to tours and day trips.
New Orleans Jazz Museum
Music fans will definitely want to visit the Jazz Museum while exploring New Orleans in 3 days. Housed in the historic mint building, there is a small exhibit on coins and a much larger jazz exhibit.
Mardi Gras World at Kern Studios
Visitors planning a trip to New Orleans for Mardi Gras can learn more about the festival and get a behind the scenes tour of the props and floats at Mardi Gras World.
New Orleans Pharmacy Museum
An old apothecary dating to 1823, this museum offers visitors a fascinating glimpse into the past. From preserved medicines to ancient medical tools, the intriguing artifacts are displayed over two floors.
French Quarter Food Tour
Those who prefer a guided experience into the local cuisine should consider joining a New Orleans Food Tour in the French Quarter.
On this highly-rated lunch excursion, visitors get to sample Seafood Gumbo, Jambalaya and more while learning about the history of the cuisine.
New Orleans Bus Tour
Get acquainted with the city beyond the French Quarter on a fun and informative bus tour. On the 2-hour trip, visitors take in the sights from bohemian Marigny to City Park to the Garden District. Reserve your seat!
Oak Alley Plantation Tour
One of the most beautiful and often photographed plantations, Oak Alley was built in 1839. Visitors are transported back in time to the Old South as costumed guides lead the way through the opulently decorated rooms and impressive grounds. Book it!
Whitney Plantation
The National Historic Landmark Whitney Plantation offers visitors a unique and sobering perspective. The moving exhibits and first-person stories detail the reality of the life of slaves living on the plantation. Learn more!
Things To Do in New Orleans Map
Use this Google Map for an interactive version of our Map of New Orleans attractions below.
Tips For Planning a Trip to New Orleans
We have outlined our best 3-Day New Orleans Itinerary, but there are a few more things to consider when you plan your trip.
When To Visit New Orleans
Now that you know how to spend a weekend in New Orleans, let’s talk about the ideal time to go. Weather and festivals are the two biggest factors in determining the best month to visit New Orleans.
Spring
Springtime – from February to May – is peak season in New Orleans. The weather is warm and numerous events and celebrations take place (like Mardi Gras). Of course, the crowds are thick – and accommodations can cost a bundle.
Summertime
Planning a trip to Louisiana in the summertime has its pros and cons. In summer, NOLA can be sweltering with high humidity and temperatures that push into the 90s. That said, hotel prices are more affordable (maybe splurge for a place with a pool!).
Autumn
The autumn can be a great time to visit New Orleans. The weather tends to be pleasant…but September is smack in the middle of hurricane season.
Winter
The weather in winter cools off (with high temps hovering in the 60s) and the city sees the fewest tourists. Both are reasons is why we think a winter vacation is the best time to visit New Orleans!
New Orleans Festivals and Events
The city hosts numerous festivals, conferences and events throughout the year, attracting guests from all corners of the world. Mardi Gras is the most famous, followed by the Jazz and Heritage Festival, but there are a total of 130 festivals every year!
Additionally, the lively atmosphere makes New Orleans an attractive destination for bachelor parties, girls weekend trips and top sporting events (such as the Super Bowl, March Madness and College Football Bowl Games).
Whether you are visiting for Fat Tuesday or a New Orleans New Year’s Eve, celebrating a birthday or hosting a bachelorette party, you can use our New Orleans trip itinerary to help plan your amazing time in the city!
Where To Stay in New Orleans
Choosing where to stay for 3 nights in New Orleans is quite the task! Options range from posh boutique properties in the French Quarter to downtown high-rise hotels to Airbnb Apartments.
Although there are many choices of hotels in New Orleans, we are sharing a couple suggestions based on our personal experiences.
Inn on St. Ann
On many of our trips to NOLA, we have stayed at the Inn on St. Ann. It’s located near Louis Armstrong Park and just a few minutes’ walk to Bourbon Street.
What we also love is the character of the property, the (relatively) quiet street and the quaint courtyard. Plus, the rate are affordable in comparison to other nearby hotels. Check availability!
Sheraton New Orleans
For my Girls’ Weekend in New Orleans, we opted to stay at the Sheraton New Orleans on Canal Street.
It’s just steps from the French Quarter and ideally located to reach numerous other NOLA attractions. What I loved about the Sheraton is the spacious, clean rooms with amazing views, comfortable beds and the rooftop pool. Check rates!
Start your search on Booking.com – and use our top tips for Booking the Best Hotels!
What To Pack for Your New Orleans Trip
Whether traveling with a backpack or a suitcase, we have a few packing hacks for you. So, grab our FREE Packing Checklist and let’s get you to the Big Easy!
Comfortable Shoes
We include a ton of walking in our NOLA Itinerary – so be sure to pack a pair of durable walking shoes. I love these lightweight New Balance trainers for women and Kris prefers wearing Merrell trail shoes.
Clothing, Accessories and Day Pack
Because it can rain all year, we recommend bringing a packable raincoat and a travel umbrella on your NOLA trip. You’ll also want a great day bag to organize and secure all of your essential, everyday travel items.
Travel Camera
New Orleans is a photogenic locale! Rather than trying to capture the scene with your phone, we recommend upgrading to a proper camera.
We use a Canon Rebel with a 18-135mm lens on all our travels. It is a great budget camera for beginners and comes bundled with heaps of accessories!
Trip Insurance
Travel insurance may help cover costs if your plans change, flights cancel or luggage gets lost. Find coverage and rates direct with World Nomads.
Start planning your USA Vacation! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want more advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
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