5 Days in New Orleans

By Sarah Harris

No doubt New Orleans is one of the most exciting cities to explore in the United States. The area is one of the most popular visitor destinations of the south, drawing in around 20 million visitors each year – and with good reason! With fascinating history, great culture, and fun attractions, there’s no shortage of things to here for all types of travelers. No, really, trust us when we say that you’ll never be bored in The Big Easy – more likely, you’ll struggle to fit it all in. Still, with the right planning, you’ll be able to make the most of the city and have a blast in the process! Hoping to catch all of New Orleans’ top sights but aren’t quite sure how to maximize your time? Don’t worry – that’s what we’re here for! For a complete guide of things to during a short trip to The Big Easy, keep scrolling.

Day 1 - Start by Exploring the French Quarter

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What better way to kick off your trip to New Orleans than by exploring the French Quarter? As the historic heart of the city, this vibrant area is well-known for its fantastic cultural amenities and buzzing atmosphere. Start your day by grabbing breakfast at Café du Monde, the city’s most popular choice for coffee and beignets. After this, head over to The Presbytère, one of the United States’ best examples of Spanish Colonial architecture. Aside from being a beautiful structure, this building houses a wonderfully comprehensive collection of historic artefacts and documents which work to tell the story of the state of Louisiana. Just next door is the St. Louis Cathedral – the oldest cathedral in North America. Upon entrance, visitors can take self-guided tours to admire its sweeping archways, stained-glass windows and towering columns. We suggest staying in the French Quarter until after dusk, as the area comes to life with countless dive bars, cocktail lounges and live music venues to be enjoyed. The best part of the French Quarter to grab a drink and catch a live show would be Bourbon Street, though the whole area is pretty spirited during the evening time.

Day 2 - Take Time in Nature

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Though New Orleans is mostly known as a big lively metropolis, it presents a great amount of green space to be explored. The area benefits greatly from its location right by the Gulf of Mexico, with sunny weather and lush tropical greenery all year round. There are a lot of great spots for nature enthusiasts to see in New Orleans, but one of our favorite places has got to be the Barataria Preserve, offering a peaceful respite from city life. Covering over 26,000 acres of flatwoods, wetlands and marshes, this spot is a great place to take a breather and get in touch with Mother Nature. We especially love this attraction because it provides nice a way to see animals without disrupting their way of life. This place is home to a wide array of wildlife – visitors can expect to see everything from minks and deer to alligators and water snakes. In addition, this is a welcome spot for birdwatching, with over 200 species to be enjoyed. Popular activities to do here include hiking, kayaking, canoeing and air boating. Those who are looking to learn more about the environment can check out the visitor center for educational films and exhibits. We suggest wearing your comfiest shoes and bringing plenty of sunscreen along to stay comfortable.

Day 3 - Learn About the City

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There’s so much more to see of New Orleans past the French Quarter. For those who are looking to learn more about the history and culture of the city, we recommend Tremé. Initially founded in the 1810s by its free people of color, Tremé is most often recognized as the oldest African American neighborhood in the United States. Throughout the years, the neighborhood has played a vital role in the development of the city’s African American and Creole culture, and as such, there are many fantastic institutions well worth visiting in the area. Those interested in learning more about the development of jazz in New Orleans would benefit from checking out the Petit Jazz Museum. If you’re more interested in delving into the history of the area, we suggest heading over to the Backstreet Cultural Museum. Bringing something a little new to the table, this spot focuses mostly on exquisite and intricately-embroidered Mardi Gras costumes from the past. Both of these museums are pretty small, so you’ll have plenty of time to sit down and eat in Tremé – lucky you! Tremé is home to some of the best eateries in New Orleans – from fast-casual restaurants to fine dining, you’re sure to find something to pique your interest. Some of the best spots include Li’l Dizzy’s Café, Sweet Soulfood, and Gabrielle Restaurant. Whether you’re a total history buff or just curious, Tremé is sure to grab your attention.

Day 4 - Check Out the Garden District

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Next, we suggest you take time to have a look at some of the wonderful architecture around New Orleans. One of the best places in the city to view beautiful buildings is the Garden District, located just a short streetcar ride away from the French Quarter. With its stunning historic mansions and lavish gardens, the area is best explored on foot. For those who want to learn more about these quaint cottages and exquisite homes, we recommend booking a walking tour. En route, your guide should talk you through the diverse mix of architectural styles exhibited in the area. In addition, we suggest taking a casual stroll down Magazine Street near the southern border of the district. Here you’ll be able to enjoy some of the best upscale boutiques and eclectic stores in the city.

Day 5 - Take a Ferry Across the Mississippi

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To round out your trip to New Orleans, we highly recommend taking the Algiers Ferry across the magnificent Mississippi River. Take a snapshot of yourself sailing across the River, and admire the water up close. The Ferry stops at Algiers Point, a charming residential neighborhood which retains much of its 19th century village character. Spend the day in the area to enjoy its small art galleries, friendly pubs and quaint Creole cottages. Pro tip: take the ferry back after sunset to watch the sun set over the beautiful New Orleans skyline. We couldn’t possibly think of a better way to end a vacation in New Orleans.

New Orleans is one of those destinations that you just can’t help falling in love with. And now, you don’t have to miss out! Explore the city to its full potential with GoCity’s All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass. If you’d like to know more, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook. With Go City, you can see more, for less.

Sarah Harris
Go City Travel Expert

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Adventurous Things to do in New Orleans

When we think of New Orleans, we think of beautiful architecture, jazz shows, and authentic southern cuisine. What many visitors don’t often consider is the surprising amount of adventurous things there are to do in the Big Easy. Indeed, there are countless things to do here for the daring explorer – that is, if you know where to look. From beautiful hiking trails and swamp tours to spooky cemeteries, New Orleans is a total haven for plucky explorers. Whether you’re a nature enthusiast, a history buff or just looking to try something new, you’re sure to find something to pique your interest. Still not sure how to make the most of your time in New Orleans? Don’t worry! We’ll take you through the best adventurous activities and attractions in the Big Easy! Keep scrolling to find out more. See the City Of course, it’d just be wrong to travel all the way to New Orleans without taking a ride across the magnificent Mississippi River. While there are a number of ferries which sail across the mighty Mississippi, we recommend taking the Algiers Ferry. The ferry stops at Algiers Point, a location on the lower end of the river which retains much of its 19th-century charm. This neighborhood is best explored on foot, so make sure to wear your comfiest walking shoes and bring plenty of water. Take time to explore the area and check out the village’s small art galleries, friendly pubs and quaint Creole cottages. There are also a lot of unique stores around this area which are great for picking out souvenirs for friends and family, so be sure to have a good look. We suggest taking the ferry back to the city around sunset, since it will grant stunning views of the skyline. Trust us on this one! Amongst other things, New Orleans is well-known as the City of the Dead. If you’re curious about learning more, there are many cemetery tours on offer across the city, though the most popular ones are at St. Louis No. 1 and 2. Located on the further parameter of the French Quarter, these cemeteries are included on the National Register of Historic places, with St. Lous No. 1 being the oldest place of its kind in the city. Though it might sound a little strange, these spots draw in around 100,000 visitors annually for their fascinating history and distinctive above-ground gravestones. On the tour, you can learn more about burial practices unique to this area of the United States, including jazz funerals and Voodoo traditions. In addition, these cemeteries are where some of the most famous New Orleans residents have been laid to rest: Voodoo queen Marie Laveau is buried in St. Louis No. 1, and jazz musicians Danny Barker and Ernie K. Doe are buried in St. Louis No. 2. A thoroughly enthralling cultural experience, this one is not to be missed. Get in Touch with Mother Nature Seated right by the Gulf of Mexico, New Orleans has a wealth of tropical lush greenery to be explored. Since the city lies along the southeastern coastline, outdoor activity is almost always a good idea because of the city’s perennial warm weather and clear blue skies. Still, we actually recommend hiking during the winter months, so it won’t be as humid during this time of the year. Of all of the outdoorsy visitor sites in the city, we strongly suggest checking out the Barataria Preserve, located just outside of Marrero. This popular nature reserve covers over 26, 000 acres of flatwoods and wetlands, making it the perfect spot to get in touch with Mother Nature. In addition, this place is home to a wide array of unusual wildlife, so it’s great for all animal lovers – visitors can expect to see everything from deer and minks to alligators and water snakes. This place is also a prime destination for birdwatchers, with over 300 species making the attraction their home. For those who are eager to learn more about the environment, the site’s visitor center offers educational films and exhibits. We honestly couldn’t think of a better way to spend a sunny day in New Orleans! Take advantage of the beautiful weather in New Orleans by spending some time in the outdoors. There are a lot of cool things to do for nature lovers in this neck of the woods, though we recommend taking a swamp tour – this way, you’ll be able to glide straight through the area and get close up with the wonderful natural attributes of New Orleans. The best place to do this is at Honey Island Swamp, which is recognized as one of the most pristine swampland habitats in the United States. Take a flat-bottomed boat through the area to experience the distinctive beauty and incredible biodiversity of the south. Visitors can expect to see all types of wildlife on the tour – there are deer, turtles, alligators, and more – you name it, they’ve got it! As you ride, a professional guide will take you through the ins and outs of one of the United States’ most unique ecosystems. This interpretative boat tour is great for those of all ages, offering a fun way to learn about the environment. Have a Blast! If you’re looking to unlock your sense of childlike wonder, look no further than Carousel Gardens Amusement Park. Breaking away from the typical theme park experience, this spot is more of an old-fashioned fairground offering a true sense of the old south. This place features around 18 rides and attractions to be enjoyed, so you know that there’s something for everybody here. For younger visitors looking to have a blast, there are classics like the Ferris Wheel and bumper cars. If you want to kick it up a notch, rides like Coney Tower should be right up your alley. In addition, the park has traditional fairground treats like sliders, corndogs and cotton candy. This spot captures all of the charm and whimsy that you’d expect from a place with a name like Carousel Gardens. Whether you’re a kid or just young at heart, this attraction would make the perfect day trip! New Orleans is bursting with adventurous things to do, no matter what your style. And now, you don’t have to miss out! Explore the city to its full potential with GoCity’s All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass. If you’d like to know more, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook. With Go City, you can see more, for less.
Sarah Harris
What to do on Memorial Day Weekend in New Orleans
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What to do on Memorial Day Weekend in New Orleans

Did you know that over 6 in 10 Americans have family members who serve or have served in the armed forces? That's...a lot of Americans. It's no wonder that Memorial Day is one of the most venerated days on the calendar. A day to pay respects to fallen soldiers, Memorial Day gives non-serving people the opportunity to give thanks for what we have and the sacrifices others made to provide us with so much. So, if you're in New Orleans and wondering what to do on Memorial Day weekend, we've created this guide that gives you the low down on all the goings on in the city. When is Memorial Day? Memorial Day lands on the last Monday of May. In 2023, that's Monday, May 29. What to do on Memorial Day Weekend in New Orleans? Now you know what and when Memorial Day is, let's explore what to do in New Orleans on the weekend. Attend the Memorial Day service at the National WW II Museum On any other day, the National World War II Museum is one of New Orleans' best attractions. History buffs will love exploring the 6-acre site, which features numerous exhibits that honor the courage and sacrifice that brave American soldiers made during one of the worst conflicts humanity has ever seen. Covering everything from D-Day to the invasion of Tokyo, you'll read personal stories from soldiers on the frontlines, follow the troops as they make their push east and then west toward Berlin, and see authentic weapons, clothing, and equipment used during the Second World War. On Memorial Day, a ceremony is held there between 11AM and 12PM. It gives participants the opportunity to remember the people who paid the ultimate price for their country. Without them, you may not even exist today. Servicemembers get free entry to the ceremony, and they'll also get admission to the rest of the museum for free. Memorial Day Ceremony at Chalmette Cemetery Chalmette National Cemetary is one of the city's biggest grave sites. The ground it sits on now was where the Battle of New Orleans was fought back in 1815. On top of that, soldiers from wars through the years have been buried there, including those lost in the Vietnam War. So it's only appropriate that a Memorial Day Ceremony is held there every year. The ceremony takes place on Monday, May 29, at 12.30PM. It includes a color guard, a bagpiper, and veterans, who often say some words to see out the ceremony. Anyone is free to attend and pay their respects. You can even volunteer to place flags on the headstones and then remove them at the end of the day. However, it's worth noting that, given New Orleans' hot and humid climate, you should make sure you're capable of the often-hours worth of work, including bending over to place the flags and walking among the hundreds of headstones. Still, if you're willing and able, it's a great way to say thanks. Other things to do in New Orleans on Memorial Day weekend The above two are the biggest Memorial Day events in New Orleans, but you'll still find plenty of local services and events happening in the city. Feel free to check social media before you head out, or simply walk the streets and see what's happening. If you're staying in New Orleans over the whole Memorial Day weekend and want to know what to do on the other days, we've got some suggestions down below. Take the Paddlewheeler Creole Queen Cruise If you're keen to discover more of New Orleans' 300-year history, or enjoy riding boats, consider a Paddlewheeler Creole Queen Cruise. The luxury liner looks like it was ripped out of the Wild West era, but don't let your eyes decieve you - the boat boasts luxurious decor and air conditioning, ensuring your trip will be pleasant regardless of New Orleans' sticky temperatures! Your trip passes through all the city's best bits, like the French Quarter, the Port of New Orleans, and Jean Lafitte National Park. Your guide will point out landmarks as you pass them, all while filling you in on the history of each location. Highlights include the founding of present-day New Orleans by the LeMoyne brothers, the expansion of the city into the French Quarter, and the Louisiana Purchase. You'll then reach Chalmette Battlefield, which seems like an appropriate stop for Memorial Day weekend. You'll disembark and be taken on an hour-long guided tour led by National Park Rangers. You'll learn more about the Battle of New Orleans and why the city was so important for Louisiana and the US as a whole. Dare to undertake an Ultimate Swamp Adventure If you want to feel closer to nature and have a daring streak in you, why not take a tour of the bayou, courtesy of an Ultimate Swamp Adventure? Gorgeous scenery and deadly wildlife await! You'll hop aboard a boat and set out into Louisiana's thick wetlands on an adventure you won't soon forget. Your experienced guide and sea captain will expertly navigate the waters, taking you on a tour of the best sites. Make sure you take a camera, or make some space on your phone, because you'll want to take as many pictures as possible. With any luck, you'll see alligators, snapping turtles, and wild hogs, to name but a few. Get some grub And finally, you may need to refuel at some point on Memorial Day weekend, so if you're wondering what to eat in New Orleans, check out our picks for the places that do BBQ right! The Joint, Central City BBQ, Devil Moon BBQ, and Blue Oak BBQ all offer quality smoked and grilled meats in different parts of the city, so check out their menus and locations and see which is right for you! Whichever you go to, you're bound to be stuffed and satisfied. Now there's no need to wonder what to do on Memorial Day weekend in New Orleans! We hope this guide helps you enjoy the weekend in whichever way you choose. However, if you're looking for some different suggestions for the Memorial Day weekend itinerary, check out Go City. With our All-Inclusive Pass, you can see all of New Orleans' best bits at one low price.
Dom Bewley
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Week in New Orleans

Heading over to New Orleans but aren’t quite sure how to make the best use of your time? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! Known for its vibrant culture, food and music, New Orleans is one of the most popular visitor destinations of the south, drawing in around 20 million people each year. From learning about the history of the city at The Presbytère to catching a live jazz show on Bourbon Street, there’s a lot to see and do there for every type of traveller. Though a week there might not sound like a lot, with the right planning it should be just enough time to squeeze in everything which you’d like to see. Still daunted by the prospect of touring a new city? Have no fear! We’ve spent a lot of time in The Big Easy and are sharing our favorite things to experience in the area! Keep scrolling to check out some of the most popular things to do in New Orleans. Day 1 What better way to start off your trip to New Orleans than by checking out The Presbytère? A perfect spot for history buffs and architecture geeks alike, the institute is well-recognized for its interesting background and wonderful design. In addition to being one of the most popular visitor attractions in the city, this place is known for being of the best examples of Spanish colonial design in the United States. We recommend taking a minute to appreciate its commanding brick façade and sweeping arches before entering. Whilst The Presbytère once served as a residence for Capuchin monks, it is now a museum housing engaging exhibits concerning the history of the state of Louisiana. The institute’s two permanent exhibits, Living with Hurricanes: Katrina and Beyond and Mardi Gras: It’s Carnival Time in Louisiana, work to tell both the living history and progressing story of the area. As thoroughly fascinating cultural endeavor, this place is most certainly not to be skipped. Day 2 Another one of our favorite places to visit in New Orleans is the Cabildo. Located right along Jackson Square, the Cabildo is a historically significant structure first built under Spanish rule in 1795. Whilst the building once served as the center of New Orleans government, it is now open as an educational institute for visitors to learn more about the history of the state of Louisiana. Though the Cabildo's collection is small (around 500 artifacts and original artworks), it packs quite the punch. Amongst its impressive repository, you’ll find historic documents, portraits of famous Louisiana figures, as well as Napolean’s death mask. Whilst you’re in the area, we also recommend checking out the St. Louis Cathedral. Originally built way back in 1727, the cathedral is recognized as the oldest cathedral in continuous use in the United States. Today, visitors can take self-guided tours to admire the attraction’s intricately painted ceilings, arched stained-glass windows and ornate statues. Day 3 Indeed, there’s a lot more to see in New Orleans outside of the French Quarter. That’s why for your third day in the city we suggest checking out the Garden District, known for its historic mansions and lush greenery. This place is a total haven for architecture lovers and is perhaps best explored on foot. Since the homes around this area are well-recognized, you can actually book guided tours to learn more about their architectural styles, fascinating history and famous residents. In addition, the Garden District is a great place to casually meander through, with lots of fantastic shopping opportunities and dining options to choose from. For total shopping addicts, Magazine Street is a six-mile stretch known for its high-end boutiques and sidewalk cafes. Offering all of the beauty of the city center with less of the hustle and bustle, we couldn’t think of a better way to spend a nice sunny day in New Orleans! Day 4 There’s no festival quite like Mardi Gras. This is why even if you’re not travelling during the unique Christian holiday, we suggest dedicating your fourth day in New Orleans to checking out Mardi Gras World. Located along the Mississippi River, this large working warehouse seeks to provide visitors with an inside look into all the work and preparation which goes into Mardi Gras. Covering over 300,000 square feet, Mardi Gras World is recognized as the largest float designing facility in the world, putting out over 80 per cent of the pieces for Mardi Gras. Walking through the warehouse, guests can see how the floats are made, and also the integral role which technology plays in the creative process. Whether you’re an artsy type or just curious, this place works to provide a thoroughly one-of-a-kind visual experience to remember. Day 5 A visit to New Orleans just wouldn’t be complete without heading over to Tremé, America’s oldest African American neighborhood. For those looking for history and culture in New Orleans, this is the place to be. Start your day by checking out the Petit Jazz Museum, dedicated to over 4,000 years of black music. What better way to learn about the history of jazz than in its rightful birthplace? And since this is a fairly small speciality museum, you just might be able to squeeze in two – we recommend also taking a look at the Backstreet Cultural Museum, which houses intricately made Mardi-Gras costumes from the past. There are also many great places to eat around the area - whether you’re looking for a small bite or something a little more decadent, you’ll be spoilt for choice here. Some of our favorite places include Li’l Dizzy’s Café, Sweet Soulfood, and Gabrielle Restaurant. No doubt one of the most interesting areas in New Orleans, Tremé is a total dream for culture vultures and foodies alike. Weekend! Vibrant and bustling with life, New Orleans presents more than a few options to grab a drink and catch some live music on vacation. Still, our ultimate nightlife choice has got to be Bourbon Street in the French Quarter for its lively atmosphere and world-class entertainment. We recommend staying in the French Quarter after a day of touring in the area and checking out the broad array of dive bars and jazz clubs – trust us when we say that you won’t be disappointed! New Orleans is one of the most exciting cities in the United States to explore. Discover the city to its full potential with GoCity’s All-Inclusive Pass or Explorer Pass. If you’d like to know more, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook. With Go City, you can see more, for less.
Sarah Harris

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