5 Days in New Orleans

By Sarah Harris
Published: July 18, 2024

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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New Orleans in January

Lively and filled with culture, New Orleans is home to many of the country’s most iconic neighborhoods, restaurants and museums. Whether you’re checking out the local galleries, soaking in the beautiful architecture, or having a ball at Mardi Gras, you’ll find little reason to stray far from the city’s delightful attractions. For those who are planning to visit this January, plan ahead with our comprehensive guide for all the best activities in the area. With Go City, you can see more for less. See the Sites New Orleans is one of the biggest entertainment hubs in the South. To grab a slice of the action, head down to the Seanger Theater to catch a wide variety of performances including touring Broadway shows, leading comedians, and live music. With its historic architecture and state-of-the-art technology, there’s no better place in town to go for a show. While most museums in the area focus on the history of New Orleans, the National WWII Museum seeks to preserve the experiences of those who were victimized by the Nazis and their allies during the Holocaust. A great stop for history buffs, the institute explores the war through immersive exhibits, moving personal stories, multi-generational programming and research facilities. An exceptional attraction and important landmark for New Orleans, the museum provides a fascinating educational experience. New Orleans is widely known for its beautiful buildings, like the Immaculate Conception Church, which has been listed on the National Register of Historic Places. A total must-see for architecture buffs, this venerable landmark’s stained-glass windows and wrought-iron pews are not to be missed. Visitors can come to the sermons or take self-guided tours to see the breathtaking interiors up close. If you’re interested in learning more about the history and culture of the city, you should take some time to check out the Historic New Orleans Collection. This expansive repository is comprised of 10 remarkable buildings which hold over 1, 000, 000 items that chronicle the history of the city. With so much to see, do and learn, this site would make for a great family day trip. Our next recommendation is the New Orleans Voodoo Museum, which is a small repository right in the heart of the French Quarter, holding one of the few collections dedicated solely to Voodoo art. Serving the community since 1972, the site prides itself on bringing its visitors an informational and adventurous experience intended to preserve the backstory and culture of Voodoo in New Orleans. Experience the intersection of history and spirituality through the museum’s unique collection of artefacts and artworks. Indulge in the Local Cuisine New Orleans is the go-to food city of the South, and with Mardi Gras kicking off in January, there’s no shortage of opportunity to try out the city’s delectable culinary offerings. Those with a sweet tooth should definitely check out the King Cake Festival, where attendees can sample tastings of the holiday treat from over 20 vendors. Although the star of the event is obviously the king cake, there are a lot of other food vendors serving up local favorites, just in case desserts aren't your thing. This one is not for the faint-hearted! If you’re looking for a fine dining joint as an escape from the bustling city, look no further. Situated in a beautiful Italian-style manse in Bywater, the New Orleans Country Club offers an assortment of delicious regional specialities, including shrimp and grits, chicken and waffles, and mascarpone polenta. In addition, visitors can enjoy some cocktails whilst catching a fun drag show – the world’s your oyster! New Orleans is renowned for its iconic gastronomic history. For a taste of the city’s unique culinary offerings, we suggest checking out The Pelican Club. Nestled in the historic Exchange Place in the French Quarter, this award-winning restaurant offers a diverse menu grounded in Southern Louisiana tradition. With its approachable menus, friendly staff and incredible atmosphere, the restaurant attracts and excites both first timers and Creole novices alike. Get Festive Carnival season kicks off in January, making it one of the most exciting times to visit the city. If you’re interested in joining in on the fun, either as a spectator or as a festivalgoer, there are a number of big events which might tickle your fancy, including the Twelfth Night, Phunny Phorty Phellows and Krewe de Jeanne d’Arc. At the parades, you’ll be able to experience the fanfare and festivities in true New Orleans style. Since the parades create dense crowds and a rather hectic atmosphere in the city, we also recommend planning ahead – remember, organization is key! Another one of our favorite things to do in January in New Orleans is observe Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Each year, on the third Monday of January, a crowd marches in the center of the city, celebrating the political activist’s life and legacy. To add to all the excitement, there are ceremonies, concerts and dance performances throughout the day. For those who are interested in learning more about Martin Luther King Jr.’s cultural impact, Ogden Museum of Southern Art offers free admission on the day, as well as special activities. For those who are travelling with kids, we highly recommend checking out Wizard World Comic Con. Attracting thousands of avid pop culture fans each year, this festival is the ultimate sci-fi, horror, anime and gaming convention that the city has to offer. Featuring costume contests, special workshops and artist and celebrity Q&A panels, the fun never stops coming. With previous speakers like William Shatner, Stan Lee and David Duchovny, this one is a sure winner. Exciting and vibrant, it's no wonder that New Orleans is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the South. Whether you’re a music lover, a total foodie, or an architecture geek, this place has it all. Celebrate Mardi Gras to its fullest, try out the city’s famous culinary offerings, or check out some of the stunning architecture – the sky's the limit! Discover all that this unique and fascinating city has to offer with Go City’s All-Inclusive Pass and Explorer Pass.
Sarah Harris
Smartly dressed New Orleans marching band
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Things to do in New Orleans in the Morning

Our favorite things to do in New Orleans in the morning include a stroll around the grand Southern mansions in the Garden District, alligator-spotting on the Louisiana bayous, a chance to ogle modern masterpieces at the New Orleans Museum of Art, and a deep dive into the city’s voodoo traditions.
Stuart Bak
Stuart Bak
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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

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