How to spend the ultimate weekend in New Orleans

07.09.2024 - 21:58 / lonelyplanet.com

Sep 7, 2024 • 5 min read

With gaslamps lighting the streets and jazz filling the air as you stroll through the French Quarter, New Orleans sets its unique vibes. It is truly unlike any other US city. It’s vibrant and full of life, culture and excellent food, much of it available 24/7. It’s a city I keep coming back to because I know I’m going to have a great time, no matter what time of year I visit.

Whether you’re planning to spend time wandering Bourbon St drink in hand, taking a ghost tour in one of the many iconic cemeteries spread throughout the city, or sipping a poolside cocktail at the historic Hotel Monteleone, New Orleans has something to satisfy every traveler and makes for an excellent long weekend.

Morning: Get in the New Orleans spirit bright and early with a cup of chicory coffee at French Truck Coffee – there’s one on just about every street corner in the city. Take some time to wander the French Quarter, stopping to check out the many antique stores and art galleries (Mortal Machine – with its focus on outsider are and pop surrealism – is my personal favorite). Make sure to take a stroll down Bourbon St to get the lay of the land before the party really gets going later in the evening.

How to spend the day: Head over to the city’s Garden District for some excellent shopping. The streets are lined with beautiful historic homes and trees strewn with Mardi Gras beads, so you’ll get a sense of the local character while you walk around. You’ll also get the chance to explore the contrasts seen in one of the city’s most famous cemeteries, Lafayette Cemetery. Make your first stop at NOLA Mix Records to pick up some vinyl treasures. Next, visit the Garden District Book Shop, home to Pete the bookstore dog, for a literary treat. If your energy is flagging, grab another cup of coffee at Whatever Coffee, a cute counter located inside Stein’s Deli (where you can also grab a sandwich for lunch).

Dinner: For dinner, head to Sylvain, a lovely bar located steps from Jackson Sq in the heart of the French Quarter. Enjoy delicious Southern food and well-made cocktails in the cozy, well-lit backyard space.

After dark: If you have the energy, it's time to see the nightlife of the French Quarter! Stop for an after-dinner cocktail at the Will and the Way, then walk along Bourbon St to hear some live jazz and take in the lively atmosphere.

Morning: Start your day at Fourth Wall, a gorgeous and spacious coffee shop in the city’s Commercial Business District. If you need breakfast, Majoria’s Commerce Restaurant is a classic diner spot right around the corner. After breakfast, hop on the streetcar down St Charles Ave to Audubon Park for a peaceful morning walk amidst lush greenery and plentiful wildlife.

How to spend