The Perfect Weekend in NOLA
New Orleans. The Big Easy. Whatever you call it, this city is like nowhere else on Earth. From the music pouring out of every doorway to the beignets covered in powdered sugar, New Orleans offers an experience you simply can’t find anywhere else.
And the best part? You don’t need a week to soak it all in. A weekend is the perfect amount of time to get a true taste of what New Orleans has to offer.
Whether you’re a history buff eager to explore the French Quarter, a foodie ready to dive into Creole cuisine, or a music lover hoping to catch some live jazz, this guide will give you the perfect itinerary for an unforgettable weekend getaway.
Get ready to experience Southern hospitality, unique attractions, and a whole lot of fun. Here’s how to make the most of your weekend in NOLA!
Planning Your Trip: Essential Considerations
Before you head to the Big Easy for a weekend of fun, here are a few things to think about.
Best Time to Visit
New Orleans has distinct seasons, and the time of year you go can make a big difference in your experience.
- February to May: This is high season, with higher prices and bigger crowds, especially during Mardi Gras and Jazz Fest.
- June to October: Expect hot, humid weather and the possibility of hurricanes. Prices are lower, and the crowds are smaller.
- November to January: The weather is cooler (highs around 60°F), making it a great time to explore.
If you want to avoid the biggest crowds, think about visiting during the shoulder seasons of spring or fall. Keep in mind that major events like Mardi Gras and Jazz Fest can really drive up prices and limit availability.
Getting Around New Orleans
New Orleans is a pretty walkable city, particularly in the French Quarter. For longer distances, Lyft, Uber, and the streetcar are all good options.
If you plan to use the streetcar, a one-day pass is just $3, and you can pay with exact change right on the streetcar.
Where to Stay
To make the most of your weekend, try to stay in a central location like the French Quarter, Central Business District, or Tremé. These areas offer easy access to many of the city’s attractions.
One hotel I can recommend is Hotel Peter and Paul, a charming, pet-friendly spot with a fascinating history. Think about what’s most important to you – nightlife, peace and quiet, or budget – and choose your hotel accordingly.
Day 1: Immersing Yourself in History and Culture
New Orleans has a vibe all its own, a little something you can’t find anywhere else. Here’s a plan for how to spend your first day exploring the city.
Morning: Exploring the French Quarter
Start your day with a quintessential New Orleans experience: breakfast at Cafe Du Monde. Grab some beignets and coffee at this iconic spot, but pro tip: don’t waste time standing in line. Instead, keep an eye out for an empty table and snag it when you see it.
After you’ve had your fill of fried dough and caffeine, head over to Jackson Square, a historic landmark in the heart of the French Quarter. Take a look at the architecture of St. Louis Cathedral, one of the oldest cathedrals in the United States. Spend a few minutes watching the street performers and soaking up the atmosphere.
Afternoon: Delving into the Past
In the afternoon, take a guided tour of St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, famous for its above-ground tombs. A guided tour is really the only way to get in, and it’s worth it. You’ll learn a lot about the history and traditions of New Orleans cemeteries, and it’s a fascinating experience.
For lunch, stick around the French Quarter and explore the diverse culinary scene. Try a muffuletta at Central Grocery, a New Orleans staple since 1906, or sample a traditional Creole dish at one of the many restaurants in the area.
Evening: A Taste of Local Flavors
For dinner, Liuzza’s is a local favorite for casual Cajun food. It’s a bit off the beaten path in Mid-City, but worth the trip. Or, explore other local restaurants for authentic New Orleans cuisine. You really can’t go wrong.
After dinner, experience the lively atmosphere of Bourbon Street. Be warned, though: it can be crowded and noisy, especially on weekend nights. If it’s too overwhelming, consider exploring other nightlife options in the French Quarter or nearby neighborhoods like Frenchmen Street, which has a more local, less touristy vibe.
Day 2: Beyond the French Quarter
Now that you’ve explored the French Quarter, it’s time to see what else New Orleans has to offer. Here’s a possible itinerary for your second day.
Morning: Plantation History
A visit to the area wouldn’t be complete without a stop at one of the historic plantations that dot the landscape around New Orleans. Oak Alley Plantation is a popular choice, but be aware that it’s about a 45-minute drive outside the city.
Plantations offer a glimpse into a complex and often troubling past. I’ll be honest, I have mixed feelings about visiting them. On the one hand, they’re architecturally stunning and offer a tangible connection to history. On the other hand, the history they represent is one of slavery and oppression.
Personally, I find the stories of families who built their fortunes by denying freedom to others to be, at best, repetitive and dull and, at worst, utterly horrifying. If you choose to visit a plantation, I encourage you to do so with a critical eye and to consider the full context of its history.
Afternoon: Garden District Elegance
After a morning steeped in history, head back to the city and explore the Garden District, known for its stunning architecture and lush gardens. Take a leisurely stroll, admire the grand mansions, and learn about the history of this affluent neighborhood. I always find myself dreaming about which house I’d pick if I won the lottery!
After you’ve had your fill of gorgeous homes, make your way to Magazine Street for some shopping. You’ll find a treasure trove of unique shops and boutiques offering local crafts, art, antiques, and souvenirs. It’s the perfect place to pick up a memento of your trip or a gift for someone back home.
Evening: Jazz and Cajun Delights
No trip to New Orleans is complete without indulging in some authentic Cajun cuisine. Find a local restaurant and sample some of the city’s signature dishes, like jambalaya, gumbo, or crawfish étouffée. Be sure to ask your server for recommendations – they’ll know the best spots!
Finally, end your day with a visit to Frenchmen Street, where the vibrant live jazz scene comes alive after dark. Explore the various jazz clubs and bars, each offering a unique atmosphere and a different style of music. It’s the perfect way to soak up the energy of the city and experience its rich musical heritage. You might even find your new favorite band!
Culinary Delights: Must-Try New Orleans Food
No trip to New Orleans is complete without experiencing the city’s unique and vibrant food scene. Here are a few must-try dishes:
Beignets and Cafe au Lait
Start your day the New Orleans way with a trip to Cafe Du Monde. Order a plate of warm, fluffy beignets absolutely smothered in powdered sugar, and wash it all down with a rich cafe au lait (coffee with hot milk). Be warned: it’s messy, but worth it!
Po-Boys: A Local Staple
As the saying goes, “The po-boy was invented in New Orleans and remains a staple, so if you don’t eat one did you even really visit?” These sandwiches are traditionally made with French bread and filled with everything from fried shrimp to roast beef. For a classic po-boy experience, head to Parkway Bakery & Tavern, a New Orleans institution.
Gumbo and Jambalaya
Dive into the heart of Creole cuisine with a bowl of gumbo or jambalaya. Gumbo is a flavorful stew typically made with seafood, sausage, and vegetables, while jambalaya is a rice dish similar to paella. Each restaurant has its own unique take on these dishes, so be sure to sample a few different versions.
Other Local Dishes
Don’t stop there! New Orleans is a culinary melting pot, offering a wide range of unique dishes. Sample crawfish étouffée (crawfish simmered in a rich sauce), a muffuletta (a giant sandwich piled high with Italian meats and cheeses), and other local specialties. Explore the diverse culinary scene, influenced by Creole, Cajun, and international flavors – your taste buds will thank you!
Alternative Experiences: Tailoring Your Trip
New Orleans has something for everyone. If you’re not into the bar scene, you can still have a blast. Here are a few ideas for different types of visitors:
For the History Buff
Spend an afternoon at the National WWII Museum, a world-renowned institution where you can learn about the history of World War II and its impact on the world. Or explore the historic homes and museums of the French Quarter and Garden District to discover the rich history and culture of New Orleans.
For the Music Lover
Explore the many live music venues on Frenchmen Street and beyond, where you can discover different genres of music, from jazz to blues to funk. Don’t miss Preservation Hall, a legendary jazz venue in the French Quarter where you can experience traditional New Orleans jazz in an intimate setting.
For the Non-Partier
New Orleans can be a great place to simply relax and explore at your own pace. It’s easy to avoid the typical tourist traps and find quieter, more authentic experiences.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is New Orleans a good weekend trip?
Absolutely! New Orleans is practically made for weekend getaways. You can pack a ton of amazing experiences into just a few days. From exploring the French Quarter and indulging in incredible food to soaking up live music and experiencing the unique culture, a weekend in NOLA is a fantastic way to recharge and have some fun. Just be prepared to want to come back for more!
What is Super Sunday in NOLA?
Super Sunday is a vibrant and culturally rich celebration that takes place annually in New Orleans. It’s when the Mardi Gras Indians, dressed in their elaborate and meticulously handcrafted beaded and feathered suits, parade through the streets of the city. It’s a spectacular display of artistry, tradition, and community pride, and it’s unlike anything else you’ll ever see. The energy is infectious!
How many days in NOLA is enough?
That really depends on what you want to experience! While a weekend gives you a great taste of New Orleans, I’d say 3-4 days is ideal to really delve into different neighborhoods, explore the museums, take a swamp tour, and savor the culinary scene. Of course, you could easily spend a week or more and still discover new things, but 3-4 days allows for a more relaxed pace and a deeper dive into what makes NOLA so special.
Wrapping Up
A weekend in New Orleans is unlike any other getaway you can imagine. From the history-soaked streets of the French Quarter to the music that pulses through the city’s veins, NOLA has something for everyone.
Of course, 48 hours might not be enough to experience all that New Orleans has to offer. That’s why it’s a great idea to start planning your return trip even before you leave!
When you come back, remember to dive headfirst into the local culture. Sample new dishes you’ve never tried before, and let the friendly atmosphere wash over you. New Orleans has a way of capturing your heart and soul, leaving you with a longing to return again and again.
Whether you spend your time listening to live jazz, exploring historic landmarks, or simply strolling along the Mississippi, a weekend in New Orleans is an experience you’ll never forget. And with so much to see and do, you’ll always have a reason to come back for more.