There’s a lot of physical beauty in New Orleans, Louisiana, but there’s something that sticks with you far longer than a photo or a souvenir: the energy. Chances are you’ve heard of the French Quarter, home to iconic Bourbon Street and its never-ending party.
That certainly is one kind of energy, but the Big Easy is as easygoing as it is boisterous — the parks, eye-catching architecture and walkable streets in the laid-back Bywater and Mid-City neighborhoods are proof.
And don’t hold back when it comes to trying a bite (or several) of the local Creole and Cajun cuisines. From fluffy muffalettas and rich gumbos to spicy jambalaya and beignets, there’s a snack for every hour of the day.
As always, check for travel restrictions and closures before planning your trip
Friday: Visit the French Quarter’s Iconic Sites
Many of New Orleans’ most visited spaces can be found in the French Quarter and its neighboring communities. On day one, check a bunch of must-see sites off your to-do list. Kick off your morning with coffee and a beignet at the iconic Café Du Monde at its original location in the French Market — the chicory-infused brew is sweeter than your typical cup and a true vacation treat.
From there, walk a few blocks away from the Mississippi River to the famous French Quarter (you’ll feel, and hear, its energy from blocks away). Don’t forget to look up — this neighborhood is known for its Spanish-style architecture.
While the French Quarter is always filled with fellow travelers — not to mention revelers —it’s well worth the visit. After dark, Bourbon Street and the neighboring streets can get rowdy, so it’s great for adults but less so for children.
Spend the afternoon popping into Voodoo shops, museums (don’t miss the haunted LaLaurie Mansion, which offers ghost tours), bars and restaurants.
New Orleans is also known for its unusual aboveground cemeteries, and one of the most famous ones is located in this neighborhood. To explore St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, book a guided tour, as it’s closed to the public. But the ticket price is worth it: You’ll pick up stories to tell over dinner.
And when it’s time to do just that, check out Cane & Table for a taste of Havana and an alluring menu of rum drinks. Alternatively, grab a burger at Port of Call, or explore the seasonal menu alfresco at Café Amelie.
Go with the flow after dinner and head out on an aimless evening constitutional — there’s plenty of people-watching to be had.
Saturday: Indulge in Sun, Art and Wine in Bywater
The Bywater neighborhood, east of the French Quarter along the Mississippi River, is loved for its hidden gems. After braving the crowds of the previous day, ease into the morning with a visit to the Country Club, a restaurant and bar with an outdoor pool for soaking up the sun.
Once you’re properly relaxed, take a walk down Royal Street to the massive mural outside of Studio Be — grabbing a cup of coffee at Petite Clouet Café along the way.
The mural is only a small part of this warehouse space, curated by local artist Brandan Odums, known to fans as Bmike. The floor-to-ceiling artwork filling the studio is jaw-dropping and features work inspired by Black culture in New Orleans, as well as its leaders and icons.
After an afternoon of art, head to Bacchanal Fine Wine & Spirits, a wine and cheese shop with a relaxing patio for snacks and sips. When it’s time to pry yourself from the idyllic atmosphere of Bacchanal and start to think about dinner, check out Nagomi for sushi, the Elysian Bar for French cuisine or the Bywater American Bistro for its seasonal menu.
And it wouldn’t be a true night out in Bywater without a bit of noise. Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro has all of the fun of the French Quarter’s music halls, but with a more relaxed vibe. The Maison is another live music venue that puts everything from traditional jazz to drag shows on its stage
Sunday: Take in the Parks (and Cemeteries)
A hearty breakfast is never far away in New Orleans, but the Ruby Slipper Café in Mid-City will launch the day in the right direction. After a plate of pulled-pork biscuits or fruit-covered French toast head, outside to take in the sights by foot.
City Park spans 1,300 acres, and stepping inside its gates is like entering a different era, thanks to botanical gardens and the largest grove of mature live oaks in the world (some are nearly 800 years old).
This park could keep you busy for a full weekend — it has an art museum, dog park, golf course, carousel, tons of gardens and more. After two days of eating and drinking, opt for a long walk around the area with lots of sit breaks in the shade.
If you’re looking for even more stroll-worthy scenery and you aren’t opposed to a slightly spooky vibe, Mid-City is home to a handful of beautiful cemeteries: the Masonic Cemetery, St. Patrick’s Cemetery No. 3, Cypress Grove Cemetery and Gates of Prayer Cemetery No. 1.
Come dinnertime, head to Ralph’s on the Park for Creole cuisine or Vessel for a meal in a converted cathedral, built in 1914. Your sweetest way to end the weekend is at Ike’s Snowballs, a NOLA institution, famous for its icy treats.
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