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Planning 2 Days in New Orleans | Epic Itinerary & Travel Guide

2 Days, Itinerary, New Orleans

Planning a trip and wondering how to spend 2 days in New Orleans?

Well, you’ve come to the right place! Let me start by saying spending 48 hours in New Orleans really isn’t long enough to explore this multicultural city. That doesn’t mean I won’t try to help you do it! I’ve compiled this awesome travel guide for experiencing the city which is particularly helpful for first-time visitors..

New Orleans. N’awlins. The Big Easy.

I had always heard such great things about this city, and now that I’ve experienced its bold personality for myself, I finally get it. There’s simply no other destination in the United States that can compare to its unique charm.

While I must have gained at least 5lbs during my visit to New Orleans due to devouring as many Creole dishes, beignets, and po’boys as humanly possible, I’d do it all again in a heartbeat.

Jackon Square - 48 hours in New Orleans 2020

 

2 Days in New Orleans

 

New Orleans Itinerary Overview

ART. MUSIC. FOOD. DRINK. FESTIVALS. HISTORY. VOODOO. JAZZ. ARCHITECTURE.

There’s just so much to admire and marvel at in New Orleans. It’s jam-packed with tons of incredible things to do, places to visit, fun tour ideas, and of course, food and drink recommendations. Whether you’re in town for one of the many epic New Orleans festivals or simply here to explore the city, this itinerary will make sure your trip is a breeze.

2 Days in New Orleans


What are the best things to do in New Orleans? 

The following itinerary is jam-packed with recommendations on what to squeeze into your two days in New Orleans, so keep reading! However, here’s a brief breakdown of a few things you can expect to see and experience in “The Big Easy”:

  • Visit historic Jackson Square. 
  • Ger lost in the vibrant French Quarter. 
  • Party up a storm on Bourbon Street and Frenchman Street. 
  • Pick up a bargain at the French Market. 
  • Indulge in beignets at the iconic Cafe du Monde. 
  • Take in the beautiful St Louis Cathedral. 
  • Get a glimpse at the spooky LaLaurie Mansion. 
  • Enjoy a night of smooth tunes in one of the city’s many jazz bars. 
  • Explore the art and music of the Marigny & Bywater neighborhoods. 
  • Take a tour of the New Orleans Pharmacy Museum. 
  • Wander through the cities fascinating cemeteries. 
  • Immerse yourself in the artistic spirit of the city. 
  • Take a ride on a classic steamboat. 

Plus much more! Stay tuned for the end of this blog for even more ideas of how to fill your time in this amazing city!


How to get around New Orleans 

Getting yourself around New Orleans is thankfully, quite easy for any newcomer to the city. You have a range of options to get from A to B at your disposal, and some are unique to the city! 

Firstly, walking in New Orleans – as much as you can anyway – is the best way to experience this quirky city. Many of the central landmarks can be walked between, and it gives you an opportunity to really immerse yourself in the vibe of the city. There’s also a huge range of walking tours in New Orleans.

New Orleans is also enjoyable to explore on two wheels, and you can rent bikes at a number of sites across the city. Blue Bikes is the city’s bikeshare system. If you’re feeling like something a little different, why not rent a pedicab? These covered cabs allow you to sit in the back and take in the sights, while your “driver” takes you where you need to go. It’s fun and you see them across the city! 

New Orleans is also lucky enough to be the home of historic streetcars, which service Downtown, the French Quarter and other hotspots. They also have a well-networked bus system. You can view the schedules and routes of the city’s bus, ferry and streetcars on the New Orleans RAT website. In addition, the city also has a handy hop-on hop-off tour bus that makes its way around all of the key sites. 

If you’d like to see the city from the water, you can take a ride on a classic steamboat or a ferry. New Orleans’ ferries have a number of routes, and some offer the opportunity to take day trips out to sites like Algiers. Just jump on the Algiers Ferry and it will take you across the Mississippi.

Finally, if you’d prefer to drive, you can rent a car, call a cab or order an Uber or rideshare in New Orleans.


Where to Stay in New Orleans for 2 Days

For starters, you’re going to need to book some accommodation. For such a short visit to NOLA, you’ll want to stay right in the heart of the action, and that’s definitely the French Quarter!

The French Quarter is New Orleans’ main historic district and is packed with charming architecture, amazing restaurants, vibrant nightlife and so many unique accommodation options. 

Keep in mind that if you plan on visiting New Orleans during one of the city’s popular festivals, you’ll want to book your accommodation several weeks (or sometimes months) in advance. 

Here are a few of my top picks:

  • Dauphine Orleans (HOTEL): This is where I stayed during my visit to New Orleans, and I loved it. The rooms at the Dauphine Orleans are super comfortable, the staff is helpful, it’s got a crazy haunted history, and it’s one of the few hotels in the French Quarter with a pool. This really comes in handy amidst the intense New Orleans heat. The hotel is just one block from the infamous Bourbon Street and a 6-minute walk to Jackson Square. 

2 Days in New Orleans Itinerary

2 Days in New Orleans

  • HI New Orleans Hostel (HOSTEL): If you’re a solo traveler or budget backpacker coming to New Orleans, then this hostel is where you’ll want to stay. A top-notch location on the border of the French Quarter and Downtown New Orleans, it has hundreds of excellent reviews and incredible prices! 
  • The Roosevelt Hotel | Waldorf Astoria (LUXURY): With its elegant interiors and jaw-dropping lobby, the Roosevelt Hotel is a favorite among New Orleans visitors. I made my way here to grab a couple of mouth-watering cocktails at the famous Sazerac Bar. I was left in awe while walking along its gleaming marble floors underneath decadent crystal chandeliers. It’s also equipped with a beautiful rooftop pool, the exclusive Waldorf Astoria spa, and the award-winning rustic Italian Domenica Restaurant. While it’s not technically in the French Quarter, it is just a couple of minutes walk away from the iconic Canal Street. 

2 Days in New Orleans Itinerary


New Orleans Itinerary Day 1: Explore the French Quarter

With its bright architecture, charming boutique shops, and a huge variety of popular restaurants and bars – it’s no mystery why the French Quarter is considered The Crown Jewel of New Orleans. The historic French Quarter is packed with so much personality that I could hardly believe I was still in the United States. There are so many fantastic things to do and places to explore in the French Quarter that you’ll definitely wish you had more than 48 hours in the city just to explore this district along.

Let’s take a look at what to check out in the French Quarter on the first day of your New Orleans itinerary…

2 Days in New Orleans Itinerary

2 Days in New Orleans Itinerary


Cafe Du Monde

Start your exploration of this great city with a cafe au lait and some tasty beignets (French donuts) at New Orleans’ most iconic establishment, Cafe Du Monde. During my most recent trip to NOLA, I came here nearly every day because the coffee and pastries were just that good. 

Cafe du Monde is open 24 hours so suits perfecty if you need an early-morning caffeine hit or a late-night snack, but I seriously think it’s the best place to start your day. There tend to be live musicians playing jazz every morning (as it’s always guaranteed to be buzzing with tourists), and they’ll definitely get you into the New Orleans spirit.

The tables are self-seated, so be prepared to wait (and be on the lookout for people leaving). Or you can wait in line, take your coffee and beignets to-go, and enjoy them in Jackson Square right across the street. Just keep in mind that Cafe du Monde is a cash-only establishment, so make sure you’ve got some bills on hand.

Why not make your first morning in New Orleans that extra special with a food history tour? You’ll taste the delights of Café du Monde and several other fantastic eateries in the French Quarter on this highly-rated food tour.

Cafe du Monde - 2 Days in New Orleans

Cafe du Monde - 2 Days in New Orleans


Jackson Square

This 2.5-acre plaza is one of New Orleans’ most recognizable (and photogenic) areas. It’s also jam-packed with New Orleans history, as it was the location of the famous “Louisiana Purchase” back in 1803.

T a stroll through the small yet well-maintained garden and snap a pic of the bronze statue of Andrew Jackson in the center of the square with St. Peter’s Cathedral as a backdrop. Sit on one of the park benches and people-watch as flocks of tourists begin their day. If you’re interested in photography, I’d also recommend heading across the street (and up the staircase) for an unparalleled photo opportunity overlooking the entire square. 

One of my favorite things to do in Jackson Square is to admire all the various painters and artists who display their work here. There are so many of them out there every day, and the art really is impressive (and would make for a fantastic New Orleans souvenir).

Jackson Square - 2 Days in New Orleans Itinerary

Jackson Square - 2 Days in New Orleans Itinerary


St. Louis Cathedral

Welcome to the oldest operating cathedral in North America! St. Louis Cathedral is obviously beautiful from the outside, but the true beauty lies beyond its stunning facade. When I stepped through the large white doors, I honestly couldn’t believe that this type of cathedral was in the U.S. I felt like I was back in France or any other major European city, because the level of detail was truly remarkable.

If you’re a practicing Catholic interested in attending Mass, here are the hours:

  • Monday – Friday: 12:05 pm
  • Saturday: 5:00 pm Vigil Mass
  • Sunday: 9:00 am & 11:00 am

St Louis Cathedral is completely free to enter, but a self-guided tour brochure is available for a $1 donation if you want to learn more about the cathedral’s rich history.

Jackson Square - 2 Days in New Orleans Itinerary

St. Louis Cathedral - 2 Days in New Orleans

St. Louis Cathedral - 2 Days in New Orleans Itinerary


The Presbytère

Located right next door to St. Louis Cathedral is The Presbytère, one of the five major Louisiana State Museums in New Orleans. This museum is a must-visit during your trip to NOLA. Here you’ll learn a lot about the history of the city, including quite a lot about two of New Orleans’ major events – Hurricane Katrina & Mardi Gras.

While I don’t typically visit too many museums when I travel, I really enjoyed this one as it told two different but equally important Louisiana stories – “one of celebration and one of resilience.” The two permanent exhibits located in The Presbytère are:

  1. The Living with Hurricanes: Katrina and Beyond
  2. Mardi Gras: It’s Carnival Time in Louisiana

2 Days in New Orleans


I was only a teenager when Hurricane Katrina happened, so I didn’t fully understand the intense struggles and hardships that New Orleans locals endured during this tragic time. The first-floor exhibit of the Presbytère does an incredible job of explaining the events that occurred in detail and why the badly-engineered levee system resulted in one of the country’s worst ever natural disasters.

While it may be emotionally heavy, a visit here is really important for visitors to New Orleans to better understand what occurred in 2005. However, a visit to the Presbytere isn’t all about the distressing history of New Orleans, because the second floor is dedicated to all things Mardi Gras, the city’s most iconic annual celebration!

As a long-time music festival fanatic myself, it’s safe to say that I love a good party that involves dressing up in wild costumes, dancing the night away to great music and being surrounded by unique people. Attending Mardi Gras has been a dream of mine for years, so wandering around this exhibit and learning all about its wild celebrations was particularly fun. It’s filled with fascinating historical information, a display of gorgeous carnival costumes, plus mesmerizing photography of all the shenanigans!

Both exhibits are extremely well laid out, have interactive components, and I guarantee you’ll love them as much as I did.

Depending on how much you enjoy reading, you could spend anywhere between 30 minutes to two hours inside the Presbytere.  

2 Days in New Orleans

2 Days in New Orleans

2 Days in New Orleans

2 Days in New Orleans Itinerary

2 Days in New Orleans


New Orleans Pharmacy Museum

Just a two-minute walk from Jackson Square, you’ll find the New Orleans Pharmacy Museum, which is housed on the site of the apothecary of America’s first licensed pharmacist. It’s a small yet unique two-story museum dedicated to the history of pharmacology, which may not sound too exciting, but it really is!

I particularly loved looking at all the antique medicine bottles and reading up on the different tonics, potions and elixirs used in the past. It’s very aesthetically cool, and you will learn lots of fun stuff!

Pharmacy museum - 2 Days in New Orleans

2 Days in New Orleans Itinerary

2 Days in New Orleans Itinerary


The French Market

The Historic French Market is filled with food stalls, hunger-inducing bakery aromas and a community flea market with locally-made jewelry, clothing and art.

Enjoy a quick stroll through the French Market for some unique souvenir shopping, or use your visit to taste the flavors of the cajun food – and decadent sweets – that make New Orleans cuisine so memorable. It’s a fun and bustling open-air market and you will definitely find some gems inside. 

French Market - 2 Days in New Orleans

French Market - 2 Days in New Orleans

French Market - 2 Days in New Orleans


Marie Laveau’s House of Voodoo

Head over to the famous Bourbon Street to find the New Orleans institution, Marie Laveau’s House of Voodoo! If you didn’t know, the practice of voodoo has a length history in New Orleans, and I’d recommend you read through this article on The History of New Orleans Voodoo before your visit. It really is fascinating to learn about, especially because there are so many misconceptions about the practice. 

“The core belief of New Orleans Voodoo is that one God does not interfere in daily lives, but that spirits do. Connection with these spirits can be obtained through various rituals such as dance, music, chanting, and snakes.”

There are several shops in the city dedicated to Voodoo-Catholicism, and I think everyone would enjoy taking a stroll through Marie Laveau’s House of Voodoo. It’s stacked with books and unique trinkets. 

No photos are allowed inside, but it’s a unique shop worth popping your head in and perusing for 10 to 15 minutes. They also offer tarot card readings. If just visiting this shop isn’t enough for you, walk around the corner to the New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum!

“We take all the mysteries, the secrets, the history, and the folklore of rituals, zombies, of gris-gris, of Voodoo Queens and all that jazz, and put it all in one place at the heart of the New Orleans French Quarter.”

House of Voodoo - 2 Days in New Orleans


Bourbon Street

No New Orleans trip is complete without ample time exploring the debaucherous Bourbon Street! With its bright neon signs, funky  bars with various happy hour specials and a raucous atmosphere, this is the go-to place to party in NOLA!

I’d recommend walking up and down Bourbon Street twice during your two days in New Orleans, though – by day and by night – as it is two entirely different experiences. While there are some seedy bars, there are also a fair amount of great spots to grab a cocktail or frozen slushie. 

If you want to experience the thrills of the French Quarter and, more specifically, Bourbon Street, join this guided voodoo walking tour.

2 Days in New Orleans Itinerary

2 Days in New Orleans


The Rooftop Bar at Mambo’s

While you’re on Bourbon Street, one place I recommend you check out is Mambo’s Bar. I discovered this place while asking around about a place with a rooftop bar to take some photos from, and I’m so glad I found it.

I ended up trying one of their po’boys and grabbed a beer while enjoying the views overlooking Bourbon Street. I only visited during the day, but this place would be awesome to check out at sunset or at night to get an epic view of the bright lights of Bourbon Street. 

2 Days in New Orleans Itinerary


Cocktail History Tour With Doctor Gumbo

When planning my trip to New Orleans, I asked my Instagram followers for their favorite things to do, top tours and food or drink recommendations. It was actually my sister who recommended I try out a cocktail walking tour because it was one of her favorite things she did during her trip to NOLA.

I’m so glad I ended up doing it because it was the perfect introduction to the city’s nightlife. New Orleans has a vibrant cocktail scene, and I loved being shown around by a professional in the industry who was able to tell me all about it. We visited four different bars and got to try two different cocktails at each spot. We went with Dr. Gumbo Tours, and our guide was not only friendly, but able to answer all our questions.

“Join Doctor Gumbo Tours on a journey through New Orleans’ historic and fascinating history of cocktails, and sample them along the way. Belly up to the oldest stand-up bar in the country, find out where the Grasshopper was invented, get the real scoop on absinthe, learn the origins of the Sazerac and discover hidden gems where locals have been imbibing for centuries. Each stop will feature a historic cocktail prepared by multiple award-winning mixologists, and your guide will give you the history behind them! Expect to visit 4 venues including SoBou, the Bourbon “O” Jazz Bar and Tujague’s!”

2 Days in New Orleans


Fine Dining In The French Quarter

After your cocktail tour finishes, it’s time to soak up some of that alcohol with an iconic New Orleans fine dining experience. There are so many restaurants to choose from in the French Quarter, so I’ve narrowed my personal recommendations to just three. 

All of these establishments have become New Orleans staples and have been around for 100+ years. Their dining experience is guaranteed to be memorable. I’ll promise you that.

Fair warning – prices can be a bit on the expensive side. But so worth it.

  • Antoine’s Restaurant: Unique atmosphere, impeccable service, and the birthplace of Oysters Rockefeller.
  • Arnaud’s Restaurant: Traditional New Orleans fine dining. Classic Creole cuisine in the heart of the French Quarter.
  • Brennan’s New Orleans: Popular NOLA landmark famed for its ancestral Creole cuisine and iconic Bananas Foster.

Important: There is a smart-casual dress code at all of these establishments, so you’ll need to wear a collared shirt for the lads and a simple yet elegant dress for the ladies. These are also three of the most well-known and popular restaurants in the city, so don’t be surprised if there’s a wait, especially on the weekend.  

2 Days in New Orleans - Antoine's Restaurant


The French Quarter Nightlife Scene

“Drinking in New Orleans is a celebration of our culture.”

To conclude your first day in New Orleans, spend the rest of the evening soaking up the amazing atmosphere and bar-hopping vibe of the French Quarter. There are dozens of award-winning bars to check out, fun places to sing karaoke and to dance, and it’s just fun to walk around and admire the historical streets and unique architecture all lit up at night.

I’m sure you’ll find some spots on your own that you might find interesting, but here are some recommendations to get you started:

  • Lafitte’s Black Smith: The oldest bar in America – order a Voodoo!
  • Cane and Table: Havana-esque decor with delicious rum-based cocktails.
  • Napoleon House: A 200-year-old landmark serving up their signature Pimm’s Cup.
  • Oz: New Orleans #1 Gay Dance Club!

Note: Cane and Table and Napoleon House both also serve food, so if you’re not looking for a fine dining experience with a vibe, just head straight to one of those two places after your cocktail tour.

2 Days in New Orleans Itinerary


New Orleans Itinerary Day 2: Explore the Art & Music Scene of NOLA

I hope you were able to pace yourself last night and aren’t feeling too seedy, because you’ve got another jam-packed day of New Orleans exploration ahead of you on day 2 of my itinerary! While your first day in town was filled with historical landmarks, museums, shopping, food and cocktails – day 2 is focused solely on the colorful art and live music scene of New Orleans. 

If you don’t know, New Orleans was the birthplace of Jazz, and music is one of the central elements that make this city unlike any other place on Earth. So let’s get down to it. Here’s an exciting itinerary for your second day in NOLA…


Breakfast at Cake Café & Bakery

If you’re staying in the French Quarter, it’s a breezy 10-15 minute walk over to its neighboring suburb of Marigny & Bywater, where you’ll spend most of the day.

Start your day by grabbing a lip-smacking breakfast at local favorite Cake Café and Bakery! While they’re primarily known for their decadent cakes, they have a decent breakfast menu that won’t break the bank (as I’m sure by now you’re looking to save some money after all those cocktails last night).

Try the popular Breakfast Sandwich Special or Chicken Breakfast Tacos to soak up some of the alcohol and give you much-needed energy for the day ahead. I’d also recommend picking up one of their cupcakes to go. (Side note – never come to New Orleans while attempting to diet.)

2 Days in New Orleans


Dr. Bob’s Folk Art

To kick off your day of art and music, head over to Dr. Bob’s Folk Art, a funky workshop owned and operated by New Orleans’ self-taught folk artist Dr. Bob. It’s a compact little space, but it is filled with some of the most colorful and unique art you’ll be lucky enough to take in. I personally loved all the sassy phrases on the art like, “Shut Up & Dance,” “Be Nice Or Leave,” and “Be Gay & Stay!”

While the artwork was a bit expensive for my own travel budget (the cheapest souvenir artwork was around $50), it’s free to enter and definitely worth a visit. The lady who was working when I visited was incredibly welcoming and spent five minutes giving some background on Dr. Bob and how he became such an icon amongst New Orleans locals. After you’ve visited, be sure to keep an eye out, as you’re guaranteed to spot some of Dr Bob’s artwork displayed around the city!

Dr Bob Folk Art - 2 Days in New Orleans

Dr Bob Folk Art - 2 Days in New Orleans

Dr Bob Folk Art - 2 Days in New Orleans


Euclid Records

Located just a 10-minute walk down the road from Dr. Bob’s, you’ll find the awesome independent record shop Euclid Records. If you’re a collector of vinyl or CDs (or just love music), you’ll appreciate this place. It’s packed wall-to-wall with musical goodies, and you can easily spend a good 30-45 minutes browsing through their collection and listening to some great tunes.

Euclid Records - New Orleans Itinerary

Euclid Records - New Orleans Itinerary

Euclid Records - New Orleans Itinerary


Crescent Park

When you leave Euclid Records, make a left, and you’ll spot the bridge on Piety Street that leads over to Crescent Park. This is a 1.4-mile linear park alongside the Mississippi River and is popular with locals looking to get in a bit of exercise, to relax or to walk their dogs.

One of the main reasons to head over here, though, is to visit Piety Wharf, which provides sweeping views of the Mississippi River and New Orleans skyline.


Webb’s Bywater Music

Next, take a five-minute stroll up the road and find the small instrument shop, Webb’s Bywater Music. It’s not a very large shop, but it’s a favorite among NOLA musicians, and the staff is really friendly to chat with about the local music scene. While you won’t need much time here – unless you’re in the market for a new or pre-owned instrument – it’s well worth popping in for a brief visit.

2 Days in New Orleans

2 Days in New Orleans


Lunch at Elysian Bar

By now, you’ve probably worked off your breakfast and are starting to feel a bit peckish. This is New Orleans, after all, so there are many quality options to choose from in the Marigny & Bywater neighborhoods, but it really just depends on what you’re in the mood for. I grabbed lunch at this chic little spot called Elysian Bar, which is unlike any other restaurant or bar I encountered during my time in New Orleans. In fact, I walked right past it because the entrance looked like someone’s house!

It’s a beautiful venue, and you have your choice of sitting in the elegant dining room (which I’ve recently learned was modeled after Monet’s Dining Room in France), the indoor cafe or on the outdoor patio. The food was top-shelf, making it a favorite amongst tourists and locals for good reason. 

Elysian Bar - 2 Days in New Orleans

2 Days in New Orleans Itinerary

2 Days in New Orleans


Marigny Opera House

After lunch, make the short walk over to the beautiful Marigny Opera House, which is a non-profit performing arts center housed in a historic church that dates back to 1853. It’s a popular venue for weddings and performances, as well as the Marigny Ballet. I didn’t get a chance to go inside during my visit as there was a rehearsal being held, but you’ll walk past anyway on the way to the next stop.

Marigny Opera House -2 Days in New Orleans


Studio BE

While it’s near impossible to pick a favorite from all the places I visited during my NOLA trip, I’d say Studio BE definitely made the top 3. It’s an enormous 35,000-square-foot warehouse art studio showcasing the work of local artist Mike B. It’s packed with powerful and thought-provoking imagery that is guaranteed to leave a profound impression.

Studio BE - 2 Days in New Orleans


I’d recommend spending at least an hour wandering through the massive rooms and appreciating all of Mike Be’s work. There are loads of things to read, photos and videos to watch, and tons of mind-blowing art installations to marvel at. They’ve also got a merchandise shop that is a fantastic spot for some eclectic souvenir shopping. 

Studio BE - 2 Days in New Orleans

Studio BE - 2 Days in New Orleans

Studio BE - 2 Days in New Orleans

New Orleans Itinerary


Washington Square Park

By this time, you’ll probably be ready to head back to the hotel and rest for a bit. So, on your way, make a quick pit stop at the serene Washington Square Park. This beautiful public space is a great place to relax underneath the massive oak trees, and you’ll typically find some street performers in the area to enjoy.

Washington Square Park - 2 Days in New Orleans


Frenchmen Street

Last but certainly not least, Frenchman Street is where the cool people hang out in NOLA. It’s a street where every night is a free music festival, as it’s home to the city’s most popular live music and jazz venues. There’s always something going on, with plenty of top-rated restaurants to feast on delicious Creole cuisine, and it’s guaranteed to be a highlight of your trip to The Big Easy.

Frenchman Street - Best New Orleans Itinerary


While in the Frenchmen Street area, take a stroll through the open-air night market, browse through the items at the Frenchman Art & Books shop, grab some dinner, drink some beers, listen to some amazing music, and soak up everything this wonderful corner of the city has to offer. It’s a smaller street than I had pictured, but every place on it is worth a visit. I went to four different live music bars, and each was great. 

Once you step foot on Frenchman Street, you won’t need any recommendations because you can just follow your ears. But here are some places I went to and loved:

  • Blue Nile – One of the coolest, and most historic, music venues in New Orleans. 
  • Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro – A jazz institution that dates back to 1800!
  • Favela Chic – French / Brazilian fusion restaurant, bar and club. 
  • Apple Barrel Bar – Fun, eclectic and snug space for drinks and blues. 

No matter where you end up, you’re guaranteed a good time! That’s what NOLA is known for!

Blue NIle - 2 Days in New Orleans

Frenchman Street - 2 Days in New Orleans

Frenchman Street - 2 Days in New Orleans


More Fun Things To Do On Your New Orleans 2 Day Itinerary

Since this is only a 2 Day in New Orleans Itinerary, there are a lot of incredible places and attractions that had to be left off my list!

If you’re keen to do and see as much of this amazing city as possible, here are just a few more ideas for ya!

  • Marvel at the historic houses in the Garden District.
  • Try your luck gambling at the iconic Harrah’s Casino.
  • Rent a bike and ride through the massive City Park (it’s 50% larger than Central Park in New York!)
  • Visit Magazine Street – six miles of distinctly unique NOLA flair.
  • Book a ghost or cemetery tour for some spooky thrills at places like the Lafayette Cemetery.
  • Visit the newly opened New Orleans African American Museum.
  • Wait in the long but totally worth it lines to try the famous jambalaya at Coop’s Place.
  • Take a ride on the historical New Orleans streetcar.
  • Get a tarot card reading.
  • Check out the Le Petit Jazz Museum for an in-depth look at the history of jazz music.
  • Visit The National WWII Museum.
  • Have a glass of wine and a popular cheese plate at Bacchanal Fine Wine & Spirits.
  • Take a ride on the historic Steamboat Natchez. 
  • Watch the sunset while enjoying a cocktail at Hot Tin Rooftop Bar.
  • Order a frozen Irish coffee at Parasol’s Irish Channel.
  • Attend a New Orleans Saints or New Orleans Pelicans game.
  • Visit the exhibitions inside the historic Cabildo in Jackson Square.

While it’s obviously impossible to accomplish all of these items on a New Orleans itinerary in 2 days, definitely keep these in mind for future visits!

What to do in New Orleans in 48 Hours

2 Days in New Orleans


Day Trips For Your 2 Day Itinerary in New Orleans

Found yourself with a bit more time in New Orleans, or looking for ideas on what to do during your next visit that I bet you’re already planning?

There are so many awesome day trips outside the city that definitely need to be mentioned in any New Orleans travel guide, so here are the best ones…

  • New Orleans Oak Alley Plantation Half-Day Tour: “Marvel at the quarter-mile-long alley of Oak trees-each over 250 years old at the world-famous Oak Alley Plantation. This tour offers up a glimpse into the life of the Old South. Hear exclusive stories about life on this plantation built in 1839.”
  • From New Orleans: Whitney Plantation Tour: “Take a personal look into the lives of owners and slaves in Antebellum Louisiana. In 2014, Whitney Plantation opened its doors to the public for the first time in its 262-year history – the only plantation museum in Louisiana with a focus on slavery.”
  • New Orleans Swamp & Bayou Boat Tour: “Experience the timeless beauty of South Louisiana on a custom-built swamp boat. Cruise through part of the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and see alligators, raccoons and snakes in the Barataria Preserve.”

Day Trips from New Orleans


Am I Missing Anything From This New Orleans In Two Days Itinerary?

I hope after reading this, you can see that I’ve completely fallen in love with New Orleans and am of course planning future visits! While at first glance it may seem like it’s a bit rough around the edges, it’s a city that is unlike any other in the USA and has so much to offer visitors.

If you’ve been to New Orleans recently and think I need to add something to this travel guide, please let me know! I’d love to hear what you loved about NOLA!

2 Days in New Orleans Itinerary


Looking for More USA Travel Inspiration?

I’ve done a fair bit of traveling over the past years, and I’ve created so many fun and exciting guides that I hope inspire you. From where to stay to the best things to do across the USA, here are just a few of my highlights (including more of my New Orleans content!)

  • 101 New Orleans Quotes & Captions To Inspire Your NOLA Getaway
  • 90+ Fun, Fascinating, and Interesting New Orleans Facts
  • 30 Best New Orleans Festivals For Your Bucket List
  • 10 Music Festivals in New Jersey To Experience Before You Die
  • The 99 Best New York Quotes To Transport You To the Big Apple
  • 15 Incredible Places To Go Glamping in Louisiana
  • The 30 Best Country Music Festivals in the U.S.A.
  • Top 10 Music Festivals in South Carolina | Country, Jazz, & More
  • Top 30 EDM & Electronic Music Festivals In The USA
  • Beach Glamping: 15 Best Places To Stay In The USA
  • 15 Best Luxury Cabins In Georgia 
  • The 15 Best Hot Air Balloon Festivals In The USA\

THANKS SO MUCH FOR READING MY 2 DAYS IN NEW ORLEANS ITINERARY!

SHARE THIS NEW ORLEANS IN 48 HOURS ITINERARY WITH YOUR TRAVEL SQUAD.


Disclaimer: This post was written as part of a destination marketing campaign with New Orleans & Company, who covered my accommodation and food costs, but all opinions are entirely my own.

Head over to NewOrleans.com for everything you need to know about planning your upcoming trip to this great city!

48 Hours in New Orleans

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July 13, 2021/16 Comments/by Dave
https://www.jonesaroundtheworld.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/11/2-Days-in-New-Orleans-.png 315 560 Dave https://www.jonesaroundtheworld.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Jones-Logo-BLACK-trans.png Dave2021-07-13 22:10:142024-04-29 07:02:59Planning 2 Days in New Orleans | Epic Itinerary & Travel Guide
16 replies
  1. David Sheely says:
    September 3, 2021 at 7:39 am

    Hi! Thank you so much for all of the helpful information you write!

  2. David Sheely says:
    October 15, 2021 at 4:21 am

    Hi! Thank you so much for all of the helpful information you write!

  3. David Sheely says:
    October 26, 2021 at 6:59 am

    Hi! Thank you so much for all of the helpful information you write!

  4. ghostadventuresorleans says:
    December 6, 2021 at 4:40 pm

    Very informative and useful article. Learned a lot. Thank you.

  5. Pat says:
    May 12, 2022 at 3:09 pm

    Well, consider me inspired. I just booked a flight to NO for next weekend lol Leaving Friday morning, returning on Sunday night. Thanks for the motivation!

  6. Ramesh Messi says:
    July 6, 2022 at 11:17 am

    Nice blog, by the way. Thanks for sharing this information.

  7. 2 Days in New Orleans says:
    June 28, 2023 at 12:35 pm

    Thank you for providing such a useful post for traveling to New Orleans! Really helped me plan my itinerary

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