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The Ultimate 2 Days in New Orleans 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! While only having 48 Hours in New Orleans is really not long enough to explore this multicultural city, I’ve put together this awesome travel guide for how to explore the city (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 5 lbs 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 over again in a heartbeat. 

Because New Orleans is a city for the passionate.

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

Jackon Square - 48 hours in New Orleans 2020

 

2 Days in New Orleans

 

There’s just so much to admire and marvel at in New Orleans. While I may have only just visited for the first time, I have a strong feeling that I’ll be making regular return visits to The Big Easy from here on out! 

It’s jam-packed with tons of incredible things to do, places to visit, fun tour ideas, and of course food & drink recommendations. Plus so much more! Even if you don’t follow my itinerary exactly, I’m positive you’ll get some great ideas out of it that will be sure to enhance your own trip!

So let’s get dive into my 2 day New Orleans Itinerary!

2 Days in New Orleans


Where to Stay For 2 Days in New Orleans

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! Here are my top recommendations for travelers on all budgets!

The French Quarter is New Orlean’s main historic district and is stacked with tons of things to do, 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 hotel/accommodation several weeks/months in advance! Here are a few of my top picks:

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

2 Days in New Orleans Itinerary

2 Days in New Orleans

  • IHSP French Quarter House (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 in the heart of the French Quarter, hundreds of excellent reviews, and incredible prices (as low as $22 per night)! The IHSP French Quarter House is regularly listed as one of the best hostels in New Orleans, and will provide a comfortable stay at an unbeatable price! Read Reviews & Check Availability
  • The Roosevelt Hotel | Waldorf Astoria (LUXURY): With its elegant rooms and wondrous 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, and was left completely in awe while walking along its gleaming marble floors underneath decadent crystal chandeliers. It’s also equipped with a beautiful rooftop pool, 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 minute’s walk away from the iconic Canal St. When I make my return to New Orleans, this is definitely where I want to stay. Read Reviews & Check Availability

2 Days in New Orleans Itinerary


New Orleans Itinerary Day 1: Fall in Love with the French Quarter

With its unique colorful architecture, charming boutique shops, and a wide variety of popular restaurants and bars – it’s no mystery why the French Quarter is considered “The Crown Jewel of New Orleans”, because it simply has everything I personally look for in a travel destination!

The French Quarter is packed with so much personality that I couldn’t believe I was in the United States, and at many times felt like I was on the set of a movie, or transported back in time. There are so many amazing 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, because it’s impossible to experience everything! With limited time, you’ll want to get up bright and early so you can fit in as much as possible. 

2 Days in New Orleans Itinerary

2 Days in New Orleans Itinerary

 

Cafe du Monde

First things first. Start your exploration of this great city with a delicious cafe au lait and some tasty beignets (French donuts) at New Orleans’ most iconic establishment, Cafe Du Monde. During my recent trip to NOLA, I ended up coming here nearly every day because the coffee and pastries are just that good! It’s open 24-hours if you need an early morning caffeine hit or 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 and take your coffee and beignets to-go and enjoy them in Jackson Square 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. 

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, as well as one of the most historically significant landmarks since it was the location of the famous “Lousiana Purchase” back in 1803.

So take a stroll through the small yet well-maintained garden, snap a pic of the bronze statue of Andrew Jackson in the center of the square with St. Peter’s Cathedral as a backdrop, and take a seat on one of the benches to 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 marvel at all the various painters and artists who display their work along the lengthy iron fence. There are tons of them out there every day, and the art is 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 inside its facade. When I stepped through the large white doors, I honestly couldn’t believe that this type of cathedral was in the U.S. It felt like I was back in Italy, Spain, or any other major European city, because the level of detail was truly remarkable. 

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

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

It’s completely free to enter, but there is a self-guided tour brochure available for a $1 donation for those interested in learning a bit more about the history of the cathedral.

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, which is one of the five major Louisiana State Museums in New Orleans, and is a must-visit during your first trip to NOLA! The entrance fee for adults is $7, and I think it’s worth every penny because you’ll learn quite a lot about two of New Orlean’s major events – Hurricane Katrina & Mardi Gras. 

While I don’t typically visit too many museums when I travel, I LOVED this one, because it told two different 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 15 when Hurricane Katrina happened, so I did not fully understand the intense struggles and hardships that New Orleans locals had to endure during this tragic storm. 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 natural disasters. While it may be emotionally heavy, it’s really important for visitors to New Orleans to gain a better understanding of what occurred back in 2005. 

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 an avid music festival / Burning Man attendee, 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 lots of fascinating historical lessons, a display of dozens of gorgeous carnival costumes and mesmerizing photography of all the shenanigans!

Both of the 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.

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 away from Jackson Square you’ll find the New Orleans Pharmacy Museum, which is housed in the site of the apothecary of America’s first licensed pharmacist. It’s a small and unique two-story museum dedicated to the history of pharmacology, which may not sound too exciting, but I definitely think it’s worth a visit. I particularly loved looking at all of the antique medicine bottles and reading up on the different tonics, potions and elixirs used in the past. It’s very aesthetically intriguing and you will learn some fun stuff for sure. 

Pharmacy museum - 2 Days in New Orleans

2 Days in New Orleans Itinerary

2 Days in New Orleans Itinerary


Visit the Historic French Market 

Filled with food stalls, delicious bakery smells, and a community flea market with locally-made jewelry, clothing, and art – enjoy a quick stroll through the French Market for some souvenir shopping or simply to grab a bite to eat. It’s a fun and bustling open-air market that you can definitely find some hidden 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

Now it’s time to make your way over to the infamous Bourbon Street to find the popular shop, Marie Laveau’s House of Voodoo! If you didn’t know, the historical practice of voodoo is quite popular in New Orleans, and I’d recommend you take a 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 because it’s stacked with a wide variety of books, items, and unique trinkets! No photos are allowed inside, but it’s a super unique shop and worth popping your head in and peruse for 10 to 15 minutes. They also offer tarot card readings in the back if that interests you. 

If just visiting this shop isn’t enough for you, then simply 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

 

Walk Up & Down Bourbon Street

While Bourbon Street certainly isn’t for everyone, it definitely is something you have to check out at least once while you’re in New Orleans! With its bright neon sign, the endless number of bars with various happy hour specials and a raucous atmosphere – it’s a Spring Break vibe that’ll keep the party addicts happy! I’d actually recommend walking up and down Bourbon Street twice during your 2 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 unmissable spots to grab a cocktail or frozen slush drink!

2 Days in New Orleans Itinerary

2 Days in New Orleans


Check out the Rooftop Bar at Mambo’s 

While you’re on Bourbon Street, one place I think I think you should check out is Mambo’s. I discovered this place while asking around trying to find 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 St. I only visited during the day, but this place would be awesome to check out at night to get an epic view of the bright lights of Bourbon St.  

2 Days in New Orleans Itinerary


Cocktail History Tour with Doctor Gumbo

When I was planning my trip to New Orleans, I asked my Instagram followers for their favorite things to do, top activities / tours, and food / 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 own 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 an unbelievably vibrant cocktail scene, and I really 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 super friendly, was able to answer all our questions, and was an excellent way to begin our nightly shenanigans in the city!

Price: $35.00 (No drinks included) or $70.00 (cocktails included) 

Time: 5pm-8pm daily

Book Here

“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

 

Enjoy a Fine Dining Dinner

After the 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 different restaurants to choose from in the French Quarter, so I’ve narrowed my recommendations to just three!

All of these establishments have become New Orleans staples having been around for 100+ years, and their dining experience is guaranteed to be memorable. 

But fair warning – prices can be a bit more expensive. But so worth it. 

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

IMPORTANT: There is a smart-casual dress code at all of these establishments, so you’ll need to be wearing a collared shirt to be seated. 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.”

Finally, 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 dance, and it’s simply just fun to walk around and admire the historical streets and charming 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 beloved landmark serving up their signature Pimm’s Cup.
  • Oz: New Orleans #1 Gay Dance Club!

ALSO: Cane and Table and Napoleon House both serve food as well, so if you’re not looking for the fine dining experience that I previously mentioned, 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 Bywater & Marigny

I hope you were able to pace yourself last night and aren’t feeling too hungover, because you’ve got another jam-packed day of New Orleans exploration ahead of you! 

While your first day 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 actually the “Birthplace of Jazz“, and music is one of the central elements that make this city so completely packed with personality. So let’s get down to it. Here’s an awesome 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 be spending the majority of the day.

Start your day by grabbing a delicious breakfast at this local favorite Cake Cafe & Bakery! While they’re primarily known for their decadent cakes, they’ve got 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 to give you some much-needed energy for the rest of the day! I’d also recommend picking up one of their cupcakes to-go, as they’re particularly delicious! (Sidenote – 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 & music, head over to Dr. Bob’s Folk Art, a funky studio / shop owned and operated by New Orleans’ own self-taught folk artist Dr. Bob! It’s just a small little space, but is filled with some of the most amusing, colorful and unique art you’ll ever see! 

I personally loved all the sassy phrases on the art like, “Shut Up & Dance”, “Be Nice Or Leave”, and “Be Gay & Stay!”

While for me the artwork was a bit expensive to purchase (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 me 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 his 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 this awesome independent record shop, Euclid Records. If you’re a collector of vinyl or CD’s (or just love music), you’ll definitely appreciate this place. It’s packed wall-to-wall with musical decor, and you could definitely spend a good 30-45 minutes browsing through their collection and listening to their 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 the Crescent Park. This is a 1.4 mile linear park situated alongside the Mississippi River and is popular with locals looking to get in a bit of exercise 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, enjoy a five minute leisurely stroll up the road and find this 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 were 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 your head in quickly.

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 hungry. This being New Orleans, there are lots of quality options to choose from in the Marigny & Bywater neighborhoods, but it really just depends on what you’re in the mood for.

I ended up grabbing lunch at this chic little spot called Elysian Bar, which is unlike any of the other restaurants or bars 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 an elegant dining room (which I’ve recently learned was modeled after Monet’s Dining Room in France), an indoor cafe or on the outdoor patio. While the food was a bit on the pricier side (my total cost for lunch including tip was about $45), the food was definitely top shelf, and it’s a favorite among tourists as well as locals for a reason. 

If you need more convincing, have a quick read through this stellar review, “Review: Patience Is a Virtue Well-Rewarded at this New Orleans Hotel Bar“, as it definitely put into words what I don’t have the vocabulary / local knowledge for.

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 landmark 1853 church! It’s a popular venue for weddings, performances and 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

*THIS IS AN ABSOLUTE MUST-VISIT DURING YOUR 2 DAYS IN NEW ORLEANS!

Studio BE - 2 Days in New Orleans


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 a mega 35,000 sq. ft. warehouse art studio showcasing the work of local artist Mike Be, and is packed with powerful and thought-provoking imagery that is guaranteed to leave a serious impression. 

I’d recommend spending a minimum of one hour wandering through its massive rooms and appreciating all of Mike Be’s work. There’s a lot of different 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 souvenir shopping!

Cost: $10.00

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 regroup a bit, so on the way make a quick pit stop at the serenely scenic Washington Square Park. It’s 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 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, there are 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


So 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 music, and soak up everything this wonderful corner of the world 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 of them were great!

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

  • Blue Nile
  • Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro
  • Favela Chic
  • Apple Barrel Bar

“Inside the 20+ bars and clubs on Frenchman Street, you will find just about every style of music imaginable played by musicians local and from all over the world. Jazz, brass bands, latin, funk, electronic, rock, blues, americana, zydeco, edm, hip hop, DJs. You will even find live music on the street at night, with musicians tucked in doorways and leading massive sing-alongs on corners!”

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 in New Orleans

Since this is only a 2 Day in New Orleans Itinerary, there really is A LOT of incredible places and attractions that had to be left off the 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.
  • Explore the inviting Mid City District. neighborhood
  • Try your luck gambling at the iconic Harrah’s Casino.
  • Rent a bike and ride through the massive City Park (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.
  • 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 / trolley.
  • Get a tarot card reading. 
  • Enjoy a jazz-filled brunch on a Sunday morning at The Court of Two Sisters or Commander’s Palace.
  • 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 popular cheese plate at Bacchanal Fine Wine & Spirits.
  • Try some of the delicious Southeast Asian-inspired cuisine at Maypop.
  • 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 with only 2 days in New Orleans, definitely keep these in mind for future visits!

What to do in New Orleans in 48 Hours

2 Days in New Orleans


Day Trips from New Orleans

Found yourself with a bit more time in New Orleans, or looking for ideas on what to do during your next visit? Well, there are many awesome day trips outside the city that definitely need to be mentioned in any New Orleans travel guide! 

  • Louisiana Plantation & Swamp Boat Bayou Full-Day Tour Combo: “See the beasts of the Southern Louisiana Bayou in a full-day tour from New Orleans! Explore the lush wetlands and see one of the area’s historic plantation homes. Take this unique combination tour, and see the main attractions of Louisiana in one trip.” 
  • 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 2-Day New Orleans Itinerary? 

I hope after reading this you can understand that I’ve completely fallen in love with New Orleans, and am already planning a second visit! 

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 U.S.A, 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! 

Thanks so much for reading my New Orleans Itinerary 

2 Days in New Orleans Itinerary


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 pretty much anything else you’d need to know about planning your upcoming trip to this great city!

48 Hours in New Orleans

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July 13, 2021/15 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/2017/03/logotry-1-1-300x106.png Dave2021-07-13 22:10:142023-01-24 07:35:26The Ultimate 2 Days in New Orleans Itinerary & Travel Guide
15 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!

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

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

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

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

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

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

    Reply
  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!

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

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

    Reply

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