New Orleans - 4 Day Itinerary (not including the golf tournament)
- golfergirlsview
- Mar 23
- 8 min read
Updated: Apr 6
Day 1 - French Quarter
This iconic area is a must do if you've never been here.
Breakfast - Kick off your day with beignets and chicory coffee at Café Du Monde, soaking in the sights of Jackson Square as you people-watch and listen to live music from your outdoor seat. Be sure to wear white or light colors—you’ll inevitably be dusted with powdered sugar. But don’t worry, in New Orleans, it’s a badge of honor, not a mess. And as for the beignets? They’re nothing short of decadent.
Bring cash, Cafe Du Monde doesn't take credit.
Know what you're eating:
The word “beignet” comes from the French term for “fritter,” and the treat was brought to Louisiana by French colonists in the 18th century. Traditionally made from choux pastry or yeast dough, beignets are deep-fried until golden and generously dusted with powdered sugar. Over time, they became a staple of Creole cuisine.
Chicory coffee has roots that trace back centuries, originating in France before becoming a beloved staple in New Orleans. Chicory, derived from the roasted and ground root of the chicory plant, was first used as a coffee substitute during times of scarcity. It gained widespread popularity in Louisiana during the Civil War when coffee imports were disrupted, and locals began blending chicory with their limited coffee supply to make it last longer. The practice endured beyond necessity, as many grew to love the rich, slightly nutty flavor it imparted. Today, chicory coffee remains a signature of New Orleans culture, most famously served at Café Du Monde alongside warm, powdered sugar-dusted beignets. Its smooth, bold taste is a testament to the city's resilience and appreciation for tradition.
Exploring - Next, cross the street to Jackson Square and the iconic St. Louis Cathedral, where the square comes alive with local artists showcasing everything from classic paintings to captivating human statues. Treat yourself to a one-of-a-kind art piece as a special keepsake from your visit. As you stroll through the charming streets of the French Quarter, don’t forget to look up and admire the intricate wrought-iron balconies and stunning French architecture. Wander down Royal Street to explore elegant art galleries and antique shops, or make your way to the French Market, a lively hub for local crafts, delicious food, and unique souvenirs. On our last visit, a five-piece band played right in the middle of the street—because in New Orleans, live music isn’t just entertainment, it’s a way of life.
Cooking Class - Skip lunch and dive into a cooking experience at the New Orleans School of Cooking, located in the heart of the French Quarter. Sit back and relax as expert chefs teach you how to make classic Louisiana dishes like gumbo, crawfish étouffée, and pralines. With a variety of classes to match your tastes, you'll be fully immersed in the city's rich culinary culture while learning to recreate these beloved flavors at home. Best of all, you’ll get to enjoy every dish made during the class—so come hungry! When my family attended a few years ago, we fell in love with Joe’s Stuff Classic Seasoning, a must-have for bringing a taste of New Orleans into your own kitchen. Be sure to grab a jar (or two) before you leave! Reservations needed.
Historic Park - After indulging in all that delicious food, a walk might be in order (though a nap sounds tempting too!). Don’t miss the New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park, a hidden gem tucked behind an unassuming storefront in the heart of the French Quarter. It’s a National Park—yes, right in the middle of New Orleans, complete with park rangers and fascinating exhibits. As national park enthusiasts, our family was thrilled to stumble upon this unexpected find! Step inside to explore the rich history of New Orleans jazz, learn about the city’s musical legacy, and—bonus—soak up some much-needed air conditioning while you’re at it!
Dinner - After a well-deserved rest and a quick refresh, it’s time for dinner—and trust us, you’re in for a treat. Get ready to dig in and get a little messy with the legendary barbecued shrimp at Mr. B’s Bistro. A favorite of Dede’s, this dish is drenched in a rich, peppery butter sauce that’s absolutely irresistible. But the deliciousness doesn’t stop there! We also can’t get enough of the Duck Spring Rolls, Gumbo Ya Ya, Honey Ginger Glazed Pork Chop, and Crawfish Risotto. Whatever you choose, you’re in for a flavor-packed New Orleans feast! Reservations needed.
Ghost Tour - If your feet can handle a little more adventure, cap off your day with a Ghost Tour that delves into the city’s eerie past. We opted for the Adults-Only tour (minus the “Hellvision”), and while I’m a bit of a scaredy-cat, it was totally worth it! Beyond the spine-chilling stories, the tour is packed with fascinating historical insights, offering a glimpse into the darker side of New Orleans’ past. It’s the perfect mix of history, mystery, and a little bit of thrill—just don’t be surprised if you sleep with the lights on afterward! Reservations needed.
Note: You might have noticed we haven’t mentioned Bourbon Street—and that’s intentional. While it’s undoubtedly iconic, and you may want to stroll down it just to say you did, be prepared… it’s definitely a bit on the grimy side.
Day 2 - World War II Museum - Plan a whole day
The National WWII Museum, the only one of its kind in the U.S., is an absolute must-visit. Whether you choose to immerse yourself fully, reading every detail, or take in the highlights through the many engaging videos and exhibits, this museum offers a powerful journey through history. We spent an entire day here, trying to grasp the sheer scale and impact of this world-changing event. With several on-site restaurants (though a bit pricey), you won’t have to leave the campus, and the outdoor spaces provide a great place to pause and reflect between exhibits. Be sure to wear comfortable shoes—there’s a lot to explore!
Head back to the hotel to rest and get ready for the evening.
Dinner at Briquette Restaurant - We dined here a couple of years ago while staying in an Airbnb apartment right above the restaurant. My husband had the Louisiana Redfish on the half shell, and to this day, he still talks about it! My daughter and I shared the Oysters Rockefeller and gumbo, both of which were absolutely delicious.
Day 3 - Garden District
St. Charles Streetcar Line - Hop on the historic streetcar and ride to the Garden District, a journey through history itself! Operating since 1835, it’s the oldest continuously running streetcar line in the world. Both locals and tourists rely on this charming ride, which begins at Canal Street and winds through the Garden District all the way to Uptown. It can get crowded, but for just $3 per person, you can hop on and off all day. Depending on the time and season, you might have to stand until a seat opens up, but the experience is worth it. Pay the driver with exact change, or make things easier by using the "Le Pass" app to purchase your fare. We watched this video which was very helpful.
Take the historic Garden District Walking Tour - This two-hour tour kicks off near Commander’s Palace and is packed with fascinating insights. We learned about the unique wrought-iron designs and their differences, heard historic stories about past residents, and even spotted homes owned by famous figures. The time flew by, and by the end, I found myself wanting to hear even more!
Lunch at Cooter Brown's Tavern - As we’ve mentioned, we love good food, and it somehow tastes even better when it’s from a dive! We stumbled upon Cooter Brown’s after realizing we were starving while riding the streetcar. With no plan in mind, we hopped off and went searching for a bite—and wow, what a find! We split the Irish Channel Special (braised corned beef, caramelized onions, Swiss cheese, buttermilk slaw, and Crystal remoulade on brioche) along with a side of Bacon Ranch Fries. Just thinking about it now has my mouth watering!
Shopping on Magazine Street - Not long ago, we might not have recommended Magazine Street, but wow—what a fun and vibrant spot! It’s packed with unique shops and fantastic restaurants, making it a great place to explore. After dinner at La Petite Grocery, we decided to walk all the way back to our hotel in the Warehouse District—over three miles! Not once did we feel unsafe, and we were having such a great time, we just kept going. The stores were closed, but I can’t wait to go back and shop the day away!
Dinner at Commanders Palace or La Petite Grocery - Two incredible yet very different dining experiences await in New Orleans. Commander’s Palace is a nationally renowned icon, famous for its impeccable cuisine and stunning garden seating—which I highly recommend requesting. If Michelin awarded stars in New Orleans, I’m certain Commander’s would have at least one. (Jackets are preferred for men but not required.)
For a more casual yet equally exceptional experience, La Petite Grocery offers a menu crafted by James Beard Award-winning chef Justin Devillier. We recently dined here, and it was sublime. I had the burger—yes, a burger!—and let me tell you, my eyes rolled back in my head after the first bite. My husband opted for a nightly special: homemade mushroom rigatoni with pork ragu and ricotta, and the tender, house-made pasta was simply unforgettable. We wanted dessert but couldn’t manage another bite!
Either restaurant is a fantastic choice—you truly can’t go wrong.
Burger at La Petite Grocery
Day 4
Willa Jean for Breakfast -ick off your day with a hearty breakfast at Willa Jean, a spot that’s always buzzing—and for good reason. Come hungry, because everything is so fresh and delicious, you’ll want to order it all! My husband went for the omelet with bacon, served with the most amazing crispy potatoes, while I had the chicken and waffles—but not just any chicken and waffles. The chicken was coated in a chili glaze with maple butter, creating the perfect balance of sweet and spicy. Yum! We couldn’t resist grabbing a biscuit to go, and even five hours later, it was still incredible.
Plantation Tour - We visited this plantation on our own since we had a car and didn’t need transportation. It was a fascinating yet sobering experience, offering a glimpse into both the main house and the slave quarters. Seeing the stark contrast between the two always turns my stomach, a painful reminder of the inhumane conditions enslaved people endured. As difficult as it is to witness, it’s important to take the time to see, learn, and understand this part of history.
Dinner - we can't choose! We love all the restaurants below. Take a look at the menus and you decide.
Great adventures I couldn't find time to include:
Swamp tour - see alligators, birds, and more.
Dede with her family on the swamp tour in 2019 Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve
Jazz Fest - End of April to early May
Other Great Restaurants we couldn't fit in the itinerary:
Hotels we've stayed at and our experiences:
Old 77 Hotel - old hotel with exposed brick. Beds were extremely comfortable but floor creaked. If you're a light sleeper, this might not be for you.
Place d'Armes Hotel - old hotel on the north side of the French Quarter. A bit more out of the way and much more quiet.
New Orleans Marriott - modern hotel between the French Quarter and the warehouse district. Not as much charm but more amenities than others.
Roosevelt Waldorf Astoria - lovely hotel with a charming Italian restaurant
Holiday Inn Crown Plaza - Great location! Warm and friendly staff!
Pontchartrain Hotel - historic hotel in the Garden District. A bit on the pricy side and they say it's haunted!
Airbnb - we stayed at a beautiful airbnb in 2020 if you're looking for more room. This two bedroom apartment was beautiful.
Apartment - another place we stayed is an apartment with Sonder who has properties all over the world. A little further away on Canal than I would like but clean and spacious.
Not stayed in but looked around:
Eliza Jane - Historic boutique hotel with lots of charm
Comments