Travel Guide for New Orleans

Let the good times roll! New Orleans, Louisiana is a city that is full of culture, excitement, and delicious food. Unlock the best of New Orleans with our ultimate travel guide. Keep reading for my Travel Guide for New Orleans! I’ll share where we stayed, places we ate, and everything we did while visiting this special city. This is perfect for a 3 day trip to New Orleans.

Note: Some parts of our visit to New Orleans were sponsored by New Orleans & Company.

Where We Stayed

When it comes to choosing where to stay in New Orleans, you can find something to fit any budget, timeline, and preference. From more budget-friendly options to trendy boutique hotels, there are plenty of places to stay in the city. Whether you’re looking for an economy option with all the necessities, or something a bit more luxurious, explore all the options New Orleans has to offer. As you search, don’t forget to check the amenities of each spot and the proximity to local attractions. Doing your research beforehand will ensure that your time in New Orleans is enjoyable and hassle-free.

Staying down near the French Quarter or Central Business District will allow you to be near most of the action. Being within walking distance to most of the popular spots is really convenient. If you are looking for a place to stay that is a little bit quieter, check out the Garden District. If you are too far to walk to a destination, rideshares are available as well as the streetcars.

AC Hotel New Orleans French Quarter

On our most recent New Orleans trip, we stayed at the AC Hotel New Orleans French Quarter, a Marriott hotel. The hotel is located a couple of blocks away from the popular Canal Street and the building was formerly the Cotton Exchange and a bank. We loved the lounge adjacent to the lobby and they served small bites to guests in that area on Friday evening.

Where We Ate

No visit to New Orleans is complete without sampling the local cuisine. From Creole dishes such as shrimp gumbo and jambalaya, to classic po’boys and beignets, there is something to please everyone’s palate. From neighborhood eateries to upscale restaurants, the city’s restaurants are known for their unique flavors and creative takes on traditional dishes. Whether you’re looking for a classic plate of crawfish étouffée or something more adventurous, New Orleans has something for everyone. Each bite is a journey of discovery, a window into the city’s vibrant culture and spirit of hospitality.

Chemin à la Mer

At Chemin à la Mer, diners are in for a real treat. The upscale restaurant boasts a menu full of Louisiana-style seafood dishes like spicy gumbo, crawfish etouffee, and Creole-seasoned jambalaya. All the ingredients used to prepare the dishes are locally sourced, making each meal as authentic as possible. To add to the atmosphere, the restaurant is decorated with an old-world charm, complete with historic photographs and artifacts from the early days of Louisiana. The warm hospitality of the staff combined with the excellent cuisine makes Chemin à la Mer a must-stop for anyone visiting New Orleans.

Chandelier Bar at the Four Seasons

The interior of the Chandelier Bar lives up to its name – it’s absolutely stunning. It is a sophisticated cocktail bar located in the lobby of the Four Seasons hotel. The menu features classic cocktails with a modern twist, as well as unique creations that showcase local ingredients and flavors. The Chandelier Bar also offers a small selection of light bites and snacks, including caviar service, vegetable crudité, and beignets.

Lucy’s Retired Surfers Bar

Lucy’s Retired Surfers Bar is a fun and lively spot located in the Warehouse District of New Orleans. With its laid-back surfer vibe, tiki-inspired décor, and creative cocktail menu, Lucy’s has become a popular destination for locals and tourists alike. The “Shark Attack” drink and selection of frozen cocktails are popular choices. We hung out at the bar to watch a football game and tried several different drinks and some of the food options.

Café Du Monde

Café Du Monde is an iconic New Orleans institution that has been serving up hot beignets and café au lait since 1862. Located in the heart of the French Quarter, the café has become a beloved destination. This is a popular spot so be prepared to wait for your treats! The café is open 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and is always bustling with activity. The menu is simple, consisting of just a few items, but it’s the quality and consistency of those items that has kept people coming back.

The signature item at Café Du Monde is the beignet, a fluffy and crispy square-shaped donut that is covered in a mountain of powdered sugar. These delicious treats are made fresh to order and are served hot and steamy, making them the perfect breakfast or anytime snack. Beware – they are messy! Café Du Monde also serves up café au lait, a rich and creamy coffee that is made with chicory for a unique and distinct flavor.

The café is situated in a prime location, right across from Jackson Square and St. Louis Cathedral, making it a great spot to people watch and soak up the sights and sounds of the French Quarter.

Luke

Luke is a contemporary Creole brasserie located in the Central Business District of New Orleans. The restaurant is housed in a historic building and the décor features exposed brick walls, vintage tile floors, and elegant lighting fixtures. The menu at Luke is inspired by the rich culinary traditions of New Orleans, with a focus on fresh seafood, locally-sourced produce, and classic Creole flavors. One of the highlights of dining at Luke is the raw bar, which serves up a variety of fresh oysters on the half shell, as well as other seafood favorites like shrimp cocktail and ceviche.

What We Did

New Orleans is a vibrant and culturally rich city with a wide range of activities and attractions to explore. Check out some of the experiences we included in our most recent visit in this travel guide for New Orleans.

French Quarter Phantoms Ghost & Vampire Tour

If you’re looking for a unique and spooky way to experience the history and legends of New Orleans, the French Quarter Phantoms Ghost & Vampire Tour is a must-try. This walking tour takes you through the historic streets of the French Quarter, where you’ll hear chilling tales of ghosts, vampires, and other supernatural creatures that are said to haunt the city.

One of the highlights of the tour is a visit to the infamous LaLaurie Mansion, a historic home that was once owned by a wealthy socialite who was rumored to torture and murder her slaves. The mansion has been the subject of countless ghost stories and paranormal investigations, and your guide will share the eerie details of its dark history. It was also featured in American Horror Story.

Harrah’s Casino

Harrah’s Casino is a popular destination for gambling enthusiasts visiting New Orleans. Located in the heart of the city, Harrah’s offers a wide range of gaming options, including slot machines, video poker, and table games like blackjack, craps, and roulette.

Vue Orleans

Don’t miss a visit to check out the new Vue Orleans experience on top of the Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans. It is one-of-a-kind experience and observatory featuring a 360-degree view of New Orleans and the Mississippi River. There are many interactive cultural experiences that explore the rich history of the city, the diverse people who created the unique culture, and those who continue to shape it today. High-tech, touchless exhibits will help you learn all about the food, music, and more that makes up this incredible city. There is also a small café with great views and features items like individual King Cakes, sandwiches, drinks, and more.

Jackson Square

Jackson Square is a historic public park located in the heart of the French Quarter in New Orleans. The park features lush greenery, beautiful landscaping, and several iconic landmarks, making it a must-see destination for visitors to the city. Jackson Square is also a hub of activity and entertainment, with street performers, artists, and musicians filling the park with their talents and energy. Visitors can browse the stalls of local artists selling their wares, listen to live jazz music, or simply relax and people-watch while taking in the vibrant atmosphere.

St. Louis Cathedral

St. Louis Cathedral is a historic landmark and one of the most recognizable buildings in New Orleans. Located in Jackson Square, this iconic cathedral is a popular destination. The cathedral is named after King Louis IX of France and was completed in 1794, making it one of the oldest continuously operating cathedrals in the United States. The stunning architecture and intricate details of the building make it a masterpiece of Gothic Revival style, with three iconic steeples reaching toward the sky. Inside, visitors can admire the beautiful stained glass windows, intricate murals, and ornate altars.

Today, the cathedral is still an active church and offers daily mass services. Visitors can also take guided tours of the cathedral to learn more about its rich history and cultural significance. Whether you’re a history buff, art lover, or simply looking for a peaceful place to reflect and admire beautiful architecture, St. Louis Cathedral is a must-visit destination in New Orleans.

Other Places We’ve Visited in New Orleans

Monteleone Carousel Bar

The Carousel Bar is a legendary fixture of New Orleans’ French Quarter. Located inside the historic Hotel Monteleone, the Carousel Bar features a rotating circular bar that slowly turns like a carousel, giving patrons a unique and unforgettable experience. The bar’s decor is a nod to the city’s rich history and culture, with carnival-inspired murals, plush velvet seating, and vintage brass fixtures. The bar is known for its classic cocktails.

Mardi Gras World

Mardi Gras World is a popular tourist attraction in New Orleans, Louisiana that offers visitors an up-close look at the behind-the-scenes workings of the city’s famous Mardi Gras celebrations. The attraction is located on the banks of the Mississippi River, and features a massive warehouse filled with floats, costumes, and props from past Mardi Gras parades. Visitors can take a guided tour of the warehouse, which includes a video presentation, a walk through the float den, and a chance to see artists at work creating new floats and sculptures.

French Market

The French Market is a historic open-air market established in 1791. The market has a rich history and has been an important part of the city’s culture for over two centuries. The market spans several blocks and features a wide range of vendors selling everything from fresh produce to arts and crafts, souvenirs, and clothing. Visitors can stroll through the market’s stalls, sampling local cuisine, listening to live music, and browsing unique and eclectic items

The Crescent City offers something for everyone, and that’s why it’s one of the nation’s most beloved destinations. From the jazz clubs and fine dining to the history and architecture, there’s something for everyone in New Orleans. Whether you’re looking for a lively night out, an afternoon exploring plantations and cemeteries, or a fun-filled family vacation, this city has it all. With so much to choose from and almost endless ways to explore the culture and history, New Orleans is sure to provide the perfect vacation experience. Discover what the Big Easy can offer for your next getaway!