Experience the Magic of New Orleans: A Three-Day Wedding Celebration Itinerary

New Orleans, a city of vibrant celebrations and unforgettable moments, beckons visitors with its unique charm. From the soulful tunes of jazz in the French Quarter to the shared laughter over beignets and coffee, every experience leaves an indelible mark.

For a quick, energizing start, opt for Erin Rose's frozen Irish coffee. To indulge in a more substantial meal, consider the daily jazz brunch at The Court of Two Sisters, with the courtyard providing a delightful setting, weather permitting.

Before embarking on a captivating walking tour of the French Quarter, grab a to-go drink, a hurricane from Pat O'Brien’s or a purple concoction from Jean Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop Bar. Our French-speaking guests greatly enjoyed Tours by Marguerite, which beautifully emphasized Creole culture and the region's historical and geographic facets. For English speakers, Tours by Locals' guided tours or any of the city’s engaging ghost tours proved to be crowd-pleasers!

Take a brief respite from the French Quarter for lunch in the Warehouse District. Herbsaint, with its refined Creole cuisine, or St. James Cheese Company, offering a menu centered around gourmet cheeses in sandwiches, salads, and of course, mac & cheese, are excellent choices.

Return to the French Quarter for an afternoon of sightseeing and people-watching. The late afternoon presents an ideal opportunity to amble from one bar to another on Bourbon Street. Consider a visit to Bottom of The Cup for a psychic reading or explore the New Orleans Pharmacy Museum, the nation's first licensed apothecary shop. Art enthusiasts will find delight in the galleries and antique shops along Royal Street, offering unique pieces and souvenirs.

Wrap up the afternoon with a visit to Bacchanal Wine, where you can share a bottle of wine alongside a thoughtfully curated cheese and charcuterie board. Afterwards, venture to Frenchmen Street, where you can meander between jazz clubs and savor a gourmet hot dog at Dat Dog.

Assuming you're attending a late afternoon or evening wedding, consider heading uptown for a leisurely breakfast and a breath of fresh air before the festivities. To truly embrace the New Orleans experience, hop on the streetcar and relish the scenic historic houses along St. Charles Avenue.

Bear Cat stands out as an excellent choice, boasting an extensive menu to cater to a range of palates. Be sure to try one of their signature brunch cocktails.

Another noteworthy breakfast spot en route to Uptown is Molly’s Rise and Shine. Their classic breakfast sandwich and roasted carrot yogurt are crowd favorites. Don't miss out on a side of grits! Pro tip – Molly’s is BYOB, allowing you to bring a bottle of champagne and order a carafe of orange juice for delightful DIY mimosas with your meal.

Continue your Uptown journey with a serene walk in Audubon Park, surrounded by majestic live oak trees. Head towards the back to marvel at the Tree of Life and capture pictures of graceful swans gliding across the ponds.

If hunger strikes after your walk, consider Jacques-Imo’s or Commander’s Palace for a "light" lunch. Both establishments offer delectable seafood options and impeccable service. For those eager to unwind before the wedding, Commander’s offers 25-cent (yes, you read that right!) cocktails during lunch service.

Whether you choose to sleep in or attend the post-wedding brunch, a group gator tour of the Louisiana Bayous promises an unforgettable experience.

Cajun Encounters offers private tours, allowing you to join fellow wedding guests. Their seasoned guides lead a variety of tours, from intimate sunset cruises to private expeditions. Immerse yourself in Cajun and Creole history while exploring this vital ecosystem. Don't forget your camera to capture this unique adventure.

For your final meal in NOLA, savor a Creole favorite! If it's crawfish season (March - May in New Orleans), head to Clesi’s for a traditional crawfish boil with all the fixings. Otherwise, indulge in a classic po-boy sandwich and relish the sunset on your last night in New Orleans. Whether it's fried shrimp or oyster (fully dressed) or a traditional roast beef po-boy with gravy, iconic establishments like Domilise’s Po-Boy’s and Bar or Zara’s Little Giant Supermarket & Po-Boys will leave you eager to plan your next trip back to New Orleans after the first delicious bite.