A Couple’s 4-Day Guide to NOLA

Many come down to NOLA to experience Mardi Gras, but it has so much more to offer. Aside from experiencing the French Quarter, simply taking a walk around the various neighborhoods of NOLA is a great way to spend an afternoon. From the Garden District to Art and Warehouse District, NOLA will not disappoint.

Parks

Congo Square is a former gathering place for slaves located in Louis Armstrong Park in Louis Armstrong Park that now hosts concerts & events.

Jackson Square is a historic landmark located near the Mississippi River. It’s a popular place for artists and performers to set up shop to share their trades. Many other historical areas and buildings can be easily accessed from here.

Crescent Park is an awesome industrial park where you can take a break from the hustle and bustle of the city without leaving the city and enjoy swinging by the Mississippi River - and great graffiti art.

Washington Square is another historic city park with a large shaded lawn, play structures & sculptures. Great for travelers of all ages.

Pirates Alley - Experience the supposed hangout of the pirates of Barataria or grab a drink on your way to Jackson Park.

Museums & theaters

The New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum is worth a visit if you are interested or just curious about the history of Voodoo. The museum, run by Voodoo practitioners, is packed with Voodoo artifacts and features a gift shop.

The New Orleans Jazz Museum is perfect for those travelers that love jazz but want something a little extra. This museum was once a mint circa-1835 and features coin exhibits as well as an upper-level jazz venue.

Marigny Opera House was once a church in 1853 is now given a new life and presents work by local performing artists, including dance and music.

Toulouse Theatre - Enjoy a great drink from bartender Kenneth while watching performances in an intimate setting.

New Orleans Pharmacy Museum - Ever wonder where the first pharmacy was located in the US? Well, look no further, stop by the Pharmacy Museum to learn about all of the interesting (and alarming) concoctions, remedies and medical histories.

Tour companies

New Orleans Legendary Walking Tours is a great tour company to work with if you are looking for a structured way to explore the French Quarter, Garden District and historic cemeteries that set New Orleans apart from any other city in the country. Experience eerie grave sites, and stunning French and Spanish architecture, and learn about the mysterious origins of voodoo and the birthplace of jazz.

New Orleans Ghost Adventures is self-proclaimed as the “only ghost tour company to go into real haunted locations documented by real ghost hunters.” This is an amazing experience and the pace of the tour is just right to accommodate those young travelers who aren’t afraid of the otherworldly.

City Sightseeing New Orleans (Hop-on/Hop-off) for those looking for a more active and potentially self-paced tour experience the NOLA hop-on/hop-off tours may be right for you. Hop on and complete the 1.5-hour city tour while riding on an open-top, double-decker bus, hop off at any stop along the way and explore New Orleans's most popular neighborhoods, attractions and shopping districts – or – take advantage of our Guided Walking Tours in the Garden District and French Quarter.

Cajun Encounters is another way to experience the rich history and culture of the city of New Orleans. Tour guides will cover neighborhoods like the famous French Quarter & Garden District neighborhoods, the birthplace of Jazz, Treme, walk around St. Louis Cemetery #3 and the famous Café Du Monde in City Park.

Local-recommended noms

Atchafalaya features Louisianan favorites, signature cocktail drinks & brunch Bloody Mary bar in a high-ceilinged space lined with art.

Mena's Palace is recommended by locals as the place that serves Cajun fare for breakfast and lunch. The shrimp po’boy is a must-have!

August is a great spot if you are celebrating something special event or want a fancy dinner. This French-inspired spot is a must-try restaurant in a chandelier-studded 19th-century space. Make sure to make your reservations a day or two in advance.

Bywater American Bistro is located near the Mississippi River and is a great spot for American favorites featuring seasonal & locally reared produce paired with a great cocktail.

Grab a drink and dance a little

Manchu Food Store is easily a hidden gem in the city. Don’t let the convenience-store aspect deter you from experiencing the amazing fried chicken or fried rice!

Kermit's Tremé Mother-in-Law Lounge - Although there is a cover to get in most nights, no matter who is playing, you’re gonna dig it!

BMC Balcony Music Club is a hidden gem east of the French Quarter that will be an unforgettable experience. The live music and dance floor make this another great spot to visit.

Old Absinthe House - For those familiar with the “green fairy” you may want to add this absinthe serving bar to your list. It may be a good night you forget.

Bourbon 'O' Bar is a dark and moody bar that serves seasonal and classic cocktails alongside live entertainment most nights.