What not to miss…3 nights stay?

Question

Hi all! My daughter and I are going on a short jaunt to NOLA from 3/22-3/25. First time visiting.

For those of you who have visited before, what do you recommend we do. We are staying at the Place d’Armes in the French Quarter.

With our limited time, obviously we can’t do it all, but are looking to come away with a great first impression.

Apart from walking/ dining in the FQ and GD, we are considering a cemetery tour, possibly a swamp tour, a cathedral visit, jazz clubs.

What should we absolutely not miss?

Any and all suggestions are greatly appreciated!

TYSM!!

Answer

How exciting that you and your daughter are heading to New Orleans for your first visit! The French Quarter is an excellent place to stay, as it’s the heart of the city, and you’ll be close to so many iconic attractions. With just three nights, here’s a mix of must-dos that will give you a well-rounded NOLA experience:

1. Explore the French Quarter (FQ)

Since you’ll be staying in the French Quarter, spend plenty of time wandering its charming, historic streets. The architecture is beautiful, and the area is full of life. Some highlights within the FQ include:

Jackson Square – A great place to start. It’s a lovely square with street performers, artists, and great photo ops. Be sure to visit the St. Louis Cathedral (right on the square), one of the oldest and most iconic churches in the country.
Bourbon Street – Famous for its nightlife, but even if you're not into partying, it's worth a quick stroll to see the action. You might also want to check out Royal Street for more quaint shops, antique stores, and art galleries.
French Market – A great place to pick up local crafts, foods, and souvenirs. It's near Jackson Square and offers a more laid-back vibe compared to Bourbon Street.

2. Take a Swamp Tour

A swamp tour is a fantastic way to see another side of New Orleans, and it’s a very popular activity. You’ll get to see the unique Louisiana wetlands, learn about the wildlife (including alligators!), and enjoy the serenity of nature. Many tour companies offer pick-up from New Orleans, so you won’t need to worry about transportation. Since you have limited time, it's best to book a half-day tour (typically around 3-4 hours).

3. Cemetery Tour

The above-ground cemeteries in New Orleans are a big part of its unique culture. St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 is the most famous and houses the tomb of Marie Laveau, the famous Voodoo Queen of New Orleans. The cemeteries can be a bit eerie, but they’re also fascinating to learn about. Many tours offer expert guides who can explain the history and significance of these beautiful, haunting cemeteries.

4. Jazz Music

No visit to New Orleans is complete without hearing live jazz. You’ll find amazing jazz musicians in the FQ, especially in the evenings. Some of the most famous jazz venues include:

Preservation Hall – This is a must for authentic New Orleans jazz. It’s a small, intimate venue with an incredible history.
The Spotted Cat Music Club – Located on Frenchmen Street, a street known for its jazz clubs and nightlife.
Snug Harbor – Another great jazz club, and it’s on Frenchmen Street too!

5. A Visit to the Garden District

The Garden District is known for its stunning mansions, oak-lined streets, and antebellum architecture. It’s a lovely area to explore if you have time. You can take a streetcar ride to get there, or simply take a walking tour to see the beautiful old homes, including the famous Commander’s Palace restaurant (which is a New Orleans institution).

6. Sample the Local Cuisine

New Orleans is a food lover’s paradise, so be sure to sample some of the local dishes. Some things to try include:

Beignets at Café du Monde – These are New Orleans’ iconic powdered sugar-dusted pastries, and the café is open 24/7.
Po'boys – A traditional sandwich with a variety of fillings. Head to Johnny's Po-Boys for a great experience.
Gumbo – This flavorful stew is a classic, and you’ll find it at restaurants like Gumbo Shop.
Jambalaya – A rice-based dish filled with sausage, shrimp, or chicken. Coop’s Place is a great spot to try it.
Oysters – Try some freshly shucked oysters at Acme Oyster House or Casamento’s.

7. Visit the National WWII Museum

If you're interested in history, the National WWII Museum is one of the best in the country. It’s not too far from the French Quarter and can be a bit of a departure from the more typical NOLA attractions, but it’s highly rated and a fascinating experience.

8. Take a Steamboat Cruise

If you want to relax and see the city from the river, consider taking a steamboat cruise on the Mississippi. The Steamboat Natchez offers a lovely afternoon or evening cruise, complete with live jazz music and beautiful views of the city’s skyline.

9. Enjoy a Cocktail at a Classic Bar

New Orleans is famous for its cocktail culture. Be sure to stop by the Carousel Bar at the Hotel Monteleone, where you can sip a classic cocktail while sitting at a revolving bar. Another iconic bar is Pat O’Brien’s, where you can enjoy a famous Hurricane cocktail.

10. The Louisiana State Museum or the New Orleans Museum of Art

If you're looking for more cultural activities, check out the Louisiana State Museum in the French Quarter or the New Orleans Museum of Art, which is located in City Park. Both have interesting exhibits on the history and culture of the city.

Final Tips:

Plan your days to balance outdoor activities (walking, dining, and exploring) with indoor experiences like jazz clubs and museums to avoid exhaustion.
Wear comfortable shoes, as you’ll likely be walking a lot!
Take some time to just wander and soak in the atmosphere. There are so many hidden gems in the French Quarter and beyond.

With three nights in New Orleans, you’ll get a wonderful taste of the city! Enjoy your trip and make sure to take in as much of the culture, music, food, and history as possible!

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