48 Hours in New Orleans: A Two Day Itinerary

There are plenty of things to do in New Orleans that can keep you busy for weeks. However, not every traveler can spend that amount of time in the Big Easy. New Orleans is a completely unique city without match for its blend of cultures, music heritage, and fascinating history. And yes, it certainly warrants a stay of more than two days.

But if you’re on a tight schedule and this is your first time in the Crescent City, here’s how I would recommend spending 48 hours in New Orleans!

Day One: French Quarter

Breakfast at Cafe Du Monde

In New Orleans, musicians perform outside the renowned Cafe Du Monde. The green tent with the cafe's name is clearly visible.

Leisurely eat and drink your way through the French Quarter on your first day. Wake up in your French Quarter hotel, wander towards the river, and grab an outdoor table at Café du Monde.

Jackson Square

St. Louis Cathedral in New Orleans features a striking facade with three spires and intricate architectural details. The structure is primarily white with dark accents, creating a sharp contrast. The cathedral consists of large doors, arched windows, and a central clock.

Fortified by café au lait and beignets, climb the stairs next to Café du Monde for a great perspective over Jackson Square and a perfect photo opp. The Mississippi River is on the other side of the streetcar tracks

Stroll down Chartres (pronounced char-TERS) Street to Esplanade and then up Royal Street, browsing for antiques, art, vintage clothes, jewelry, and Mardi Gras masks. Walk slowly to catch glimpses of courtyards with lush foliage and to admire the wrought-iron balconies of the most atmospheric neighborhood in America.

Lunch at Felix’s Restaurant

In New Orleans, LA, a neon sign reads "Felix's Restaurant Oysters." "Felix's" is displayed in green, while "Restaurant Oysters" is in red.

Enter Felix’s at Iberville and take a seat at the raw bar. Talk to the shuckers as they serve you a dozen oysters and an ice-cold locally produced Faubourg (formerly named Dixie) beer.

There are hundreds of options for lunch, but to narrow it down, choose between a takeout specialty sandwich or a casual sit-down meal. If the weather is good, order a muffuletta (cured meats, cheese, and olive salad) at Central Grocery or a debris po-boy (roast beef with drippings) from Mother’s and eat on the promenade of Woldenberg Park overlooking the Mississippi River. If air-conditioning is in order, have the gumbo and jambalaya at the Gumbo Shop.

Voodoo Museum

Following lunch, take a turn through the Voodoo Museum for an introduction to a religion practiced by approximately 15 percent of city residents and the role it has played in the city’s cultural history. It’s not the most high-tech museum but it serves as a window into a world most people know little about. Their shop is a great place to pick up unusual gifts for friends back home.

Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop

Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop is nearby on the quiet end of Bourbon Street. This is one of the oldest bars in the world and it looks it, but that’s its charm. Named after pirate brothers who might have sold their goods here more than 300 years ago, Lafitte’s is an only-in-New Orleans spot full of character and characters.

Napoleon House

Go from one inimitable New Orleans spot to another at the Napoleon House. Sit in the front room of this historic restaurant and bar—where Napoleon was invited but never came—and soak in the atmosphere while sipping the beverage of your choice. If you’re starting to feel a bit peckish, order the red beans and rice.

Dinner Option 1: Galatoire’s

Galatoire's restaurant at 209 Bourbon Street in the French Quarter of New Orleans, Louisiana, features a prominent entrance with a canopy and a sign displaying the name.

Return to your hotel and change for dinner at Galatoire’s (advance reservations suggested). An iconic restaurant where waiters wear tuxedos, this bastion of Creole cuisine is known for dishes like shrimp étouffée and redfish.

Dinner Option 2: Port of Call

Port of Call Restaurant on Esplanade Avenue in New Orleans, LA, features wooden tables and chairs at the entrance. A brown-colored sign with the inscription "Port of Call" is prominently displayed. The restaurant's exterior combines rustic elements with a welcoming ambiance.

Or, if you are always on the hunt for a great burger, walk to Port of Call, a casual restaurant with outstanding burgers and baked potatoes. Whether or not you eat here, stop in for a Monsoon (lighter in color and less sweet than a Hurricane).

Night Scene: Bars & Bourbon Street

The entrance of the Spotted Cat Jazz Club in New Orleans, LA, features a green door. A visible sign reads "Spotted Cat Jazz Club,".

Cross Esplanade to Frenchmen Street and check out the music scene at various bars and clubs like the Spotted Cat and Blue Nile.

Head back to Bourbon Street, amusing yourself at the T-shirt slogans, colorful people, and music wafting out of open doors.

Nightcap: Pat O’Brien’s

New Orleans, USA, features the historic Old Town, with St. Peter Pierre Street bustling with activity. Many people stand in line at the famous Pat O'Brien's bar.

Finish the evening in the courtyard of Pat O’Brien’s with a Hurricane nightcap at the place it was invented. If you’re up for it, enter a music icon and take in the late set at Preservation Hall.

Day Two: Uptown

Breakfast at Brennan’s

Brennan's Restaurant in New Orleans features a pink building with white shutters and doors. The street scene is bustling, with people walking by and cars driving past.

Wake up late and head to Brennan’s (advance reservations suggested) for brunch. A New Orleans institution for people who love breakfast (although it also serves lunch and dinner), Brennan’s is a beautiful, high-quality restaurant.

If the weather cooperates, sit in the courtyard; if not, request a table on the second floor overlooking its flickering gas lamps and lush tropical foliage. Try their version of eggs Benedict, eggs Hussarde, which was created here.

For dessert, order bananas Foster—another dish that was invented here—and get your camera ready for the tableside flambé.

In New Orleans, Louisiana, tourists explore the beautiful houses of the Garden District on a walking tour. The scene includes a picturesque house and tourists walking along the sidewalk.

Following brunch, join a Garden District walking tour to learn about the city’s intriguing history, the neighborhood’s graceful architecture, and the famous people who have lived here over the years.

Take the Streetcar Uptown

In New Orleans, USA, a tram travels along St. Charles Avenue, characterized by lush greenery including trees. The tram itself is dark green, blending with the surrounding foliage.

Then take the streetcar Uptown to admire the gorgeous mansions lining St. Charles Avenue. Get off at the stop with Tulane and Loyola universities on the right and Audubon Park on the left. The park is a relaxing place for a stroll under live oaks; or take the streetcar immediately back, looking out the window on the opposite side for variety.

Washington Avenue

Commander's Palace in the Garden District of New Orleans features a turquoise building with white window frames. The street is lined with several parked cars, and people can be seen going about their activities. The sky appears overcast, adding a subdued atmosphere to the scene.

Get off at the Washington Avenue stop and peruse the shelves of the Garden District Book Shop for a New Orleans recipe or history book on your way to Commander’s Palace (advance reservations suggested) for dinner. Request a window table in the Garden Room and order the trio of soups, veal chop Tchoupitoulas, and bread pudding soufflé.

Finish at Tipitina’s Music Venue

You’ll be near the legendary music venue Tipitina’s, so stop in to catch a show or head back to the Quarter and roll into bed, five pounds heavier but a million times happier.