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7-Day Budget Itinerary for New Orleans

7-Day Budget Itinerary for New Orleans

Viewed by 74 travelers

Day 1: Monday, December 25

Morning: Exploring the French Quarter

Start your trip by immersing yourself in the historic French Quarter of New Orleans. Take a stroll down famous Bourbon Street, soak in the lively atmosphere, and admire the beautiful architecture and colorful buildings.

  • French Quarter: Free, 3 hours
Afternoon: Visit Jackson Square

In the afternoon, head to Jackson Square, a vibrant square filled with street performers, artists, and historical landmarks. Admire the stunning St. Louis Cathedral and browse through the local art market.

  • Jackson Square: Free, 2 hours
  • St. Louis Cathedral: Free, 1 hour
Evening: Live Jazz on Frenchmen Street

As the evening sets in, make your way to Frenchmen Street, known for its vibrant live jazz scene. Explore the various jazz clubs and bars, enjoy live performances, and experience the soulful music that New Orleans is famous for.

  • Frenchmen Street: Free (costs may vary if you choose to visit specific jazz clubs), 3 hours

Day 2: Tuesday, December 26

Morning: Garden District Exploration

Start your day by visiting the charming Garden District. Take a leisurely walk along Magazine Street, lined with boutique shops and delicious eateries. Admire the beautiful historic mansions and gardens that embody the classic New Orleans charm.

  • Garden District: Free, 3 hours
  • Magazine Street: Cost varies, 2 hours
Afternoon: Lafayette Cemetery No. 1

In the afternoon, visit the Lafayette Cemetery No. 1. Known for its above-ground tombs and rich history, this cemetery offers a unique glimpse into New Orleans' past. Take a guided tour to learn more about the city's burial traditions and fascinating stories.

  • Lafayette Cemetery No. 1: Free (guided tour may have a fee), 1-2 hours
Evening: Riverside Walk along the Mississippi River

End your day with a relaxing stroll along the Mississippi River. Enjoy the scenic views and soak in the peaceful ambiance as the sun sets over the river. You can also catch a riverboat cruise for a different perspective of the city.

  • Mississippi River: Free, 1-2 hours
  • Riverboat Cruise: Costs vary, 1-2 hours

Day 3: Wednesday, December 27

Morning: New Orleans Museum of Art

Start your day by visiting the New Orleans Museum of Art. Explore the diverse collection of artworks, including paintings, sculptures, and photography. The museum also houses a beautiful sculpture garden worth experiencing.

  • New Orleans Museum of Art: Admission fee varies, 2-3 hours
  • Sculpture Garden: Free, 1 hour
Afternoon: City Park

After the museum, head to City Park, one of the largest urban parks in the country. Take a leisurely stroll or rent a bike to explore the park's picturesque landscapes, including lagoons, walking trails, and the famous oak trees.

  • City Park: Free (bike rental and attractions may have additional costs), 2-3 hours
Evening: Frenchmen Art Market

In the evening, visit the Frenchmen Art Market, located adjacent to the Frenchmen Street music scene. Browse through the local art stalls, handmade crafts, jewelry, and unique souvenirs. Enjoy the lively atmosphere and support local artists.

  • Frenchmen Art Market: Free, 2 hours

Day 4: Thursday, December 28

Morning: National WWII Museum

Start your morning with a visit to the National WWII Museum. Learn about the history and impact of World War II through immersive exhibits and artifacts. The museum provides a comprehensive understanding of the war and its global significance.

  • National WWII Museum: Admission fee varies, 3-4 hours
Afternoon: Magazine Street Shopping

Spend your afternoon exploring Magazine Street for some shopping therapy. This vibrant street is lined with an array of local boutiques, vintage stores, and antique shops. Find unique treasures and indulge in the city's fashion and culture.

  • Magazine Street: Cost varies, 2-3 hours
Evening: French Quarter Ghost Tour

As the sun sets, join a ghost tour in the French Quarter for a thrilling and spooky experience. Discover the haunted history and paranormal legends of New Orleans as you walk through its narrow streets and haunted landmarks.

  • Ghost Tour: Costs vary, 2 hours

Day 5: Friday, December 29

Morning: Audubon Zoo

Start your day with a visit to the Audubon Zoo, home to a wide variety of animal species. Explore the zoo's exhibits, watch animal feedings, and engage in educational programs. The Audubon Zoo offers a fun and enriching experience for visitors of all ages.

  • Audubon Zoo: Admission fee varies, 3-4 hours
Afternoon: French Market

In the afternoon, head to the French Market, a vibrant open-air market filled with local vendors, food stalls, and unique crafts. Taste traditional New Orleans cuisine, shop for local products, and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere.

  • French Market: Free (costs vary for food and shopping), 2 hours
Evening: Steamboat Natchez Jazz Cruise

End your day with a memorable steamboat jazz cruise on the Mississippi River. Enjoy a dinner buffet while listening to live jazz music and taking in the beautiful views of the city skyline. This experience combines music, history, and breathtaking scenery.

  • Steamboat Natchez Jazz Cruise: Costs vary, 2-3 hours

Day 6: Saturday, December 30

Morning: New Orleans Pharmacy Museum

Start your morning by visiting the New Orleans Pharmacy Museum, a unique attraction showcasing the history of pharmacy and medical practices. Explore the exhibits featuring antique medical tools, potions, and remedies from the past.

  • New Orleans Pharmacy Museum: Admission fee varies, 1-2 hours
Afternoon: Mardi Gras World

In the afternoon, visit Mardi Gras World for an immersive experience into the world of Carnival. Take a behind-the-scenes tour to see the extravagant floats being created and learn about the traditions and customs of this festive season.

  • Mardi Gras World: Admission fee varies, 2 hours
Evening: St. Charles Avenue Streetcar Ride

End your day with a nostalgic ride on the St. Charles Avenue streetcar, the oldest continuously operating streetcar line in the world. Enjoy the scenic route, passing through beautiful neighborhoods and historic mansions.

  • St. Charles Avenue Streetcar: Fare is $1.25 each way, 1-2 hours

Day 7: Sunday, December 31

Morning: Explore the Bywater Neighborhood

Start your last day by exploring the vibrant and artistic Bywater neighborhood. Wander through its colorful streets filled with murals, unique galleries, and hip cafes. Experience the local bohemian vibe of this off-the-beaten-path gem.

  • Bywater Neighborhood: Free, 3 hours
Afternoon: City Sightseeing Cruise

In the afternoon, take a city sightseeing cruise to get a different perspective of New Orleans. Sail along the Mississippi River and learn about the city's history and landmarks from an informative guide while enjoying the scenic views.

  • City Sightseeing Cruise: Costs vary, 2 hours
Evening: Watch the Fireworks at Jackson Square

End your New Orleans adventure by watching the fireworks display at Jackson Square. As the clock strikes midnight, join the festivities and bid farewell to the year with a dazzling show of lights and colors.

  • Jackson Square: Free, 1 hour

Hidden Gems and Local Favorites

While exploring New Orleans, don't miss these hidden gems and local favorites:

  • Frenchmen Art Market: Located adjacent to Frenchmen Street, this night market showcases unique artwork and crafts created by local artists.
  • The Spotted Cat Music Club: A cozy jazz club on Frenchmen Street with live performances by talented local musicians.
  • The New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park: Immerse yourself in the history and preservation of jazz music at this national park, offering ranger-led programs and live performances.
  • Café du Monde: Indulge in a traditional beignet and café au lait at this legendary café in the French Quarter.
  • The Backstreet Cultural Museum: Learn about the African American culture and traditions of New Orleans through exhibits showcasing Mardi Gras Indian costumes, second line umbrellas, and more.
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