Memorial Day Weekend Getaway from Houston to New Orleans Under $300 per Person

Day 1: Arrival and French Quarter

New Orleans, Louisiana, USA on May 23, 2025

7:00am

Flight from Houston to New Orleans

Take an early morning budget roundtrip flight from Houston Hobby (HOU) to Louis Armstrong New Orleans Intl (MSY). Southwest Airlines often offers deals around Memorial Day. Make sure to include both checked and carry-on baggage fees; total flight cost should be approximately $100 per person roundtrip.
USD100, 2h0m

9:30am

Taxi from MSY to Hotel

Take a taxi or rideshare (e.g., Uber) from the airport to your centrally located hotel in the French Quarter for easy access to sightseeing. Expect around 30 minutes drive and a cost near $40 total.
USD40, 0h30m

10:30am

Breakfast at Café du Monde

Start your day with the iconic beignets and café au lait at Café du Monde, open 24 hours. This location is a quintessential New Orleans experience, perfect for breakfast before exploring.
USD15, 1h0m

11:30am

Explore the French Quarter

Take a walking tour of the historic French Quarter including Jackson Square, St. Louis Cathedral, and the many unique shops along Royal Street. This self-guided exploration is free and opens your eyes to New Orleans’ rich culture.
USD0, 3h0m

2:30pm

Lunch at Coop’s Place

Enjoy authentic Cajun and Creole dishes at Coop’s Place, known for their jambalaya and gumbo. Casual, reasonably priced, and open till late afternoon.
USD25, 1h0m

3:30pm

Visit the French Market

Stroll through the French Market for souvenirs, local crafts, and snacks. Open till early evening, it’s a vibrant spot to enjoy the local vibe.
USD0, 1h0m

5:00pm

Check into Hotel

Check into a budget-friendly hotel like the French Market Inn or similar, with prices around $120 per night for two people.
USD120, 0h30m

7:00pm

Dinner at The Creole House

Have a dinner of classic Creole dishes such as crawfish étouffée in a cozy setting. The restaurant is open till 10pm.
USD30, 1h30m
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Day 2: Garden District and City Park

New Orleans, Louisiana, USA on May 24, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Willa Jean

Enjoy a modern Southern breakfast at Willa Jean, known for its biscuits and pecan pie. Opens at 7am.
USD20, 1h0m

9:30am

Visit Garden District

Take the streetcar to the Garden District to admire historic mansions and the famous Lafayette Cemetery. The streetcar costs a few dollars and the area is free to explore on foot.
USD3, 3h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Commander’s Palace

Have lunch at this iconic restaurant offering a classic Creole menu. Their lunch prix-fixe offers value. Open at 11:30am.
USD40, 1h30m

2:00pm

Explore City Park

Visit beautiful City Park, one of the largest urban parks in the US. You can stroll around or rent bikes for a small fee. Open daily from sunrise to sunset.
USD10, 2h0m

4:30pm

Return to Hotel

Head back to your hotel in the French Quarter to rest and freshen up.
USD3, 0h30m

6:30pm

Dinner at Coop’s Place or Local Eatery

If you want to try another local gem, opt for Coop’s Place or a casual spot on Frenchmen Street focused on local flavors and ambiance.
USD30, 1h30m

8:00pm

Evening Jazz on Frenchmen Street

Catch live jazz performances on Frenchmen Street, many venues have no cover charge and are open late.
USD0, 2h0m
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Day 3: Last Morning and Departure

New Orleans, Louisiana, USA on May 25, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Café Beignet

Enjoy a final breakfast at Café Beignet in the French Quarter for fresh pastries and coffee. Opens at 7am.
USD15, 1h0m

9:30am

Leisurely Walk or Quick Souvenir Shopping

Take a quick walk along the riverfront at Woldenberg Park or do any last-minute souvenir shopping in the French Market, before heading back to the hotel.
USD0, 1h0m

11:00am

Taxi to Airport

Taxi or rideshare back to MSY airport from your hotel, about $40 and 30 minutes duration.
USD40, 0h30m

1:00pm

Flight from New Orleans to Houston

Return flight to Houston Hobby, arriving early afternoon.
USD0, 2h0m
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