Romantic New Orleans Anniversary Road Trip with Mississippi River Cruise from Northern Kentucky

Day 1: Departure and Overnight

Northern Kentucky to Nashville, TN on November 25, 2025

5:00pm

Departure from Northern Kentucky

Start your anniversary road trip by driving to Nashville, Tennessee, approximately 4.5 hours away. Take breaks as needed and enjoy the evening drive south.
0, 4h0m

9:30pm

Check-in at The Hermitage Hotel

Settle in at this luxury downtown Nashville hotel, perfect for a romantic start to your trip.
USD200, Overnight
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Day 2: Drive to New Orleans

Nashville, TN to New Orleans, LA on November 26, 2025

7:30am

Breakfast at Pancake Pantry

Enjoy varied pancakes and southern specialties at this Tennessee favorite, opening from early morning.
USD15, 1h0m

9:00am

Drive to New Orleans

Depart Nashville for New Orleans, a roughly 7-hour drive, allowing time for scenic stops and meals.
0, 7h0m

4:30pm

Check-in at Hotel Monteleone

Arrive in the French Quarter and check-in to this historic and romantic hotel with iconic charm.
USD250, Overnight

6:30pm

Dinner at GW Fins

Dine on fresh Gulf seafood in an elegant atmosphere; perfect for your special night, open until 10:00pm.
USD70, 1h30m
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Day 3: New Orleans Highlights

New Orleans, LA on November 27, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Café du Monde

Savor famous beignets and café au lait at the French Market, open 24/7 for an early delight.
USD10, 1h0m

10:00am

French Quarter Walking Tour

Guided 2-hour tour exploring historic streets, architecture, and hidden gems of this vibrant neighborhood.
USD25, 2h0m

12:30pm

Lunch at Coop's Place

Casual dining with authentic Creole dishes like jambalaya and gumbo, open 11:00am to 10:00pm.
USD20, 1h0m

2:00pm

Explore the Garden District

Self-guided or trolley tour the beautiful mansions and historic streetscape, tours available until late afternoon.
USD15, 2h0m

5:00pm

Cocktail at Carousel Bar

Enjoy a romantic drink at the rotating Carousel Bar in Hotel Monteleone, a unique New Orleans experience.
USD15, 1h0m

7:00pm

Dinner at Commander's Palace

Celebrate your anniversary with upscale Creole cuisine in a historic Garden District landmark, open till 9:00pm.
USD100, 2h0m
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Day 4: Mississippi River Cruise & Jazz

New Orleans, LA on November 28, 2025

8:30am

Breakfast at Willa Jean

Start with delicious southern breakfast favorites in a modern bakery café open from 7:30am.
USD18, 1h0m

10:30am

Steamboat Natchez Mississippi River Cruise

Embark on a 2-hour authentic paddlewheel steamboat cruise along the Mississippi River, offering historic sights and live jazz music onboard. Cruise departs daily at 11:00am; tickets recommended in advance.
USD30, 2h0m

1:00pm

Lunch at Cochon Butcher

Dine on Cajun-inspired sandwiches and charcuterie in the Warehouse District, open until 8:00pm.
USD20, 1h0m

3:00pm

Relax at Woldenberg Park

Take a scenic stroll or relax at this green space along the riverfront, open daily.
Free, 1h0m

6:00pm

Live Jazz at Preservation Hall

Experience intimate, legendary live jazz performances beginning at 6:00pm. Be sure to reserve tickets beforehand.
USD20, 1h30m

7:30pm

Dinner at Arnaud's Restaurant

Enjoy classic Creole cuisine in an elegant French Quarter setting, open until 9:30pm.
USD80, 2h0m
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Day 5: Shopping and Leisure

New Orleans, LA on November 29, 2025

9:00am

Breakfast at Elizabeth's

Visit this lively Bywater district eatery known for southern breakfast and creative dishes, open from 7:00am.
USD18, 1h0m

10:30am

Magazine Street Shopping

Spend the morning exploring eclectic boutiques, galleries, and antique shops along Magazine Street, ideal for unique mementos.
Varies, 3h0m

1:30pm

Lunch at Dat Dog

Casual dining with creative hot dogs and local flavor, open until 10:00pm.
USD15, 1h0m

3:00pm

Leisure Time at City Park

Relax in one of the largest urban parks with botanical gardens and walking paths, open daily sunrise to sunset.
Free, 2h0m

6:00pm

Dinner at Peche Seafood Grill

End your last night in New Orleans with rustic, fresh seafood dishes in a vibrant atmosphere, open until 9:00pm.
USD70, 2h0m
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Day 6: Homeward Bound

New Orleans, LA to Northern Kentucky on November 30, 2025

8:00am

Breakfast at Surrey's Café & Juice Bar

Get a wholesome breakfast with healthy options before your drive back, open 7:00am to 3:00pm.
USD15, 1h0m

9:30am

Depart New Orleans for Northern Kentucky

Begin the approximately 12-hour drive north. Plan rest stops as needed to stay fresh and safe.
0, 12h0m

6:30pm

Optional Overnight in Nashville

If desired, break the journey with another overnight stay in Nashville at The Hermitage Hotel.
USD200, Overnight
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