New Orleans Itinerary

New Orleans is much more than simply Mardi Gras. With plenty of live jazz musicians, cultural chameleons and Creole dishes, the city has plenty to offer visitors. Between the festivals, concerts, restaurants and landscapes, visitors will never run out of places to explore while spending time in this small corner of the American South. This three-day, two-night itinerary is an example of a trip that will not disappoint.

Morning: Clients can start their day off with a cup of cafe au lait and beignets, the Creole version of a doughnut that is deep-fried and dusted with powdered sugar. Afterward, they can head out to the city for a sightseeing tour of New Orleans. Guests can check out all the different highlights of the city including the French Quarter, above ground cemeteries, City Park, Lake Pontchartrain, the St. Charles Avenue Streetcar, the Garden District, the Warehouse and Arts District and the Central Business District.

Afternoon: For lunch, visitors should try one of the city’s unique cooking schools where they can learn how to make traditional Cajun and Creole dishes such as gumbo, jambalaya and pralines. They not only learn how to make these dishes, but they also get to eat what the chef creates right in front of them. After their meal, clients can ride aboard a Mississippi River paddlewheeler or shop along the riverfront. They may want to tour the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas while they are in the area.

Evening: Guests should dine at one of the city’s local restaurants for dinner before heading out to Bourbon Street for an evening filled with live entertainment on every corner.

Morning: After breakfast, clients can take a tour with a local guide that will take them outside of New Orleans for a Cajun swamp tour. Visitors will see alligators, birds, snakes and more on this authentic tour of the wetlands. Afterward, they can travel back in time as they make their way down River Road to one of the city’s many plantation homes. Clients may choose to stop at a local restaurant or enjoy a Southern style meal at the home itself to get a true New Orleans experience. Before heading back toward town, visitors will enjoy a panoramic view of Lake Pontchartrain.

Evening: On their last night, visitors may choose to spend their time exploring the city’s charm or head to a Cajun music restaurant for an evening of live music and two-stepping. Dance instructors can teach guests how to do steps like the Cajun Waltz in between dining on Cajun specialties.

Day Three    

Morning: To get clients jump-started, they may want to try out a Gospel or Jazz Brunch for a final taste of the city. Afterward, they can view the antique shops along Royal Street before stopping for some last-minute shopping at the flea market.

Afternoon: If guests are feeling lucky in New Orleans, they can visit one of the city’s casinos that add to the excitement of a city that never sleeps.