New Orleans Travel Itinerary Guide

The #1 attraction in New Orleans is the French Quarter, the city’s most historic and vibrant neighborhood. Known for its lively energy, unique Creole and French architecture, and cultural richness, the French Quarter offers something for everyone. Visitors flock to Bourbon Street for its nightlife, live music, and festive atmosphere, while Royal Street is perfect for art galleries, boutiques, and local shops. Iconic landmarks like Jackson Square, the St. Louis Cathedral, and the French Market are must-sees for history and culture lovers.

To fully immerse yourself in the magic of New Orleans, Journey Connected can craft a personalized travel itinerary that highlights the French Quarter and beyond. Whether you’re into history, music, food, or all three, we’ll ensure you make the most of your time in this vibrant city!

Five days in New Orleans is not too much; in fact, it’s the perfect amount of time to experience the city’s vibrant culture, rich history, and iconic attractions at a relaxed pace. With five days, you can fully explore the French Quarter, enjoy live music on Frenchmen Street, take a steamboat cruise on the Mississippi River, and savor the incredible local cuisine. It also gives you time to visit neighborhoods like the Garden District and Bywater, go on a swamp tour, or even take a day trip to nearby plantations or historical sites.

This amount of time allows for a mix of sightseeing and downtime to truly soak in the city’s charm. Journey Connected can design a custom New Orleans itinerary to help you discover the must-see spots, enjoy unique local experiences, and make the most of your five days in the Big Easy!

While New Orleans is a year-round destination, there are certain times when visiting might be less ideal depending on your preferences and priorities. Here’s when you might want to avoid planning a trip:

1. Peak Hurricane Season (August to October)

• Why to Avoid: This period falls during the height of hurricane season, and the Gulf Coast, including New Orleans, can experience heavy rains and the potential for severe weather.
• What to Expect: Higher humidity, frequent rain showers, and the possibility of storm disruptions.

2. Summer Months (June to August)

• Why to Avoid: Summers in New Orleans are extremely hot and humid, with temperatures often soaring into the high 90s°F (30s°C). The humidity can make outdoor activities uncomfortable.
• What to Expect: Fewer crowds but intense heat, which may limit your enjoyment of outdoor attractions like walking tours or festivals.

3. Mardi Gras Crowds (Late February to Early March)

• Why to Avoid: While Mardi Gras is a bucket-list experience for many, the crowds, inflated prices for accommodations, and limited availability might not suit every traveler.
• What to Expect: If you prefer a quieter visit or a more budget-friendly trip, this might not be the best time. However, early January or post-Mardi Gras can still offer the city’s festive atmosphere without the chaos.

4. Major Festival Weeks Without Planning Ahead

• Events like Jazz Fest (April/May) and Essence Festival (July) draw huge crowds, and accommodations book up quickly. If you’re not attending these events, visiting during these times may mean higher costs and limited lodging options.

Journey Connected can help you decide the best time to visit New Orleans based on your interests, ensuring you avoid less ideal periods while maximizing your enjoyment of the city’s rich culture and unique charm.

In general, New Orleans tends to be more affordable than Las Vegas, but the cost difference depends on your travel style, activities, and preferences. Here’s a breakdown of costs to consider when comparing the two destinations:

1. Accommodations

• New Orleans: Offers a range of options from budget-friendly guesthouses to luxury hotels. Hotels in areas like the French Quarter can be more expensive, especially during festivals or Mardi Gras, but generally, accommodations are more affordable compared to Vegas.
• Las Vegas: While Vegas has many affordable hotel options, especially off the Strip, luxury resorts along the Strip can be pricey. However, deals are often available if you book early.

2. Food and Dining

• New Orleans: Dining in New Orleans can be very affordable, with incredible options for street food, casual eateries, and upscale Creole and Cajun restaurants. Even high-end meals often offer good value for the experience.
• Las Vegas: Food costs in Vegas vary widely. Buffets and fast food are budget-friendly, but dining at celebrity chef restaurants or fine-dining establishments can be significantly more expensive than comparable options in New Orleans.

3. Activities and Entertainment

• New Orleans: Many attractions, like live music on Frenchmen Street or strolling through the French Quarter, are free or low-cost. Tours (like swamp tours or ghost tours) are reasonably priced.
• Las Vegas: Entertainment costs in Vegas are typically higher, with world-class shows, concerts, and nightlife often requiring pricey tickets. Casino gambling can also add to expenses.

4. Transportation

• New Orleans: A highly walkable city, especially in the French Quarter. Public transportation and ride-shares are affordable.
• Las Vegas: While the Strip is walkable, taxis, monorails, and ride-shares may be necessary, and these can add up, especially if staying off the Strip.

5. Overall Cost

• New Orleans: Typically cheaper, especially for food, accommodations, and activities. It’s a great destination for budget-conscious travelers.
• Las Vegas: Can be more expensive, particularly if you indulge in luxury dining, entertainment, and gambling.

Both cities offer unique experiences, so the choice depends on your interests. Journey Connected can help you plan an itinerary that fits your budget and preferences for either destination, ensuring you get the most value out of your trip!

Carrying some cash in New Orleans is a good idea, but it’s not strictly necessary for all transactions. Here’s what you need to know about using cash in the city:

When Cash is Useful

1. Street Performers and Tipping: The city is known for its vibrant street performers, especially in areas like the French Quarter. Having small bills for tips is appreciated.
2. Local Vendors and Markets: Some smaller vendors, food stalls, and local markets, like the French Market, may prefer or only accept cash.
3. Bars and Clubs: While most bars accept cards, some smaller, cash-only establishments still exist, especially outside the main tourist areas.
4. Transportation: Public transportation like streetcars may require exact change if you’re not using a pass.

When You Can Rely on Cards

• Most restaurants, hotels, and shops in New Orleans accept credit and debit cards. Many even allow mobile payments.
• Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are widely available, eliminating the need for cash for transportation.

Tips for Carrying Cash

• Bring smaller denominations to avoid issues with change.
• Keep your cash secure, as tourist areas can occasionally attract pickpockets. Use a crossbody bag or money clip to minimize risk.
• Don’t carry large amounts of cash; ATMs are widely available if you need to withdraw more.

To ensure a smooth and worry-free trip, Journey Connected can help you prepare for your New Orleans adventure, providing tips and planning assistance for every aspect of your visit.