Why go
New Orleans has its own music, food and architecture, and almost all of it is walkable. Plan your days around meals and your nights around live music.
What to pin
01French Quarter and Jackson Square Iron balconies, street musicians and St. Louis Cathedral.
02Frenchmen Street Small clubs with live jazz most nights, a short walk from the Quarter.
03St. Charles streetcar Ride through the Garden District past old mansions and oak trees.
04Beignets and po'boys Start the day with beignets and coffee, and leave room for gumbo.
Where to stay
The French Quarter to be in the middle of it, the Marigny for music, or the Garden District and CBD for a quieter base.
When to go
February to May covers Mardi Gras and spring festivals. Summers are hot and humid; hurricane season runs June to November.
Ideal pace
Plan for 3-4 days. Travel slowly enough to notice where you are instead of racing through a checklist.