3 Delightful Days in New Orleans

New Orleans is a feast for the senses, where every corner pulses with life, color, and rhythm. For a weekend escape steeped in culture, history, and most importantly, unforgettable cuisine, this vibrant city delivers beyond expectations.

Day 1: Arrival and Exploration

Landing at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport, you can already feel the hum of jazz in the air. After a quick ride into the French Quarter, check into one of the many boutique hotels—perhaps a historic property with wrought iron balconies overlooking Bourbon or Royal Street. From there, it’s time to wander.

Start your tour at Jackson Square, where artists display their work along the fence line, and the iconic St. Louis Cathedral presides over the scene. Stop at Café du Monde for beignets dusted with powdered sugar and a chicory coffee that will jolt you awake in the best way. As you stroll the cobblestone streets, let your curiosity lead you into antique shops, art galleries, and voodoo boutiques.

As evening falls, head to Frenchmen Street. Less touristy than Bourbon Street, this area is renowned for live music. Grab dinner at The Three Muses, where small plates and signature cocktails pair perfectly with the soundtrack of jazz, blues, and brass bands.

Day 2: A Culinary and Cultural Journey

Begin your second day with a leisurely breakfast at Brennan’s, where the famous bananas Foster was invented. Eggs Hussarde and mimosas set a decadent tone for the day. Once satisfied, embark on a historical adventure by taking a streetcar to the Garden District. Here, sprawling oak trees shade ornate mansions, and you can tour the famous Lafayette Cemetery No. 1, a hauntingly beautiful site with aboveground tombs.

For lunch, try Commander’s Palace, a New Orleans institution known for its elegant atmosphere and turtle soup. Afterward, return to the French Quarter for a visit to The Historic Voodoo Museum or a guided tour that unravels the legends of the city’s haunted past.

Come evening, a culinary highlight awaits: dinner at Cochon in the Warehouse District. This restaurant, celebrated for its Cajun-inspired dishes, showcases bold flavors like smoked pork ribs and fried alligator. For dessert, swing by a praline shop for a sweet, buttery treat to savor as you walk along the Mississippi River.

Day 3: Markets and Farewells

Your final day begins with a trip to the iconic French Market, a blend of food stalls, crafts, and souvenirs. Grab a po’ boy from a local vendor and explore the market’s vibrant offerings. Before you leave, take a leisurely cruise on the Steamboat Natchez, where you’ll enjoy views of the city’s skyline and live jazz on deck.

As you head back to the airport, the soulful sounds and rich flavors of New Orleans stay with you. This weekend adventure is not just a trip—it’s an immersion into a culture that embraces life with open arms and a warm, melodic heart. In New Orleans, the spirit of celebration is never far away, and the memories linger like the echo of a saxophone in the distance.

French Quarter Festivals, Inc. (FQFI) is thrilled to announce highlights for the 2025 French Quarter Festival presented by Chevron. As the largest free celebration of Louisiana’s music, food, and culture, FQFI invites the community to gather in the French Quarter from April 10-13, 2025, to celebrate through music, food, and unforgettable experiences.

“Each year, French Quarter Festival brings the vibrant culture of New Orleans to life,” said Emily Madero, President & CEO of FQFI. “We’re excited to welcome locals and visitors to join us for unforgettable music, food, and community moments in one of the world’s most unique neighborhoods.”

Chevron continues its steadfast support of French Quarter Festival, helping bring this cherished celebration of Crescent City’s culture to life. “Chevron is proud to once again serve as presenting sponsor of French Quarter Festival,” said Chevron Gulf of Mexico Public Affairs Manager Leah Brown. “For more than a decade, we’ve supported the event’s mission to showcase the culture and heritage of our unique city, contribute to the economic well-being of the community, and instill increased pride in the people of New Orleans. We thank the French Quarter Festival team for our long-standing partnership and invite everyone to join us this year!”