24 Unforgettable Hours in New Orleans: Best Things to Do, Eat & Explore

Walk the French Quarter—preferably aimlessly

Any time of day is good to walk the cobblestone streets of the city’s oldest neighborhood, the French Quarter, and with just one day, that’s where I focused. I spent the day admiring the intricate ironwork balconies, street performers, and colorful facades. A stop in Jackson Square, with beignet in hand, is a must for photos and people-watching.

Wander through unique local shops and bookstores

New Orleans is full of quirky, independent shops that reflect its vibrant personality. From vintage finds to locally made art, it’s easy to lose hours browsing. This time, I channeled by inner book lover and found Dauphine Street Books, a cozy, old-school shop stacked floor to ceiling with used and rare books, many on the spookier side of New Orleans. Faulkner House Books, located in Pirate’s Alley is another must-visit. William Faulkner himself lived there. Whether you’re on the hunt for a great read, a funky souvenir (perhaps a book on voodoo?), or something you didn’t know you needed, the city’s local storefronts have you covered.

Take a ghost, voodoo & vampire tour

This was a surprising highlight for me—and I can be guilty of having a short attention span and getting worn down by group tours. Learn about New Orleans’ haunted past, voodoo legends, or real-life vampires, while exploring hidden corners and dimly lit alleys. This tour takes around two hours.

Catch live music on Frenchmen Street

My vote is to skip Bourbon Street’s touristy chaos and head to Frenchmen Street to experience authentic live jazz at night. Follow the sounds you hear as you walk or try The Spotted Cat or Blue Nile for more iconic venues you can brag to your friends about.

Take a cooking class

If, like me, you fell in love with New Orleans’ cuisine, it’s worth squeezing in a Creole or Cajun cooking class to learn how to make gumbo, etouffee, or pralines. Not only is it a delicious way to spend a few hours, but you’ll also leave with recipes and techniques that will let you bring the bold, soulful flavors of NOLA back to your own kitchen. This tour takes 1.5–4 hours and should be pre-booked.

Beignet taste-testing—my favorite passtime

• Loretta’s Authentic Pralines in the French Market: Unique flavors—try the praline-stuffed beignet or savory beignets for something different.

• Café du Monde: The classic. Yes, the line is long, but it moves fast and is part of the experience.

• Café Beignet: A quieter alternative with charming decor, excellent beignets, and more conventional breakfast options for those without a sweet tooth.

Brunch

• Tujague’s: The second-oldest restaurant in the city, with a limited yet approachable brunch menu and classics like shrimp and grits, omelets, gumbo, and po’ boys. Oh, and the cocktails are delightful.

• Brennan’s: Iconic and elegant. Don’t skip the bananas foster.

Dinner

• Meril: Chef Emeril Lagasse’s casual, fun, lively spot is perfect for shared plates and bold flavors, with exceptional service. Don’t miss the New Orleans–style barbecued shrimp—they were so good, we immediately ordered another round.

Cocktails

• Carousel Bar: Located inside the Hotel Monteleone, this rotating bar is a New Orleans icon. Sip a classic Sazerac or Vieux Carré while slowly spinning around the room on an antique carousel—yes, it does move.

• Commander’s Palace: Hit the bar at this legendary restaurant—if you make it to the Cemetery/Garden District—for craft cocktails and an elegant atmosphere. Note: it does have a dress code.

Snack stop

• ACME Oyster House: The ideal pit stop during your walking tour. Its chargrilled oysters are absolutely worth standing in line for if you can’t get there early.