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Planning to spend only two days in New Orleans? Read on to find out everything you need to know about a short, sweet trip to this wild party city!
Two Days in New Orleans: Where to Eat and Drink
Bourbon House
Located directly on the famous Bourbon street, the Bourbon House is the perfect spot for some evening happy hour oysters. At $1 a pop, the deal is pretty hard to beat! And with only two days in New Orleans, you’ll need to be enjoying as many oysters as physically possible of course!
Luke’s
Hands down some of the best stuffed oysters that I have ever eaten. Forget two days in New Orleans, this is a must even if you only have one day in New Orleans!
Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar
This recommendation came from one of my Insta-buddies, @allygrammin! The oldest bar in the US to date, Lafitte’s is a must on any New Orleans itinerary! I opted for the NOLA classic “hurricane” and was definitely feeling it after only a few sips.
Cafe du Monde
I will start by admitting that many locals claim that Cafe du Monde is wildly overrated, however they sure are delicious! This 24/7 spot is centrally located in the French Quarter and these warm, doughy beignets are good at any hour! Please note that the take away stand is cash only.
Ruby Slipper
If you’re looking to brunch during your two days in New Orleans then Ruby Slipper is the spot for you! Hands down the best items are the Banana Fosters French Toast and any of the poached egg dish options!
Carousel Bar at Hotel Monteleone
One thing that is amazing about New Orleans is that you can drink at any time of the day, any day of the week! I popped into this famous hotel bar around 1pm on a Wednesday and snagged the a seat around the carousel bar!
Cafe Beignet
Cafe Beignet is the perfect way to start one of your two days in New Orleans. A charming cafe with some of the best beignets in town, this spot is hard to pass up!
District Donuts
While we’re on the topic of sweet stuff, I might as well mention District Donuts! You should definitely spend a portion of your two days in New Orleans strolling down the charming Magazine Street, with a mandatory stop (or two) with a donut to refuel. Although I must admit, I personally went for the cinnamon roll because it looked, and smelled, too good to pass up!
Domilise’s Po-Boy & Bar
You can’t come to New Orleans and not eat a po-boy! Therefore, with only two days in New Orleans, Domilise’s classic po-boy shop is a must!
Two Days in New Orleans: What to Do
Explore Jackson Square
Jackson Square and the St. Louis Cathedral lie right in the heart of the French Quarter. Spend some time wandering the bustling square before getting lost in the nearby area!
Wander the French Quarter
While there is definitely so much more to the city than the French Quarter, you can’t spend two days in New Orleans and not explore this area! I absolutely loved the colorful houses and buildings.
Drink on Bourbon Street
You’ve only got two days in New Orleans – it’s a must! Whether it’s a single hurricane or a wild night out, you’ve got to stop by at some point!
Stroll Down Magazine Street
From adorable boutiques to tasty dessert shops like District Donut and Sucre, Magazine Street is a must during your two days in New Orleans. Be sure to check out Ashley Longshore Studio Gallery for some fun photo opportunities!
Explore the Free Art Galleries on Royal
Start at the corner of Canal St and Royal St and make your way towards the French Quarter. You’ll find a TON of art galleries along the way. This is the perfect (free) afternoon activity, especially as the temperatures drop.
Listen to Live Jazz
You can find jazz bars all over New Orleans, but if you’re short on time then I recommend checking out Fritzel’s European Jazz Pub. Conveniently located on Bourbon St, you’re sure to have a fun evening.
Don’t have time for an evening show? You’ll find street corners all over the city, especially in the French Quarter.
Visit the Voodoo Museum
Voodoo is a tradition deeply ingrained into the history and culture of Louisiana. During my two days in New Orleans I spent some time wandering the Voodoo Museum and the nearby Marie Laveau’s House of Voodoo. Whether you believe in it or not, it’s a fun place to explore!
Admission Cost: $7
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Taylor is a NYC-based solo traveler and travel blogger. Taylor shares travel tips and itineraries from the 70 countries she’s visited around the world.
