When you think New Orleans, you think party. The city is renowned for its live music, vibrant bar scene, soul food and, of course, its festivals. Consequently, it has people flocking in their thousands to indulge in weekends of revelry.
However, there’s more to this city than meets the eye and visitors should ensure they immerse themselves in its rich tapestry of sights and flavours during their time in the southern hotspot. If you’ve got just 48-hours in New Orleans, here’s our top tips for what you should see and do.
Day 1
Jackson Square
At the front of the French Quarter sits Jackson Square. This public, gated park originates from the mid-19th century and is the size of a US city block. Designed by architect and landscaper Louis H. Pilie, between the 1920s and 1980s it was a hub for painters, caricaturists and art students. Now it is also home to mimies, fortune tellers, card readers and other street performers, making it one of the most bustling parts of the city.
Two landmarks in the square include the St Louis Cathedral and the Jackson Equestrian Statue. There is also the historic Cafe du Monde opposite the Cabildo (the seat of government for the Spanish settlement in the late 1700s), which is famous for its cafe au lait. This signature beverage has been served on the premises since the civil war and goes perfectly with one of the beignets – a powdered sugar confection. It’s custom for anyone having a beignet to blow off the sugar and make a wish.
The French Quarter
This is certainly the most iconic part of New Orleans and where the party is. Filled with an atmosphere that is nothing sort of electric, with a pleasing hint of weirdness and oddity, the old quarter is where you’ll see the colonial era balconies and creole cottages that most people associate with the city.
The most famous place in the quarter is Bourbon Street, which is filled with historic bars and lots of neon. If you want to experience this place in all its glory, you need to be there at night time and be willing to dance, drink and deal with crowds.
If this isn’t your cup of tea, there are plenty of other things to do in the quarter. Preservation Hall is a must-see and has been operating as a music venue for jazz since 1961. The Hermann-Grima House is also a popular spot and is a historic house museum that gives you a real taste of what the Golden Age of New Orleans looked like. Gallier House is another great house museum and has some of the best preserved architecture in New Orleans.
Of course you can’t talk about the French Quarter without mentioning voodoo and the occult. You’ll find a range of stores dedicated to the mystic in the quarter and there are even guided tours to talk you through some of the ghosts and phantoms that are said to haunt the Vieux Carre.
Day 2
The Garden District
When you walk around the Garden District you get an idea by what is meant by the phrase ‘old Southern money’. Originally developed between 1832 and 1900, some of the best historic mansions line the streets. Landmarks include the famous Lafayette Cemetery No 1, the 19th century skating rink cum shopping mall known as ‘The Rink’, the Anshe Sfard synagogue and the George Washington Cable House. The famous restaurant Commander’s Palace is also in the Garden District, where you can get a drink and creole food. However, you’ll want to dress up for the occasion.
Freret Street
If you fancy something a bit trendy you should head uptown to Freret Street. This is a new up and coming part of the city that has found new life post-Katrina. It has more than 15 restaurants, bars and music venues, making it an alternative the Bourbon Street for revellers. Freret Street Publiq House is good for steampunk, while Snake and Jakes is the perfect spot if you’re a fan of a dive bar and Christmas lights.
Combine New Orleans with more, on a Multi Centre Holiday adventure…
Matt has been working for eShores since 2012, but has worked in the industry for the last 24 years, so is highly experienced. When it comes to hands on knowledge, Matt has travelled extensively, especially in the USA where there aren't many places he hasn't been to. Matt is fun, loves a chat, but is down to earth, so you'll always get his honest opinion.
Our experienced personal travel consultants will ensure you find the most suitable holiday, whilst taking care of every last detail. Everything from start to finish will be effortless.
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We can use any hotel, in any destination, so we will craft an itinerary to suit your exact needs. Also, as we can provide any itinerary, the only holiday we'll offer, is the one that's right for you.
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Excellent
4.93 Average 2198 Reviews
LouiseGarland
We have just returned from a multi centre Vietnam trip.
What can I say, absolutely fantastic holiday from start to finish. Dave helped us all the way. We had a plan in our head and Dave took time to plan our perfect trip.
Communication was great, letting us know promptly of any changes.
We would definitely book again and highly recommend to others.
Posted 2 days ago
Hazel
We have recently returned from a multi centre holiday in Thailand. Everything went smoothly as planned, the hotels were all lovely.
We would definitely recommend eShores and would book through them in the future.
Thanks to Laura who organised the trip for us.
Posted 1 month ago
Heath
Been using eshore for several years,always come up with requirements we need.Always happy to rearrange. Staff are very knowledgeable and we always use Leanne as our point of contact.
Experts for multi centre holidays.
Posted 1 month ago
DavidHurst
I booked two holidays in 4 months with Dave at eshores. First one a 16 day trip around Vietnam north to south which included numerous flights and taxis. My second holiday was in October traveling around Vietnam again and Cambodia. Every hotel in both countries was spot on, every transfer went smooth with no problems. I'll Definitely use eshores again and thanks to Dave who arranged everything, a fantastic experience 👍👍
Posted 1 month ago
Parr
Recently booked a four centre holiday to Asia. The process was straightforward and seamless. Rob, the agent who dealt with our requirements was extremely helpful and not pushy. He was very easy to talk with and seemed genuinely interested in our plans. He managed to put together exactly what we wanted and at a great price.
Posted 1 month ago
Horan
Andy at eshores has been great, he worked hard to meet all our needs and went the extra mile for us! We're looking forward to a great Honeymoon!
Posted 1 month ago
Jones
As always Michelle mainly but with some help from Leanne have once again booked an hopefully (as not yet travelled) amazing customised trip to America next September with our family this time.
Posted 1 month ago
Canning
First time I have used eshores and it won't be the last. Emma was so helpful in booking my 3 centre holiday to Portugal. Really pleased with accommodation selected and the overall cost. Emma was very quick to respond with different options and I'm looking forward to our holiday next year. I highly recommend this company
Posted 1 month ago
Hanagarth
We have just booked a trip to the Far East having previously used this company twice, Vietnam/Cambodia and a Road Trip in the USA. Both trips were problem free with all aspects going to plan.
Easy to talk to and never pushing for a decision. A lovely company , thank you Dave for your time and assistance.
Posted 1 month ago
BillRoberts
We booked what appeared to be a busy holiday to South Africa and Mauritius. This consisted of five different fights and hotels with the various transfers included. Rachael organised the holiday for us and every aspect of the trip went well. Took a lot of the stress out and allowed us to have a fantastic holiday. Friendly,Professional service with professional staff. Will use them again.
