New Orleans
Swamps, street eats, and soulful streets on a shoestring
Highlights
Paddle through bayous spotting alligators on a budget-friendly wildlife adventure.
Wander historic streets with free jazz vibes and architecture.
Explore massive oaks and lagoons on easy nature trails.
Admire antebellum mansions on a self-guided free tour.
Sample local produce and po'boys at a vibrant street market.
Where to Stay
1 pick
Olde World Inn
Cozy budget hostel with shared baths and communal kitchen in historic building.
Where to Eat
10 picks
Cafe du Monde
Order beignets and chicory coffee at outdoor tables.
Central Grocery
Muffuletta sandwich—get half to share.
Lucky Dog Vendor
Grilled hot dog with toppings from iconic cart.
Crescent City Farmers Market
Grab tamales or pralines from stalls (Wed/Sat).
Po' Boy Shop
Shrimp po'boy—small size.
Snowie Shave Ice
Flavored shaved ice for light cool meal.
Rouses Market Deli
Grab boudin sausage or gumbo to-go.
Dat Dog French Quarter
Alligator sausage dog.
Parkway Bakery
Roast beef po'boy.
Verti Marte
Peacemaker po'boy.
What to Do
11 picks
French Quarter Walking Tour
Self-guided stroll Jackson Square, St. Louis Cathedral, and street performers.
Jackson Square Artists
Browse free street art, tarot readers, and live music.
Mississippi River Levee Walk
Easy waterside path with city skyline views.
Magazine Street Stroll
Walk free shops, murals; 10-min streetcar from CBD.
Garden District Mansions
Self-guided walk Lafayette Cemetery and historic homes.
Barataria Preserve Trails
Free boardwalk hike; 45-min bus from Garden District.
Cajun Encounters Kayak Tour
Budget tandem kayak spotting gators; book ahead, wear water shoes, medium fitness.
City Park Big Easy Trail
Free 2-mile nature hike around lagoons; 20-min streetcar.
Bayou St. John Paddle
Rent cheap kayaks or canoe free edges for wildlife.
French Market Browse
Free historic market with stalls.
Louis Armstrong Park
Free paths, Congo Square history, wildlife ponds; 10-min walk.
Good to Know
8 picks
Bug Protection Essential
Slather DEET spray before swamps; long pants/sleeves even in heat.
Cash is King
Markets and carts don't take cards; ATMs charge fees.
Streetcar Basics
Board rear, pay $1.25 cash upfront; Google schedules.
Picnic Smart
Buy market food for park meals; trash it properly.
Hydration Hack
Refill bottles at fountains; carry 2L daily.
Weather Check
Apps for rain; indoor backups like markets.
Safety Pairing
Stick to daylight paths, groups in Quarter nights.
Free WiFi Spots
Libraries, cafes for occasional connectivity needs.
Map
Map unavailable
Best For
Start planning your trip with this itinerary in Takeoff.
Don't have the app? Download it free on the App Store.