At the beginning of this year, I took a quick weekend trip to New Orleans, Louisiana. While I’ve been to NOLA a few times before, I decided to share this one on my blog because it was more family-friendly than my previous visits. Don’t get me wrong, I’m all for the wild nights on Bourbon Street filled with debauchery and excitement, but not everyone comes to New Orleans for that. This city is overflowing with culture, history, and charm that can be enjoyed by just about anyone.
Last year I went to New York City, and honestly, New Orleans feels just as lively, it’s truly the city that never sleeps.
Whether you’re nearby and need a spontaneous weekend escape, or you’re traveling and only have a couple of days to explore, here’s a breakdown of my trip that might inspire your next getaway.
Getting Around: A Note on Public Transportation
I attempted to use the RTA (Regional Transit Authority) system while in New Orleans. Here’s a quick guide if you’re planning to try it out but fair warning: it can be hit or miss.
How to use the RTA System (Bus & Streetcar):
- Download the Le Pass app.
- Create an account, enable location services, and add your payment information.
- Enter your destination.
- Choose your route.
- Select “Buy New Ticket” – $1.25 per ride, per person (valid for either bus or streetcar).
- Activate your ticket five minutes before boarding.
- Show the activated ticket to the driver when boarding.
🚎 The pros: clean, generally safe.
⚠️ The cons: unpredictable. I experienced multiple delays, including a 40-minute wait at one point.
If you’re short on time, you may want to stick with walking, Uber/Lyft, or driving—but note that parking in the French Quarter can be tough.
Trip Recap
📍 Where I Stayed:
I booked an Airbnb on N. Muro Street in the French Quarter. After a 5.5-hour drive, I got settled in, walked the dogs, and called it a night.
Day 1: History, Art, and a Taste of the Vampire Life
- Cafe Du Monde
Start your morning with chicory coffee and beignets. Tip: the experience is better if you wait to be seated rather than using the to-go line. Make sure you’re in the right line for what you want! - The 1850 House Museum
Step into 19th-century life. The museum includes furnishings, decor, and insight into slave quarters. There’s also a small gift shop. - Local Art Stroll
Enjoyed browsing artwork on St. Ann Street, Chartres Street, and Jackson Square in front of the Cathedral. - Lunch at Vampire Cafe
A quirky and themed spot. Don’t skip the connected Vampire Store just behind it! - Historical Sites Visited:
- First Louisiana school (est. 1725)
- Benito Juárez’s former exile residence (Mexico’s former president, 1853–1855, 1858)
- Original location of Marie Laveau’s house (now rebuilt)
- Evening
- Strolled Bourbon Street to soak in the atmosphere.
- Stopped by Musical Legends Park for live music.
- Dinner at the Gumbo Shop, a must-try!
Day 2: Cemeteries, Culture, and a Touch of Horror
- Tour of St. Louis Cemetery No. 1
Visited the tomb of Marie Laveau, Nicholas Cage’s pyramid tomb, and heard fascinating stories about the 16-man Artillery Battalion. - Lunch at Lil’ Dizzy’s Cafe
Classic New Orleans comfort food. - Afternoon Stops:
- French Market
- Pharmacy Museum (first officially licensed U.S. pharmacy, opened in 1823)
- Buckner Mansion (featured in American Horror Story)
- Pierre Maspero’s Slave Exchange (1788)
- Evening Tour
Haunted History’s True Crime Tour; 2 hours of spooky stories and local legends. - Dinner: Pizza (simple and satisfying after the tour)
Day 3: A Relaxed Departure
- Breakfast at French Toast
Highly recommend the sweet and savory options here. - Last-minute Shopping
Stopped by the Christmas Quarter Store for unique ornaments and gifts. - Heading Home
Took the scenic route back via the Lake Pontchartrain Bridge—a beautiful end to a fun-filled trip. After another 5.5-hour drive, I was back home and ready to jump into the workweek.
Final Thoughts
New Orleans is a city that truly offers something for everyone—whether you’re into music, history, ghost stories, food, or just wandering through lively streets. Hopefully, this guide gives you some inspiration for your own quick trip!
Between Tales & Trails 
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