If you’re planning a trip to New Orleans—or even just thinking about it—let me start by saying this: just go. It’s the kind of place that sticks with you. I went for a short break and came back with jazz in my bones, powdered sugar on half my clothes, and about 200 pictures of street musicians I now consider close friends.

This isn’t just a travel story—this is your casual, real-life guide to what to expect, where to go, what to eat, and what surprised me along the way. So if you’re ready to explore New Orleans like someone who’s been there, keep reading.

📍 Day 1: Arriving Hungry — Beignets First, Bourbon Later

I landed in the late afternoon and honestly? I was starving. I dropped my bag off at my Airbnb (more on that below), and went straight to Café du Monde. Touristy? Yes. Worth it? Absolutely. The beignets are messy in the best way—pillowy soft, golden brown, buried under a mountain of powdered sugar. Don’t wear black. Trust me.

After dusting myself off, I headed to the famous Bourbon Street. Now, here’s the thing: Bourbon is wild. There’s music pouring out of every bar, crowds on every corner, and someone in a feathered mask trying to hand you a flyer. It’s chaotic, but it’s the heart of the city. I didn’t stay long (too loud for my taste), but I’m glad I went. It’s the kind of place you have to see for yourself—at least once.

🏚️ Day 2: Ghost Stories, Garden Charm, and Gumbo for the Soul

I started day two with a ghost tour. Yes, seriously. And if you’re visiting NOLA, I highly recommend you do the same. The city is old, mysterious, and filled with stories that’ll make your neck tingle. Our guide took us through the French Quarter, pointing out haunted buildings, strange legends, and creepy true stories. The LaLaurie Mansion was the most chilling stop. Do I believe in ghosts now? Maybe a little.

By noon, I needed comfort food—and New Orleans knows how to deliver. I found a cozy local spot called Coop’s Place and ordered their chicken and andouille sausage gumbo. Spicy, smoky, and exactly what my tired legs needed. It’s not fancy, but it’s packed with flavor and locals.

In the afternoon, I wandered the Garden District. Imagine streets lined with oak trees and grand old homes with wraparound porches and intricate ironwork. It’s quiet, green, and picture-perfect. If you like slow walks and beautiful architecture, don’t skip this part of town.

🎺 Day 3: Frenchmen Street, Art, and Accidental Dancing

Day three was my favorite. I skipped Bourbon and went to Frenchmen Street, and oh man—what a difference. Fewer crowds, more locals, and every bar had a live band playing the kind of jazz that makes your foot tap without asking.

I ended up at The Spotted Cat Music Club, and let me tell you—this place is magic. The band played old-school brass jazz, the kind you feel in your chest. People were dancing. I mean full-on swing dancing. I didn’t plan to join, but somehow, I did. (Poorly. But I tried.)

Later, I walked to Jackson Square, grabbed a shrimp po’boy from a food stand, and just sat for a while. A saxophonist was playing a slow, haunting tune nearby. It was one of those moments that doesn’t sound like much but stays with you forever.

🍽️ What to Eat in New Orleans (Seriously, Don’t Skip These)

• Beignets from Café du Monde – Go early to avoid lines.

• Gumbo at Coop’s Place – Spicy and soulful.

• Po’boys – Shrimp, roast beef, even fried catfish. Try them all.

• Jambalaya & Red Beans and Rice – Found in almost every local café.

• Bread Pudding – Warm, sweet, and usually drowned in whiskey sauce.

NOLA is a food town. Come hungry. Leave happy (and a little heavier—it’s worth it).

🏨 Where I Stayed

I booked a charming Airbnb near Esplanade Avenue, close to the French Quarter but just far enough to escape the noise. It had a small balcony where I sipped coffee each morning and watched the sleepy street wake up. There are tons of affordable options in this area—worth checking out if you don’t want to stay directly on Bourbon.

✅ Quick Tips for First-Time Visitors

• Don’t drive – Parking is a nightmare. Walk, Uber, or use the streetcar.

• Bring comfy shoes – You’ll walk more than you think.

• Have small cash for tips – Especially for musicians and performers.

• Be open – The best moments happen when you follow the sound of a trumpet and end up somewhere unexpected.

✈️ Final Thoughts: Should You Visit New Orleans?

Yes. A million times yes.

New Orleans isn’t just a destination—it’s a feeling. It’s sweet and spicy, old and new, soulful and strange. It’s a place where you can spend the morning learning about voodoo, the afternoon eating crawfish, and the evening dancing with strangers to music you didn’t even know you liked.

If you’re someone who likes travel that touches your heart and fills your belly, New Orleans is for you. And if you’re just browsing ideas for now—bookmark this post. You’ll end up going someday. Everyone does.