New Orleans Student Itineraries

Find the best student itinerary for New Orleans.

New Orleans is home to cultures and experiences you won’t find anywhere else. Students visit the city from all over the world to immerse themselves in our unique history, learn about our way of life and have fun along the way. Use this itinerary as a starting point for your student trip to New Orleans! For themed student itineraries around STEM, music, culinary and other specific interests, contact Rachel Funel in the Tourism Department at rfunel@neworleans.com or 504-566-5018. 

3-Day, 3-Night Suggested Student Itinerary

Day One: Immerse Yourself in New Orleans Culture

Morning:
Start your adventure with a delicious brunch at Joey K's, a beloved neighborhood spot where both locals and visitors gather to enjoy classic New Orleans flavors.

Afternoon:
Get into the Mardi Gras spirit with a visit to Mardi Gras World, where over 80% of the iconic parade floats are designed and built. Learn about the rich traditions of Carnival and experience the vibrant energy that defines the Crescent City.

Evening:
For dinner, choose from a variety of iconic New Orleans restaurants such as Tujague's, Mother's Restaurant, Landry's, Oceana Grill, or Napoleon House—each offering a taste of the city's famous cuisine.

After dinner, embark on a Jazz Cruise aboard an authentic steamboat or paddlewheeler like the Steamboat Natchez, Riverboat City of New Orleans, or Paddlewheeler Creole Queen. Enjoy live jazz music as you take in the breathtaking sights and history of the Mississippi River.

Day Two: Explore History, Shopping & Haunting Tales

Morning:
Kick off the day with a GrayLine City Tour, like their New Orleans City Cemetery Sightseeing + Garden District Stroll. Afterward, head over to the Shops on Royal Street – wander into a collection of stores and a variety of gift shops.

Afternoon:
Step into history at the National World War II Museum, one of the top-rated museums in the country. Don't miss the immersive Finding Hope in a World Destroyed exhibit, where sound and light effects bring history to life.

Alternatively, explore the Louisiana State Museums in the French Quarter, such as The Cabildo, The Presbytère, or Old U.S. Mint, which features a state-of-the-art performance venue perfect for music and theater groups.

Evening:
Wrap up the day with a thrilling walking ghost tour through the historic French Quarter, where haunted legends come to life. Before or after the tour, indulge in a local favorite at Café du Monde, where you can enjoy beignets at this iconic open-air café.

Day Three: Bayou Adventures & Cajun Cuisine

Morning:
After breakfast, take a trip beyond the city for a swamp and bayou tour with a local Cajun guide from Cajun Encounters Tours. Spot alligators, egrets, and other wildlife as you cruise through Louisiana's lush wetlands. You might even get to feed marshmallows to an alligator!

Afternoon:
Stop by Parkway Bakery & Tavern for a bite before heading out to visit one of the grand riverfront plantations, such as the breathtaking Oak Alley Plantation, a National Historic Landmark. Walk beneath its famous canopy of 300-year-old oak trees and learn about its deep-rooted history.

Evening:
End your trip on a high note with a lively Cajun music experience at Mulate's, where you can dine on authentic Cajun cuisine while enjoying a live band.

Alternatively, get hands-on with a Creole & Cajun cooking class at the Mardi Gras School of Cooking or New Orleans School of Cooking, where you'll prepare (and enjoy!) a delicious meal crafted under expert guidance.