Is 1 day enough for New Orleans?

A single day covers New Orleans's walkable centre comfortably; add a second day if you also want a day trip or a slower pace.

What's the best way to get around New Orleans in 1 day?

Stick to walking and local transport for the centre; for anywhere further out, check New Orleans's local transport options before you go.

New Orleans itinerary

1 day in New Orleans

One day in New Orleans is enough for its centre and one real meal — here's how to spend it, plus what's genuinely on while you're there.

Your one day in New Orleans

With a single day, stay close to New Orleans's walkable centre: its best-known sights, a market or waterfront stretch, and one proper sit-down meal rather than rushing between many stops.

Check what's on below before you go — a live event on your day is the easiest way to fill an evening without extra planning.

What's on during your visit

July 2026

The Uptown Jazz Orchestra with John Gray

Snug Harbor Jazz BistroThu, Jul 23Music

🎟️ From $53

✓ Verified source

Mark Normand

Tipitina'sThu, Jul 23Culture & Art

🎟️ From $0

✓ Verified source

The Uptown Jazz Orchestra with John Gray

Snug Harbor Jazz BistroThu, Jul 23Music

🎟️ From $53

✓ Verified source

Tim Laughlin

Snug Harbor Jazz BistroFri, Jul 24Music

🎟️ From $36

✓ Verified source

Comedy Gumbeaux

Howlin' WolfFri, Jul 24Culture & Art

🎟️ From $13

✓ Verified source

Comedy Gumbeaux

Howlin' WolfFri, Jul 24Culture & Art

🎟️ From $13

✓ Verified source

Comedy Teabag: A Dirty Comedy Show presented by Twisted Tea

The Den at Howlin' WolfSat, Jul 25Family Friendly

🎟️ From $16

✓ Verified source

Alexey Marti & Afrogumbo

Snug Harbor Jazz BistroSat, Jul 25Music

🎟️ From $41

✓ Verified source

Jimmy Sowell (aka Nerdork) presented by Laugh Life Comedy

Howlin' WolfSat, Jul 25Family Friendly

🎟️ From $36

✓ Verified source

The Band Melrose, Neutral Snap, Donate Your Friends, Oversight

Gasa GasaSat, Jul 25Music

🎟️ From $12

✓ Verified source

Work The Crowd: A Interactive Comedy Show Hosted By Ryan Rogers and Marcus Bond

The Den at Howlin' WolfSat, Jul 25Family Friendly

🎟️ From $16

✓ Verified source

X Games present Metro Boomin' & J.I.D.

Smoothie King CenterSat, Jul 25Music

Price not published

✓ Verified source

Herlin Riley Quartet

Snug Harbor Jazz BistroSun, Jul 26Music

🎟️ From $53

✓ Verified source

The Return of the Banana Hand Pie With Performances By Big Chief Juan Pardo & The Golden Comanche and Dave Jordan & The NIA

Tipitina'sSun, Jul 26Music

Price not published

✓ Verified source

Lord Huron

Saenger Theatre-New OrleansSun, Jul 26Music

Price not published

✓ Verified source

Stoned vs. Drunk vs. Sober: A Standup Comedy Competition

Howlin' WolfSun, Jul 26Family Friendly

🎟️ From $16

✓ Verified source

X Games present Subtronics with BUNT.

Smoothie King CenterSun, Jul 26Music

Price not published

✓ Verified source

Kaytraaaa! Club!

NO DICESun, Jul 26Music

🎟️ From $12

✓ Verified source

Thais Clark and her Jazzsters

Snug Harbor Jazz BistroMon, Jul 27Music

🎟️ From $41

✓ Verified source

The Grammy Winning Hot 8 Brass Band

Howlin' WolfMon, Jul 27Music

🎟️ From $20

✓ Verified source

Charmaine Neville Band

Snug Harbor Jazz BistroTue, Jul 28Music

🎟️ From $36

✓ Verified source

Petit Choux // Theft (DEBUTS)

NO DICETue, Jul 28Music

🎟️ From $12

✓ Verified source

Charmaine Neville Band

Snug Harbor Jazz BistroTue, Jul 28Music

🎟️ From $36

✓ Verified source

Sansone, Fohl & Worrell

Snug Harbor Jazz BistroWed, Jul 29Music

🎟️ From $36

✓ Verified source

FAQ

Is 1 day enough for New Orleans?: A single day covers New Orleans's walkable centre comfortably; add a second day if you also want a day trip or a slower pace.
What's the best way to get around New Orleans in 1 day?: Stick to walking and local transport for the centre; for anywhere further out, check New Orleans's local transport options before you go.