New Orleans 3-Day Trip Itinerary
New Orleans Trip - Apr 1 to Apr 3
A quick 3-day road trip from Madison to New Orleans, with an overnight stop in Memphis, followed by a full day of cultural and entertainment experiences in the French Quarter and Garden District.
Road Trip to Memphis
Wednesday, April 1Depart Madison, WI
Begin your road trip south from Madison, Wisconsin.
This leg of the journey will take you through Illinois and Missouri.
Driving your personal vehicle. Ensure your car is in good condition for a long drive.
Lunch Break
Stop for lunch at a roadside diner or restaurant along your route, perhaps around St.
Louis, Missouri.
Arrive in Memphis, TN
Reach Memphis, Tennessee, your overnight stop.
Check into your accommodation and relax after the drive.
Dinner in Memphis
Enjoy an evening meal in Memphis, perhaps trying some local BBQ.
Beale Street offers numerous options.
Arrival in New Orleans & Garden District Charm
Thursday, April 2Depart Memphis, TN
Continue your drive from Memphis towards your final destination, New Orleans.
This leg will take you through Mississippi.
Driving your personal vehicle. Enjoy the changing landscapes as you head further south.
Arrive in New Orleans
Welcome to New Orleans!
Check into your hotel and settle in.
Historic Garden District Walking Tour
Explore the beautiful Garden District, known for its stunning mansions and lush greenery.
This tour is listed as a National Historic Landmark District.
Wear comfortable shoes for walking. This tour offers a glimpse into the opulent past of New Orleans. Product Code: 365523P2
Dinner in the French Quarter
Enjoy a delicious dinner at one of the many renowned restaurants in the French Quarter.
Comedy Gumbeaux Show
Catch some laughs at Comedy Gumbeaux, a show that has featured talented comedians for over a decade.
Check venue for pricing and specific show details. Booking: https://ticketmaster.evyy.net/c/6095736/271177/4272?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ticketweb.com%2Fevent%2Fcomedy-gumbeaux-howlin-wolf-tickets%2F14686013&utm_medium=affiliate
French Quarter Culture & Evening Entertainment
Friday, April 3Historic New Orleans Collection
Explore this museum, research center, and publisher located in the French Quarter, featuring changing and continuing exhibitions on the city's history and culture.
Free admission for many exhibits. Check their website for current exhibitions. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g60864-d109392-Reviews-The_Historic_New_Orleans_Collection-New_Orleans_Louisiana.html?m=66827
New Orleans Cooking Class
Learn the basics of Louisiana cooking at the New Orleans School of Cooking, where fun is a primary ingredient!
Master specialties like Gumbo and Jambalaya.
Booking in advance is highly recommended as classes fill up quickly. Booking: https://www.tripadvisor.com/Attraction_Review-g60864-d104736-Reviews-New_Orleans_School_of_Cooking-New_Orleans_Louisiana.html?m=66827
Jackson Square & St. Louis Cathedral
Stroll through historic Jackson Square, soak in the vibrant atmosphere, and admire the iconic St.
Louis Cathedral, a landmark of New Orleans.
Artists, street performers, and fortune tellers often gather in Jackson Square.
New Edition: The New Edition Way Tour
Experience an unforgettable evening with New Edition live at the Smoothie King Center.
All ages need a ticket. Mobile tickets only. No refunds or exchanges. Booking: https://ticketmaster.evyy.net/c/6095736/271177/4272?u=https%3A%2F%2Fwww.ticketmaster.com%2Fnew-edition-the-new-edition-way-new-orleans-louisiana-04-03-2026%2Fevent%2F1B006355C4DB63D0%3Futm_content%3Dhotevent&utm_medium=affiliate
This 3-day itinerary for New Orleans can be customized using our AI travel planner. Chat with our AI assistant to modify activities, adjust timings, add personal preferences, and get recommendations for restaurants, hotels, and transportation.