Essence Festival and Fine Dining in New Orleans Itinerary

Kick off your day with a jazz brunch at the historic Court of Two Sisters, where you can enjoy live music and a sumptuous buffet.

After brunch, visit the National WWII Museum to learn about the country's involvement in the war. For a late afternoon snack, stop by Central Grocery Co. for a muffuletta.

In the evening, take a New Orleans Evening Jazz Cruise on the Steamboat Natchez for a unique musical experience on the Mississippi River. Opt for the dinner option for a complete evening of entertainment.

Take a break from the city and embark on a Oak Alley Plantation & Airboat Swamp Combo Tour. Experience the beauty of the Oak Alley Plantation and the thrill of an airboat ride through the swamps.

Enjoy a traditional Southern lunch at Dooky Chase Restaurant, a landmark of Creole cuisine. Afterward, visit the Whitney Plantation Museum to gain insight into the lives of the enslaved people.

For dinner, savor the flavors of the South at Willie Mae's Scotch House, known for its fried chicken.

Start your day with a guided tour of the French Quarter, delving into the history and culture of the area.

For lunch, enjoy a taste of tradition at Central Grocery Co. with a muffuletta. Afterward, take the New Orleans French Quarter Ghost and Murder Tour to uncover the city's dark past.

Dine at Arnaud's Restaurant, a Creole classic, before embarking on the New Orleans Haunted Ghost, Voodoo, and Vampire City Tour for a spine-tingling evening.

Explore the Garden District with a guided tour, admiring the historic mansions and oak-lined streets.

For lunch, indulge in the famous turtle soup at Brennan's Restaurant. Afterward, visit the Mississippi River for a relaxing afternoon by the water.

Enjoy a sophisticated dinner at Commander's Palace, a New Orleans institution, known for its award-winning cuisine.

Spend your last morning in New Orleans at the French Market, browsing the stalls and picking up some local souvenirs.

For a final taste of the city, have a late lunch at Café du Monde for more beignets. Take a leisurely walk to Jackson Square and St. Louis Cathedral for some last-minute sightseeing.

Conclude your Essence Festival trip with a memorable dinner at Arnaud's Restaurant, where you can enjoy classic Creole dishes in a historic setting.