5-Day New Orleans Itinerary: A Spooky & Offbeat Adventure Staying at The Eliza Jane Hotel
It might sound cliché, but New Orleans is one of my favorite cities. I just had the pleasure of an early-October quick trip down there with my friend, Rebecca. It poured almost the entire time (pro tip: take an umbrella and water-resistant shoes—NOLA rains, a lot), but even soaked to the bone, New Orleans delivered. We stayed at The Eliza Jane Hotel, one of the city’s most charming boutique hotels, and explored the more offbeat and spooky side of this magical city. Here’s a 5-day itinerary filled with cozy places to eat, spooky activities, and a few hidden gems that will make you feel like a local.
Day 1: Arrival and Settling In at The Eliza Jane
History of The Eliza Jane
The Eliza Jane Hotel is a stylish, modern boutique hotel with deep historic roots. Located just a few blocks from the French Quarter, the hotel is a tribute to Eliza Jane Nicholson, the first female publisher of a major U.S. newspaper, The Daily Picayune. The hotel occupies a collection of nine historic warehouses, some of which were once used as printing presses and even a bitters factory. This unique history blends seamlessly with the hotel’s sophisticated, cozy interiors, making it an ideal home base for your NOLA adventures.
Pre-Bed Evening Drinks: The Press Room
After checking in and soaking up the atmosphere, settle into The Press Room, the hotel’s inviting cocktail lounge. With its plush seating, library vibes, and an impressive selection of craft cocktails, this is the perfect place to unwind after your travels. Ask for Brian—he’s a great mixologist and conversationalist! I recommend the Sazerac—a nod to one of New Orleans’ classic cocktails.
Day 2: Breakfast, the Garden District, and a Spooky Night Tour
Breakfast: The Vintage
Start your day with a cozy breakfast at The Vintage. Located on Magazine Street, this café offers delicious beignets, coffee, and light breakfast options. Their outdoor seating is perfect for enjoying a leisurely morning in a quintessentially New Orleans atmosphere.
Morning Activity: Garden District Walking Tour
Skip the French Quarter (for now) and head to the Garden District for a self-guided walking tour of this beautiful, historic neighborhood. You’ll see grand mansions, ancient oaks, and plenty of classic New Orleans architecture. Don’t miss the iconic Lafayette Cemetery No. 1—a quintessential NOLA experience where you can explore above-ground tombs and experience some of the city’s oldest burial practices. At the time of this posting, it’s temporarily closed but should reopen soon. Just check before going.(Spooky pro tip: This cemetery is said to be haunted, so be on the lookout for mysterious sights!)
Stop by the Commander’s Palace. This iconic restaurant is a landmark of the area and has been serving up classic Creole cuisine since 1893. Even if you’re not planning on dining there, it's worth passing by to admire its distinct turquoise-and-white facade and historic charm. For a little indulgence, consider stopping in for their famous 25-cent martini lunch or a decadent jazz brunch.
Lunch: District Donuts Sliders Brew on Magazine
This spot is more casual and perfect for a midday meal. They’re known for their creative gourmet sliders, artisan donuts, and house-made coffee drinks. The laid-back, trendy vibe makes it a popular choice with locals, and it’s a great place to take a break from exploring the neighborhood.
Afternoon Activity: Antique Shopping on Magazine Street
Magazine Street is lined with art galleries, antique stores, and boutiques. Spend the afternoon wandering through shops and galleries like Alex Beard Studio or As You Like It Silver Shop for some one-of-a-kind treasures.
Dinner: Café Amelie
For dinner, make your way to Café Amelie in the French Quarter. This charming restaurant is tucked away in a lush courtyard, offering a peaceful respite from the bustling streets. Try their Shrimp and Grits and their Apricot Sangria—both are my favorites. The ambiance, with fairy lights and cascading fountains, will make you feel like you’re in a secret garden.
Evening Activity: Ghost Tour in the French Quarter
No visit to New Orleans is complete without a spooky ghost tour. Many of the buildings in the French Quarter are said to be haunted by spirits from the city’s storied past. Book a tour that includes Lalaurie Mansion (once owned by the infamous Madame Lalaurie) and the Old Ursuline Convent. It’s a spine-tingling way to cap off your evening.
Day 3: History, Hidden Gems, and Live Music
Breakfast: Elizabeth’s
Start your day with breakfast at Elizabeth’s in the Bywater, where you can enjoy elevated Southern classics. The Bayou Breakfast and Callas (Creole rice fritters) are local-favorites.
Morning Activity: New Orleans Pharmacy Museum
Head back into the French Quarter to explore one of the city’s most fascinating museums: the New Orleans Pharmacy Museum. It’s filled with historic medical devices, potions, and stories of 19th-century medicine. You’ll learn about voodoo, early surgery techniques, and the dark side of medical history in New Orleans.
Lunch: Coop’s Place
For lunch, try Coop’s Place, a dive-y, laid-back spot known for its amazing jambalaya and fried crawfish. It’s no-frills but packed with flavor and authenticity.
Afternoon Activity: Faulkner House Books
Spend a quiet afternoon browsing at Faulkner House Books, located in the French Quarter. This tiny, charming bookstore is an homage to author William Faulkner, and it’s filled with literary treasures.
Dinner & Drinks: Bar Métier
For a light tapas-style dinner, head to Bar Métier—an upscale French bar in a former library. Enjoy caviar service in their plush, intimate setting and savor dishes like their Veal Francaise or Moules Marinieres.
Evening Activity: Live Jazz at The Spotted Cat
End the night at The Spotted Cat on Frenchmen Street, where you can listen to live jazz in one of New Orleans’ most iconic, yet laid-back venues. It’s a local favorite and will make you feel like you’ve stumbled into an authentic New Orleans experience.
Day 4: Books, Crystals, and Tarot
Breakfast: Toast
Start with a simple, delicious breakfast at Toast in the French Quarter, known for its crepes and gourmet toasts. It’s the perfect light meal before a day of exploration.
Morning Activity: Crescent City Books
Spend the morning perusing the shelves at Crescent City Books. This shop is filled with antique books, prints, and rare finds that offer a glimpse into the city’s rich literary history. Whether you’re a collector or just looking for a unique souvenir, this place is a treasure trove.
Lunch: Dat Dog on Frenchmen
I refuse to leave New Orleans without an alligator hot dog from Dat Dog. Located on Frenchmen Street, this fun, casual spot serves up delicious gourmet hot dogs with a range of unique toppings. Grab a seat outside and enjoy the lively street scene.
Afternoon Activity: Earth Odyssey
After indulging in literary delights, head a few doors down to Earth Odyssey, my favorite spot for crystals. The shop carries an extensive selection of gemstones, jewelry, and spiritual tools. Book a tarot reading while you’re there (but do it in advance—spots fill up quickly!). It’s the perfect way to tap into New Orleans’ mystical energy.
Dinner: Paladar 511
For dinner, head to Paladar 511 in the Marigny, known for its modern Italian dishes with a New Orleans twist. The wood-fired pizzas are a standout.
Evening Activity: Haunted Hotel Bar Crawl
Why not end your day with a haunted hotel bar crawl? Start at Hotel Monteleone, home to the famous Carousel Bar (it literally rotates as you sip). Then head to The Columns, a spooky 19th-century mansion-turned-bar, and round off the night with a drink at Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop, one of the oldest (and most haunted) bars in the U.S.
Day 5: Farewell to New Orleans
Breakfast: Satsuma Café
Your last day starts with breakfast at Satsuma Café in the Bywater, where you can enjoy healthy, fresh options like veggie omelets and fresh juices.
Morning Activity: Crescent Park Walk
Before you head out, take a stroll along Crescent Park for views of the Mississippi River and the New Orleans skyline. It’s a peaceful spot to reflect on your trip and take in the city one last time.
Lunch: St. Roch Market
Wrap up your visit with a casual lunch at St. Roch Market, a food hall offering diverse options from oysters to Vietnamese pho. Grab a table and enjoy one last bite before heading back home.
This 5-day itinerary gives you a chance to experience the offbeat and magical side of New Orleans, from historic hotels to haunted streets, and from cozy cafés to bookshop adventures. The Eliza Jane Hotel provides the perfect blend of luxury and history to ground your stay while the city itself keeps you in its thrall with endless discovery.
