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Question

During our stay in June we did most of the touristy things. Swamp tour, Preservation Hall which we'll do again, cemetery tour, Sazerac House, Mardi Gras World, Ursuline Convent. We fell in love with the people, the food and the area and want to come back. We figure WW2 museum, airboat tour, and maybe a plantation tour. Help me round out a 4-5 day trip with some things we may have missed. We wouldn't have a car and stay in the quarter.

Answer

It sounds like you’ve already hit a lot of the classic New Orleans attractions, so for a return trip, you can focus on deeper local experiences, food, music, and some off-the-beaten-path sights while still staying without a car in or near the French Quarter.

Here’s a suggested plan to round out a 4-5 day trip:

WWII Museum: Definitely a must-see if you missed it before. Allocate at least 3-4 hours; they also offer a 4D short film that’s excellent.
Plantation Tour: Many tour companies offer round trips from the French Quarter, often including Oak Alley, Laura Plantation, or Whitney Plantation. Pick a company that provides hotel pick-up and drop-off.
Airboat or Swamp Tour: Even if you did one before, consider a morning tour focused on a different area for wildlife viewing. Many include transportation from downtown.

Other ideas to deepen your experience:

Frenchmen Street: Explore local jazz clubs and music venues in the evenings beyond Preservation Hall. This area has an authentic vibe and great food spots.
Cooking or Food Tour: Try a hands-on cooking class (gumbo, beignets, or pralines) or a guided food tour to explore hidden gems and local favorites.
City Park & New Orleans Museum of Art: A stroll through City Park offers beautiful landscapes, sculpture garden, and museum exhibits. It’s easy to reach via streetcar.
Historic Walking Tours: Consider a specialty walking tour: French Quarter secrets, Voodoo history, architecture, or haunted sites.
Local Markets: Visit the French Market for local crafts, foods, and souvenirs. Also consider a short trip to the Bywater or Marigny neighborhoods for galleries and murals.
Riverfront / Steamboat Natchez Cruise: If you enjoy jazz with views, the evening cruise is a relaxing option to combine music and the Mississippi River scenery.

Tips for getting around without a car:

Streetcars and walking are great in the Quarter and nearby areas.
Rideshares or taxis are best for trips to plantations or swamp tours that are outside city limits.
Book guided tours that include pickup and drop-off to simplify logistics and maximize your time.

With this mix, you’ll experience a balance of history, music, food, and local culture while not repeating the same tourist spots. You’ll also get the convenience of staying in the Quarter while still exploring beyond it.

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