Suggestions for Monday & Tuesday

Question

My usual Nola trip is over a weekend but the only days I can go for my next trip are Saturday-Wednesday. I am going to a Saints game on Sunday but am looking for suggestions of things to do on Mon & Tues since I know there are many closures on those days.

Answer

New Orleans can feel quieter on Mondays and Tuesdays compared to the bustling weekend, but there are still plenty of activities to enjoy beyond the standard tourist crowd. Many museums and some attractions have limited hours or close on Mondays, so planning ahead is helpful.

For your Monday and Tuesday in New Orleans, consider a mix of cultural experiences, local cuisine, and outdoor activities:

French Quarter Exploration: Walking around the French Quarter is always an option. The streets, architecture, and street performers make it enjoyable even if some indoor attractions are closed. Key spots to see include Jackson Square, St. Louis Cathedral, and the French Market.
Garden District Tour: The historic Garden District is perfect for a self-guided or guided walking tour. You can admire the grand mansions, historic homes, and Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 (check if it’s open on Monday).
Steamboat Natchez Cruise: Board the Natchez for a daytime jazz river cruise. It’s open most weekdays and gives you a relaxing view of the Mississippi River along with live music.
City Park and New Orleans Museum of Art: City Park is great for strolling, and the NOMA has both art exhibits and the Besthoff Sculpture Garden outdoors, which can be enjoyed even if some indoor galleries are limited.

For food and drink, Mondays and Tuesdays still offer many open restaurants and bars, especially in the French Quarter and along Magazine Street:

Café du Monde for beignets and coffee (open every day).
Local po’boy or seafood spots, such as Domilise’s or Acme Oyster House.
Bars with live jazz, like Fritzel’s on Bourbon Street, or small music venues that stay open during weekdays.

Other ideas include:

Walking along the Riverwalk and exploring shops that remain open.
Taking a guided tour focused on local history or haunted New Orleans; some companies operate every day.
Checking for weekday-specific events, like cooking classes, local art exhibitions, or small music performances, which can provide a quieter, more intimate experience than weekend crowds.

Overall, while Mondays and Tuesdays have fewer open museums, the combination of outdoor activities, street exploration, live music, and food experiences makes for a rich New Orleans visit even on quieter weekdays.

Suggestions for Monday & Tuesday

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