A Weekend in New Orleans, Louisiana
Take a quick weekend trip down south to the Crescent City, located just outside of the Bayou. Well known as the home of authentic jazz music, food for the soul, Mardi Gras parties and ghost tours, you never know what will be discovered during your visit down to New Orleans.
This guide includes:
šØ Where to Stay
š¦Ŗ Places to Eat
ā“ļø Things to Do and See
š Transportation
š° Night out Activities
This was my personal first trip to New Orleans and my first time to the State of Louisiana (checking off state #44!) We tried to do a mix of standard tourist stops with a bit of local favorites as well. If you're not into super touristy things, then this guide is for you.
48 Places ā¢ 1 Save ā¢ ago
Free
Welcome to New Orleans!
How to Get There
Flying into New Orleans is relatively easy. Louis Armstrong - New Orleans International Airport has a ton of flights arriving daily from all across the U.S. This will be your first stop on your trip to New Orleans.
Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport
@WeekendPostcards
The main international airport located a short 15 minute from the main downtown city center. Lots of flights arriving and departing daily.
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Details
For those driving in, there are a few, major highways that run through the area for easy access around the city.Ā
How to Get Around
You can choose to rent a car or use ride sharing to get from the airport to downtown. If you are spending the majority of your time in the central downtown area, we'd recommend walking or using public transport (RTA buses or trolleys) Fares are cheap ($1.50 for a one way fare or $3 for a 24 hour on and off pass, and easy to use! Download the La Pass App for easy payment to ride the bus and trolly system, timetables and much more.
RTA Carrollton Transit Station
@WeekendPostcards
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Details
Where to Stay
Check out all the hotels, local stays,
Hyatt House New Orleans/Downtown
@WeekendPostcards
Located a short walk away from the fun, the Hyatt House is a great spot to stay for your trip to New Orleans. Lots to do in walking distance. Pool is at the sister hotel Hyatt Regency.
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Hyatt Regency New Orleans
@WeekendPostcards
Located a short walk from the action, the Hyatt Regency is connected to the convention center and perfect for all business happenings. Has an outdoor roof top pool that is only open seasonally. Call ahead to confirm the amenities available during your stay.
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Details
Royal Sonesta Hotel
@WeekendPostcards
Located on Bourbon street, in the heart of the fun, the Sonesta is a nice place to stay for your trip to New Orleans. Clean rooms and kind staff.
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Details
Day 1 Activities
New Orleans is the hustle and bustle for all to enjoy. Our activity recommendations are more geared towards adults/those 21+ but there are things you can do that are family friendly as well. This would not be my top recommendation for places to take your, check out our guide recommendations at the bottom for top places to take your kids to enjoy.
New Orleans City Park
@WeekendPostcards
Massive outdoor nature park located in the downtown city area. Great walking paths to enjoy as well as a local Cafe du Monde and the art museum. Perfect for families or solo travelers.
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Details
The Court of Two Sisters
@WeekendPostcards
A higher end brunch buffet experience with music and some outdoor seating. Approx. $36 for the brunch experience.
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Details
The historic Bourbon Street is lined with bars, entertainment venues and various eateries. At night, the scene comes alive with a whole different vibe. We recommend coming to see both.Ā
Bourbon Street
@WeekendPostcards
The iconic street for all things fun no matter the time of year. Historic eateries, bars, night clubs, there is something for everyone. I personally wouldn't recommend bringing children as there isn't much to do here for them.
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Details
Jackson Square
@WeekendPostcards
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Details
CafƩ Du Monde
@WeekendPostcards
The original Cafe du Monde located just along the Mississippi river is a top tourist destination. It will be busy but since they only serve one thing - delicious beignets - people rotate through quickly. Live music along the streets edge is common and fun to enjoy while dining here.
Add to
Details
Sidecar Patio & Oyster Bar
@WeekendPostcards
Add to
Details
For a fun night out, follow the road to Oz New Orleans. This nightlife spot features evening entertainment like Drag Shows, contests and more.Ā
Add to
Details
Day 2 Activities
Mojo Coffee House
@WeekendPostcards
Add to
Details
Magazine Street
@WeekendPostcards
Famous street well known for the beautiful, historic houses and artsy shopping spots. Located in the Garden District.
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Details
A few of our favorite stops while walking along Magazine Street.
ZĆØle NOLA
@WeekendPostcards
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Details
Slow Down
@WeekendPostcards
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Details
Buckner Mansion
@WeekendPostcards
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Details
Ruby Slipper Cafe
@WeekendPostcards
Well known for their wonderful breakfast and brunch food, it is well worth a visit.
Add to
Details
Add to
Details
Special Events - Concerts, Games, and More!
Smoothie King Center
@WeekendPostcards
Add to
Details
Caesars Superdome
@WeekendPostcards
Add to
Details
UNO Lakefront Arena
@WeekendPostcards
Part of UNO, Lakefront arena is home to basketball, concerts, Disney on Ice and other special events. Be sure to check out their online schedule to see what is in town during your visit.
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Details
Family Friendly Activities
Audubon Aquarium
@WeekendPostcards
Add to
Details
Audubon Zoo
@WeekendPostcards
Add to
Details
Mardi Gras World
@WeekendPostcards
Add to
Details
Riverwalk Outlets
@WeekendPostcards
Add to
Details
Honorable Mentions - Alternative Options
Museums to Explore
New Orleans Museum of Art
@WeekendPostcards
Add to
Details
The National WWII Museum
@WeekendPostcards
Add to
Details
New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum
@WeekendPostcards
Add to
Details
Museum of Death New Orleans
@WeekendPostcards
Add to
Details
Places to Eat
Viet Orleans Bistro
@WeekendPostcards
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Details
Boil Seafood House
@WeekendPostcards
Add to
Details
Daisy Dukes French Quarter
@WeekendPostcards
Add to
Details
Parkway Bakery & Tavern
@WeekendPostcards
Add to
Details
Legendairy Milkshake Bar
@WeekendPostcards
Huge, and a bit over the top Milkshake options. When we visited they were cash only so I would recommend coming prepared with cash. Milkshakes are a bit pricey but were delicious.
Add to
Details
Things to Do and See & Places to Shop
Preservation Hall
@WeekendPostcards
Add to
Details
Louis Armstrong Park
@WeekendPostcards
Add to
Details
Shops of the Colonnade
@WeekendPostcards
Add to
Details
Harrahās Casino
@WeekendPostcards
Add to
Details
Modernist Cuisine Gallery - New Orleans
@WeekendPostcards
A quick stop in while wandering down Royal Street and totally worth it.
Add to
Details
Coffee & Bakery Stops
Mr Wolf Espresso
@WeekendPostcards
Add to
Details
Twelfth Night Coffee
@WeekendPostcards
Add to
Details
Ayu Bakehouse
@WeekendPostcards
Add to
Details
Pontilly Coffee
@WeekendPostcards
Add to
Details
Places for a Night Out
Old Absinthe House
@WeekendPostcards
Add to
Details
DNO Garden District
@WeekendPostcards
Add to
Details
Molly's Rise and Shine
@WeekendPostcards
Great local breakfast, brunch and lunch spot located in the Garden District.
Add to
Details
Add to
Details
Check out more of our Guides!
Thanks for checking out our guide. If you enjoyed this, be sure to check out a few of our other recommendations below to start planning your next trip.Ā
Family Friendly Recommendations
St. Louis Missouri, well known for the iconic Gateway Arch that overlooks the city. Full of history, great eats and culture, St. Louis is the perfect weekend getaway. Recently updated with new spots to explore for your upcoming visit.
This guide includes over 30 of our recommendations, including:
- Where to Stay
- Where to Eat
- Gateway Arch National Park Info
- Things to Do & See
- Plus a list of great alternative options to extend your weekend trip
Family ā¢ Couples ā¢ Groups ā¢ Female Solo ā¢ Adventure ā¢ Art ā¢ Budget ā¢ People & Culture
Free
Omaha, Nebraska is as Midwest of a town as you can get, tucked nicely between all the cornfields and along the Missouri River. Omaha is truly a fun destination to discover, and not one to be skipped over. Catch a NCAA baseball game at Charles Schwab field, rent a bike for a day to explore the Old Market area or take a quick trip over the bridge to Council Bluffs, Iowa. Dive in and explore all that Omaha can offer.
Over 35 recommendations are included in this guide:
šØ Where to Stay
šļø Things to do in Downtown
š½ļø Where to Eat & Drink in Omaha
š£ļø Alternative trip options
Car-free ā¢ Groups ā¢ Family ā¢ Female Solo ā¢ Slow Travel ā¢ Coffee ā¢ Foodie ā¢ Shopping
Free
Adult Getaway Vacations
Looking for a perfect way to spend a long weekend in Maui, Hawaiāi, check out this 3 and a half day itinerary to take the stress out of planning your ideal island vacation and leave the relaxing to you. This itinerary is made for adults ages 21+ in mind.
When in Hawaiāi, always remember to respect the locals and wildlife, leave places better than you found them, and practice the leave no trace principle. Remember, we are guests in their home.
Out of respect and guidance, this guide does not include any stops or activities in West Maui. Our hearts go out to the grieving communities and local islanders who are still struggling to recover from the wildfires in early August 2023. Please do not go to Lahaina or take photos of the area.
To shop, eat, play, stay, live, and work local, check out mauinuifirst.com
Groups ā¢ Family ā¢ Couples ā¢ Female Solo ā¢ Backpacker ā¢ Plus Size ā¢ Road Trip ā¢ Adventure ā¢ Outdoors ā¢ Van Life
$5.00
San Diego is well known for stunning sunsets and relaxing beaches located in Southern California. From gorgeous parks, to historic lighthouses, and great places to eat, there is something for everyone to enjoy while visiting town. There is almost never a bad time to take a trip to San Diego, so plan your visit today!
With over 30 places included, this guide is perfect to plan your get away:
- Where to Stay
- Places to Eat
- Things to do and see
Couples ā¢ Family ā¢ Female Solo ā¢ Groups ā¢ Adventure ā¢ Foodie
Free
Take a relaxing trip to Exit 0: A complete four-day itinerary for a journey to the southern tip of New Jersey, the nation's oldest seashore resort town. Cape May is home to roughly 600 preserved Victorian buildings and collection of quaint bed-and-breakfasts that will transport visitors to decades ago.
This itinerary comes complete with 47 locations, local activities and my favorite food recommendations. Additional honorable mention locations are included at the end as a bonus for more things to check out if you're in the area for more than a few days.
This guide will be updated seasonally as new locations are opened around town.
Housing accommodations mentioned below are based on ones recommended to me by locals. I stayed in town with a local friend and did not have much interaction with local housing.
Relaxation ā¢ People & Culture ā¢ Beach
$5.00
* * *
CURATED BY
Hi travelers! I am here to help you enjoy your weekend trips to the fullest to cities near, far, or even in your backyard.
Currently:šMichigan, U.S.A.
Just Posted: Explore Berlin, Germany with a Local & Cinque Terre
Upcoming Trips: European Summer in Zablajk, Montenegro
----------
Michigander at heart but currently traveling the world one week at a time for work. When not on the road and living out of my suitcase, I am down to spend the day exploring the local city scene or out hiking in nature. I am an adventurous spirit and try to maximize my free time exploring the hidden corners of whatever city I am in. I've been traveling all over the U.S. and Europe for nine years and crave authentic experiences at local hot spots (and sometimes the touristy faves). As a young and avid traveler (16 Countries, 45 U.S. States, 24 U.S. National Parks & numerous cities) my goal is to help you reach your travel goals - no matter the destination.
On Thatch, I create super detailed guides and itineraries to destinations that I've personally visited. These destinations have a little bit of everything that I love about travel (adventure, city life, great eats, beach days and more). I can also create custom guides and itineraries to wherever you may be dreaming of traveling to.
Top bucket list items: Ride in a hot air balloon & visit all 50 U.S. states.
ā
Check out my free and paid thatch travel guides on my profile, or for a customized itinerary for any of the locations featured, shoot me a message so we can connect. Let's explore!
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A Weekend in New Orleans, Louisiana
Take a quick weekend trip down south to the Crescent City, located just outside of the Bayou. Well known as the home of authentic jazz music, food for the soul, Mardi Gras parties and ghost tours, you never know what will be discovered during your visit down to New Orleans.
This guide includes:
šØ Where to Stay
š¦Ŗ Places to Eat
ā“ļø Things to Do and See
š Transportation
š° Night out Activities
This was my personal first trip to New Orleans and my first time to the State of Louisiana (checking off state #44!) We tried to do a mix of standard tourist stops with a bit of local favorites as well. If you're not into super touristy things, then this guide is for you.
48 Places ā¢ 1 Save ā¢ ago
Free
Welcome to New Orleans!
How to Get There
Flying into New Orleans is relatively easy. Louis Armstrong - New Orleans International Airport has a ton of flights arriving daily from all across the U.S. This will be your first stop on your trip to New Orleans.
Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport
@WeekendPostcards
The main international airport located a short 15 minute from the main downtown city center. Lots of flights arriving and departing daily.
Add to
Details
For those driving in, there are a few, major highways that run through the area for easy access around the city.Ā
How to Get Around
You can choose to rent a car or use ride sharing to get from the airport to downtown. If you are spending the majority of your time in the central downtown area, we'd recommend walking or using public transport (RTA buses or trolleys) Fares are cheap ($1.50 for a one way fare or $3 for a 24 hour on and off pass, and easy to use! Download the La Pass App for easy payment to ride the bus and trolly system, timetables and much more.
RTA Carrollton Transit Station
@WeekendPostcards
Add to
Details
Where to Stay
Check out all the hotels, local stays,
Hyatt House New Orleans/Downtown
@WeekendPostcards
Located a short walk away from the fun, the Hyatt House is a great spot to stay for your trip to New Orleans. Lots to do in walking distance. Pool is at the sister hotel Hyatt Regency.
Add to
Details
Hyatt Regency New Orleans
@WeekendPostcards
Located a short walk from the action, the Hyatt Regency is connected to the convention center and perfect for all business happenings. Has an outdoor roof top pool that is only open seasonally. Call ahead to confirm the amenities available during your stay.
Add to
Details
Royal Sonesta Hotel
@WeekendPostcards
Located on Bourbon street, in the heart of the fun, the Sonesta is a nice place to stay for your trip to New Orleans. Clean rooms and kind staff.
Add to
Details
Day 1 Activities
New Orleans is the hustle and bustle for all to enjoy. Our activity recommendations are more geared towards adults/those 21+ but there are things you can do that are family friendly as well. This would not be my top recommendation for places to take your, check out our guide recommendations at the bottom for top places to take your kids to enjoy.
New Orleans City Park
@WeekendPostcards
Massive outdoor nature park located in the downtown city area. Great walking paths to enjoy as well as a local Cafe du Monde and the art museum. Perfect for families or solo travelers.
Add to
Details
The Court of Two Sisters
@WeekendPostcards
A higher end brunch buffet experience with music and some outdoor seating. Approx. $36 for the brunch experience.
Add to
Details
The historic Bourbon Street is lined with bars, entertainment venues and various eateries. At night, the scene comes alive with a whole different vibe. We recommend coming to see both.Ā
Bourbon Street
@WeekendPostcards
The iconic street for all things fun no matter the time of year. Historic eateries, bars, night clubs, there is something for everyone. I personally wouldn't recommend bringing children as there isn't much to do here for them.
Add to
Details
Jackson Square
@WeekendPostcards
Add to
Details
CafƩ Du Monde
@WeekendPostcards
The original Cafe du Monde located just along the Mississippi river is a top tourist destination. It will be busy but since they only serve one thing - delicious beignets - people rotate through quickly. Live music along the streets edge is common and fun to enjoy while dining here.
Add to
Details
Sidecar Patio & Oyster Bar
@WeekendPostcards
Add to
Details
For a fun night out, follow the road to Oz New Orleans. This nightlife spot features evening entertainment like Drag Shows, contests and more.Ā
Add to
Details
Day 2 Activities
Mojo Coffee House
@WeekendPostcards
Add to
Details
Magazine Street
@WeekendPostcards
Famous street well known for the beautiful, historic houses and artsy shopping spots. Located in the Garden District.
Add to
Details
A few of our favorite stops while walking along Magazine Street.
ZĆØle NOLA
@WeekendPostcards
Add to
Details
Slow Down
@WeekendPostcards
Add to
Details
Buckner Mansion
@WeekendPostcards
Add to
Details
Ruby Slipper Cafe
@WeekendPostcards
Well known for their wonderful breakfast and brunch food, it is well worth a visit.
Add to
Details
Add to
Details
Special Events - Concerts, Games, and More!
Smoothie King Center
@WeekendPostcards
Add to
Details
Caesars Superdome
@WeekendPostcards
Add to
Details
UNO Lakefront Arena
@WeekendPostcards
Part of UNO, Lakefront arena is home to basketball, concerts, Disney on Ice and other special events. Be sure to check out their online schedule to see what is in town during your visit.
Add to
Details
Family Friendly Activities
Audubon Aquarium
@WeekendPostcards
Add to
Details
Audubon Zoo
@WeekendPostcards
Add to
Details
Mardi Gras World
@WeekendPostcards
Add to
Details
Riverwalk Outlets
@WeekendPostcards
Add to
Details
Honorable Mentions - Alternative Options
Museums to Explore
New Orleans Museum of Art
@WeekendPostcards
Add to
Details
The National WWII Museum
@WeekendPostcards
Add to
Details
New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum
@WeekendPostcards
Add to
Details
Museum of Death New Orleans
@WeekendPostcards
Add to
Details
Places to Eat
Viet Orleans Bistro
@WeekendPostcards
Add to
Details
Boil Seafood House
@WeekendPostcards
Add to
Details
Daisy Dukes French Quarter
@WeekendPostcards
Add to
Details
Parkway Bakery & Tavern
@WeekendPostcards
Add to
Details
Legendairy Milkshake Bar
@WeekendPostcards
Huge, and a bit over the top Milkshake options. When we visited they were cash only so I would recommend coming prepared with cash. Milkshakes are a bit pricey but were delicious.
Add to
Details
Things to Do and See & Places to Shop
Preservation Hall
@WeekendPostcards
Add to
Details
Louis Armstrong Park
@WeekendPostcards
Add to
Details
Shops of the Colonnade
@WeekendPostcards
Add to
Details
Harrahās Casino
@WeekendPostcards
Add to
Details
Modernist Cuisine Gallery - New Orleans
@WeekendPostcards
A quick stop in while wandering down Royal Street and totally worth it.
Add to
Details
Coffee & Bakery Stops
Mr Wolf Espresso
@WeekendPostcards
Add to
Details
Twelfth Night Coffee
@WeekendPostcards
Add to
Details
Ayu Bakehouse
@WeekendPostcards
Add to
Details
Pontilly Coffee
@WeekendPostcards
Add to
Details
Places for a Night Out
Old Absinthe House
@WeekendPostcards
Add to
Details
DNO Garden District
@WeekendPostcards
Add to
Details
Molly's Rise and Shine
@WeekendPostcards
Great local breakfast, brunch and lunch spot located in the Garden District.
Add to
Details
Add to
Details
Check out more of our Guides!
Thanks for checking out our guide. If you enjoyed this, be sure to check out a few of our other recommendations below to start planning your next trip.Ā
Family Friendly Recommendations
St. Louis Missouri, well known for the iconic Gateway Arch that overlooks the city. Full of history, great eats and culture, St. Louis is the perfect weekend getaway. Recently updated with new spots to explore for your upcoming visit.
This guide includes over 30 of our recommendations, including:
- Where to Stay
- Where to Eat
- Gateway Arch National Park Info
- Things to Do & See
- Plus a list of great alternative options to extend your weekend trip
Family ā¢ Couples ā¢ Groups ā¢ Female Solo ā¢ Adventure ā¢ Art ā¢ Budget ā¢ People & Culture
Free
Omaha, Nebraska is as Midwest of a town as you can get, tucked nicely between all the cornfields and along the Missouri River. Omaha is truly a fun destination to discover, and not one to be skipped over. Catch a NCAA baseball game at Charles Schwab field, rent a bike for a day to explore the Old Market area or take a quick trip over the bridge to Council Bluffs, Iowa. Dive in and explore all that Omaha can offer.
Over 35 recommendations are included in this guide:
šØ Where to Stay
šļø Things to do in Downtown
š½ļø Where to Eat & Drink in Omaha
š£ļø Alternative trip options
Car-free ā¢ Groups ā¢ Family ā¢ Female Solo ā¢ Slow Travel ā¢ Coffee ā¢ Foodie ā¢ Shopping
Free
Adult Getaway Vacations
Looking for a perfect way to spend a long weekend in Maui, Hawaiāi, check out this 3 and a half day itinerary to take the stress out of planning your ideal island vacation and leave the relaxing to you. This itinerary is made for adults ages 21+ in mind.
When in Hawaiāi, always remember to respect the locals and wildlife, leave places better than you found them, and practice the leave no trace principle. Remember, we are guests in their home.
Out of respect and guidance, this guide does not include any stops or activities in West Maui. Our hearts go out to the grieving communities and local islanders who are still struggling to recover from the wildfires in early August 2023. Please do not go to Lahaina or take photos of the area.
To shop, eat, play, stay, live, and work local, check out mauinuifirst.com
Groups ā¢ Family ā¢ Couples ā¢ Female Solo ā¢ Backpacker ā¢ Plus Size ā¢ Road Trip ā¢ Adventure ā¢ Outdoors ā¢ Van Life
$5.00
San Diego is well known for stunning sunsets and relaxing beaches located in Southern California. From gorgeous parks, to historic lighthouses, and great places to eat, there is something for everyone to enjoy while visiting town. There is almost never a bad time to take a trip to San Diego, so plan your visit today!
With over 30 places included, this guide is perfect to plan your get away:
- Where to Stay
- Places to Eat
- Things to do and see
Couples ā¢ Family ā¢ Female Solo ā¢ Groups ā¢ Adventure ā¢ Foodie
Free
Take a relaxing trip to Exit 0: A complete four-day itinerary for a journey to the southern tip of New Jersey, the nation's oldest seashore resort town. Cape May is home to roughly 600 preserved Victorian buildings and collection of quaint bed-and-breakfasts that will transport visitors to decades ago.
This itinerary comes complete with 47 locations, local activities and my favorite food recommendations. Additional honorable mention locations are included at the end as a bonus for more things to check out if you're in the area for more than a few days.
This guide will be updated seasonally as new locations are opened around town.
Housing accommodations mentioned below are based on ones recommended to me by locals. I stayed in town with a local friend and did not have much interaction with local housing.
Relaxation ā¢ People & Culture ā¢ Beach
$5.00
* * *
CURATED BY
Hi travelers! I am here to help you enjoy your weekend trips to the fullest to cities near, far, or even in your backyard.
Currently:šMichigan, U.S.A.
Just Posted: Explore Berlin, Germany with a Local & Cinque Terre
Upcoming Trips: European Summer in Zablajk, Montenegro
----------
Michigander at heart but currently traveling the world one week at a time for work. When not on the road and living out of my suitcase, I am down to spend the day exploring the local city scene or out hiking in nature. I am an adventurous spirit and try to maximize my free time exploring the hidden corners of whatever city I am in. I've been traveling all over the U.S. and Europe for nine years and crave authentic experiences at local hot spots (and sometimes the touristy faves). As a young and avid traveler (16 Countries, 45 U.S. States, 24 U.S. National Parks & numerous cities) my goal is to help you reach your travel goals - no matter the destination.
On Thatch, I create super detailed guides and itineraries to destinations that I've personally visited. These destinations have a little bit of everything that I love about travel (adventure, city life, great eats, beach days and more). I can also create custom guides and itineraries to wherever you may be dreaming of traveling to.
Top bucket list items: Ride in a hot air balloon & visit all 50 U.S. states.
ā
Check out my free and paid thatch travel guides on my profile, or for a customized itinerary for any of the locations featured, shoot me a message so we can connect. Let's explore!
PERSONALIZED TRAVEl SERVICES
Connect
with
a
local
expert
to
help
plan
your
ideal
trip
Send A Tip
Support Nikki | Weekend Postcardsās work.
Select your tip amount
$5
$10
$20
$50
Or type in other amount
Read more about places in this guide