1. New Orleans, Louisiana

New Orleans has everything you could possibly need to have the most fun three days of your whole damn life -- everything, except maybe electric scooters and a notable craft beer scene (though even that is gaining steam). This is partly why we love it so dearly; as cities across the US homogenize into mini-Brooklyns, New Orleans thrives and endures as its own animal, a distinct and delicious hodgepodge of French, Spanish, and Caribbean influences. It’s the best city in America for a stroll -- drink in hand through the lamp-lit cobblestones of the French Quarter, or past the stately manors of the Garden District. You’ll encounter historic architecture, elaborate ironwork, gothic live oaks, and joyous music wherever you go. When it comes to atmosphere, Crescent City is king.

It’s also the easiest city in which to procure a hangover. No judgement if you go all-in with the frozen daiquiris on Bourbon Street, or jazz club-hopping with locals on Frenchmen, or get the spins at the literally-spinning Carousel Bar -- but do keep your grown-up wits about you. Hospitable residents are passionate about showing their city to worthy visitors: be respectful and open-minded, opt for a hotel or B&B over an Airbnb, and don’t talk shit about the Saints. If you still have questions, our comprehensive New Orleans destination guide has answers.

Neighborhoods to check out: The Quarter can hands-down hold your attention for a full three days. Still, NOLA is flat and bike-friendly, with walkable neighborhoods, a quaint streetcar, and ride shares galore, meaning you have no excuse not to go beyond the tourist haunts. In the Garden District you can get lost in the spooky labyrinthine Lafayette Cemetery, then eat and drink your way down Magazine Street. The area around Tulane boasts venerable institutions like Cooter Brown’s and Camellia Grill; hit Jacques-Imo’s (early, before the line forms) for Creole classics in a super funky setting, go dancing at Maple Leaf, and have a night-cap at Snake & Jakes, one of the city’s quintessential watering holes.

Must eat & drink: Ho’boy. No city in America claims a more distinct cuisine than New Orleans, and a list of NOLA’s proprietary, must-try foods is almost as long as the restaurants that serve them. Even the most ambitious eater couldn’t hit all the highlights in a mere three days. Oysters at Acme (or across the street at Felix’s, if the line is unbearable), a hurricane at Pat O’Briens (catch a show in the piano lounge), a hot crispy po-boy (the firecracker shrimp at Parasol’s is, well, fire), and beignets at Cafe Du Monde (an ideal way to end the night) are really just the tip of the iceberg.

Don’t leave without: Hearing live music. This shouldn’t be difficult. Duck into Preservation Hall or Tipitina’s, or hop along Frenchmen's strip of jazz clubs, and don't be surprised if you run into at least three impromptu dance parties -- the natural reaction to street performers here -- when you round a random corner. Music flows freely through the streets, and it’s one of the best ways to tap into the city’s jubilant spirit, and begin building an understanding and appreciation of New Orleans. -- Keller Powell