10 days in Austin, Taos & New Orleans Itinerary

Despite its laid-back college vibe, Austin is an influential center for politics, technology, film, and music.

You'll find plenty of places to visit near Austin: San Antonio (Brackenridge Park, The Alamo, &more). There's much more to do: get a sense of history and politics at Texas State Capitol, take in the natural beauty of Barton Springs Pool, grab your bike and head to Barton Creek Greenbelt, and admire the masterpieces at Elisabet Ney Museum.

To see where to stay, ratings, and other tourist information, read Austin trip planner.

Newark to Austin is an approximately 5-hour flight. You can also drive; or do a combination of train and bus. You'll gain 1 hour traveling from Newark to Austin due to the time zone difference. In September, Austin is somewhat warmer than Newark - with highs of 93°F and lows of 71°F. Finish your sightseeing early on the 19th (Sun) so you can travel to Taos.

Many residents have shunned fast-paced city living for Taos's laid-back vibe and blend of Spanish, Native American, and Anglo cultures.

Start off your visit on the 19th (Sun): appreciate the history behind Vietnam Veterans Memorial and then take in the exciting artwork at Enchanted Circle Pottery. Get ready for a full day of sightseeing on the 20th (Mon): get outside with Land of Enchantment Guides - Fly Fishing Trips and then take in the views from Rio Grande Gorge Bridge.

For where to stay, ratings, more things to do, and other tourist information, use the Taos trip planner.

You can do a combination of flight and shuttle from Austin to Taos in 7 hours. Other options are to drive; or do a combination of bus and car. Traveling from Austin to Taos, you'll gain 1 hour due to the time zone difference. While traveling from Austin, expect a bit cooler days and cooler nights in Taos, ranging from highs of 76°F to lows of 44°F. Wrap up your sightseeing by early afternoon on the 21st (Tue) to allow enough time to travel to New Orleans.

Known for its Creole cuisine, rich musical tradition, and nearby swamps and plantations, New Orleans is one of the nation's oldest cities.

New Orleans is known for historic sites, nightlife, and museums. Your trip includes some of its best attractions: appreciate the extensive heritage of French Quarter, don't miss a visit to Jackson Square, stop by Garden District, and admire the striking features of St. Louis Cathedral.

For where to stay, photos, ratings, and other tourist information, you can read our New Orleans driving holiday planner.

You can do a combination of car and flight from Taos to New Orleans in 9.5 hours. Alternatively, you can drive; or do a combination of bus and car. Due to the time zone difference, you'll lose 1 hour traveling from Taos to New Orleans. Expect somewhat warmer weather when traveling from Taos in September: highs in New Orleans hover around 83°F, while lows dip to 83°F. Finish up your sightseeing early on the 24th (Fri) so you can catch the flight back home.