cost to visit new orleans

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Travel Budget for New Orleans Visit New Orleans on a Budget or Travel in Style

New Orleans Costs

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Best Party Hotels in New Orleans
Best Romantic Hotels for Couples in New Orleans
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Best Luxury Hotels in New Orleans
Best Cheap Hotels in New Orleans
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Best Hotels for One Week in New Orleans
Is New Orleans Expensive?
How much does a trip to New Orleans cost?
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How much does it cost to travel to New Orleans? (Average Daily Cost)
New Orleans trip costs: one week, two weeks, one month

Is New Orleans expensive to visit?

How much do I need for a trip to New Orleans?
Accommodation, Food, Entertainment, and Transportation Costs
Travel Guide

How much does it cost to travel to New Orleans?

You should plan to spend around $239 per day on your vacation in New Orleans. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

$45 on meals
$51 on local transportation
$250 on hotels

A one week trip to New Orleans for two people costs, on average, $3,340 . This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

Travel Style: All Budget (Cheap) Mid-Range Luxury (High-End)
Average Daily Cost Per person, per day $ 239
One Week Per person $ 1,670
2 Weeks Per person $ 3,340
One Month Per person $ 7,157
One Week For a couple $ 3,340
2 Weeks For a couple $ 6,680
One Month For a couple $ 14,314

Help other travelers! Answer some quick questions about your past travels. Click here: let's do it!

How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to New Orleans cost?

A one week trip to New Orleans usually costs around $1,670 for one person and $3,340 for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to New Orleans on average costs around $3,340 for one person and $6,680 for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in New Orleans will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to New Orleans on average costs around $7,157 for one person and $14,314 for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.

Independent Travel

Traveling Independently to New Orleans has many benefits including affordabilty, freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to control your own experiences.

All of the travel costs below are based on the experiences of other independent travelers.

Prices in New Orleans are reasonable and comparable to your average travel destination. Hotels, food, and sightseeing are generally within normal price ranges.

Within North America, which is known to be an expensive region, New Orleans is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Phoenix or Martha's Vineyard.

For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is New Orleans Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to New Orleans?

The average New Orleans trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these New Orleans travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers.

Accommodation Budget in New Orleans

Average daily costs.

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid for one person for accommodation in New Orleans is $125. For two people sharing a typical double-occupancy hotel room, the average price paid for a hotel room in New Orleans is $250. This cost is from the reported spending of actual travelers.

Accommodation 1 Hotel or hostel for one person $ 125
Accommodation 1 Typical double-occupancy room $ 250

Hotel Prices in New Orleans

Looking for a hotel in New Orleans? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Actual Hotel Prices The average hotel room price in New Orleans based on data provided by Kayak for actual hotel rooms is $132. (Prices in U.S. Dollars, before taxes & fees.)

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.

Recommended Properties

Grenoble House Budget Hotel - Kayak $ 170
Windsor Court Hotel Luxury Hotel - Kayak $ 303

Transportation Budget in New Orleans

The cost of a taxi ride in New Orleans is significantly more than public transportation. On average, past travelers have spent $51 per person, per day, on local transportation in New Orleans.

Transportation 1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc. $ 51

Recommended Services

Private Round-Trip Transfer New Orleans and Louis Armstrong MSY Viator $ 84
20 Passenger New Orleans Airport or Hotel Transfer Viator $ 300

Flights to New Orleans

Rental cars in new orleans, what did other people spend on transportation in new orleans.

Typical prices for Transportation in New Orleans are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the prices in New Orleans, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.

Taxi Ride $ 10

Food Budget in New Orleans

While meal prices in New Orleans can vary, the average cost of food in New Orleans is $45 per day. Based on the spending habits of previous travelers, when dining out an average meal in New Orleans should cost around $18 per person. Breakfast prices are usually a little cheaper than lunch or dinner. The price of food in sit-down restaurants in New Orleans is often higher than fast food prices or street food prices.

Food 2 Meals for one day $ 45

Entertainment Budget in New Orleans

Entertainment and activities in New Orleans typically cost an average of $55 per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.

Entertainment 1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc. $ 55

The Go City New Orleans Pass offers great discounts on attractions in New Orleans. With the Go City Explorer pass, you can choose to visit specific sights and attractions at a discount. Or, you can visit as many included attractions as you like with a multi-day All-Inclusive Pass. The average visitor saves 30% off of the regular admission prices.

Recommended Activities

Creole Architecture of the Marigny Tour Viator $ 35
The Blackest Ghost Tour Ages 17 and Above Viator $ 40

What did other people spend on Entertainment in New Orleans?

Typical prices for Entertainment in New Orleans are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the prices in New Orleans, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.

Zoo & Aquarium Tickets (2) $ 75
Riverboat Cruise $ 70
French Quarter City Tour $ 100

Tips and Handouts Budget in New Orleans

The average cost for Tips and Handouts in New Orleans is $71 per day. The usual amount for a tip in New Orleans is 10% - 20% .

Tips and Handouts 1 For guides or service providers $ 71

Alcohol Budget in New Orleans

The average person spends about $60 on alcoholic beverages in New Orleans per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.

Alcohol 2 Drinks for one day $ 60
Hop on, Hop off Craft Brewery Bus Tour in New Orleans Viator $ 10
New Orleans Original True Crime Pub Crawl Viator $ 30

Water Budget in New Orleans

On average, people spend $19 on bottled water in New Orleans per day. The public water in New Orleans is considered safe to drink.

Water 2 Bottled water for one day $ 19

New orleans on a budget.

Neighborhoods

Food and dining, transportation, more related articles.

We've been gathering travel costs from tens of thousands of actual travelers since 2010, and we use the data to calculate average daily travel costs for destinations around the world. We also systematically analyze the prices of hotels, hostels, and tours from travel providers such as Kayak, HostelWorld, TourRadar, Viator, and others. This combination of expenses from actual travelers, combined with pricing data from major travel companies, gives us a uniqe insight into the overall cost of travel for thousands of cities in countries around the world. You can see more here: How it Works .

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Activities, Day Trips, Things To Do, and Excursions

Cost of a Trip to New Orleans, LA, US & the Cheapest Time to Visit New Orleans

The average price of a 7-day trip to New Orleans is $1,527 for a solo traveler, $2,742 for a couple, and $5,141 for a family of 4 . New Orleans hotels range from $55 to $280 per night with an average of $122, while most vacation rentals will cost $210 to $570 per night for the entire home. Average worldwide flight costs to Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport ( MSY ) are between $614 and $964 per person for economy flights and $1,927 to $3,025 for first class. Depending on activities, we recommend budgeting $54 to $93 per person per day for transportation and enjoying local restaurants.

See below for average , budget , and luxury trip costs. You can also look up flight costs from your airport for more tailored flight pricing.

The Cheapest Times to Visit New Orleans, LA, US

On average, these will be the cheapest dates to fly to MSY and stay in a New Orleans hotel:

January 15th to February 11th
April 16th to May 6th
May 21st to June 10th
August 6th to December 9th (except the weeks of October 22nd and November 26th)

The absolute cheapest time to take a vacation in New Orleans is usually early to mid September .

Average New Orleans Trip Costs

Average solo traveler.

The average cost for one person to visit New Orleans for a week is $1,408-$2,341 ($201-$334 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $54 to $93 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Flights : $412 to $790 for economy

Lodging : $103 to $122 per night for one 2 or 3-star hotel room

or $123 to $150 per night for a 1-bed vacation rental

Average Couple’s Trip

The average cost for a couple to visit New Orleans for a week is $2,602-$4,130 ($372-$590 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $108 to $186 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Flights : $824 to $1,580 for economy

Average Family Vacation

The average cost for 4 people to visit New Orleans for a week is $4,192-$7,228 ($599-$1,033 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $216 to $372 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Flights : $1,648 to $3,160 for economy

Lodging : $206 to $244 per night for two 2 or 3-star hotel rooms

or $172 to $240 per night for a 2-bed vacation rental

Traveling Cheap to New Orleans

How cheap can you make a vacation to New Orleans? The cheapest trip to New Orleans is about $102 per person per day for travelers willing to take standby flights, deal with inconvenience, and otherwise limit travel expenses. About 1% of rentals are available in the $0 to $100 range for an entire place, and vacation rentals can be booked for as low as $21 per night. These inexpensive rentals must be booked as early as possible and may not be in the most desirable areas. 1-star hotels are more likely to be available, with rooms starting at around $49.

Even cheaper trips are possible depending on where you live and whether you can drive. Check the cheapest times to fly for more saving ideas.

Budget Solo Traveler

The lowest cost for one person to visit New Orleans for a week is $713-$1,506 ($102-$215 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $25 to $50 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Lodging : $49 to $55 per night for one 1-star hotel room

or $21 to $61 per night for a 1-bed vacation rental

Budget Couple’s Trip

The lowest cost for a couple to visit New Orleans for a week is $1,300-$2,646 ($186-$378 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $50 to $100 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Budget Family Vacation

The lowest cost for 4 people to visit New Orleans for a week is $2,540-$5,220 ($363-$746 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $100 to $200 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Lodging : $98 to $110 per night for two 1-star hotel rooms

or $32 to $92 per night for a 2-bed vacation rental

Overall it is very difficult to travel to New Orleans cheaply.

The Cost of a Luxury New Orleans Trip

There is no true ceiling on the cost of a luxury trip, so our estimates are based on what most people do in New Orleans.

Luxury Solo Traveler

The high-end price for one person to visit New Orleans for a week is $2,795-$9,955 ($399-$1,422 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $113 to $167 per day for one person’s daily expenses

Flights : $1,158 to $1,604 for first class

Lodging : $141 to $280 per night for one 4 or 5-star hotel room

or $570 to $1,197 per night for a preferred vacation rental

Luxury Couple’s Trip

The high-end price for a couple to visit New Orleans for a week is $4,744-$12,728 ($678-$1,818 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $226 to $334 per day for two people’s daily expenses

Flights : $2,316 to $3,208 for first class

Luxury Family Vacation

The high-end price for 4 people to visit New Orleans for a week is $9,488-$21,148 ($1,355-$3,021 per day)

Food, Travel, and Sightseeing : $452 to $668 per day for four people’s daily expenses

Flights : $4,632 to $6,416 for first class

Lodging : $282 to $560 per night for two 4 or 5-star hotel rooms

or $912 to $1,676 per night for a preferred vacation rental

New Orleans Hotel Prices

The cost of staying in New Orleans is much higher than the average city. On average hotels are less expensive than vacation rentals. Luxury vacation rentals are more expensive in New Orleans due to very high property costs. The graphs below show how much cost can vary depending on the type of experience you’re looking for.

New Orleans Lodging Cost by Star Status

The average price for the class of hotel is on the (y) axis. The hotel class (out of 5 stars) is on the (x) axis.

Prices are based on New Orleans hotel averages and may not reflect current prices. In some cases, we extrapolate prices to estimate costs, and hotels with your desired star rating may not be available.

Vacation Rental Prices

The percent of vacation rentals in the price range is on the left (y) axis. Price range is on the bottom (x) axis.

There are a healthy amount of vacation rentals serving all budgets in New Orleans.

Flight Costs to New Orleans

Averaging flights around the world, prices go from a high of $964 average in early January to a low of $614 in early to mid September. Median flight price is $620. These prices are based on millions of flights. For New Orleans our data includes 701 originating airports, and 135 airlines. The area has average variance in price compared with other locations. Flying to New Orleans from an airport like Husein Sastranegara ( BDO ) in Bandung (Indonesia) for an average $8,436 trip fare will obviously cost a lot more than from an airport like Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International ( ATL ) in Atlanta, GA (the United States) at an average of just $210.

Average Flight Cost by Season

Average flight cost by day of week.

The cheapest day to fly in is typically Tuesday, and the cheapest day to fly back is usually Tuesday. Click here to see data for the cost of flights from your airport. In New Orleans, the difference between the cheapest and the most expensive week is about $349, so you can easily save about 57% simply by using our free flight guides and booking in advance.

Daily Expenses Budget

Daily vacation expenses vary more based on what you’re interested in doing. A fine dining restaurant with drinks around New Orleans can easily cost $380 per person or more, while a standard nice meal might be about $25 per person. Private tours can cost $754 per day, but self-guided tours to see the outdoor sights can be free. Costs vary wildly, so recommendations are made based on the cost of living and averages we see for this type of vacation.

Other New Orleans Guides

Travel costs nearby.

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New Orleans Prices & Travel Costs

New Orleans is certainly one of America’s classic cities, with a rare combination of being very touristy and very cool at the same time. The French influences have contributed to this being one of the world’s great food cities as well.

Travel Costs to New Orleans

Accommodation costs in new orleans.

Generally speaking, New Orleans is one of the cheaper of the major tourist cities in the United States, except for Mardi Gras week when hotels understandably double or triple prices. The rest of the year this is a city that provides great value for visitors, with great meals available even in lower price ranges.

New Orleans Hotel Seasons

New Orleans hotels are most popular in spring and fall, with high season months usually including March, April, May, October, and November. The summer is low season and good bargains are available at the fancier places for those who can put up with the steamy weather.

New Orleans Hotel Prices

New orleans hostels prices, new orleans attractions prices, new orleans food and drink prices.

Eating and drinking in New Orleans are among the greatest reasons to come in the first place. Food and drink prices are actually fairly reasonable compared to most other large US cities, especially those on the coasts. While eating cheap is usually possible, it can be worth a bit of a splurge to try some of the most famous dishes. Drink specials and happy hour deals are very common along Bourbon Street most of the time.

Featured articles

New orleans transport prices, when to visit new orleans, temperature and rainfall, new orleans weather advice.

New Orleans has generally pleasant temperatures from October through May, though it can get a bit chilly in December and January. But summers tend to be hot and very muggy so it can be tough to enjoy all the outdoor activities. It rains steadily throughout the year, but rarely for days in a row.

Sunrise and sunset

Where to go before and after.

Budget Breakdown: How Much Does a Trip to New Orleans Cost?

A place in the United States that has always intrigued me was New Orleans. It’s a city with a rich history influenced by the Spanish, the French, the African-American, and the American South. All this creates a city like no other in this world! I was fortunate to visit there with my friends for a 4 day long weekend. I will let you know what we did and provide you a budget breakdown to get you an idea of how much a trip to New Orleans cost!

Flights to New Orleans from Toronto are more expensive compared to many other American cities I flew to because it is further away and there are not many flights between the two cities. I was able to save around $75 by not flying direct. I booked a flight for $491 CAD or $370 USD with Delta Airlines connecting in Detroit on the way to New Orleans, and connecting in Atlanta on the way back to Toronto. With supposedly only an hour layover in each city, it did not add too much time to our travels.

Unfortunately, our flight to Atlanta got delayed, which made us miss our connecting flight to Toronto. We had to stay over in a hotel near the airport, as the next flight available was the following morning. Fortunately, I was able to claim the hotel costs through my travel delay insurance as part of my American Express Platinum Card!

Food & Drinks

I was very excited about the food in New Orleans. Due to its unique culture and influences from many different ethnicities, food here is like no other! You have Creole food which are influenced from French, Spanish, West African, and Haitian such as gumbo, turtle soup, étouffée, jambalaya. There is Cajun food which is a style of cooking of the French-speaking Acadian people which have made their way from Acadia in Canada. Popular dishes include pralines, crawfish boil, and their versions of gumbo and étouffée. There is also Southern soul food such as fried chicken, macaroni and cheese, and collard greens. I was able to try out a lot of dishes and came back a couple of pounds heavier!

All in all I spent $308.96 CAD on food & drink, which included:

Beignets from Cafe Beignet – 3 for $3.99 USD
A bag of pralines – $10 USD
Hurricane cocktail drink at Pat O’Brien’s – $9 USD
Crawfish boils – $5 USD per pound
Firecracker shrimp Po’ Boy from Parasol’s Bar & Restaurant – $10.50 USD
Banana Foster Ice Cream Cake – $5 USD
Fried seafood platters from many seafood restaurants – starting at $20 USD
Fried chicken from established locations – starting at $14 USD. The fried chicken here is so good that I have made a post dedicated to the fried chicken in New Orleans! Check it out here .
Muffuletta sandwiches from Central Grocery – $11.50 USD for a half sandwich
Sazerac cocktail at Cure for $11 USD

Make sure you check out my Top 5 Eats in New Orleans!

Transportation

The French Quarter is where most of the action is for most tourists and is very walkable. Walking is actually the quickest way to get around as the roads are very narrow and can get congested very easily.

We rented a car for a day which we got for $77 USD which included a full tank of gas. We got this as we wanted to combine a day of exploring outside the French Quarter with our swamp tour (more below).

The rental car was from Hertz which I booked using Rentalcars.com . I find Rentalcars show more rental companies and better prices compared to other sites like Expedia and Kayak.

There are historic streetcars you can take for $1.25 USD . It is not very extensive but it may get you to where ever you need to go. We took the St. Charles line to explore more of the uptown area!

Uber and Lyft is also available in the city. We took them to and from the airport for around $38 USD . When arriving in the airport, try to see if you can split a car with other travellers as most likely, they will all be heading towards the French Quarter. We did that as soon as we arrived and we were able to bring down the costs of our ride!

If you do not have either, please use my referral links below so that you would get free rides and/or discounts. I would also earn some free rides and/or discounts! Win-Win!

Accommodation

We stayed at the City House Hostel in a 6 Bed Mixed Dorm for $30.75 USD per night. It is at a great location within the edge of the French Quarter, you’re close to the action but not in it! The staff were welcoming and also offered events every night so it was easy to meet new people. The rooms and beds were clean and there were facilities such as a kitchen and a common area with a TV.

Browsing Groupon , I stumbled upon a deal for a swamp tour in Jean Lafitte . A 90 minute swamp tour for four for $58 USD . The Tour guide was very informative and made lots of punny jokes, if you’re into that. You got to see alligators and even hold a baby one! Unfortunately I was expecting to head into more swampy terrains, but we just went through man made canals and open waters. Nonetheless, this was a great activity as we got do something different from the other activities within the city.

with a baby alligator at the Jean Lafitte Swamp Tour

Other activities that we did

checked out Louis Armstrong Park
walked around Crescent Park
watched a jazz performance at the Fritzel’s European Jazz Pub
A fried chicken run
Roamed around the Metairie Cemetery
Got some smoothies and snacks at French Market Place
Went on a Free French Quarter Walking Tour by Free Tours by Foot – tipped $10 USD
A cabaret show at The AllWays Lounge & Cabaret – $15 cover (definitely worth it!, something you won’t see anywhere else)
Went on a pub crawl – $19.50 USD (booked this before I knew the hostel had their own pub crawls)
Went around City Park
Take pictures around Jackson Square and St. Louis Cathedral
Party at Bourbon Street
Party at the alternative and less touristy Frenchmen Street

For my other expenses, I spent

$2 USD for a poncho as I forgot to bring an umbrella and it was raining really hard one day
$7 CAD for roaming data charges for one day

The Sum of the Costs of a Trip to New Orleans?

All together, the four day in New Orleans cost each person $1,096 CAD or $826 USD . It was an expensive trip for 4 days but we did get to do a lot and eat a lot too! New Orleans is an amazing place to go to and was money well spent!

The Sum Of My 2018 Travels | The Sum of Travel March 24, 2019 Permalink

Your Trip to New Orleans: The Complete Guide

pawel.gaul /Getty Images

Even to those already familiar with the lore that surrounds New Orleans —the music, the food, the revelers—this small city is full of unexpected delights. Creole and Cajun culture make it different than any other city in the United States, and those that are only expecting the mania of Bourbon Street will find joy and respite in the city’s unique history lessons, opulent Garden District mansions, Royal Street art galleries, and Bywater cafes and shops.

As the birthplace of jazz , there is fantastic live music to be found pretty much any time of day in the Big Easy , and plentiful, unique food and drink to leave you full and happy. With the nation’s official World War II Museum, swamps full of alligators, and city parks of 100-year-old live oaks, there’s something for everyone in this crescent-shaped city of wonder.

Watch Now: Planning Your Visit to New Orleans

Planning your trip.

Best Time to Visit : With Jazz Fest, Mardi Gras, and other local festivals taking place February through May, spring is definitely the most popular time to visit New Orleans—but fun events and temperate weather begin as early as October. Most avoid the summer for its imposing heat and humidity.

Language: English (with sprinklings of French)

Getting Around: The historic New Orleans streetcar is a fun way to get around to most popular destinations and neighborhoods. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft, organized tours, and public buses are also easy, and there’s no need to rent a car in New Orleans unless you plan to make side trips out of town .

Travel Tip: Those who just stick to the French Quarter and main attractions are missing out on all New Orleans has to offer. Some of the best music, food, art, and scenic strolls take place in areas like the Bywater, Irish Channel, and Bayou St. John around City Park. Explore the best neighborhoods in New Orleans before you plan a visit.

Things to Do

Plan to spend a good portion of your time in New Orleans eating and drinking plentifully. When you’re ready to walk off all the beignets and po boys, enjoy Spanish moss and floral-framed avenues like St. Charles, the above-ground cemeteries, and the cobblestone streets full of home gardens and old French and Spanish architecture in the French Quarter and elsewhere. New Orleans is truly a nightlife-lovers city (though there are plenty of kid and family-friendly options ), and live music , from jazz and brass bands to contemporary rock there to entertain until the wee hours of the morning.

The French Quarter : The oldest neighborhood in New Orleans also has the most historic sites, shops, and restaurants per capita of any other area in the city. The architecture in itself—the wrought-iron balconies and Creole cottages of the Spanish colonial era, and a few remaining remnants of the city’s French founding—make it worth just strolling its streets, visiting the St. Louis Cathedral, Cabildo and Pontalba buildings, and Jackson Square, and absorbing all the wonderful sights and sounds. Make at least one jaunt through rowdy Bourbon Street , the art galleries on Royal Street, and the French Market (with a stop for beignets at Cafe Du Monde, of course). When you're done in the French Quarter take a ride on the St. Charles Streetcar. The line was built in 1835 and each car is a National Historic Landmark.

New Orleans Cemeteries: Above-ground graves are a hallmark of New Orleans. Because of Spanish and French burial traditions, and lack of space, and the city's below-sea-level status, New Orleans cemeteries are filled with tombs and mausoleums. These ornate structures are surrounded by lush greenery, spooky lore, and famous interred legends. Most neighborhoods you visit include a nearby famous cemetery to tour : St. Louis No. and No. 2 in the French Quarter, Lafayette Cemetery in the Garden District, and Metairie Cemetery and the Katrina Memorial in Mid City.

Swamp Tours : The waterways, flora, and fauna of Southeast Louisiana add to the area’s urban appeals, making New Orleans an even more fascinating and unique place to visit. There are a variety of options for touring nearby swamps, all filled with the likes of mangroves, cypress, alligators, and birds: enjoy a walk through the Barataria Preserve on the Mississippi’s West Bank, a canoe or kayak adventure on the North Shore or in Bayou St. John, or an airboat tour in further swamps.

What to Eat and Drink

New Orleans is known for its Creole and Cajun dishes, overlapping cuisines influenced mostly by Spanish, French, and West African cultures, and including must-try dishes like gumbo , etouffee, jambalaya, seafood, and crawfish, all usually flavored with the holy trinity (pepper, onion, celery) and plenty of spice. Many visitors like to indulge in at least one high-end creole meal at opulent old school restaurants like Galatoire’s and Commander’s Palace, but low budget favorites like po boys and beignets should not be missed. In the decade following Hurricane Katrina and an influx of change and rebuild, a new type of dining has entered the scene, with young, hip restaurants like Turkey and the Wolf, Compere Lapin, and Saba featuring a modern fusion of flavors.

Like the food, good drinking options in New Orleans also range from high brow (expertly crafted cocktails and craft brews) to low brow (frozen daiquiris and big go-beers). There are lax open container laws for the French Quarter but that is only partially responsible for its reputation as a drinker’s city. Feel free to enjoy a beer or cocktail while strolling the river or walking from club to club on the musical Frenchmen Street in the Marigny. Abita Beer has long been the best known Louisiana beer, but other options from newer craft breweries like Urban South, Gnarly Barley, and NOLA Brewery, are taking over the scene. If you like cocktails, you must have at least one of each of the following specialties: a Sazerac, a Ramos Gin Fizz, frozen daiquiri, and Hurricane.

Where to Stay

Hotels in the French Quarter and Central Business District provide convenient access to main sites, and range from charmingly historical to reliable corporate chains. A few luxury options, like the Omni Royal Orleans Hotel, The Ritz Carlton, and the Windsor Hotel provide relaxing oases amidst the chaos. Stay in smaller inns and Airbnbs in Mid City, the Bywater, and Garden District for a quieter, locals’ glimpse of the city. Chic new boutique hotels like the Ace Hotel, The Catahoula, Pontchartrain Hotel and Peter and Paul are ideal for those wishing to be immersed in art and culture throughout their stay.

Pick your ideal neighborhood stay in New Orleans and explore the best New Orleans hotels of 2020.

Getting There

With a massive new airport terminal opened in 2019, New Orleans is easier (and more comfortable) to reach than ever before. The regional bus and Amtrak train station is conveniently located in the Central Business District, with a few train routes connecting New Orleans to the rest of the country.

Culture and Customs

Music club guide and etiquette: Most clubs require a minimum drink purchase or small door fee to enter. The WWOZ (local radio station) livewire is a reliable way to track music goings-on daily around the city. Most clubs at night, like those on Frenchmen Street, require visitors to be over 21; afternoon sets and outdoor festival shows are the best bet for catching live jazz with kids in tow.

Safety: With some of the highest murder rates in the country, New Orleans gets a bad rap for crime that isn’t totally undeserved. Still, tourists need not be deterred from spending time in this desirable location. Most crimes around busy tourist areas like the French Quarter come in the forms of pickpockets and petty scammers—and especially target clearly inebriated tourists, out late at night in less populated (or more dangerous) neighborhoods. Abide to basic common sense: travel in groups and by taxi or rideshare late at night (foot and public transportation is safe at other times), keep your wits about you and travel smart, as you would in any city.

Money Saving Tips

Visiting New Orleans during a big festival like Mardi Gras and Jazz Fest is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, but will no doubt cost you the most on a trip to the city, in terms of flights, hotel rates, and the whole package. There is plenty to do other times of year, with smaller local festivals and enough live music and culture to fill your days. If you’re especially immune to high temperatures and sticky weather, summer is a great time to find cheap flights, hotel discounts, and other special rates.

New Orleans prides itself on offering free or affordable entertainment and music, and there are many ways to access great thrills of the city on a budget. Follow this guide for more tips.

New Orleans & Company. "The Birthplace of Jazz."

New Orleans Regional Transit Authority. "Our Streetcars."

Ned Hémard, New Orleans Bar Association. "New Orleans Nostalgia: Above Ground." 2014.

New Orleans City Council. "Sec. 54-404. - Carrying of opened glass containers prohibited in certain areas."

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Best Times to Visit New Orleans for Great Weather and Smaller Crowds

There's no real "bad" time to visit the Big Easy, but here's when to go if you want to beat the heat, avoid the crowds, or snag a great deal.

The Big Easy is just that: an easygoing, jovial city where you'll find incredible food, fantastic live music, and friendly locals any time of year. While there's really no bad time to go to New Orleans, there are times that are better (and worse), depending on your vacation agenda.

If you're aiming to catch a major event — Mardi Gras or the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival, for instance — you'll have to plan far ahead to make sure you arrive within the specific dates, and book a hotel room before they're all sold out. Travelers seeking perfect weather, fewer tourists, and travel bargains will also find some months preferable to others.

High season: February through May
Shoulder season: September through January
Low seasons: June through August

Here’s what you need to know about the best times to visit New Orleans.

Best Times to Visit New Orleans for Smaller Crowds

New Orleans sees the greatest influx of visitors for major cultural events such as Mardi Gras and the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, which happen on weekends from February to early May.

Plan your trip to New Orleans well in advance if you want to avoid the crowds — made up of tourists and locals alike — that come with these high-traffic, family-friendly festivals. In general, though, the sweet spots tend to be between late February (or early March, depending on when Mardi Gras is) and late April, or in the fall.

December and January are also good times to visit New Orleans if you’re looking to score solid deals on flights and hotels, experience the city with fewer crowds, and see it decked out for the festive season. The weather is relatively mild and it’s a wonderful place to celebrate the holidays or New Year’s Eve if you’re looking for a timely reason to go.

Best Times to Visit New Orleans for Good Weather

New Orleans in spring is marvelous. Humidity is relatively low and the city comes alive as the days get warmer. Try to time your trip with the French Quarter Festival in mid-April, a massive celebration of Louisiana music, food, and culture that features free tours of the neighborhood’s beautiful homes and gardens.

The weather can also be pleasant in the fall, with average temperatures falling between the mid 60s and high 70s. Although hurricane season poses a threat from June through November, severe storms are rare. Barring any major natural disasters, October and November typically see the lowest rainfall of the year — and the crowds of the festival-packed spring season will be long gone.

July and August are the hottest, muggiest, and rainiest months of the year, with average highs of 90 degrees Fahrenheit and humidity typically over 80 percent. While air conditioning can make this more bearable, if you think the heat and humidity will hinder your desire to get out and enjoy the city, avoid a trip during the summer.

Winter is cooler with average highs in the low 60s and lows dipping into the upper 40s in January. And while snow is rare in New Orleans, cold snaps do occur and temperatures have been known to drop below freezing.

Best Times to Visit New Orleans for Lower Prices

If you can bear the heat, summertime is when you'll save money on a New Orleans vacation. Hotel rates tend to drop in August — perfect if you want to book a stay at one of New Orleans's best hotels — while average domestic flight prices are especially affordable from July through September. Be on the lookout for slashed rates at high-end hotels and check for summer specials, many of which include free extras like breakfast and parking.

In August, many restaurants — including NOLA institutions like Commander's Palace, Arnaud's, and Galatoire's — offer Coolinary prix-fixe deals: multicourse lunch, brunch and dinner specials for $50 or less.

Just be prepared for the intense summer weather: Avoid outdoor activities midday and seek out air conditioning whenever you can. Pack layers, too, as most air conditioners are cranked to meat locker levels.

If you can wait until September, that may be the best possible time to go, as you can still get good deals on flights and hotels but you'll have more enjoyable weather, with less rain and temperatures topping out in the 80s.

Winter is also a good time to save — not counting the holidays in December and Mardi Gras in February — as prices tend to be lower during this part of the shoulder season.

Best Time to Visit New Orleans for Mardi Gras

Hoping to participate in one of the biggest celebrations of the year? To really partake in all the Mardi Gras revelry , arrive the weekend before and stay through Fat Tuesday (which can fall any time between early February and early March, depending on the year). That's when you'll catch the most popular parades, including Endymion, Orpheus, Bacchus, Zulu, and Rex.

Needless to say, this is an extremely popular time to visit, so plan ahead. Reserve your hotel room a year in advance for more reasonable rates, and expect pricey airfares. Many hotels in the French Quarter and Central Business District require a four-night minimum stay, and because Mardi Gras is a public holiday, many attractions and restaurants will be closed. But you should be too busy dancing in the streets and collecting beads from parades to mind.

While Fat Tuesday is the culmination of the season, the celebrations actually begin long before, on January 6 (the Twelfth Night of Christmas). If you'd like to experience Carnival and see krewes parading through the streets, but want to avoid the madness and inflated prices of Mardi Gras, go in January. You can still catch masquerade balls and parties while enjoying thinner crowds and more hotel availability.

Best Time to Visit for the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival

The birthplace of jazz positively shines during the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival , which features a lineup highlighting different musical styles, cultural attractions, and good food. The festivities usually take place around the end of April, so the weather will be fair for your trip, even if the prices aren’t. Definitely plan ahead for this one (rooms can fill up quickly), and check the website for hotel deals and packages.

Worst Times to Visit New Orleans

Unless you want to join the hordes of revelers and jazz fans celebrating Mardi Gras or the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, avoid visiting on weekends from February to early May. Other than that, the most popular annual events linked to large crowds include the Allstate Sugar Bowl — a beloved college football championship game that’s typically held on New Year’s Eve or New Year’s Day — and Halloween, with events taking place throughout late October.

If you're someone who can't stand humidity — or you don't want to worry about the possibility of encountering a hurricane — pass on a summer trip to the Big Easy, when the heat can be particularly intense.

Local Adventurer » Travel Adventures in Las Vegas + World Wide

How to Spend the Perfect Weekend in New Orleans (+ Free Itinerary)

In the City / Louisiana / New Orleans

Planning a weekend in New Orleans? We got you! Here’s the perfect 2-3 day itinerary for your first visit to the Big Easy.

Most tourists associate New Orleans with Mardi Gras, jazz, Cafe du Monde’s beignets, and Cajun/Creole food, but the city has so much more to offer. On our most recent trip, we discovered some fun outdoor adventures too!

This post is written in partnership with New Orleans & Company , however all opinions are our own. It may contain affiliate links, where we receive a small commission on sales of the products that are linked at no additional cost to you. Read our full disclosure for more info. Thank you for supporting the brands that make Local Adventurer possible.

Last Updated: August 12, 2023

− − Content Menu

Why Visit New Orleans
Tourist Attractions (Day 1)
Get Outside (Day 2)
Neighborhoods (Day 3)
Map of Things to Do
Seasonal Things to Do
Where to Eat in New Orleans
Essential Tips for First Timers
Getting to New Orleans
Best Places to Stay
Frequently Asked Questions

Planning Checklist

More resources, why visit new orleans.

New Orleans is a must-visit city if you’re into jazz, cocktails, food, or history. Most people know its nickname, the Big Easy , but it’s also called Crescent City because of its location at a sharp bend in the Mississippi River.

You can find jazz culture, live music around every corner, and beautiful 17th-century architecture with French and Spanish Creole influences.

What is new Orleans Known For

Jazz and Live Music
Cajun and Creole Food
17th-Century Architecture
The Bayou / Swamp
Ghost Tours

New Orleans Neighborhoods to Visit

French Quarter – This area has most of the major tourist attractions like Cafe du Monde, French Market, Jackson Square, and Bourbon Street.
Uptown/Garden Distric t – Home to Audubon Park, beautiful mansions, Commander’s Palace, and Lafayette Cemetery No. 1.
Central Business District is where we stayed. You’ll also find Vue Orleans , The National WWII Museum , and popular restaurants among food lovers like Peche .
City Park – The park has been New Orleans’ largest outdoor attraction since 1854 and is 1.5x the size of Central Park.
Marigny/Bywater – Has a vibrant art scene, and it’s where the cool kids hang out. They have the best live music venues on Frenchmen Street and unique art galleries and eateries. Some people call it the “hipster” neighborhood.

How to Spend a Weekend in New Orleans

Day 1: tourist attractions.

As much as seasoned travelers like to say they want to travel like the locals , most tourist attractions are there for a reason. On day 1, we like to knock out as many touristy things as possible to have more flexibility to wander later on in the trip. I know this is a sizeable list for the first day, but many of these are close to each other and quick stops.

1. New Orleans School of Cooking Class

524 St Louis St, New Orleans, LA 70130, map

Though I wouldn’t lump this with all the typical tourist attractions, doing this first will give you a greater appreciation for everything else you eat and do on your trip.

Oh, did we mention that you get bottomless drinks ? They had wine, beer, mimosas, and bloody marys. It was a fun way to start the day but a bit dangerous for those of us (me!) with little to no self-control.

This was our first cooking class, and the instructor taught us new cooking skills and gave us insight into Cajun/Creole cuisine and history. You can also ask them for all the food recs.

We got a chance to make popular local dishes like Seafood and Okra Gumbo, Crawfish Pie, and Banana Foster Crepes. At the end of the class, you get to keep the recipes and aprons you cook in as souvenirs.

If you don’t have time for a hands-on cooking class, there are demonstration classes where you can watch the chefs cook and then eat what they make.

Local Tip: You can watch them make fresh pralines at the front of the store, and they hand out samples. We picked up a couple of boxes as souvenirs for friends! You don’t need a class for these.

Alternative: If you don’t have time for a cooking class, grab lunch at Peche . We especially loved their Fried Bread and Spicy Ground Shrimp + Noodles.

See More: 49 Best Places to Eat in New Orleans

2. New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park and Jean Lafitte National Historical Park

419 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70130, map

We love exploring National Park units and filling up our National Park Passport , so when we discovered that there are two units in New Orleans, we had to stop by. Google Maps will show you a different address for New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park, but now they share a space with Jean Lafitte National Historical Park . Two in one visit! It’s also really close to the cooking class.

Jean Lafitte National Historical Park has several sites outside of the city, but this is the visitor center. I always do the Junior Ranger program even though it’s technically for kids (kid at heart, right?). It’s an easy way to learn about the area. Just look for a ranger and ask for a packet. After finishing them, you earn a pin/badge.

Fun Fact: Did you know many of the park rangers and volunteers here are jazz musicians too? They have some ranger talks as well as free jazz performances held at the New Orleans Jazz Museum.

Note: The New Orleans Jazz Museum is not part of the National Park unit and has an additional fee if you want to explore the museum outside of the free performance.

See More: Your Complete List of All National Parks in the US

3. Get Beignets at Cafe Du Monde

800 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70116 , map

There’s always room for beignets. Beignets have become synonymous with New Orleans, and Cafe du Monde is the most popular place to get them. They keep it simple and serve coffee and chicory and beignets. The interior was closed during our visit, so we ordered and grabbed a table outside, which was perfect for watching the local street musicians.

The beignets at the original location weren’t the freshest or warmest (although we hear that’s not the norm), so if we had to do it again, we would visit the original spot for some photos but then get beignets at any of their other locations. We saw them making beignets at the City Park location, which looked fresh. Plus, on hot days, they have indoor seating with AC.

Some locals will argue Cafe Beignet has the best beignets. Next time, we’ll have to do a side-by-side comparison.

Local Tip: Everyone will tell you the beignet mix makes for the best gift, but you can buy them at grocery stores nationwide. You should get the ones made at the airport location or pick up freshly-made pralines.

4. French Market – Shops of the COlonnade

1008 N Peters St, New Orleans, LA 70116, map

Cafe du Monde is part of the French Market District , but if you venture a little north, you’ll find more boutiques, cafes, restaurants, bars, gift shops, craft makers, and even a farmers and flea market. We would have loved to grab a bite here if it weren’t for our planned meals.

Local Tip: Most spots in the French Market close by 5 pm, so keep that in mind when you plan your day.

See More: 25 Best Markets in the World to Put on Your Bucket List

5. Jackson Square

701 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70116, map

Jackson Square is a National Historic Landmark and one of the most recognizable spots in the city. It’s also known as Place d’Armes and covers 2.5 acres. It beautifully frames the St. Louis Cathedral, and you will find artists lining the exterior.

Local Tip: Head across Decatur St to Washington Artillery Park for a higher vantage point.

jackson square french quarter new orleans

6. Faulkner Books

624 Pirate’s Alley, New Orleans, LA 70116, map

Tucked away in the alleyway west of St. Louis Cathedral is a very unassuming book shop. One of our drivers called this alleyway “The Harry Potter street”. You can find Faulkner House Books housed inside William Faulkner’s former home. He only stayed here for six months, but rumors are that his ghost still hangs around the female staff. The current owners, who live in the remainder of the house, turned the space into a beautiful bookstore that houses fine literature and rare editions. If you’re looking for recommendations, ask the knowledgeable staff.

Local Tip: They currently only allow four people in at a time since it’s a small space. Sometimes you have to wait outside for a while. You also need to call ahead to see any of the rare books.

faulkner bookstore in new orleans french quarter

7. Labranche House and the Architecture of the French Quarter

700 Royal St, New Orleans, LA 70116, map

You can find beautiful homes and architecture throughout the French Quarter, but LaBranche House is the most photographed. When we got closer to it, it was easy to spot because groups of people were taking photos in front of it (both the upside and downside to Instagrammable places).

Local Tip: Remember that these are active streets. Make sure you’re out of traffic’s way.

8. Bourbon Street + Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar

941 Bourbon St, New Orleans, LA 70116, map

Whether or not you’re here to party, you should at least walk down the iconic Bourbon Street. If you’re looking for a unique place to grab a drink, check out Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar , which is claimed to be the oldest bar in the US. It was built between 1722 and 1732 and is filled wall to wall with history. According to legend, Jean Lafitte had a business here in the early 19th century.

Local Tip: It’s not just a historic bar but popular for its nightlife. Don’t miss the piano bar!

9. Music on Frenchmen Street

532 Frenchmen St, New Orleans, LA 70116, map

You can’t leave New Orleans without experiencing some live music. Tourists will flock to Bourbon Street, but IYKYK and Frenchmen Street is where it’s at. The neon blue lights drew us into the Blue Nile, where we watched New Breed Brass Band perform. We kept playing their single on repeat when we got back. They were so good!

Other venues to check out are the Spotted Cat Music Club and D.B.A.

Local Tip: Don’t forget to bring some cash to tip the bands!

Bonus: The Escape Game New Orleans →

233 N Peters St, New Orleans, LA 70130, map

We love Escape Rooms and The Escape Game is by far our favorite ones we’ve been to. We didn’t have time to check out the New Orleans one while we were there, but they have the same rooms in Las Vegas and they are so much fun. If you’re looking for a way to escape the heat and get the brain working, book an outing at The Escape Game .

Day 2: Get Outside

During your weekend in New Orleans, you need to see the bayou, another big part of New Orleans. It’s a great way to get out in nature with the opportunity to learn more about the area.

10. Swamp Kayak Tour (with Gators)

1407 Piety St, New Orleans, LA 70117, map

We’ve kayaked in a lot of places, but this was such a unique environment. The Mississippi River Delta is a stunning place that is disappearing because of rising sea levels and eroding coastlines. A great way to learn more about the fragile ecosystem is an eco-kayak tour. We did a tour with New Orleans Kayak Swamp Tours and had an amazing guide who knew the area.

He taught us a lot about the ecosystem at various stops. We saw a handful of gators in the water, primarily adolescent ones that weren’t as intimidating. They all swam away if we were nearby. Also, since the water is slow-moving, you paddle at a leisurely pace.

A few Tips:

Book a morning or late afternoon trip for cooler weather and a better chance to see wildlife.
Wear something you don’t mind getting dirty in. I wore a bathing suit. Jacob had a lighter color shirt on, and you could see all the swamp water that splashed on it.
Bring plenty of sunblock , and don’t forget to reapply (that’s usually why we get sunburnt).
If you are going with a larger group, we recommend going on tandem kayaks. Some areas of the swamp get narrow, and it makes for a better experience when there are fewer boats in your group.
Surprisingly, we didn’t see mosquitoes on our swam tour. They were everywhere in the urban parks (this was early August but may depend on the season). They did, however, have these gigantic grasshoppers (they must have been 3 inches long) if you aren’t a fan of bugs.
You can leave anything you don’t need in the van. We brought a dry sack for any items we brought with us on the kayak.
Bring cash or ask for the guide’s Venmo to tip them if you had a great time.

Local Tip: If you don’t have a car, you can arrange transportation to and from the location for an extra fee.

11. Zip Nola

301 Peavine Rd, Laplace, LA 70068, map

Zip Nola is the first zipline we’ve done over a swamp where you can spot wildlife like gators below you. When we arrived, we checked in and hung out on their deck, which had games to play while we waited. You can also view the baby gator they have inside or the adult gators hanging out in the swamp below the deck (they keep them here because they either can’t survive in the wild by themselves or were a nuisance to the public and would be killed otherwise).

After getting geared up, you have to climb a giant spiral staircase to the first platform, which is the scariest part of the experience. Everything is secure, but it’s not easy if you’re afraid of heights. We had one guy in our group back out mid-way up the stairs. There are five ziplines and a couple of bridges/walkways you’ll encounter on the course. The guides also teach you tricks if you’re daring enough.

They have lockers where you can put anything you don’t need. Don’t bring anything loose with you!
Bring plenty of sunblock .
Wear closed-toed shoes and shorts or pants. I wore a dress with shorts under them and sandals with a secured back, which was fine.
They have clean, flushable bathrooms.

Local Tip: This is another spot that offers transportation from the city. If you do both on the same day, see if you can coordinate one to drop you off at the other spot since they are so close.

12. Streetcar Ride

The streetcars that run through the city are picturesque but also a great way to get around town if you don’t have a car. There are five lines that all start downtown and will take you to some of the most iconic spots around town. Rides are $1.25 that must be paid with exact change , or if you plan on riding them multiple times a day, pick a Jazzy Pass es for one ($3), three ($9), and 31-day ($55) unlimited rides. Here is a list of places you can get the pass .

Streetcar Lines

The Saint Charles Streetcar runs down the middle of St. Charles and Carrollton avenues and has been around for over 150 years. It’s the oldest continuously operating streetcar line in the world. Along the route, you’ll see Antebellum mansions, Loyola and Tulane universities, and Audubon Park.

The red Canal Street Line is popular with locals and tourists since it runs from the base of Canal Street to Mid-City. It ends at City Park Avenue at the historic cemeteries. Some cars will take you to the New Orleans Museum of Art located in City Park.

The Riverfront Line takes you from the Aquarium of the Americas to the French Market and more. You can also reach Harrah’s Casino, the shops at Canal Place, and the Outlet Collection at the Riverwalk.

The Loyola/UPT Line was introduced in 2013. It allows anyone arriving in the city via Amtrak or Greyhound an easy way to get to the city and hotels. It also takes you through the Warehouse Arts District, Financial District, and Medical District.

The Rampart/Saint Claude Streetcar Line was reinstated in 2016 (the last time the city used it was in 1949), and it takes you to St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, where you can find the tomb of Voodoo Queen Marie Laveau. It also takes you to Louis Armstrong Park, the St. Claude Arts District, and the Marigny/Bywater neighborhood .

Local Tip: If you like to plan every detail, you can use their online scheduler to see where the streetcars are .

13. City Park

1 Palm Dr, New Orleans, LA 70124, map

New Orleans City Park covers 1,300 acres making it one of the largest urban parks in the United States (Central Park is only 840 acres). We only spent a couple of hours there, but you can easily spend a full day here. Within the park, you’ll find the New Orleans Botanical Garden , Couturie Forest and Arboretum, the Louisiana Children’s Museum , the New Orleans Museum of Art, and the largest grove of mature live oaks in the world.

We spent our whole time in the southern part of the park exploring the groves and McDonough Oak (the oldest tree in City Park at roughly 800 years old), the Langles bridge, and walking around the free sculpture garden outside of the New Orleans Museum of Art .

Local Tip: There is a Cafe du Monde location here where you can see them making it through a glass pane and where you can find air-conditioned, indoor seating.

Alternative: If you’d rather explore Uptown, Audubon Park is also very beautiful with massive oak trees. It looks similar to City Park minus the museums and with more college students.

See More: 25 Free Things to Do in New Orleans

14. Peacock Room

501 Tchoupitoulas St, New Orleans, LA 70130, map

The Peacock Room is great to wind down after a long day of exploring. It’s a popular spot for live music, food, and cocktails. It’s also very photogenic, and our server mentioned it’s popular among IGers. Since we were already conveniently staying at the Kimpton Hotel Fontenot , we got to pop in one evening for dinner to enjoy the music of Robin Barnes and Pat Casey .

Local Tip: They do not have music every day, but check their calendar to see the latest lineup. They also have Flash Your Feathers Friday, where you get a complimentary glass of bubbles if you wear your flashiest headpiece (4 pm to midnight).

Day 3: CBD and Bywater Neighborhoods

Whether you have an extra full or half day for your weekend in New Orleans, or just want to replace one of the other activities based on your interests, here are the places we suggest for day three. We loved exploring the Bywater neighborhood as well as the CBD (Central Business District).

15. Vue Orleans

2 Canal St, New Orleans, LA 70130, map

Vue Orleans is a 360° observation deck right on the Mississippi River. Before heading up to the indoor and outdoor observation decks, there are several interactive exhibits where you get a chance to learn more about New Orleans. The indoor observation deck has digital “viewfinders” that can swivel around, and you can interact with what you see in the distance.

You can see everything in roughly 1.5 hours ( get timed tickets here ).

Local Tip: If you feel peckish during your visit, there’s a cafe on the top floor.

16. The Sazerac House

101 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70130, map

The Sazerac House is another excellent stop if it’s hot outside or if you’re into cocktails. Their complimentary self-guided tour takes roughly 1.5 hours and includes three tastings . The space is beautiful and covers three floors. The Sazerac cocktail has been famous since the 1850s, and the tour takes you on a journey through its customs, traditions, and culture.

If you want to enhance your visit, they also have additional tastings and tours you can purchase.

Local Tip: It gets busy, and they recommend you make reservations online.

17. Bywater Neighborhood + Crescent Park

2300 N Peters St, New Orleans, LA 70117, map

The Bywater neighborhood is known for its art scene, colorful homes, and quaint eateries. We had fun wandering around, but if you want specific points of interest, here are a few notable spots to check out:

Crescent Park has great views of the Mississippi River and reminds us a lot of the Highline in NY or the Beltline in Atlanta. It’s a great spot for a picnic while watching ships go by. Plus, there is a unique Rusty Rainbow Bridge that takes you over to the park.
Euclid Records was my favorite stop, where you can browse their extensive collection of vinyl.
Studio Be was founded by a local artist known as Bmike. The 35,000-square-foot warehouse houses huge murals, art depicting revolutionaries, and homages to Civil Rights legends.
Dr. Bob Folk Art was unfortunately closed during our visit because he was sick, but seeing the eclectic art on the outside makes us want to visit next time we’re in town. You can see some of his work here .

Local Tip: This was by far the quietest neighborhood during our visit, but we were also visiting off-season.

Looking for More THings to Do in New Orleans?

Don’t forget to check out our 101 things to do in New Orleans Bucket List if you’re looking for more ideas.

Weekend in New Orleans Map

Seasonal THings to Do in New Orleans

New Orleans has some epic festivals and seasonal activities . Here are some of the highlights (if you plan on attending any of these, be sure to book your hotels early):

Mardi Gras (March)
French Quarter Festival (April)
New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival (April-May)
Bayou Boogaloo (May)
New Orleans Pride (June)
New Orleans Wine and Food Experience (June)
Essence Festival (July)
Tales of the Cocktail (July)
Satchmo Summerfest (July-August)
French Market Creole Tomato Festival (July)
Crescent City Blues and BBQ Festival (October)

Where to Eat for Your Weekend in New Orleans

The food pulls from French, West African, Cajun, Native American, Spanish, Sicilian, German, and Southern cultures. The locals mentioned that even if you’re looking for food that isn’t necessarily local, expect to see some local influence on their menus.

Cafe du Monde , Multiple Locations (Coffee & Tea, Donuts, $) – Gotta try it at least once.
Cafe Envie Espresso Bar , French Quarter (Breakfast & Brunch, $) – popular with locals and great for a quick bite or something to go.
Gospel Coffee and Boozy Treats , Warehouse District (Breakfast & Brunch, $) – Another popular spot to grab breakfast.
GW Fins , French Quarter (Seafood, $$$) – This is the special occasions restaurant in the city. It seemed like all the tables around us were celebrating something. Jacob’s favorite meal of the trip. Everything we ordered was delicious.
Herbsaint , Warehouse District (French, $$$) – We didn’t get a chance to try food from the now-prolific restaurateur Donald Link but will next time.
Parkway Bakery & Tavern , Bayou St. John (Sandwiches, $$) – Secret’s out that they have the best po’boys in New Orleans. Bit of a trek outside the normal tourist area, but if you’re headed to City Park, it’s on the way and so worth it. Oysters are only available two days a week.
Peacock Room , Warehouse District (Cocktail Bars, $$) – Very grammable cocktail spot with live music in the evenings.
Peche , Warehouse District (Seafood, $$$) – Gulf seafood in a cute spot.
Superior Seafood & Oyster Bar, Touro (Seafood, $$) – Loved the oysters and Pecan Crusted Redfish

Essential Tips for YouR weekend in New Orleans

Don’t forget your sunblock and bug spray . We got a lot of mosquito bites, especially at the parks.
Don’t limit yourself to just the French Quarter. There’s so much to see in New Orleans.
Bring a comfortable pair of walking shoes since it’s one of the best ways to explore the city. These are our fave, so we’re ready if it rains too.
A raincoat is helpful, especially during hurricane season (June to November). Rain is common throughout the year.
Bring some cash for streetcars, to tip the buskers or tour guides, and to use at certain shops.
No open container laws – you can grab a drink and walk around (it can’t be glass).
If you plan on visiting multiple attractions, get a Go City Card to save money.
When to Visit – Temperatures vary quite a bit from season to season. Spring and Fall are the most pleasant times of year to visit. Hurricane Season is from June to November. September and November are the wettest times of the year, and historically the busiest times for strong hurricanes have been in August and September.
Check Hours of Operation – A lot of the historical landmarks and museums and some restaurants are closed on Mondays.
Want to know what to wear to the airport? Here’s my ideal airport outfit and our carry-on essentials for every flight.

Getting to and Around New Orleans

By Plane: Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) is relatively new and very nice. It was easy to fly in and out of and navigate. Once you arrive, you can rent a car, take the bus, or call an Uber or Lyft to town. Rideshare can cost anywhere from $25-40 depending on traffic.
By Bus or Train: You can take Amtrack or the Greyhound to New Orleans and easily take the Streetcar line to many hotels and the downtown area.
Streetcars: We talk about all the available lines with streetcars earlier. It’s a great easy, lost-cost way to get around town.
Rideshare: Once you’re in town, you can get to most places around town for $10-15 via Uber or Lyft.

Best Places to Stay for Your Weekend in New Orleans

We stayed at the Kimpton Hotel Fontenot , which had a great location, friendly staff, and lovely facilities. We had a suite with plenty of space to stretch out and a beautiful view. It’s close enough to walk to the French Quarter but far enough away from the crowds and noise. Plus, we’ve always been a fan of Kimpton Hotels since they are pet friendly and treat our pets like special guests too. Next time we’ll have to bring our boys .

Weekend in New Orleans Frequently Asked Questions

How many days is enough for new orleans can you visit new orleans in a weekend.

It’s possible to see all the highlights in a weekend in New Orleans, but your days will be packed and exhausting. If you like to go at a more leisurely pace, we recommend 4-5 days.

How do you spend a weekend in New Orleans?

This is how you should spend day one and day two.

How do people spend 3 days in New Orleans?

If you have a third day, these are our recommendations . See the above for day one and day two.

What should I avoid in New Orleans?

Don’t limit yourself to just the French Quarter. There is so much more to see in New Orleans. Also, don’t underestimate the weather. Be prepared with layers and proper rain gear.

What is the best month to go to New Orleans?

February to May or October to November has the best weather. December to January for the least busy time of year.

What is the cheapest month to go to New Orleans?

July and August are the cheapest months to fly to and stay in New Orleans since temperatures are high and it’s humid. The hurricane season also runs from June to November, with August and September historically having the most and strongest hurricanes.

Can you drink alcohol in public in New Orleans?

Yes, as long as it’s not in a glass bottle.

Is New Orleans worth visiting?

Absolutely! New Orleans is the city for you if you love music, food, booze, history, culture, and outdoor adventures.

Do you need a car when visiting New Orleans?

No. You can see a lot by walking, public transportation, and rideshare. We were pleasantly surprised by how much of the city is walkable.

Is it safe to walk around New Orleans?

Yes, but like any urban city, you should keep an eye out for your belongings in touristy areas and walk in groups at night. Just be smart, and you’ll stay safe.

Is New Orleans a walkable city?

Yes, surprisingly, a lot of what you’ll want to see is walkable. Walking and public transit are the best ways to explore the city.

What do I need to know before going to New Orleans?

It’s a walkable city, and rain is common throughout the year. See more travel tips here .

How much money do I need for a weekend in New Orleans?

There are many free activities in New Orleans , so you just need to budget enough for hotels and food.

Where should you not stay in New Orleans?

If you don’t have a car, stay near the French Quarter to explore that area. It will also keep you at the hub with the most Streetcar options. We liked staying in CBD because it was close enough to walk to the French Quarter but far enough from the noise.

Get comprehensive insurance for your trip.
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Get a new backpack for your trip.
Buy a New Orleans travel guide .
Pack the appropriate shoes for your trip.
Don’t forget your in-flight essentials .
Save money on attractions with Go City .
101 Things to Do in New Orleans Bucket List
49 Best Places to Eat in New Orleans
25 Free Things to Do in New Orleans

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“Discovery consists not of seeking new lands but in seeing with new eyes ” – M. Proust

Esther + Jacob

Esther and Jacob are the founders of Local Adventurer, one of the top 5 travel blogs in the US. They believe that adventure can be found near and far and hope to inspire others to explore locally. They explore a new city in depth every year and currently base themselves in Las Vegas.

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Spring Forward

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Robin Barnes Performs at the Peacock Lounge

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While music takes center stage at Jazz Fest, the food is out-of-this-world amazing. Here's how we're planning to eat our way through the fest.

From boutique bed & breakfasts and luxury hotels to pet-friendly properties made for millennials, browse our hotels for every type of traveler in New Orleans.

There's a New Orleans hotel for every traveler's needs. Take advantage of deals and offers from hotels all around the city.

Looking forward to enjoying live music during your trip to New Orleans? The entertainment is just a few floors down at these New Orleans hotels.

Experience a stay like none other at a boutique hotel in New Orleans, with custom finishes and personal touches.

New Orleans is known for its cocktail culture. Some even say we invented it. Whether you’re looking for craft creations or a neighborhood dive (or both), we've got you covered.

From sazeracs to gin fizzes, here are some of the city’s most iconic cocktails and the best places to order them.

Whether you want a laid back brewery scene or craft cocktails in a hidden courtyard oasis, here are the top spots for al fresco sips.

Take the scenic route along historic St. Charles Avenue and stop for sips at some of our favorite bars, pubs, patios, and restaurants along the way.

For more great New Orleans content, visit our Instagram page at VisitNewOrleans .

Leave with a story, not just a souvenir. Share your NOLA story with #visitneworleans .

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Discover the best that Southern USA has to offer! Hidden gems, vibrant cities and more!

photo of a street showing the best time to go to new orleans

Best Time To Visit New Orleans: When To Go And When To Avoid

April 17, 2021 // by Southern Trippers

While there are probably a thousand reasons to go when exactly is the best time to visit New Orlean s ? One of the most eccentric, vibrant, colorful cities in the South, the answer depends on you! With so much to experience, you’re going to want to plan your trip around your own interests!

Planning your trip to New Orleans last minute?

Make sure to book your hotels and tours in New Orleans in advance to ensure availability! Here are our top picks for your trip!

Top Experiences And Tours In New Orleans:

Evening Jazz Cruise On Steamboat (Likely to sell out!)
Ghosts, Vampires + Voodoo Tour (Unique French Quarter tour!)
High-Speed Airboat Ride (Super fun for the whole group)
Cemetery Bus Tour At Dark (Very popular tour with 4.5/5 stars)

Top recommendations for accommodation In New Orleans:

Sonesta New Orleans ES Suites (Downtown with views)
Four Points By Sheraton French Quarter (Chic Bourbon Street location)
The Brandywine Sextant (Rooftop pool!)
NOPSI Hotel New Orleans (5-star luxury hotel!)

New Orleans is filled with friendly citizens, incredible live music, some of the best food in the South , and attractions that will create lifelong memories.

You can always find something to enjoy here! So when is the best time to visit New Orleans?

Victoria stands in one of New Orleans' most historic street corners at dusk, the best time to visit New Orleans

When Is The Best Time To Visit New Orleans?

The answer to this question will depend mostly on whether or not you’re interested in attending Mardi Gras! If you want to get the most of the festivities, you’re going to want to visit in early spring from February to May when the celebrations are in full swing. This will make a perfect weekend getaway !

If you want to attend actual Mardi Gras Day, that day usually falls either around the very end of February or the very beginning of March. Keep in mind that hotel rates during this time of year are very expensive. Expect to book your hotel and flight reservations at least a year in advance.

If you don’t mind the heat and want to stick to a budget, keep in mind that the best time to visit New Orleans for your wallet will be during the summer months. To get the best deep discounts, plan to visit during July, August, and September.

A view down one of the historic streets in downtown New Orleans

High And Low Season For New Orleans

Spring will always be the High Season for the Big Easy. The entire Mardi Gras season, or Carnival, runs for several weeks before actual Mardi Gras Day. Spring in general has the best weather, and is considered by most to be the best time to visit New Orleans. The summers can be hot and oppressive!

Because summers in New Orleans are long, swampy, and balmy, this is generally the low season for the city. While the summer months are difficult, you can definitely still survive. Just take it slow and drink plenty of water, especially if you’re day-drinking too. The sun can and will dehydrate you quickly!

While July and August are hot, this is when you’ll find the best hotel deals . The low season means fewer tourists, so airlines and hotels want to lure in travelers on a budget. You’ll be super hot, but you’ll love the deals!

Two colorful streetcars drive through downtown New Orleans.

Visiting New Orleans In Summer

Summer in New Orleans is not for the faint of heart. Trust us, you need to be prepared for brutally hot days. But if you’re hoping to avoid large crowds while saving a few bucks, this may be the best time to visit New Orleans for you!

July and August will be the hottest months. Average temperatures are 91 degrees Fahrenheit, but June and September aren’t much cooler. The trade off will be less crowds because summer is the low season. Hotels and airfare will be cheaper as well to draw you in!

Terrence and Victoria walk hand in hand through downtown New Orleans

Visiting New Orleans In Winter

Winter is one of our favorite times to visit New Orleans! We’re not big fans of that summer heat, and even spring can be oppressive. From late November to January, the city has had time to cool off to the 60s before the springtime festivals have started.

A New Orleans winter vacation will also be easy on your wallet. Fewer tourists will be in town, which translates to big savings for your wallet. Expect to find bargain hotel rates and airfare prices. If you don’t have anywhere to be during the holidays, then you should try to visit in December during Christmastime when the city is decorated !

Visiting New Orleans In Fall

Not quite the high season and not quite the low season, autumn in New Orleans is a strange beast. While temperature have receded back into the 80s and mid 70s, you still need to pay attention to the weather.

Late August and September are the height of the hurricane season, which lasts from June to November. While hurricanes can be predicted in advance, a sudden formation can still throw a wrench into vacation plans. However, the reduced temperatures and many cultural events still make fall one of the best times to visit New Orleans!

A sidewalk shaded by many oak trees in New Orleans

Visiting New Orleans In Spring

Ahh, springtime in the Big Easy. There’s nothing like it. Comfortably warm weather in the low 70s to mid 80s brings the most major of festivals: Mardi Gras and the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival. Many tourists and locals will tell you that spring is the best time to visit New Orleans.

Keep in mind that heavy tourist traffic due to these festivals means dramatically raised hotel rates and airfare. If you want to guarantee your attendance and go easy on your wallet, you’ll need to book early. Just to secure a room at all? You’ll want to book several months to a year in advance!

Remember too that if you visit in spring, many of the city’s most popular attractions will be closed during Mardi Gras. If sightseeing is a priority, then you should try to plan a trip that doesn’t coincide with the biggest events of the year.

Victoria stands in an orange dress outside as horse drawn carriages wait for passengers.

New Orleans By Month

If you still can’t decide when to go, don’t worry. We’ve broken down all the events in the Big Easy month by month so you can pick exactly when you want to vacation there! Although, with this many events and festivals happening, every month is the best time to visit New Orleans.

New Orleans In January

On New Year’s Day, check out the Sugar Bowl, the annual college football playoff game. Even if you can’t be in the Dome for the game, you can head to a local watch party at one of the sports bars downtown! You’ll see fans flooding downtown from inside.

On Joan of Arc’s birthday, January 6, you can catch the Krewe de Jeanne d’Arc parades which run annually downtown. The walking parade stars a medieval-themed procession through the French Quarter, ending with the first king cake of the Mardi Gras season!

Epiphany, or Twelfth Night, also on January 6 marks the official beginning of the Mardi Gras season! The first king cake of the season will make its way into local offices and parties until Fat Tuesday. Look out for the Phunny Phorty Phellows on the St. Charles Streetcar who herald the beginning of the Carnival Countdown during the best time to visit New Orleans.

This is one of our favorite things to do and you should add it to your Weekend In New Orleans Itinerary.

A King cake is topped with green, yellow, and purple sprinkles, the signature colors of Mardi Gras

New Orleans In February

February is Black History Month, and there’s no better way to start your celebration by attending mass or visiting the St. Augustine Church. Historically this was a place of worship for the black community of Treme. Then visit one of the many Black-owned restaurants in the area!

Look out for Mary Queen of Vietnam Church’s three-day celebration which celebrates the Lunar New Year, Tet, and Vietnamese heritage. All are welcome to enjoy live music, amazing Vietnamese food, games, dragon dances, and fireworks!

A parade during Mardi Gras, the best time to visit New Orleans

New Orleans In March

Every spring, starting in March, seasonal snowball shops reopen their storefronts and stands! Locals are incredibly loyal to their favorite stands who are neighborhood institutions. Bring cash and check out dozens of flavors at places like Hansen’s and Plum Street Snowballs!

You can also check out the New Orleans Bourbon Festival, an annual tradition reminiscent of 1920s speakeasies. You can attend sessions on topics like Bourbon History, go to grand tastings, bourbon pairing dinners, and burlesque shows!

Of course, you can’t forget BUKU, or the BUKU Music + Art Project. A music festival of EDM, hip-hop, and indie rock musicians unite in an underground/house party atmosphere. During this festival at Mardi Gras World, the best time to visit New Orleans, past performers have included Tyler the Creator, Glass Animals, and Megan Thee Stallion.

Beads hang from a fence along with masks during Mardi Gras, the best time to visit New Orleans

New Orleans In April

April is thought to be the best time to visit New Orleans, mainly because of the sheer number of festivals! First, on the first Saturday of April, check out the Freret Street Festival. Celebrating the local businesses, live music, and iconic food of the Uptown part of the city, this is the perfect way to start spring in New Orleans!

In one of New Orleans’ most beloved neighborhoods, you can catch the French Quarter Festival. From Woldenberg Park to Jackson Square, you can take in live music, incredible food, and the culture of the area! This is truly one of the Best Places To Stay In New Orleans!

Then catch the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, or Jazz Fest. Drawing massive crowds from all over the world, only Mardi Gras can top this festival. Over two weekends, hear live music on 14 stages and taste signature Jazz Fest foods!

New Orleans In May

Simply because of the weather, many consider May to be the best time to visit New Orleans. You can also check out the Bayou Boogaloo, whose proceeds are reinvested in the Bayou Saint John community! Enjoy fun for the entire family, local food, and craft vendors!

May 10 hails as National Shrimp Day, and the local restaurants in New Orleans do seafood the best. You can also grab a frozen margarita on Cinco de Mayo from a local spot like Casa Borrega! If you’re looking for a family vacation, Mom will certainly love being treated to New Orleans brunch for Mother’s Day weekend!

A beautiful Oak tree shadows a mansion in the spring, the best time to visit New Orleans.

New Orleans In June

New Orleans’ cuisine is famous, so you can expect great things from the city’s annual Oyster Festival. Enjoy them chargrilled, fried, and raw while enjoying live music and browsing arts and crafts vendors! June also heralds one of the best Pride parades in the U.S., as New Orleans has been voted one of the most welcoming cities!

Then get your appetite ready at the end of June for Black Restaurant Week! You can patronize and taste the food of some of the best Black-owned restaurants in the city, all who feature special menus and deals!

This is also a great time of year to visit if you want to check out some of the best beaches Near New Orelans because it is so hot!

One of the historic oak trees that lives in New Orleans

New Orleans In July

July means Independence Day, so that means gather your friends and family to watch the fireworks. You can get the best views from Crescent Park, Algiers Point, and Jackson Square! Host your own BBQ, or check out some of New Orlean’s best places!

Then check out the annual ESSENCE Fest, one of the Big Easy’s biggest festivals! Over three days, celebrate Black music, health, food, beauty, and culture with panel discussions and celebrity guests! Past performers have included Prince, Mary J. Blige, and Diana Ross!

Paying homage to the Spanish influence throughout New Orleans, head to the Arts + Warehouse District for the annual Running of the Bulls! Instead of living bulls, you’ll run away from New Orleans Roller Derby Girls!

Fireworks illuminate the New Orleans skyline for July 4th, the best time to visit New Orleans

New Orleans In August

The Big Easy has a lot of famous natives, so the best time to visit New Orleans is during Satchmo Summerfest which honors the life of Louis “Satchmo” Armstrong. During the first weekend of August, the three-day celebration hosts many live performances, local food, and seminars about the great trumpeter.

Then catch Southern Decadence, the largest LGBTQ event in New Orleans. The celebration lasts six days through the French Quarter and beyond. A favorite for Labor Day weekend, enjoy parties, parades, and glamorous costumes!

Then don your best red dress for the Red Dress Run. A beloved Big Easy tradition held the second Saturday of the month, runners and walkers participate to support local charities throughout the area!

Sitting at a beautiful green booth in a restaurant sipping a cocktail during a festival, the best time to visit New Orleans

New Orleans In September

September is the best time to visit New Orleans if you’re a foodie! Not only does the month bring cooler weather, but it also brings Restaurant Week from September 9-15. You can get 25% off regular prices at restaurants offering Prix-fixe menus!

St. Patrick’s Day may be in March, but in September, New Orleans celebrates Irish Fest. Across two stages and fairgrounds, this celebration of Irish culture includes arts, dance, music, food, and crafts!

The Pirate’s Alley Faulkner Society also annually celebrates William Faulkner’s birthday with Happy Birthday, Mr. Faulkner, a birthday party and literary festival of sorts from September 24-27.

Full plates of food are ready to be devoured at the one of New Orleans' festivals in September, the best time to visit New Orleans

New Orleans In October

Throughout October, head to the Deutsches Haus of New Orleans for Oktoberfest! Paying homage to German presence and culture in the Crescent City, enjoy classics like sauerbraten, cabbage, Bavarian pretzels, and of course, BEER!

Memphis may be known for their blue and BBQ, but it has nothing on the annual Crescent City Blues + BBQ Festival. With over 20 local vendors specializing in BBQ, enjoy a lineup of live brass bands, blues, and gospel musicians. You can enjoy more food and music styles at the Voodoo Arts + Music Experience over the Halloween weekend!

With over 200 films from almost 120 countries, New Orleans earns its claim as the Hollywood of the South at the New Orleans Film Festival. Attend showings during the weeklong event in addition to exclusive events, panels, and parties!

Other events to experience include the Mac n Cheese Fest, Beignet Festival, Gentilly Fest, Treme Fall Fest, Praise Fest NOLA, and many more! Don’t forget to check out some of the most Haunted Hotels in New Orleans!

Spiders decorate New Orleans during Halloween, the best time to visit New Orleans.

New Orleans In November

During the first weekend in November, arguably the best time to visit New Orleans, you can attend the Bayou Bacchanal! Celebrating Caribbean culture in the Crescent City, you can enjoy food and music from a number of Caribbean nations while the parade shuts down Canal Street!

Then get hungry for the Oak Street Po-Boy festival! Each year, Oak Street is transformed into a po-boy haven with 35 different vendors! Only you can decide who makes the best po-boy in the Big Easy! Then enjoy the Treme Creole Gumbo Fest to enjoy the New Orleans trifecta: brass bands, beads, and gumbo!

The Carousel Bar in New Orleans with its circular carousel bar as seen in spring, the best time to visit New Orleans

New Orleans In December

The holiday season is the best time to visit New Orleans with a flurry of Christmas celebrations! The Krewe of Jingle parade kicks off the season! Mr. and Mrs Claus make appearances, as well as Mr. Bingle, Rudolph, and more!

Then enjoy Celebration in the Oaks throughout the entire month. In City Park, you can take a romantic evening stroll with holiday-themed decorations illuminating the historic oak trees. Then head to the levees along the Mississippi River for the Christmas Eve Bonfires , which light the way for Santa and his reindeer!

Lights and decorations adorn a street corner in New Orleans.

There’s always a festival in New Orleans to enjoy, no matter what time of year you arrive! Even if you’re not keen on attending Mardi Gras, the Big Easy will leave your belly full, your spirits lifted, and put a song in your heart! The best time to visit New Orleans? All the time!

there are so many gorgeous cities in the south there will be something for everyone

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The Bazaar Guide to New Orleans

Just in time for Jazz Fest

Even if you can’t make it to Jazz Fest, the city’s busy cultural calendar means there’s really never a bad time to plan a trip to the Crescent City. Ahead, Harper’s Bazaar shares our favorite spots to eat, drink, dance, and shop in New Orleans. Laissez les bon temps rouler —let the good times roll!

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One of the greatest things about New Orleans is that there’s no shortage of gorgeous hotels to host you. A personal favorite of mine is Hotel Saint Vincent —a former orphanage turned mod-inspired abode (and also where I happened to get married)—tucked away in the quiet Lower Garden District and home to one of the best pools in the city. Those who want to be closer the action (i.e., the reckless abandon of Bourbon Street) can opt for lodging closer to the French Quarter, where Expedia-approved properties such as the Eliza Jane , the Kimpton , and the newly renovated Four Seasons New Orleans provide not only top-tier hospitality, but also the ultimate convenience: being able to step out the door and join any party that’s passing by. New Orleans has a subtle duality that one notices once they get to know the city better—and part of its beauty is being able to switch between the lavish celebrations and the more laid-back, slow-to-start Southern mornings.

WHERE TO DRINK

There’s no such thing as a bad drink in New Orleans. Whether you’re looking for an artisanal cocktail or a glass of funky natural wine, anywhere you stumble into will likely have the libation you’re looking for. For those who want to spend the day with a bottle and the best damn charcuterie plate you’ll ever have, head to Bachannal in the city’s hipster haunt of Bywater. If it’s time for happy hour, Luke’s downtown has a perfect French 75 (with cognac! the NOLA way!) paired with a dozen fresh oysters, and there’s Peychaud’s or Columns Bar for dirty martinis done right. Paradise Lounge at Hotel Saint Vincent also makes a mean Italian margarita and rosemary spritz, and the roof of the Ace Hotel is the perfect spot for a nightcap (and makes a top-shelf espresso martini).

WHERE TO EAT

Don’t tell New York, but to me, New Orleans is America’s best food city. While on a macro level the town is known for the obvious contenders (beignets! gumbo! po’boys!), it also has so many hidden gems from local chefs aiming to reinvent how the world sees Creole cuisine. Be sure to visit Acme’s Oyster House for traditional New Orleans eats, (get a dozen chargrilled, add hot sauce, and ask for extra bread), Elizabeth’s in Bywater for a perfect Southern breakfast (praline bacon: Don’t ask, just do!), and Cafe Sbisa for chicken and (sweet potato!) waffles and sinfully good shrimp and grits. For chef-driven sandwiches bigger than your head, head to Turkey & the Wolf ; or for a gorgeous weekend brunch in a dreamy garden, opt for Cafe Amelie . Satsuma is great for vegetarians or anyone hoping for bit of lighter fare, and Dakar has been highlighted nationwide for its take on Senegalese cuisine. Cafe du Monde and its pillowy-soft beignets are, of course, nonnegotiable.

WHERE TO DANCE

Technically, the party can be wherever you want it to be in New Orleans, but for the sake of brevity, the best place to find live music in the city would be anywhere on Frenchman Street. Nightlife staples include DBA New Orleans , the Spotted Cat Music Club , the Rabbit Hole , and Treme Hideaway , among many others .

WHERE TO SHOP

New Orleans is a city for music lovers and eccentric dressers. Any vinyl fan will have a field day sorting through vintage LPs at NOLA Mix Records in the Lower Garden District, while independent boutiques like Lekha , Elysian by Emily Morrison , and Saint Claude Social Club provide provide eclectic pieces for your home and wardrobe. Nestled inside of Hotel Saint Vincent, ByGeorge is perfect for any luxury lover: The mini boutique sells resortwear and accessories from brands like Loewe, Dries Van Noten, Christopher John Rogers, and Rabanne.

Bianca Betancourt is the culture editor at HarpersBAZAAR.com , where she covers all things film, TV, music, and more. When she's not writing, she loves impulsively baking a batch of cookies, re-listening to the same early-2000s pop playlist, and stalking Mariah Carey's Twitter feed.

preview for Harper's BAZAAR Culture Playlist

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New Orleans Travel Guide

Courtesy of Sean Pavone | Getty Images

Best Times To Visit New Orleans

The best time to visit New Orleans is from February to May when the weather is comfortably cool and the celebrations are in full swing. If you're not interested in Mardi Gras mania, plan to visit in December or January, when the city is calm and you don't have to worry about making hotel reservations a year in advance. To save on room rates, travel in the summer or fall. Just note that these seasons are known for their stifling heat and humidity, not to mention the threat of hurricanes – making travel insurance a worthy investment for those traveling to New Orleans during this time.

Weather in New Orleans

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

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Popular Times to Visit New Orleans

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Vacations in New Orleans

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There are loads of types of vacations in New Orleans and the cost will depend on what type of trip you’re taking and for how long you’d like to stay. Here are the latest prices for a 3 night trip for 2 travelers: Top vacation $425; Family vacation $403; Romantic vacation $447; Luxury vacation $491; Budget vacation $247.

Why should you book a vacation package to New Orleans?

In a city like New Orleans, that could make all the difference. From adding another Cajun restaurant to your itinerary to adding more items to your bag at the boutiques in Canal Place, packages allow you to bring another level of luxury to New Orleans vacations.

When should you book a vacation package to New Orleans?

New Orleans' peak vacation season is probably spring, between February and May, but prices can rise as crowds arrive. Then again, Mardi Gras is not to be missed for some people. But if you don't need to join the celebrations, any time from October to January can be a fun time to visit.

Where should you stay in New Orleans during your vacation?

For any vacation type in new orleans:.

The Hilton New Orleans Riverside should suit all kinds of traveler, with fine food available at Drago's Seafood Restaurant, a huge fitness center and Harrah's Casino next door. Taxis from the airport will take you to the hotel door in 20-25 mins.

International House Hotel in the French Quarter is the kind of place which will delight business travelers, families and couples. Amenities like a 24-hour gym, and the voodoo-themed Loa bar add to the experience, as do luxuriously furnished rooms. Shuttles run from New Orleans Airport, and take 30 mins or so.

For family vacations in New Orleans:

Families can take it easy at the New Orleans Marriott. On the edge of the French Quarter, the hotel offers both a gourmet American restaurant and a European-style wine bar (as well as a Starbucks in the lobby). Taxis from the airport get there in 20-25 mins.

The Omni Royal Crescent Hotel is close to Audubon Zoo. Laundry services are available, as is a 24 hour room service, while the on-site restaurant caters well to younger diners. The 3840 bus from the airport takes 40 mins, while taxis will take 20-25 mins.

For romantic vacations in New Orleans:

The Bourbon Orleans Hotel dives deep into the city's past to create a romantic ambiance. Couples will be particularly excited by their fabulous balcony suites, which open up onto the street life of the French Quarter. Taxis from the airport take 25 mins.

Maison Dupuy is another French Quarter gem with romantic appeal. Close to Congo Square, it features huge bathrooms and room service at all times of day and is centered around a gorgeous courtyard. Expect airport taxis to take about 30 mins.

For luxury vacations in New Orleans:

Live it up in true NOLA style at the exceptional Sheraton New Orleans Hotel, where the Roux Bistro and Pelican Bar take care of your gastronomic needs and the suites command breathtaking views across the French Quarter. Taxis from the airport get there in 20 mins or less.

Everything is up to scratch at the premium Renaissance New Orleans Arts Warehouse District, from the Cajun cooking at Legacy Kitchen to the views from the rooftop pool and in the on-site art gallery. Located in the Arts District, it's 20 mins from the airport by taxi.

For budget vacations in New Orleans:

Enjoy southern hospitality without paying over the odds at Brent House Hotel. A short drive away from the city's core, it has a pool and bistro, along with spa tubs and a fitness center - and it's a great base for exploring the city. Airport transfers are quick, at 12-18 mins.

The Inn on St. Peter offers atmospheric French Quarter accommodation at affordable rates. Pine floors, marble bathrooms and walls studded with fine art make this a boutique bargain which balances quality and cost. Taxis from the airport get there in under 30 mins.

Where to stay in New Orleans

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The first-timer’s guide to New Orleans: Everything you need to eat, see and do

Update: Some offers mentioned below are no longer available. View the current offers here .

I've said it before and I'll say it again: New Orleans is pure magic . It's unlike any other city in the country — or world, for that matter. Once you land at the airport, you'll feel it.

The music will get a little louder, the people will get a little warmer and the world will get a little more colorful the moment you touch down. No matter how many times you visit, there's always something new to explore (or eat), and if you've never been before, well, you're in for a treat.

How do I know? Well, I went to college in New Orleans (Roll Wave!) and lived there for four of the most incredible, transformative years of my life. Seriously, anyone who knows me knows that my eyes light up whenever I talk about just how much I love this city, and I know I'm not alone here. So, get ready for the trip of your lifetime and laissez les bon temps rouler .

How to get there

You'll find nonstop flights to New Orleans (MSY) from nearly 50 U.S. cities.; check ExpertFlyer for flight availability from a city near you. Airlines that fly to MSY include Alaska Airlines, Allegiant, American, Delta, Frontier, JetBlue, Southwest, Spirit, Sun Country and United.

If you have the Alaska Airlines Visa Signature® credit card, Platinum Delta SkyMiles® Credit Card from American Express or the Delta Reserve® Credit Card from American Express, you can use the companion certificate that comes as a perk on your card anniversary. Terms vary per card but you'll generally just pay the taxes and fees on your companion's fare (or in the case of Alaska Airlines, from $121; $99 plus the taxes and fees).

If you're a member of Frontier's Discount Den , look into its Kids Fly Free and Friends Fly Free programs. And, if you've got a Southwest Companion Pass , now is a great time to visit New Orleans and just pay taxes and fees for your companion's ticket.

Finally, anyone holding a Spirit credit card can access very low-cost award flights, starting at just 2,500 miles one-way. ( Here's why you may love flying Spirit. ) New Orleans is kind of in the middle of the country, so it shouldn't be too long of a flight form anywhere in the lower 48.

Where to eat

Let's put it this way: You came to New Orleans to eat. There's no other way around it. Leave your green juice and kale behind, and get ready to eat all of the gumbo, jambalaya, po' boy sandwiches, beignets (deep-fried pastries) and muffalettas (Italian-style sandwiches) your heart desires. And remember: It's a marathon, not a sprint.

Naturally, we'll start off the day with breakfast, er, brunch. You'll definitely want to make your way Uptown to Camellia Grill; it's a New Orleans institution known for its omelets, burgers, "freezes" and pecan pies. The line can get a little crazy, so we definitely recommend going early, especially on the weekend. It's also counter seating, which gets a little tricky if you're in an odd-numbered group, so just be prepared. At the very least, the friendly and funny cooks will put a smile on your face the second you walk in. I've been here countless times throughout my college career, and the burgers and fries after a long night never disappoint.

The Camellia Grill. (Photo by zimmytws/Getty Images)

My absolute favorite, though, is Elizabeth's. It's a quirky, low-key spot in the Bywater neighborhood that is famous for its eggs Florentine and fried oysters, as well as the praline bacon. I think I just shed a tear typing this — that's how good it is. This is the place to go to eat your weight in brunch food, but be warned that it can get pretty rowdy, especially on Sundays. Again, the key theme here is to get there sooner rather than later to beat the rush. Don't forget about the Bloody Marys, either.

Speaking of Bloody Marys, we need to talk about Atchafalaya: They have a make-your-own Bloody Mary bar! (And people told you dreams don't come true.) It's slightly more upscale than the previous two choices mentioned, and is great for groups (read: bachelor and bachelorette parties). Yes, you've also seen it in "American Horror Story." It's also located in Uptown and a little bit away from the hustle and bustle of the city.

Willa Jean should also be on your radar. It's a mix of a bakery and a restaurant — with a fully stocked bar, because of course — and its biscuits are legendary. It's located in the Central Business District, which borders the French Quarter, which is to say it's adjacent to the tourists without actually being, you know, full of tourists.

Last, but most certainly not least, is Brennan's. Is it the absolute best brunch you'll have in your life? Probably not. But is it also a quintessential New Orleans haunt, famous for its bananas Foster? Yes. Get dressed up, make a reservation for Sunday brunch, have a few drinks and start your day off on the right foot.

And that's just the first meal of the day.

Now, I know I'm going to really stir the pot when I say this, but go to Domilese's for po' boys. Understandably, there's a bit of a rivalry between all of the po' boy shops. The other ones worth mentioning are Parkway, Mahony's and Parasol. It's not like you can go wrong with any of them, but personally, I love Domilese's for its no-frills vibe, and its fried shrimp and oyster po' boys are legendary. And yes, you want it "fully dressed." Just trust me on this.

Central Grocery invented the famous muffuletta — they spell it with two "u"s — and no trip to New Orleans is complete without one. It's made with salami, ham, Swiss cheese, provolone and mortadella, and topped with olive spread. Said olive spread is so good, in fact, that my grandpa used to have jars of it sent back to his house in New York to make his own version. Nothing will ever beat Central Grocery's — except for maybe Cochon Butcher. I'll leave that one up to you.

Central Grocery. (Photo by Tara Schulz/Shutterstock)

The sandwich that really has the key to my heart, though, is the mozzarella sandwich from St. James Cheese Company. It's a slightly more upscale shop known for, well... its cheese. Get a plate of meats, cheese and a bottle of wine, and sit at one of the tables outside on a beautiful day. It's pure bliss. There's a location Uptown, as well as a newer one in the Central Business District. Pro tip: If you go to the Uptown one and still have room after, go to Creole Creamery a block away. And if you don't have room? Make room. It's the best ice cream in the city.

Oh, and if you don't go to Willie Mae's, Dooky Chase and/or Mother's, you're doing it wrong.

And now, for the moment you've all been waiting for: dinner.

Far and away, my top choice is Restaurant R'evolution. If you want to have a dinner where you really just go all-out, this is the place to do it. Make a reservation, and make sure you get the sheep's milk ricotta gnocchi. You might have to have someone carry you home, but I promise you, it's so worth it.

GW Fins is also a top-choice, and its "scalibut" (scallops and halibut) is a fish lover's dream come true. Come to think of it, pretty much all of its food is. The lobster dumplings are an absolute must-order, too. Don't show up without a reservation.

My family and I used to be huge fans of Galatoire's when I was in school a few years ago, but we were totally unimpressed the last time we went. The service was stale and at one point, our waiter dropped some of our food on the floor. Instead, I'd recommend Clancy's (fried! oysters! with! Gouda!) or Peche (fried bread!). New Orleans: Where your diet goes to die.

Another fan favorite is Shaya, even though it was plagued by some drama last year. I haven't been to Alon Shaya's new restaurant, Saba, yet, but it's definitely on my list for when I go back. If the food at Shaya was any indication, it's going to be unreal. Never in my life have I had fluffier pita bread. Drool.

Honorable mentions go to Domenica, Luke, Mais Arepas, Rum House, Superior Seafood, La Petite Grocery, and of course, Bacchanal. It's the best spot to grab some drinks and food with friends and listen to live music outdoors.

If you've been paying attention, you'll realize I left famed restaurants Commander's Palace and Jacques-Imo's off the list. Personally, I think they're way overrated and you can, and should, do better.

What to see and do

In between eating, you're going to want to do some sightseeing (and, if we had to guess, some walking). Thankfully, the city is rich in history and culture with plenty of things to feast your eyes on.

First things first: the French Quarter. No trip to New Orleans is complete without a stroll through here. It's the birthplace of the city and as touristy as you'd expect, but also breathtakingly beautiful and charming. Grab a picture in front of the iconic St. Louis Cathedral and Jackson Square, stuff your face with beignets at Café du Monde (it's open 24/7) and visit Voodoo queen Marie Laveau's burial site at St. Louis Cemetery No. 1. You can easily just wander through the quarter, taking in the sights, sounds and people, and watch the day go by.

New Orleans' French Quarter. (Photo by typhoonski/Getty Images)

I always recommend a ghost tour or swamp tour to people visiting New Orleans for the first time. Again, touristy — but that's what you're here to do, right? New Orleans has a haunted history, after all, and you should absolutely learn all about it during your trip down on the bayou. There are a few different operators of swamp tours; they're all more or less the same, but you should do some research to see which one best fits your needs.

One of my favorite NOLActivities is to go on a walk through Audubon Park. It's a few blocks from Tulane's campus and absolutely breathtaking. There are few things better than going on a walk here on a gorgeous, sunny day. Bring some food and drink with you, and when you get to the end of the park, keep heading straight toward The Fly. It's a little grassy area right on the Mississippi River, and an ideal spot for a NOLA-style picnic. City Park on the other side of the city is another great option for a walk — don't forget to stop by the New Orleans Museum of Art and the Louisiana Children's Museum, too.

Take a few hours to visit the National World War II museum while you're here, too. Even if you're not a history nerd, you'll be able to appreciate how well thought-out and informative it is. Ask anyone who's been here, and they'll say this is one of the highlights of their trip. The city of New Orleans was instrumental in winning the war, so it only makes sense that there's a big tribute to that down here.

The National WWII Museum. (Photo by csfotoimages/Getty Images)

If you want to experience the best of Mardi Gras even when it's not Carnival season, head to Mardi Gras World. You'll have a first-class seat to see how all the floats are made, and of course, learn a little history about the world's biggest (and best) party. Word to the wise, though: Definitely, absolutely, 100% go to Mardi Gras sometime. Just don't go for your first trip to New Orleans — experience all that the city has to offer your first time around. In fact, if you go during Krewe du Vieux weekend, or any weekend during Carnival season leading up to Mardi Gras weekend, you'll get the best of both worlds.

I know you want to see Bourbon Street, and it's your first time in NOLA, you should go. Just don't spend more than five minutes there, unless you're hanging out at Pat O'Brien's piano bar. It's touristy, but so fun, and you can't go wrong grabbing a hurricane (or two) and singing along to the dueling pianos.

Frenchmen Street is Bourbon Street's cooler cousin that's a fraction as touristy. It's the best place to walk in and out of music bars all night; depending on the night and who's playing, you might not even have to pay a cover. My favorites are Blue Nile, d.b.a, Spotted Cat, Maison and Bamboula's. Take some time to walk through Frenchmen Art Market, too; it's pretty magical, if I do say so myself. Top it all off with a hot dog and some cheese fries from Dat Dog. It doesn't get much better than this.

Frenchman Street in New Orleans. (Photo by Page Light Studios/Getty Images)

Tipitina's is another New Orleans music institution; you'll have to take a cab Uptown to get here, though. If you can brave the heat during the summer, go here on Fridays — there's no charge. Other quintessential music venues to check out are Laissez Les Bon Temps Rouler, Maple Leaf Bar, Preservation Hall, Smug Harbor, Gasa Gasa and Bacchanal Wine. There's music oozing out of every corner of this city, though, so you can't go wrong no matter where you end up.

How to get around

I'll be the first one to tell you that New Orleans isn't exactly a very easy city to get around. Public transportation options are essentially nonexistent. The St. Charles Avenue streetcar (it's a streetcar, not a trolley, people) is your best bet for getting from uptown to downtown and vice versa, just don't expect it to run according to any set schedule or anything. There have been times where I've seen multiple streetcars going the opposite direction I was going in, while waiting for one for 45 minutes or more. That said, once you're on, it will make you feel like you're in Disney World. The fact that it's a lot cheaper than other options — only $1.25 one-way — doesn't hurt either. I'm more or less convinced there are few things better in life than riding down St. Charles on a sunny day.

The St. Charles Avenue streetcar. (Photo by JWLouisiana/Getty Images)

Another budget-friendly option is to take the bus; you can buy passes and tickets depending on your needs here . The bus routes typically run parallel to each other along the length of the "crescent" of the city.

Depending on where you are, the city is somewhat walkable. You should certainly walk around the French Quarter, and then cross over to the Central Business District. Many parts of Uptown are walkable, since it's mostly a residential area, including the Audubon, Freret and Touro neighborhoods.

If all else fails, Uber has really ballooned in the Big Easy in the past few years. Rates are definitely on the cheaper end and if you have the Platinum Card® from American Express, you can use your yearly up to $200 in Uber Cash while you're here (enrollment required). Cabs here typically take forever, especially if you're staying uptown (we used to call them an hour and a half before we would have to leave!). You'll have better luck hailing one downtown, though. Here are the best credit cards to use for Uber .

Where to stay

New Orleans has no shortage of great hotels, ranging from boutiques to chains and everything in between.

My first recommendation for travelers is The Ritz-Carlton . While a $40 million renovation is currently underway (and expected to be completed in January 2020), this hotel exemplifies New Orleans elegance and charm. It's centrally located on Canal Street, straddling the French Quarter and Central Business District downtown — not to mention only a few blocks away from the iconic St. Charles streetcar.

As a Category 6 Marriott hotel , rates start at just 40,000 points per night on off-peak nights. This is the hotel my family always stayed in when they came to visit me during college, and we all always looked forward to their stay. The staff was incredibly warm and accommodating, and the hotel itself almost made you feel like you were in a movie, in the best way possible. Pro tip: Stay on the concierge floor if you can. I'm very much looking forward to the upgrade.

You can earn Marriott points with a variety of cobranded credit cards, including:

Marriott Bonvoy Boundless Credit Card: Earn 3 Free Night Awards (each free night award has a redemption value up to 50,000 bonus points, that's a value of up to 150,000 total points) after you spend $3,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening. Plus, earn 10X total points on up to $2,500 in combined purchases at grocery stores, restaurants, and gas stations within the first 6 months from account opening.
Marriott Bonvoy Bold Credit Card: Earn 30,000 Bonus Points after you spend $1,000 on purchases in the first 3 months from account opening.
Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant™ American Express® Card: Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $3,000 in purchases within the first three months. Plus, earn up to $200 in statement credits for eligible purchases at U.S. restaurants within the first six months of card membership. Terms Apply
Marriott Bonvoy Business® American Express® Card: Earn 75,000 bonus points after you spend $3,000 in eligible purchases in the first three months of card membership. Plus, earn up to $150 back in statement credits on eligible purchases made within the first three months of card membership. Terms apply.

You can also transfer Chase Ultimate Rewards points from cards like the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card or Chase Sapphire Reserve to your Marriott account on a 1:1 basis.

The Windsor Court is arguably the Ritz's biggest competitor in NOLA. Although it's not a points hotel, it is available through Amex's Fine Hotels and Resorts program . It has the whole quintessential New Orleans charm vibe; you'll feel like you took a trip back in time to the 1800s. I stayed there during my last trip to New Orleans, and while it doesn't hold the same place in my heart that the Ritz does, I enjoyed it a lot.

The Waldorf Astoria in the Central Business District is another top pick — and you might even recognize its restaurant, Domenica, from my "best restaurants" list above. As part of the Hilton Honors program, rates here start at 70,000 points per night. It's not a bargain by any stretch, but if you have a stash of Hilton points you're sitting on, it's definitely worth looking into. At the very least, get the whole roasted cauliflower and thank me later.

Depending on what program you're loyal to, there are a ton of mid-tier points hotels down in NOLAnd. Think: Hilton Riverside , JW Marriott , New Orleans Marriott , W , Aloft , Sheraton , Westin , Le Meridien and Troubadour Tapestry Collection . Oh, and a fun fact while we're on the subject: Robert Durst, real estate mogul and suspected murderer, was arrested at the JW Marriott in March 2015 .

No matter where you stay, make your way to the Hotel Monteleone at some point, too. It's famous for its rotating Carousel Bar (don't worry, it doesn't move that fast), not to mention the fact that it's, well, haunted .

The carousel bar at the Hotel Monteleone. (Photo courtesy fo Hotel Monteleone)

At the end of the day, if it's your first time in New Orleans, I would recommend staying in either the French Quarter or neighboring Central Business District so that you're close to the action and all of the sights. The Bywater is also a great option, and a little off the beaten path, and home to a ton of cute Airbnbs. You won't find any chain hotels in this neck of the woods.

Bottom line

In case you didn't get the memo, I'm absolutely obsessed with New Orleans . It's hands-down my absolute favorite place on the planet; there's really just something about it that lights your soul on fire. Once you go, you'll know. And in the meantime, keep these tips in your back pocket so you can begin to fall as head over heels with this city as I did.

a streetcar passes HI New Orleans hostel

How to Visit New Orleans on a Budget

Updated May 2023

The Big Easy gets nearly 14 million visitors a year for good reason. Between its outdoor museums, live jazz, party-friendly streets, and overall positive vibes, this historic gem is unlike any other U.S. city. Check out some of the best cheap things to do in New Orleans to make the most of your trip without breaking the bank.

This 1,300-acre outdoor oasis, around since 1850, is one of the oldest urban parks in the U.S. Located in the Mid City neighborhood , the park’s lagoons, centuries-old live oaks, and moss canopies set the scene for its open-air Besthoff Sculpture Garden, packed with 80 immobile attractions. Get in a workout by hitting its biking, jogging, and walking paths, 26 tennis courts, and 18-hole golf course. While the park is packed with freebies, a Twilight jazz band performance every Thursday is worth the $15 entry fee.

Hotel and gallery hopping

New Orleans is home to a sea of historic hotels, ripe with picture-perfect lobbies that double as museums. The chandelier-adorned Roosevelt is where the Sazerac cocktail was born; the modern lobby of the boutique International House boasts a Banksy mural; and the Hotel Monteleone stars a stunning (and revolving) carousel bar. From there, hit Royal Street and hop into the area’s offbeat and colorful galleries and jewelry stores. After a day of sight-seeing, you can relax back at home base in HI New Orleans hostel’s own lobby, complete with historic interior architecture and murals by local artists.

For a local hangout

a hot tub at the country club New Orleans

The Country Club, an 1880s-era cottage on the Mississippi River that’s evolved into a sleek, palm-filled relaxing respite, is one of the Bywater neighborhood’s best-kept secrets. For a $20 entry fee, customers get full access to its cabana bar, hot tub, hip pool party, and prime people watching. BYOT (towel) and save $2.

Bars with live music

Every Thursday, 60-year-old NOLA fixture Vaughan’s Lounge erupts into a lively jazz scene with trumpeters, local legends, and a side of passed red beans and rice ($10 entry). And there’s live music most nights of the week at Bacchanal Wine in the Bywater neighborhood. Grab a few friends, go in on a bottle of wine from the bottle shop up front, and enjoy it at one of their backyard tables while listening to local bands and chatting with locals.

Free museums

a sculpture in the NOMA sculpture garden

The always-free Lower 9th Ward Living Museum takes visitors on a visual tour of the neighborhood starting in the 1700s, when it served as a colony for escaped enslaved people, all the way to post-Katrina days. For those who live in Louisiana, a handful of museums are complimentary: the Contemporary Arts Museum on Sunday, Ogden Museum of Southern Art on Thursday, and the New Orleans Museum of Art (which is always free for visitors 19 and under) and the New Orleans Botanical Garden on Wednesdays. Even if you’re not a Louisiana resident, all of these attractions offer discounts for students and seniors.

Free oysters and cheap eats

Bivalves plucked fresh from nearby waters are a must in the Big Easy. At 24-hour staple Le Bon Temps Roule on Magazine Street, there’s live piano and oysters on the house every Friday night (7 p.m. to 10 p.m.). And cafeteria-style joint Mother’s has been an institution in New Orleans since 1938, with an early bird weekday breakfast special for $7.50.

New Orleans

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Home » North America » USA » New Orleans

The BEST New Orleans Travel Guide • 2024 (Budget Tips + Itineraries)

Ask someone what happens in New Orleans and 90% of the time they will say, “Mardi Gras” or “hurricanes.” While both of these things are assured most years, visiting New Orleans offers so much more than wild weather and even wilder parties.

There are tons of things to do in New Orleans! From exploring the roots of jazz to playing on the roots of colossal oaks, the Big Easy caters to all kinds of travelers! You could spend a week in New Orleans, a month, even a lifetime, and you’ll still find new things to keep you entertained here.

Obviously, I’d be remiss if we didn’t cover the food or festivals in this New Orleans travel guide as they are, admittedly, pretty spectacular. So don’t you worry – we are going to talk plenty about all the essential New Orleans travel tips you’ll need for your NoLa adventure.

So pack your bags and bring your most comfortable clothing with you. By the time you finish all those crawfish and sazeracs, you’re going to be rolling out of New Orleans in a wheelbarrow!

Why Visit New Orleans?

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A melting pot of people and culture, musical vibes all day and night, and America’s best seafood are just some of the standout things that make a stop in the Big Easy a must during your USA backpacking trip .

Go crazy at wild parties, bask in the mild climate almost year-round, and get seriously caked up from one of the many bakeries around Mardi Gras season.

guys sitting on street talking in new orleans during mardi gras

New Orleans is known for its debauchery, but it’s got a softer side too. The city is resilient and exudes vibes and decor that can pretty much only be found here. Sure Bourbon Street is just one of those NoLa locales you just can’t miss, but New Orleans is so much more than that!

Dive into the New Orleans history, pop into some day-time music scenes, and spend a day or two appreciating the majestic Spanish moss. No matter how you choose to spend your New Orleans itinerary, you can guarantee it’ll be entertaining!

What are the Major Attractions in New Orleans?

There are tons of places to visit in New Orleans , ranging from wild parties in the French Quarter to sunny days spent amongst Spanish Moss. But seriously–this is a city that truly has something for everyone.

Love food? New Orleans has some of the best eats in the entire United States. Craving some live music? Just head on downtown at any time of day for that smooth traditioal New Orleans jazz.

people walking down bourbon street while traveling in new orleans

Paranormal and nature lovers will particularly fall in love with this Southern city by the Mississippi River, though anyone is bound to find a highlight. You could easily spend a WHILE exploring every nook and cranny of the Big Easy. If you’re short on time, here’s what you just can’t miss:

The French Quarter
New Orleans City Park
St. Charles Street Car Ride
The Garden District
Historical Mausoleums

How to Long Spend in New Orleans?

There’s a very good chance that you’re not going to want to leave once you make it to the Big Easy. The overwhelming amount of delicious food, live music, and beautiful architecture tends to impress most travelers.

So while you could easily spend a lifetime getting to know New Orleans, 3 days is the perfect amount of time to start a New Orleans itinerary. This will allow you to see all the city’s famous attractions, fill your stomach with creole & cajun, and even get off the beaten path a bit.

The following is a sample 3-day itinerary for a weekend in New Orleans . The top destinations mentioned in this New Orleans travel guide are coming your way…

New Orleans Itinerary Day 1: The French Quarter and Bywater

On the first day of this New Orleans travel guide, we’re going to get the touristy stuff out of the way. Today, you’re going to knock out the French Quarter and then hit up Marigny/Bywater .

Let’s start in the French Quarter . This is the oldest part of the city and, as the name suggests, was originally built by the French. Interestingly enough, most of the architecture here isn’t even French – the Spanish are responsible for the majority of the Quarter’s contemporary architecture.

A lot of New Orleans’ must-see sights are located in the French Quarter. Here you’ll find the infamous locales of Bourbon Street and Jackson Square. You can spend a fair amount of time in Jackson just people watching.

There are a number of interesting sites around Jackson Square. First, stop at The Cabildo –a museum dedicated to New Orleans’ origins – while Preservation Hall is one of the most significant Jazz landmarks in the city.

The French Quarter hosts many of the most famous restaurants in New Orleans as well as some cool places to shop. Be sure to swing by the French Market , a flea market of sorts that’s been open since 1791. End your time in the Big Easy’s most famous neighborhood with a quick (or not so quick) stop at the Old Absinthe House for a Sazerac.

When you’re ready to escape the masses, head toward Marigny and Bywater . These are two local neighborhoods in New Orleans and are more laid back.

If you walk up Royal Street, you’ll get to pass the Lalaurie Mansion, Palace French Market, and Studio Be. Royal Street itself is pretty boutique so you’ll get to window shop a lot.

End your day with a drink at Bacchanal Spirits and a show at Music Box Village.

New Orleans Itinerary Day 2: City Park and Lakeview Vibes

On the second day of this New Orleans travel guide, head toward the lake for a day of relative peace and quiet. You’ll be spending a lot of time in the park and exploring New Orleans’ many grandiose cemeteries.

From the French Quarter, grab the Canal Street Streetcar and ride it until the end of the line. First, you’ll shoot through the bustling city center. As you pass under the I-10, you’ll see the first of the day’s mausoleums on the right: St. Louis Cemetery . Hop off if you like or push on.

After about 20 mins, you should reach the terminus of the streetcar. Directly in front of you should be two more of the city’s most opulent cemeteries: Metairie and Greenwood. Wander around these necropolises and admire the many lavish headstones and bronze ornaments. Just please be respectful of offerings and Holy Ground, if there are any.

Just up from the cemeteries is the enormous New Orleans City Park, which is where we’re heading next. This park is a great place to relax and watch the clouds go by.

You’ll be walking under giant oaks and cypresses that are covered in one of New Orleans’ most famous features: Spanish Moss AKA “Old Man Beard. ” The trees creak and the moss moves from the wind, in most serene moments you’ll have in the city. If you visit the Singing Oak near the Art Museum, you’ll have the chance to hear its own song made from a handful of custom wind chimes.

When you’re ready, head back to the city center via Esplanade Avenue or head up towards Harrison . Harrison is the main street of the residential Lakeview neighborhood and has a number of good bars and restaurants.

New Orleans Itinerary Day 3: St. Charles to Audubon

Let’s start at Lee Circle , which hosts two museums that we haven’t seen yet: the National World War II Museum and the Ogden . In particular, the Ogden is worthwhile for its collection of historical Southern art, which often deals with complex issues like slavery and colonialism.

At this point, we’re going to be using the St. Charles Streetcar as our primary means of transport. You’ll be passing through and near a lot of the best neighborhoods in New Orleans, so get ready to hop on and off.

Freret Street and Magazine Street are located a couple of blocks on either side of St Charles Avenue and both are really nice to walk around. You could conceivably walk down one and return back via the other, though that would be quite a bit of walking.

Very close by Lee Circle is Oretha Castle Haley Blvd (OCH) , which is on the cusp of becoming the next big pedestrian street. If you wanted to see a bit of New Orleans before it’s absorbed into the mass consumer matrix, drop by this little slice.

Further along, you’ll eventually arrive in the Garden District. Here you’ll find rows of grand oaks and even grander mansions from the old days. Lafayette Cemetery is also in this area and it is arguably the coolest in the city.

Audubon Park is the end of the line for us. As you leave the tram, you’ll see Tulane to your right. The Newcomb Art Museum is on campus and it’s open to the public as well.

Spending More Time in New Orleans?

For those with more time on their hands, New Orleans can absolutely provide. The city has enough to keep you busy for at least a week, though you can easily spend months here and not get bored. Here are some lesser-known things to do in New Orleans:

historical statue and church in new orleans

Ride the Steamboat Natchez : Cruise down the Mississippi River on New Orleans’ only authentic steamboat. Not only will you get to enjoy a slight breeze as you move along the water, but this being the Big Easy, you can also expect some live New Orleans jazz music on board.
Visit Mardi Gras World : Go behind the scenes of one of the world’s coolest festivals at Mardi Gras World, which is open 7 day a week. Learn about the history of the event and see how the iconic floats are made!
Check out Marie Laveau’s House of Voodoo : This museum and store–located in the former home of the Scond Voodoo Queen of New Orleans–will introduce you to the practice that’s deeply embedded into the city’s culture and heritage. Window shop, have a psychic reading, or grab a souvenir at this totally unique-to-New Orleans store.
See the St. Louis Cathedral : The oldest Catholic cathedral in the continental US, this historical church dates back to the 1700’s and is an ideal place for some peace in Jackson Square.
Go on A Bike Tour : One of the best ways to take in New Orleans is from the seat of a bike! Yup–the city is surprisingly cycle friendly and a self-guided or group tour is a fab way to see all of the city’s most iconic sights.

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Here are some of the top things to do in New Orleans that you just shouldn’t skip:

1. Eat everything

There are so many places to eat in New Orleans that it’s hard to know where to start. Cajun food, French, BBQ, seafood; you’re just going to be excited for the next time you can eat it. You could spend a week in New Orleans, eating out for every meal, and still not come close to grasping the full breadth of the food here.

2. Join the party

Mardi Gras is one huge party and one of the most famous festivals in the world . But there are so many other festivals in New Orleans too! The likes of Jazz Fest , Satchmo , and Voodoo are all worth attending, if not for their cultural offerings than for their great fun.

3. …Or the dead

New Orleans isn’t necessarily the first place you think of if you’re into dark tourism . But here’s a bit of New Orleans’ insider information: did you know that there are seven supposed entryways to the underworld here? Referred to as the Gates of Guinee, these portals are fabled in voodoo culture.

Explore New Orleans and see if you can discover their location. Otherwise, visit the graveyards for a more literal deathly experience.

4. Visit a plantation

There are a number of plantations on the outskirts of New Orleans that have been preserved for the means of modern education. Louisiana was an area where slavery was extremely high and it has affected New Orleans history dramatically. Visit either the Whitney Plantation or the Oak Alley Plantation to educate yourself about this horrible era.

5. Listen to live music everywhere

If you don’t know what to do in New Orleans at night, then just step outside. Almost immediately, you should hear music blaring from some local lounge or street corner. Just follow the sweet sounds of rhythm and harmony and you’ll find your place soon enough.

outdoor live music new orleans travel guide

6. Be a pedestrian

No matter where you stay in New Orleans, there’s always a cool and exciting street nearby. Between the likes of Freret, Royal, St Claude, and everything in between, there is always something going on nearby. Just leave the flat and wander around a bit.

7. Chill out under the trees

Two points of interest in New Orleans that may go unnoticed are the Spanish Moss and the enormous trees that host it. For locals, these two floras are among the most iconic features of the city and are great sources of nostalgia. Hang out under a mighty oak and just watch the Old Man’s Beard blow in the wind.

City Park is reason enough to come to New Orleans!

8. Ride the tram on St. Charles

New Orleans has several historic streetcars that are wonderfully vintage. The St. Charles line is particularly pretty though as the way is lined with beautiful trees. You’ll get to pass by the Garden District as well, which is one of the most elegant neighborhoods in New Orleans.

9. Fall in a second line

If you only have 3 days in New Orleans, the one thing that you have to look for is a second line march. These mini-parades are led by Jazz ensembles and are usually organized for specific celebrations. They also have a tendency to grow, as most people can’t resist joining in the line.

10. Learn about New Orleans history

Some of the absolute must-see places in New Orleans are the many museums that explain its heritage and identity. Places like the Cabildo, the Ogden, and Mardi Gras World provide a wealth of knowledge concerning one of the most culturally unique places in the USA. Don’t forget to ask the homegrown New Orleanians about where they live either.

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New Orleans hostels are dirt cheap and, given New Orleans’ wild reputation, are a great way to meet other people. A lot of hostels in New Orleans are inherently social and can be pretty loud at times. Hopefully, you’re not the introverted type who hides in the dormitories.

Keep in mind that New Orleans is a tourist town and tourist towns are meant to have lots of accommodation! You’ll find all kinds of different lodges in New Orleans besides just hostels, from weird bungalows to the ritziest penthouse suites along with eco-friendly digs. The choice is yours!

I generally prefer Airbnb in New Orleans . They are more personable and homier than hotels, and New Orleans has endless options to choose from for every kind of traveller! If you like nature, you can find some incredible Louisiana cabins in the French Quarter and in rural areas outside the city.

For more variety in your accommodation choices, be sure to check out Airbnb’s top competitor: VRBO. VRBOs in New Orleans are fun, quirky vacation rentals, perfect for a trip to one of the US’ most unique locales.

New Orleans actually has a number of RV parks/campgrounds within the city limits and these should appeal to people traveling on a shoestring budget. Just remember to lock your car and bring a quality backpacking tent !

The Best Places to Stay in New Orleans

Deciding where to stay in New Orleans isn’t complicated when you’re armed with the right information. Check out some of the top neighborhoods to come home to while out in the Big Easy:

French Quarter

The oldest and most famous neighborhood in New Orleans, there’s no better place to stay on your first visit than the French Quarter.

Central Business District

Don’t let the name fool you; New Orleans’ Central Business District isn’t all stuffy suits and quiet nights. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. This downtown neighbourhood is bursting with fun and excitement.

Bourbon Street

Home to Mardi Gras, big brass bands and plenty of colourful buildings, Bourbon Street is without a doubt the liveliest and craziest part of the city.

Faubourg Marigny

If you’re looking for a dynamic neighborhood with a unique atmosphere, interesting history and wonderful culture, then Faubourg Marigny is for you!

North of the city center are the neighboring districts of Mid-City and Lakeview. These two charming neighborhoods are packed with lush landscapes, interesting art, and plenty of unique experiences. And, they are our pick for where to stay for families visiting New Orleans.

New Orleans Budget Accommodation Hacks

lit up new orleans po boys food shop sign

Sometimes you need your own roof above your head – I know the feeling. Other times, you’re doing everything you can to save a nickel and dime.

If you’re trying to cut the costs of travel to New Orleans then maybe it’s time to stay somewhere besides a hostel. And you might struggle to find a Bourbon Street hotel that doesn’t cost an arm and a leg. If you need to save money, try one of these:

Couchsurf! – Couchsurfing is the best way to save on cash when it comes to accommodation since most of the time you’re crashing for free. Staying with a local host is also a great chance to experience a more authentic side of the city and to visit hidden New Orleans.
Tap into your backpacker network – You never know when you have a friend in a foreign city! If you’ve traveled a lot, you may have met someone from New Orleans or know someone who knows someone.
Camp ! – Urban camping is a growing trend in many cities. These campsites are comfortable, sociable, safe, and cheap. They are often located on the outskirts of town, which means they are quieter too.

New Orleans is a very seasonal town, which means prices will fluctuate greatly depending on when you visit. Come during Mardi Gras and be ready to spend a pretty penny. During the low seasons though, visiting New Orleans can be very cheap.

Regardless of when you are planning a trip to New Orleans, there are always ways to cut costs and spend less. Having some budget travel tips is crucial to visiting anywhere in the USA on the cheap and extending your trip.

I’ve gotten pretty good at limiting my travel expenses. It took me years to perfect some methods, but here I’m going to share my best New Orleans travel tips. With this advice, you’ll be able to visit New Orleans on the cheap, no matter what time of year.

french quarter restaurants in new orleans

A lower daily budget for New Orleans would be around $50-$60. This will get you a dorm bed, groceries, bus tickets, and some extra money for beers or whatever.

Accommodation in New Orleans will undoubtedly be your highest expense. Hotels in New Orleans can be affordable in the summer and fall, but watch out for the spring – prices are highest from February-May.

To save the most on lodging in New Orleans, stick to hostels, use local campgrounds, or check out a New Orleans eco-lodge to spice things up.

Food can be more or less as expensive as you want it to be. Fancy Michelin-star French cooking in the Garden District? Good luck wrapping your head around that bill. You’re better off eating in one of the food halls or just sticking to street gumbo if you’re on a budget.

As always, be mindful of how much you drink as well. Lack of inhibition can really do a number on your wallet.

A Daily Budget in New Orleans

Here’s a breakdown of a daily budget in New Orleans including the average daily costs of various expenses!

A Few Free Things to Do in New Orleans

The best way to visit New Orleans on a budget is to take advantage of all the free activities. Some of the most fun things to do in New Orleans are totally free as well, so enjoy yourselves!

man playing a tuba while traveling in new orleans

Movies – New Orleans is a big fan of outdoor screenings. These are often held in public places, like parks, and are free to the viewing public as well. Be sure to check out the Moonlight Movies series, Cinema Sundays in the French Quarter, and Rivertown Movies in the Park.
Free museums – New Orleans has quite a few cultural centers that offer free entry on certain days of the week/year. The Historic New Orleans Collection, Newcomb Art Gallery, World War II Museum, and the House of Dance and Feathers are all such places. The Ogden Museum and Art Museum offer free days, but only to Louisiana residents.
Concerts and jam seshes – There is music everywhere in this city – a lot of the time, it’s totally free as well! There are numerous free concerts in New Orleans held year round, like Wednesdays at the Square and Jazz in the Park. Local Bon Operatit also hosts free opera performances every 2nd Wednesday. If you strike out with these, there’s always a street performer around to serenade you.
Comedy shows – New Orleans has an enormous comedy club scene and every week there is something free going on. Open mics, workshops, and improv sessions are just a few of the events . You may have to buy a drink at the bar and we suggest you do just that – being cheap is easy heckling material.
The finer things – Many of New Orleans local breweries offer free guided tours of their facilities. NOLA Brewing offers free beer to participants! The New Orleans Cigar Factory also offers tours of their facilities from 10am-10pm. Smoking is allowed.

Travel Tips – New Orleans on a Budget

If you’re looking for more ways to do New Orleans on the cheap, then try using one of these money-saving techniques!

red cable cars on canal street in new orleans

Be a coupon clipper – There are visitors coupons on New Orleans official webpage! Print a sheet out and take advantage of some extra discounts.
Practice the three-martini lunch – Though the three-martini lunch harkens to a time when it was socially acceptable to get day drunk, nowadays it mostly refers to amazing drink deals. Some New Orleans eateries offer martinis for as low as $0.25! This shit is just dangerous.
Cheap (sometimes free) oysters – One of the cheapest things to do in New Orleans is to take advantage of the many oyster deals around town. You can find these for as low as $0.50 per shellfish or less. They’re even free at Le Bon Temps Roule on Fridays!
Eat at the local restaurants – New Orleans’ is renowned for its culinary scene, but eating in the touristy areas or at a 5-star restaurant is going to ruin you. Go to a dive bar and eat the house gumbo once in a while or visit a greasy spoon diner.
Happy hour – If you aren’t already impressed by the free oysters or the quarter martinis, well there’s plenty more offers in town. New Orleans has a crazy array of happy hours. Just wander around the city between 4 and 6 pm and you’ll definitely find something.
Cook at home as often as possible – One of the most proven ways of saving money for backpackers: buying your own groceries and cooking at home will save you heaps of cash.

Why You Should Travel to New Orleans with a Water Bottle

The plastic problem is global now… so we need to work globally to make a difference.

It’s not going to change overnight, but you can be part of the solution and not the problem. When you travel, avoiding single-use plastic is one of the ways you can do that. I know it’s tasking at times, but together, being a responsible traveler with plastic use is only going to get easier.

Plus, now you won’t be buying overpriced bottles of water either! Travel with a filtered water bottle instead and never waste a cent nor a turtle’s life again.

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress rigorously from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

New Orleans is massively affected by various festivals and weather seasons, so there definitely is the best time to visit. Avoid Mardi Gras season if you’re not a fan of mass tourism.

If money is no issue for you, then the best time to visit New Orleans is, without question February to May. During this time, New Orleans’ weather is calm and the temperatures are pleasant.

More importantly, this is the time when the best parties in New Orleans occur e.g. Mardi Gras , French Quarter Fest , and Jazz Fest .

Prices during these months will be absolutely ridiculous though. Most forms of accommodation – hotels, Airbnb, fuckin’ cardboard boxes – will be booked up months in advance.

On that note, a lot of the local businesses and attractions in New Orleans close during Mardi Gras. Unless you’re visiting NOLA specifically for this holiday, you may be better off just waiting until everything has passed.

As June approaches, so does the rain, humidity, and steamy temps. During the summer season (June-September) the city can feel barren at times, as hardly any tourists visit for fear of the heat or hurricanes.

As such, you can get some screaming deals on lodging during this time.

Visiting during the summer can be a more authentic New Orleans experience. The city is definitely sifted of tourists and a lot of really important festivals, like ESSENCE and Satchmo, happen at this time as well.

August and September are peak hurricane months , which is usually a grim time for New Orleans. These storms can wreak havoc on the city and are often treated with a high degree of severity. If a big storm is on the way, don’t be surprised to see stores boarded up and shut down.

October- December is post hurricane season and just like spring, it’s possibly the best time of year to go to New Orleans as weather will still be pleasant and there will be less tourists than in the spring months.

Decmber-February are the coolest months of the year in NoLa, yet they still tend to be much warmer than the rest of the continental United States.

Don’t expect to see many tourists at this time, and be prepared for variable temperatures. You can also rest assured that your chances of encountering a hurricane will be reallll slim .

What to Pack for New Orleans

While your exact packing list will depend largely on the season, here are some essentials you shouldn’t skip out on.

Osprey Daylite Plus

Any city slicker needs a SLICK daypack. In general, you can never go wrong with an Osprey pack, but with its array of awesome organisation, durable materials, and a comfy build, the Daylite Plus will make your urban jaunts buttery smooth.

Grayl Geopress Filtered Bottle

Save $$$, save the planet, and save yourself the headache (or tummy ache). Instead of sticking to bottled plastic, buy a Grayl Geopress, drink water no matter the source, and be happy knowing the turtles and fishies thank you (and so do we!). 🙂

OCLU Action Camera

Wait, it’s cheaper than a GoPro and… better than a GoPro? The OCLU action cam is the cam for budget backpackers that want to immortalise all their wildest adventures – including that time you dropped it off a Himalayan mountain – WITHOUT breaking the bank.

Solgaard Solarbank

Resourceful travellers know how to find power outlets anywhere on the road; smart travellers just pack a solar power bank instead. With 4-5 phone cycles per charge and the ability to top up literally anywhere the sun is shining, there’s no reason to ever get lost again!

Petzl Actik Core Headlamp

ALL travellers need a headtorch – no exceptions! Even in the hostel dorm, this beauty can save you in a real pinch. If you haven’t got in on the headtorch game, DO. I promise you: you’ll never look back. Or at least if you do, you’ll be able to see what you’re looking at.

Safety in New Orleans took a bit of a dive following Hurricane Katrina. In the wake of the horrific storm, New Orleans became a wasteland as entire neighborhoods and communities were decimated. What resulted was widespread displacement, food shortages, and an increasing reliance on federal aid.

As time went on, the city became somewhat lawless . Like a purgatory, the poor souls that remained in NOLA had to resort to criminal means to survive. There was looting, theft, and violence. Even after the city began to rebuild, endemic crime still hung around.

Today, New Orleans has returned quite close to its former self and is certainly not the chaotic mess it was following Katrina. Almost all of New Orleans’ points of interest are safe and accepting visitors.

That being said, New Orleans is still one of the most violent cities in America. Though much of the violence is located in the outer neighborhoods – places that should hold little appeal to tourists.

Before even going near these districts, be sure to check their status with the local authorities. Venturing into one of these areas randomly could put you in a bad place.

Regardless of where you are, you must exhibit common-sense safety precautions at all times when visiting New Orleans. Pickpockets and scammers still hang around touristy areas and will take advantage of you.

Sex, Drugs & Rock ‘n’ Roll in New Orleans

In the opinion of many, it’s New Orleans that’s the best place to party in the USA – it makes visiting Las Vegas look like a kid’s party. With its infamous Mardi Gras, eccentric characters, and daily opportunities for debauchery, you’re going to want to get lit at least once while in the Big Easy.

Alcohol is obviously plentiful, and while nothing else is legal in Louisiana, you can certainly find everything and everything in the city if you know where to look.

guys playing jazz instrument at night at a place in new orleans travel guide

If you plan on partaking in drug tourism in New Orleans, be very careful of who you buy from. Dealers are notorious for cutting their blow and selling God knows what to tourists. Wait until you’re with a savvy local who knows the difference before diving in nose-first.

New Orleans has many strip clubs and other adult entertainment scenes–whether you dabble in this and sex on the road , make sure you’re being respectful of everyone you meet and practise safe sex, too.

Getting Insured BEFORE Visiting New Orleans

Traveling without insurance in New Orleans would be risky. Especially with the infamous (and ridiculous) for-profit health system in the USA. So do consider getting good travel insurance sorted before you head off on an adventure.

I have used World Nomads for years now and made a few claims over the years. They’re easy to use, professional, and relatively affordable. They may also let you buy or extend a policy once you’ve started your trip and are already abroad which is super handy.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

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New Orleans has one major airport that handles most of its air traffic – Louis Armstrong International Airpor t . The airport is located quite close to the city but getting to and from is not as easy as it should be.

The airport is a quick 20-minute drive away from the French Quarter but costs a minimum of $35, Uber or taxi. If that sounds like a bit much to you, that’s because it is.

Those who want to travel cheaply to the city center from Louis Armstrong can use the E-2 bus, which stops on the second floor. Travel time is 45 minutes.

There are numerous Amtrak trains and mainliner bus companies offering services to New Orleans. Union Passenger Terminal is the primary arrival/departure port for all of these.

Visiting New Orleans with a car is a relatively straightforward task. I-10 is the main highway in and out of New Orleans and it runs right through the heart of the city.

When driving in the city center just be aware of where you park – parking meters can be expensive and carjackings are on the rise .

When you’re ready to leave New Orleans, there are plenty of onwards destinations. A sunny Florida road trip is a good choice if you’re living the vanlife. Just be aware that the South is a pretty big region and that drive times can be longer than you think. Refer below for a list of Southern cities and their distances.

Baton Rouge (LA) – 1.5 hours
Mobile (AL) – 2 hours
Tallahassee (FL) – 5.5 hours
Houston (TX) – 5.5 hours
Memphis (TN) – 5.5 hours
Atlanta (GA) – 6.5 hours
Dallas (TX) – > 8 hours

Getting Around New Orleans

Once you can wrap your head around the weird layout, New Orleans is actually relatively easy to get around. New Orleans is pretty fun to walk in and the public transport is good enough that you can just about anywhere you need to.

The city itself is shaped like a crescent and tends to disorientate those who are not used to its odd shape. Cardinal directions seemingly don’t exist in New Orleans, which is a phenomenon you can test out simply by asking a local which way is north. (They’ll look at you like you’re crazy.)

The best way to navigate New Orleans is to just refer to major landmarks in the city. If you ask for directions, you will often be told to just “head towards the river” or “the lake.” Figure out where these places are at all times, and you’ll be golden.

getting around new orleans historic tram

Thanks to its overwhelming array of shopping streets, one of the most fun things to do in New Orleans is to just walk around.

You could spend an entire afternoon just browsing around the likes of Magazine Street , Freret Street , or Royal Street , and you wouldn’t be wasting your time.

New Orleans has several historic trams that are as useful as they are enjoyable. The streetcars themselves resemble their European cousins and could fit right in Milan or Lisbon.

There are two streetcar lines: r ed for Canal Street and green for St Charles. Both are major throughways and can get quite busy.

New Orleans has a public transport system, referred to as RTA . There are plenty of buses running throughout the city. Rides cost $1.25 one way or $3 for an entire day.

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Booking.com is quickly becoming our go-to for accommodation. From cheap hostels to stylish homestays and nice hotels, they’ve got it all!

While New Orleans isn’t a well-known digital nomad destination, it might just be one of the coolest places to visit in the USA and work online. Actual brick and mortar jobs will be hard to come by without US citizenship or other work permits.

But because the cost of living is cheap in New Orleans compared to other American cities, it’s certainly a quality place to base. Especially if you’re a live music, seafood, or Spanish Moss lover.

Volunteering, on the other hand, is a good travel job opportunity in New Orleans, mostly in the form of working in hostels. If you do want to volunteer in the Big Easy, I recommend you do so with a trusted company.

The Broke Backpacker recommends Worldpackers as an easy to use and reputable volunteer platform . It’s transparent and filled with real reviews, so you’ll know exactly what to expect before you arrive.

Worldpackers: connecting travellers with meaningful travel experiences.

New Orleans nightlife reputation certainly precedes itself – this is one of the most fun, drunkest, most laissez-faire cities in the entire USA and almost never lets up!

There are so many things to do in New Orleans at night. Comedy, live music, honky tonks, line dancing, parties, traditional New Orleans jazz, festivals, binge drinking; you name, New Orleans has it.

Obviously, a live music act is a must-see in New Orleans. You can easily walk into a show on the likes of Frenchman Street, which is booming pretty much every night. Diehard jazz fans ought to head to the Spotted Cat, the original Tipitina’s or Kermit’s Mother-in-law Lounge in the Treme . All are hallowed jazz club venues among the Orleans jazz community.

crowds on bourbon street new orleans travel guide

Bourbon Street is Bourbon Street – and by that I mean it’s flooded with tourists – all the time. I’d spend about 15 minutes walking through here if I could. Although, there are a number of quality cabarets and strip clubs here (if you’re into that kind of thing).

A much cooler area to drink in is Bywater . This neighborhood is a lot more local and, as such, way less snooty or idiotic. St Claude Street is a bit of an artist’s haunt and has a bunch of unpretentious bars.

If you wanted the opposite of this, then you should probably head to the Warehouse District. This is New Orleans redeveloped, darling. Think SoMa in SF or the Pearl in Portland – and as such it attracts a lot of yuppies.

Finally, Oak Street in Uptown mainly attracts students. If you were looking for cheap drinks and opinionated young adults to go with them, then this is probably the place to be.

Wherever you choose to spend it, you can rest assured that nightlife in New Orleans will surely be entertaining.

Dining in New Orleans

It is no secret that New Orleans is a foodie town. In fact, it’s home to some of the most prized dishes in the entire USA. People travel from all over the world to sample local favorites, like beignets or banana fosters, and to search for the best Cajun food in New Orleans.

The food of New Orleans is a divine mix of Creole, African, French, and Southern cooking styles. Honestly, I don’t think I can define the heavenly flavors of New Orleans cuisine simply with words – I can only say that it is supremely delicious and not at all healthy.

Since it’s located right on the Gulf of Mexico, seafood is very big in New Orleans. Crawfish is the primary catch of the day and can be found on just about every menu.

If you get a boiled craw and its tail is straight, don’t eat it – it was already dead when it was cooked. Catfish is a personal favorite of mine, especially when it’s blackened and spicy.

Beignets are those little, fried dough balls that you get at breakfast. The Muffuletta sandwich is an awesome collab between New Orleans and its Sicilian population (go to Central Grocery & Deli for the original). Sandwich lovers should be on the lookout for Po Boys, which usually contain a healthy dose of fried meats and a bit of veg.

You can go to the most famous restaurants in New Orleans to sample delicacies if you like. Honestly, though, you can consistently find some really good food at the smaller, less upscale eateries as well. If you want to ensure you don’t miss any of the iconic treats the Big Easy has to offer, a New Orleans food tour is the best shout.

Slick Restaurants and Cheap Eats

Here are some of my favorite restaurants in New Orleans:

Elizabeth’s – One of the most delicious diners in New Orleans, Elizabeth’s brings impeccable quality and great prices to the table. With classic southern and seafood options, you definitely won’t leave hungry.
Dat Dog – Complete with a colorful outdoor seating area, Dat Dog serves up creative takes on the original American hot dog. For ultimate savings, stop by their hot dog happy hour every weekday from 4-7.
Coop’s Place – Since 1983, Coop’s has been bringing delicious Cajun food flavors. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even give their Rabbit & Sausage jumbalaya a go for around $12. They’re closed on Tuesday and Wednesdays though.
Daisy Dukes Cafe- Known for its incredible service and Cajun eats, Daisy’s is a can’t miss if you’re traveling New Orleans on a budget. Portion sizes are insane and so is their variety–you can even try alligator sausage here!
Willie Mae’s Scotch House – Established in 1957, Willie Mae’s is another longstanding Big Easy staple famous for its fried chicken. You can get 3 big pieces for around $16. Not bad if you’re splitting!
Any Po Boys Place – Po boys are the official sandwich of the city, and as such, they can be found pretty much anywhere. Hole in the walls should always be your go to, as are any po boys that include seafood instead of your traditional sandwich meats!

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Festivals in New Orleans

Some of New Orleans’ best attractions are its lavish parties! This wouldn’t be a legit New Orleans travel guide if I didn’t recommend you to plan your trip around any one of these festivals for instant good times.

colorful lit up parade in new orleans at night

Mardi Gras (February/March) – the most raucous cultural festival in the country. Mardi Gras AKA “Fat Tuesday” is New Orleans’ version of Carnival. It includes parades, Mardi Gras Indians, costumes, binge drinking, music, and, of course, beads.
Tennessee Williams/New Orleans Literary Festival (March) – Dedicated to the beloved author. Features writing competitions, spoken performances, a book fair, and other literary activities.
French Quarter Fest (April) – A showcase of Southern music styles. Quite large and totally free to attend. Claimed to be “the largest free music festival in the USA.”
New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival (April) – The single most important music festival in New Orleans. Showcase of everything the city is known for including jazz, folk, bluegrass, Cajun, and then some.
New Orleans Oyster Fest (June) – Celebration of the greatest mollusk ever. Here’s a fun game: eat 20 and try to figure out if you’re sick or horny.
ESSENCE (July) – The largest celebration of African-American music and culture in the USA. Described as a “party with a purpose.” Features rap, hip-hop, R&B, jazz, gospel, and more soulful sounds.
Running of the Bulls (July) – New Orleans own version of the Spanish tradition, but instead of bulls, there is a great stampede of roller-blading Derby girls. They chase people with plastic bats so I hope you’re nimble.
Satchmo Summerfest (August) – A New Orleans jazz festival celebrating the great Louis Armstrong with citywide performances. St. Augustine church holds a “jazz mass” that is purportedly amazing.
Blues and BBQ Fest (October) – Fairly self-explanatory festival held in Lafayette Square Park. Free admission!
Voodoo Music (October) – New Orleans biggest Halloween party! A multi-day music festival that features a huge array of genres.

Getting Off the Beaten Path in New Orleans

As cool as mainstream NoLa is, there’s plenty more to be experienced off the beaten path ! While I’m not saying you shouldn’t do all the classic activities while visiting New Orleans, just make sure you take some time for some lesser-known ones, too.

In the famous French Quarter for example, you can hit up three very weird museums: the Pharmacy Museum , the Voodoo Museum , and the Museum of Death . Certainly unique if you ask me.

green decorated house behind two massive trees in new orleans

To get a feel for New Orleans history, you can spend a few hours touring the Whitney Plantation Museum where you’ll discover some pretty dark shit. For example, the city (and Louisiana as a whole) was entirely built by enslaved people . The museum focuses exclusively on the lives of the people who suffered the most and gives you insights you’d be hard-pressed to find anywhere else.

You can also marvel at the cute and quirky architecture of Algiers Point , a residential neighborhood that’s just a short ferry ride away from the French Quarter and filled with lovely old homes in all colors.

Things go wrong on the road ALL THE TIME. Be prepared for what life throws at you.

Buy an AMK Travel Medical Kit before you head out on your next adventure – don’t be daft!

No doubt you’re going to have a few questions before traveling to New Orleans. Luckily, I’ve got answers!

What is there to do in New Orleans?

Of course, New Orleans jazz is legendary. You couldn’t visit without checking out some jazz clubs to make sure you spend a night on Bourbon Street. Other top things to do in New Orleans include admiring the French Quarter, trying the city’s iconic cuisine, and getting lost in City Park.

How much will 5 days in New Orleans cost?

You can get away with $250 for 5 days on a New Orleans itinerary – IF you stay in a hostel, eat cheap food, and don’t overspend on party favors. If you’re looking for some privacy and/or luxury, expect to spend 3x that.

Is New Orleans safe to visit?

Yes. These days, visiting New Orleans is certainly safe enough and attracts hundreds of thousands of tourists each year. That being said, the city still has a high crime rate and neighborhoods far from tourist areas should be avoided.

Is New Orleans expensive?

It’s not that expensive. New Orleans is one of the cheaper cities in the US, but being a mass tourism destination, it can catch you out easily. You can easily spend hundreds of dollars a day to see NoLa in full luxury. Luckily, there are plenty of things to do in New Orleans for backpackers on the cheap.

Where are the best drinks in New Orleans?

Some delicious (and unique) alcoholic drinks to try in New Orleans include a Sazerac, Bourbon Punch, Absinthe Frappe, and a Cajun Bloody Mary. But I suppose the later it gets, the less important the taste is!

The Big Easy is an adventure waiting to happen. You’ll be hard-pressed to find another city in the US with so much character, entertainment, and delicious food.

While other party destinations in the USA have become tacky these days, NoLa has retained its charm even as its popularity has skyrocketed.

New Orleans is a city with a whole lot of soul, and delicacies that I can absolutely assure you can’t be found anywhere else. Fill up on crawfish, pop your Sazerac virginity, and get acquainted with New Orleans’ interesting paranormal scenes.

Just make sure you roll up into town with an open mind and a bit of spontaneity: while Bourbon Street is an experience to be had, the rest of the city is teeming with jazz clubs, food tours, and just as many memorable moments.

So what are you waiting for?

Go enjoy the Big Easy–just make sure you show up with an empty stomach!

Updated February 2022 by Samantha from Intentional Detours

And for transparency’s sake, please know that some of the links in our content are affiliate links . That means that if you book your accommodation, buy your gear, or sort your insurance through our link, we earn a small commission (at no extra cost to you). That said, we only link to the gear we trust and never recommend services we don’t believe are up to scratch. Again, thank you!

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Skip to Main Content of WWII

Plan Your Visit

Hours and information.

Museum Exhibits and Museum Store Open daily, 9:00 a.m. – 5:00 p.m. Closed Mardi Gras Day, Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Eve, and Christmas Day.

Please note that the Museum closes at 5 p.m., so visitors who arrive after 3 p.m. should expect an abbreviated visit. All ticket sales are final and no refunds offered. Tickets expire after their assigned date.

Beyond All Boundaries Daily showings, 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Shows start at the top of the hour.

Freedom Theater Daily showings, 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. Shows run twice an hour..

The American Sector Restaurant & Bar Open daily, 11:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.

Jeri Nims Soda Shop Open daily, 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m.

* Click here to purchase tickets for visitors with accessibility needs prior to your visit.

Click here for more Information about Museum access for visitors with accessibility needs.

Exterior of the parking garage at the National WWII Museum

The Museum's paid parking garage located at 1024 Magazine Street. This portion of Magazine Street is a one-way, and the garage is located on the left side. If full, there are several paid lots in the neighborhood not owned by the Museum with varying fees.

Road To Tokyo: Pacific Theater Galleries

Housed in four buildings, each arranged around central themes of the war, Museum exhibits offer visitors an opportunity to experience the war through the eyes of the men and women who lived it. Interactive features, oral histories, and personal vignettes add a meaningful perspective.

Expressions of America

Expressions of America is a first-of-its-kind nighttime sound and light experience celebrating the power of individual Americans to impact the world around them during a time of monumental conflict.

Soldier with radio in Jeep, Pacific theater

Museum Campus Guide

Designated by Congress as the official WWII museum of the United States, The National WWII Museum is located in downtown New Orleans on a seven-acre campus, where seven soaring pavilions house immersive historical exhibits, on-site restoration work, a period dinner theater, and restaurants.

Accessibility

The National WWII Museum is committed to making its galleries, exhibits, pavilions, and programs accessible to all visitors.

Liberation Pavilion

The Museum’s highly anticipated final permanent exhibit hall, Liberation Pavilion, is now open. Over two floors of exhibit space, Liberation Pavilion explores the end of World War II, the Holocaust, the postwar years, and how the war continues to impact our lives today. The third-floor theater features a brand-new cinematic experience focused on what was at stake during World War II, the meaning of Allied victory, and subsequent generations’ responsibility to defend democracy, protect freedom, and advance human rights.

Itineraries

Full-day Itinerary (Recommended)

Two-day Itinerary

Half-day Itinerary

WWII Travel Intinerary - Drive Back to Houston

WWII Travel Intinerary - Drive Back to Dallas/Fort Worth

Priddy family foundation theater.

The Priddy Family Foundation Freedom Theater on the third floor of Liberation Pavilion offers audiences a multimedia experience focused on what was at stake during World War II and the meaning of Allied victory. The production, developed by The Hettema Group, highlights how freedom almost vanished from the world in the 1930s and 1940s, efforts to protect and promote freedom during and after World War II, and how each generation has a responsibility to defend democracy, protect freedom, and advance human rights. At a pivotal moment in the show, the theater audience platform itself rotates.

Museum Campus

Designated by Congress as the official WWII museum of the United States, The National WWII Museum is located in downtown New Orleans on a six-acre campus, where six soaring pavilions house historical exhibits, on-site restoration work, a period dinner theater, and restaurants.

Expressions of America is a first-of-its-kind nighttime sound and light experience celebrating the power of individual Americans to impact the world around them during a time of monumental conflict. Available exclusively at The National WWII Museum in New Orleans, Expressions of America immerses audiences in written words, songs, and personal reflections of the everyday men and women who served our country in every way imaginable during World War II.

Experience the Victory

Travel to The National WWII Museum in New Orleans to explore, remember, and reflect on World War II through exclusive access to the Museum’s campus. Multiple departure dates are available.

National WWII Museum exterior Campaigns of Courage

Attention: US Freedom Pavilion will close early on May 23 & all day on May 24.

Attention: Beyond All Boundaries will be unavailable between May 29 through June 1.

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Do You Need a Car in New Orleans? What You Need to Know

W elcome to the Big Easy! Before we headed down to New Orleans over Spring Break , I were scratching my head trying to decide if renting a car was necessary. Everywhere I looked, advice was vague or conflicting, leaving me more confused than ever. I couldn’t find a definitive answer to the question “Do you need a car in New Orleans?” – so, to be safe, I rented one.

After spending an amazing time soaking up everything this lively city has to offer, I want to make it easier for YOU to decide if you should rent a car, and spoiler: for most trips to New Orleans, you probably won’t need a car.

Whether you’re here to groove to jazz on the streets, feast on beignets, visit City Park or soak up the rich history (or like me all of the above) , I’ve got the lowdown on why going car-free might just be your best bet. Let’s dive in and get you prepped for your own adventure in one of America’s most charming cities.

Why You Should Consider Not Renting a Car in New Orleans

Why skip the rental car in New Orleans? Well, it turns out that in NOLA, your feet and a few smart transit choices might be all you need. First off, the heart of the city’s charm—the historic French Quarter—is totally pedestrian-friendly, and walking through those lively streets is half the fun.

Parking can be a headache and quite pricey, especially near major attractions and during big events like Mardi Gras. Plus, New Orleans’ public transit system, including its iconic streetcars, covers most of the must-see spots efficiently and affordably. Going car-free not only eases your travel stress and saves you money , but also keeps you right in the thick of the city’s never-ending energy and spontaneity.

So when you are planning your New Orleans travel itinerary, keep in mind that the city’s charm unfolds on foot and through inexpensive public transit, offering a more intimate and engaging experience than you could ever get behind the wheel of a car.

Pros of Having a Car in New Orleans

Here are a few reasons why renting a car might be a good idea when visiting New Orleans:

Flexibility : Go anywhere, anytime. Having your own wheels gives you the freedom to explore at your own pace and on your own schedule. I hate to feel “stuck” so this is one of the reasons I chose to rent a car.
Day Trips : Access to nearby attractions outside city limits, like historic plantations and mysterious swamps, becomes much easier with a car. Or if you wanted to combine a beach visit with your New Orleans trip. This was my other reason for renting – I was afraid we’d want to explore beyond the city and a car would be something we needed.
Families : Traveling with kids or elderly family members? A car can simplify logistics, making it less stressful to manage naps, snacks, and comfort stops.

If you decide to rent a car in New Orleans, check for the best rates at DiscoverCars .

Cons of Having a Car in New Orleans

While renting a car in New Orleans offers certain perks, it also comes with its fair share of drawbacks:

Parking Challenges : Finding a parking spot in the busier parts of the city, especially the French Quarter, can be frustrating and expensive. Many streets have limited parking, and garages often charge premium rates. One of our hotels had valet-only parking at $49/night – this is a BIG extra expense ( I was lucky my status with that hotel waived it)
Traffic Congestion : New Orleans has some pretty heavy traffic, particularly during major festivals or events. Navigating crowded streets can add unnecessary stress to your vacation, and driving in a place where you don’t know where you are going is stressful enough!
Cost : The cost of renting a car adds up quickly when you consider rental costs, fuel, and parking fees. This can take a significant chunk out of your travel budget, which could be used for more fun activities or dining out in the city.

Opting out of a car rental might just save you a headache and keep a little extra cash in your pocket for enjoying what New Orleans has to offer.

Alternatives to Driving in New Orleans: How to Get Around New Orleans Without a Car

Once I got to know New Orleans, I quickly realized how unnecessary our car rental was. There are plenty of alternatives to driving, and unless we plan a lot of day trips , I won’t bother renting a car next time.

Public Transportation Around New Orleans

The streetcars are not only a great way to get to some of the major tourist spots, but they are fun and can be an attraction themselves. Plus, they are CHEAP – like $3 per day cheap. Almost every local we spoke to ( even our walking tour guide ) gave us the rundown on how awesome the streetcars are, so the locals recommend them too!

After our small bus tour , I had a great feel for how to get around New Orleans on foot and had the layout of the city and French Quarter in my head. At that point, we walked pretty much everywhere . Not only did it enable us to get to most of where we wanted to go, but it also allowed us to really soak up the NOLA vibes. Plus, many of the things we ended up doing were walking tours, so we were on foot anyway!

New Orleans Weekend Itinerary

Visit my Etsy store to get a “done-for-you” weekend itinerary for New Orleans with your teens. All the planning is done for you – just print it out and follow along!

There were two occasions where we took an Uber, and based upon the things we did, if we hadn’t had a car we could have used a rideshare to and from the airport and to brunch one morning. Other than that we could have easily taken the streetcar or walked everywhere we wanted to go.

Insider tip: if you don’t know where exactly to tell your Uber/Lyft driver where you are, walk to the nearest hotel before you schedule your pick-up . It makes it super easy to find your driver.

In New Orleans, there are plenty of fantastic tours you can take, and I’d highly recommend indulging in a few (which is easier to stomach if you’ve saved on a car rental ). Simply by t aking a small bus tour for an overview of the city you’ll get a feel for where you want to go back to and can then either look for a bus tour to take you there or just take a streetcar or ridshare.

Book a fun small bus tour of the city like this one on your first day like we did and it will make the rest of your trip easier!

Tips for Visitors Choosing Not to Rent a Car

If you’re leaning towards exploring New Orleans without the hassle of a car, here are some tips to make your stay smooth and enjoyable. First, consider booking your accommodation in neighborhoods like the French Quarter or the Central Business District (CBD). We stayed in both areas and found walking to where we wanted to go was easy and felt safe.

The Hyatt Centric is located in the French District and makes walking that area a breeze!

To navigate the city efficiently, download the RTA app on your smartphone. It’s a handy tool that provides real-time updates on bus and streetcar routes, helping you plan your travel around the city with ease.

Lastly, while walking is a great way to soak in the local ambiance, always stay alert and stick to well-lit, busy streets, especially at night. Remember to keep your valuables close to your body (as you would in any big city) .

Following these tips can make your car-free trip not only feasible but also thoroughly enjoyable.

My Experience: Do you Need a Car in New Orleans Cost Analysis

To really help you make your decision, I’ll share the cost analysis of our last trip – the exact money we paid with renting a car versus what it would have been without.

COST WITH A CAR: Car rental: $430 (it is REALLY expensive to rent a car in New Orleans); Uber: $32 (one night to Frenchmen Street from the French Quarter and back). Gas: $5 (cause we barely used it!). I didn’t have to pay for parking, but if I had, it would have been another $50. So total spent by having a car: $467

COST WITHOUT A CAR: Had we gone without a car, we would have taken an Uber to the hotel, so about $35 each way, totaling $70. Same Uber for Frenchmen Street: $32. Another Uber for brunch one morning: $30 and a final Uber to take us to the Garden District and back ( or we could have taken the streetcar and saved even more) : $33. Total spent if we hadn’t had a car: $165. That’s over $300 in savings!

FAQs: Do I Need a Rental Car in New Orleans?

Do i need a car in new orleans.

Unless you are planning a lot of day trips, no!

Do you need a rental car in New Orleans?

No, you can easily depend on public transportation, walking and rideshares.

Is New Orleans walkable?

The main tourist areas of New Orleans are very walkable.

What are the main transportation options for getting around New Orleans?

Walking, the bus & street car, and rideshares

What is parking like in New Orleans?

Parking is challenging and expensive.

The Answer: Do You Need a Rental Car in New Orleans?

And there you have it, a full scoop on whether you really need a car in New Orleans. Going into our Spring Break trip, the decision to rent a car seemed like the best option. But after immersing ourselves in the city, it became clear that for most visitors, a car might just complicate things more than it helps.

From our adventures through the bustling streets to the quiet moments enjoying local cuisine , we learned that New Orleans is best experienced at a slower pace and without the burden of a car.

In retrospect, skipping the car rental on our next trip could save us a bundle and spare the headache of navigating through traffic and hunting for parking. The real charm of New Orleans lies in its walkable districts so you are going to find yourself spending more time walking than driving regardless.

Before you book that rental car, consider how you plan to explore the city. If your itinerary keeps you mainly in the heart of New Orleans and you’re up for a little walking, then you might find, like we did, that a car is something you can easily do without. Save that extra money for an additional plate of crawfish étouffée , a creepy cemetery tour , or a night out on Frenchmen Street—you won’t regret it.

More help with planning the perfect New Orleans vacation:

Discover the Past: Best New Orleans Cemetery Tours
Exploring the BEST Beaches Near New Orleans
19 BEST Things to Do in New Orleans with Teens
Exploring New Orleans with Kids

PIN FOR LATER:

Do you need a car in New Orleans? My answer is NO!

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How to buy New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival tickets: Dates and prices compared

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The 2024 New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival is officially underway, and the lineup is a can't-miss experience. The Rolling Stones are among the many performers slated to play, making it one of the most highly-anticipated stops on the festival circuit this spring. With the festival just around the corner, we've put together everything you need to know about how to buy New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival tickets, including who's playing what day and how to find tickets to sold-out dates.

First established in the '70s, the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival has become a staple of the music scene for both Louisiana and the country as a whole. The Rolling Stones were originally slated to play five years ago but had to reschedule. They intended to play again a few years ago, but the entire festival was canceled, so their upcoming headlining performance has been a long time in the making. This year's festival will also bring Vampire Weekend, Hozier, and Neil Young Crazy Horse to the stage, among many others.

Whether you're looking to spend a few days at the festival or just hoping to see Mick Jagger perform, we've got you covered. Here's our breakdown of the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival schedule, purchasing details, and original and resale ticket prices. You can also peruse StubHub and Vivid Seats at your leisure.

See also: Rolling Stones tickets | Bruce Springsteen tickets | Stevie Nicks tickets | Aerosmith tickets | Noah Kahan tickets

New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival Schedule

The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival will take place over two weeks, April 25-28 and May 2-5. Single-day tickets are available, in addition to multi-day ticket packages. Below, you'll find the cheapest starting prices listed on StubHub and Vivid Seats at the time of writing.

Flights & hotel: Booking.com | Expedia
Flights: Booking.com | Expedia
Accommodation: Booking.com | Expedia | Airbnb
Parking: Spot Hero | The Parking Spot

How to buy New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival tickets

Tickets to the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival are sold through AXS. Some tickets, like the May 2 single-day tickets and some multi-day packages, have sold out. Tickets and packages for every day are available through resale vendors like StubHub and Vivid Seats .

How much are New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival tickets?

Original single-day tickets range in price from $85 (for the "Early Bird Ticket," which was available until February 19) to $225 (for the "Rolling Stones & More" single-day ticket on May 2). Original multi-day packages start from $240 (for a 3-day package on the second week that excludes May 2 performances).

There are several VIP ticket tiers like the GA+ 4-day, the Big Chief VIP, the Grand Marshall VIP, and the Krewe of Jazz Fest. Original VIP packages are sold out for the second week, but resale packages are still available on StubHub and Vivid Seats.

StubHub's cheapest single-day tickets start at $82 on May 5. Vivid Seats' cheapest single-day ticket listings start at $94 on May 4. Three-day listings for the second week start at $200 on StubHub and $342 on Vivid Seats. Four-day listings, which include the coveted May 2 tickets, start at $500 on StubHub and $568 on Vivid Seats.

Who is playing at the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival?

The 2024 New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival has an impressive lineup. The first week includes performances from The Beach Boys (April 25), The Killers (April 26), Jon Batiste (April 26), Christ Stapleton (April 27), Vampire Weekend (April 27), and Anderson .Paak & The Free Nationals (April 28), among others.

The second week features performances from The Rolling Stones (May 2), Foo Fighters (May 3), Hozier (May 3), Neil Young & Crazy Horse (May 4), Greta Van Fleet (May 4), Queen Latifah (May 4), Bonnie Raitt (May 5), and Earth, Wind & Fire (May 5), among others.

The festival has always drawn in big names, even if they're not in the jazz music scene. Past performers include Aretha Franklin, Bruce Springsteen, Stevie Wonder, Bob Dylan, Miles Davis, Jimmy Buffett, Paul Simon, Linda Ronstadt, Gladys Knight, Van Morrison, and Willie Nelson, among many others.

Note: Certain services and regions prohibit the resale of tickets. Business Insider does not endorse or condone the illegal reselling of tickets, and entry into an event is at the venue's discretion.

You can purchase logo and accolade licensing to this story here . Disclosure: Written and researched by the Insider Reviews team. We highlight products and services you might find interesting. If you buy them, we may get a small share of the revenue from the sale from our partners. We may receive products free of charge from manufacturers to test. This does not drive our decision as to whether or not a product is featured or recommended. We operate independently from our advertising team. We welcome your feedback. Email us at [email protected] .

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