Whether you’ve been many times or never before, New Orleans travel should always be on your list of places to visit. Filled with so much history and culture, New Orleans is also one of the best cities for food, fun, and events. The unique beauty of New Orleans comes from the melting pot of people that cross African, French, and indigenous backgrounds, making Louisiana a state unlike any other. The Big Easy or NOLA, as it’s affectionately called, is another city that rarely sleeps as art, live jazz, and street musicians take over the streets.
Here is our ultimate travel guide on how to visit New Orleans.
New Orleans Travel Guide
GETTING HERE
Entry Requirements
All international travelers entering must show proof of a negative PCR COVID-19 test result taken no more than 72 hours before arrival.
Things to Know/Useful Advice
New Orleans hosts many events, festivals, and conferences throughout the year, so expect high season to last more than half the year.
Yes, there’s more to Louisiana than New Orleans, and always encourage people to explore, but New Orleans is a great starting place!
If you’re a jazz, food, or nature lover, you have to visit!
General information
Airport – Luis Munoz Marin International Airport (MSY)
Time Zone – Central Standard Time
When to Go – High season can run from October to July, the rainy season can range from June to November; however, rates and crowds start to lessen between Aug-Nov
Weather – Averaging 80s, humid summers, rainy season
Currency– USD, both cash & credit cards are accepted throughout (highly recommend having cash for street shopping, the streetcars, tipping, and more)
Languages – English
Service – tipping is welcomed, if possible, cash is nice
Getting around – rental car, rideshare, public transportation
Travel Insurance – I always recommend World Nomads
Recommended Must-have apps – Waze, TripAdvisor, RTA GoMobile
SEARCH HOTELS IN NEW ORLEANS | SEARCH ACTIVITIES IN NEW ORLEANS
BEAUTIFUL STAYS
New Orleans, the go-to destination for festivals, conferences, and more, has an array of accommodations that meet everyone’s needs. Some hotels and hostels to help start your New Orleans travel planning:
Hotels
Windsor Court Hotel ($$$) exclusive
The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans ($$$) Beautifully elegant luxury hotel with premium full-service amenities, pool, and rooftop
Rose Manor Bed & Breakfast Inn ($$) relaxing historical B&B mansion minutes from the lakefront
Hotel Monteleone ($$) historic, non-traditional, family-owned hotel with unique detailing
NOPSI Hotel ($$) downtown hotel with a gorgeous rooftop pool with a view, hosting lively entertainment
Hostels
The Quisby ($)
Site 61 Hostel ($)
PLACES TO EXPLORE & THINGS TO DO IN NEW ORLEANS
Yes, New Orleans has things to explore beyond Bourbon street. Take a mixology class or even a cooking class.
View turtles and alligators as you kayak the swamp.
True crime or ghost lover, there’s a tour for you.
Eat your way through New Orleans or walk and take in the historical and cultural sights of the French Quarter. Maybe even visit the Whitney Plantation.
End your nights with live jazz music as your bar hop.
VIEW MORE ACTIVITIES
FOOD & WINE
Just know when you visit New Orleans there will never be a shortage of flavors and aromas that entice your senses. Taste the amazing seafood, try something you’ve never had before, and indulge in creole everything. Enjoy some of these staples when eating your way throughout New Orleans.
Conchon Restaurant ($) southern cajun food that’s absolutely delicious, be sure to also check out Cochon Butcher
N7 ($$) unexpected scenery delivering great French food
Bacchanal Fine Wine & Spirits ($) like music and a picnic in the backyard with live music perfect for a sunny chill vibes afternoon
Morrow’s ($) when you want great drinks, “home-cooked meals” with a twist and great vibes
The Vintage ($) when you’re in the mood for stuffed beignets and happy hour
Mambo’s ($) the only rooftop that gives you views of bourbon street and authentic New Orleans cuisine
GETTING AROUND
Finding your way around town is not always very easy but with the options of public transportation, rideshare, or rental car it’s fun exploring.
Car rental or rideshare is at the top of our recommended ways to get around town. Both options allow for a little more freedom to go and come as you please. Rideshare gives you the option to explore and party while still being safe.
Depending on what area of town you’re exploring, New Orleans is very walkable.
Using public transportation? New Orleans streetcars are a fun form of transportation that’s convenient when traveling around canal or Charles streets. Buses are available around town with about 40 routes. New Orleans Transit Authority offers both mobile Jazzy and Regional Passes for easy access.
RTA Ferry or water taxis as it’s most commonly called are available for transportation to/from Algiers and Chalmette for $2 per ride.
EVENTS IN TOWN
If you didn’t know, New Orleans hosts many events throughout the year. If you’re in town or planning to visit New Orleans be sure to visit some of the events in town like:
Mardi Gras
Jazz Fest
New Orleans Wine & Food Experience
Nola Caribbean Experience
VIEW MORE EVENTS
BOOK YOUR ESCAPE
Customize this New Orleans travel guide with us at tmd Escapes to include everything you want for your New Orleans itinerary. From booking the perfect stay to renting a car for your trip or even securing your restaurant and activities in advance — we have you covered.
For more weekend escapes or to book hotels or upgrade to private tours and transfers, get in touch with us today.
We’re excited to help you escape the ordinary!
Ready to indulge in an experience-filled escape in New Orleans? Get in touch for a personalized quote today.
TRAVEL ESSENTIALS
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