So you’ve decided to visit New Orleans. Nicknamed the Big Easy, this Louisiana city on the Mississippi River is known for its vibrant music scene, tasty cuisine reflecting its French, African, and American roots, its eclectic people, and its famous annual festivals, including Mardi Gras. I’ve visited this city twice – once with as a family with small kids and most recently as a couple. So whether you plan on visiting NOLA as a couple, with a group of friends, on a senior trip, as a singleton, or as a family with kids, my 10 tips for having a great time in New Orleans have you covered.
So. let’s begin starting with…
#1 – New Orleans is truly a city that can be enjoyed by all.
Put away the preconception that only partygoers visit this city. There is so much more to it than raucous Bourbon Street and Mardi Gras. Take this into account and plan your itinerary accordingly. There are museums and aquariums, riverboat rides, swamp tours, and more. It is a foodie’s heaven and a music lover’s dream. Do your research, and you’ll be well rewarded.
#2 – Decide what time of year is best for your visit.
For families, summer may be the optimal time to visit when school’s out. Our first visit was on a family road trip with our kids, and it fell in the summertime. To say Louisiana is hot in the summer is an understatement. So be prepared.
My recent trip in August 2023 was no exception. My hubby and I came here to celebrate his birthday and to attend two events: the Satchmo Festival and White Linen Night. We had so much fun that the heat was not really an issue. Just be smart and take precautions. Keep hydrated and take breaks from the outside.
Many people from around the world also descend on this city in February to partake in Mardi Gras. And yes, it is crowded, but if this is an event on your bucket list, go for it. Just plan accordingly, book early, and most of all, have a great time.
#3 – Choose the location of your accommodations wisely.
Bourbon Street is NOISY. If you want to party and stay up all night – you know who you are – this area may work for you. However, if you prefer to get a good night’s sleep without loud partying outside your window, just like yours truly, don’t book a hotel on Bourbon Street. There are so many accommodation options in this city, from hotels to apartments, and more. Just do some research and find what suits your budget and personal needs. Our choice was the Hotel Indigo, close enough to the French Quarter but far enough away from the noise.
#4 – Leave your car at home.
A road trip to New Orleans will preclude you from this option. But be warned. Parking in NOLA, like in almost any major city, is expensive. Hotels charge up to $50 per night. And really, you don’t need one to get around and explore. This leads me to my next two tips:
#5- Wear comfortable shoes.
New Orleans offers limited mass transit. There are buses and streetcars, but no subways.
My number one choice for exploring any city is donning my favorite walking shoes and exploring. NOLA is no different. The sidewalks and pavement, however, are not in the best shape and are hard on your feet, so make sure to bring comfortable shoes. There is another way to get around, although limited in where it goes:
#6- Ride a streetcar.
There aren’t many places in the United States that offer this form of transportation besides San Francisco. Riding one is a rite of passage for anyone visiting New Orleans.
Exact change is needed to ride. No change is given here. The cost is $1.25 per person, or you can buy a daily pass for $3. Important note: They are limited in where they go. Sometimes, taking a bus, an Uber,or just walking may be the best option.
Also, be aware that not all street cars offer air conditioning. Others use the windows for ventilation. Keep this in mind during the warmer weather.
#7 – Venture out beyond the French Quarter and Bourbon Street!
Get out and explore all this city has to offer! Learn about the history of jazz at the National Jazz Museum. Visit the Mardi Gras museum and see where and how all the floats for Mardi Gras are made. The list goes on. Check out the best museums to visit here.
#8 – Listen to some jazz.
Known as the birthplace of jazz, no visit to New Orleans is complete without hearing this music. If you’re not visiting during a festival, no worries. Every day of the year, this city’s many bars, restaurants, and clubs offer something for everyone. Just walk around the French Quarter, and you’ll hear music flowing out of many establishments. If you like what you hear, go in and enjoy.
Two must-do recommendations:
Visit at least one iconic jazz club, like Preservation Hall. We booked tickets for front-row seats before we left home, and the birthday boy couldn’t have been happier!
Partake in a Sunday jazz brunch. Many restaurants offer this option. If you’re here on a Sunday, what a great way to combine jazz and a great meal. Our choice was Red Fish Grill. Just do some research to find the best fit for you.
#9 – Expand your food palette.
New Orleans is a foodie’s dream. From po’boys and muffalattas to some of the best seafood anywhere to libations of every type, this city has you covered.
Here’s my challenge. Create a list of its iconic foods and try to taste them all! Believe me, you won’t regret it.
#10- Explore on your own.
Take out a map or load an app onto your phone and just start exploring the city. You don’t need expensive tours to enjoy this city. Make sure, however, to always be safe and aware of your surroundings. Do not venture out alone and/or in areas less traveled at night.
Looking for some inspiration to plan your New Orleans adventure?
Visit my blog detailing my recent visit as a couple. If you’re looking to travel with kids to the Big Easy, click here.