New Orleans travel guide

New Orleans travel guide

National Airports

There is only one national airport in New Orleans, and that is Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY). It is located approximately 15 miles from downtown New Orleans and serves as a hub for several major airlines, including Delta Air Lines and Southwest Airlines. The airport has several passenger terminals and offers a variety of services and amenities, including restaurants, shops, and lounges.

Trains in New Orleans

New Orleans has a limited but convenient train service operated by Amtrak, which is the national railway operator in the United States. Amtrak serves New Orleans through its “City of New Orleans” route, which runs from Chicago to New Orleans, passing through several cities in the south, including Memphis and Jackson.

The train station in New Orleans is called Union Passenger Terminal (NOL), located at 1001 Loyola Ave. The station is located in the Central Business District, close to the French Quarter, and is easily accessible by taxi, bus, or streetcar. The station offers a variety of services and amenities, including baggage storage, food, and drink options, waiting areas, and free Wi-Fi.

The “City of New Orleans” route operates daily, departing Chicago in the evening and arriving in New Orleans the following day in the afternoon. The train has several seating options, including coach, business class, and sleeping accommodations, depending on the length of the journey and the level of comfort desired.

Overall, while train service in New Orleans is not as extensive as in other cities, Amtrak’s “City of New Orleans” route provides a convenient and comfortable option for travelers looking to explore the southern United States.

Buses in New Orleans

New Orleans has an extensive bus network operated by the New Orleans Regional Transit Authority (NORTA). The bus system is a convenient and affordable way to get around the city, with fares starting at $1.25 per ride or $3.50 for a one-day pass.

The NORTA bus system consists of over 30 routes that cover most areas of the city, including popular tourist destinations such as the French Quarter, the Garden District, and the Central Business District. The buses are modern and air-conditioned, and many of them are equipped with bike racks.

In addition to traditional bus service, NORTA also operates several other transit options, including streetcars, ferries, and paratransit services for people with disabilities.

To plan your trip and find the best bus route for your needs, you can use the NORTA online trip planner or mobile app, which provide real-time bus tracking, schedules, and service alerts. Overall, the NORTA bus system is a convenient and affordable way to explore New Orleans and its many attractions.

How to get to New Orleans

New Orleans is a popular destination in the southern United States and is easily accessible by various means of transportation.

By Air: Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) is the main airport in New Orleans, and it serves several major airlines, including Delta Air Lines, United Airlines, American Airlines, and Southwest Airlines. The airport is located approximately 15 miles from downtown New Orleans, and there are several options for ground transportation, including taxis, ride-sharing services, shuttles, and rental cars.

By Train: New Orleans is served by Amtrak, the national railway operator in the United States. Amtrak’s “City of New Orleans” route connects New Orleans with several cities in the south, including Memphis and Chicago. The train station in New Orleans is called Union Passenger Terminal (NOL), located in the Central Business District.

By Bus: New Orleans is also served by several bus companies, including Greyhound and Megabus, which provide service to cities throughout the United States.

By Car: New Orleans is accessible by car via several major highways, including Interstate 10, which connects the city with Houston, Texas, and Mobile, Alabama. Parking in New Orleans can be difficult and expensive, especially in the downtown area, so it’s recommended to use public transportation or ride-sharing services instead.

Overall, New Orleans is a well-connected city with several options for transportation, making it easy to get there from most major cities in the United States.

What is the best time to travel to New Orleans

The best time to travel to New Orleans depends on personal preferences and interests, as the city offers unique experiences throughout the year. However, there are a few factors to consider when planning a trip to New Orleans, including weather, crowds, and festivals.

Weather: New Orleans has a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and mild winters. The peak tourist season is from March to May and from September to November when the weather is mild and comfortable, with temperatures ranging from the 60s to 80s Fahrenheit. However, summers can be hot and humid, with temperatures reaching the 90s and frequent thunderstorms. Winter temperatures are cooler but still mild, with occasional cold fronts and some rain.

Crowds: New Orleans is a popular tourist destination, and crowds can be overwhelming during major events and holidays, such as Mardi Gras, Jazz Fest, and the Christmas holidays. If you prefer fewer crowds, consider traveling during the shoulder seasons, from late September to early November or from late January to early March.

Festivals: New Orleans is famous for its festivals, which celebrate everything from music and food to culture and traditions. Some of the most popular festivals include Mardi Gras, Jazz Fest, French Quarter Fest, and Essence Fest. If you’re interested in attending a festival, plan your trip accordingly and book accommodations in advance, as prices and availability can be high during these events.

Overall, the best time to travel to New Orleans depends on your preferences and interests. For mild weather and fewer crowds, consider traveling during the shoulder seasons, while the peak tourist season offers the most events and activities to enjoy.

How to get around New Orleans

New Orleans is a compact city with many popular attractions located within walking distance of each other. However, there are several other convenient and affordable options for getting around the city.

Streetcars: New Orleans is famous for its streetcars, which are a fun and historic way to travel around the city. The city has three streetcar lines: the St. Charles line, the Canal Street line, and the Riverfront line. The streetcars run daily and offer affordable fares, with one-way trips starting at $1.25.

Buses: The New Orleans Regional Transit Authority (NORTA) operates an extensive bus network that covers most areas of the city, including popular tourist destinations such as the French Quarter, the Garden District, and the Central Business District. Bus fares start at $1.25 per ride or $3.50 for a one-day pass.

Taxis and Ride-Sharing Services: Taxis and ride-sharing services, such as Uber and Lyft, are readily available in New Orleans and can be a convenient way to get around, especially for longer distances or when traveling at night.

Bicycles: New Orleans has a bike-sharing program called Blue Bikes, which allows visitors to rent bicycles by the hour or day. The city also has several bike lanes and trails, making it easy to explore on two wheels.

Walking: Walking is a great way to explore New Orleans, as many of the city’s attractions are located within walking distance of each other. The city is also known for its unique architecture, historic neighborhoods, and colorful street art, making it a great place to explore on foot.

Overall, there are several convenient and affordable options for getting around New Orleans, including streetcars, buses, taxis, ride-sharing services, bicycles, and walking.

Accommodations in New Orleans

New Orleans offers a wide range of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences, from luxury hotels to budget-friendly hostels and vacation rentals. Here are some options to consider:

Hotels: New Orleans has several luxury and boutique hotels located in the French Quarter, the Central Business District, and other popular neighborhoods. These hotels offer a range of amenities, including swimming pools, spas, restaurants, and bars. Prices vary depending on the location and season, but expect to pay around $200-$300 per night for a mid-range hotel.

Vacation Rentals: New Orleans has many vacation rental options, including apartments, condos, and houses. These rentals are often located in residential neighborhoods and can be a great option for families or groups. Prices vary depending on the location and size of the rental, but expect to pay around $150-$250 per night for a mid-range rental.

Hostels: New Orleans has several budget-friendly hostels located in the French Quarter and other popular areas. These hostels offer dorm-style rooms and shared bathrooms, making them an affordable option for solo travelers or budget-conscious groups. Prices start at around $30-$40 per night.

Bed and Breakfasts: New Orleans has many bed and breakfast options, which offer a more personalized and homey experience than hotels. These B&Bs are often located in historic homes and offer breakfast and other amenities. Prices vary depending on the location and amenities, but expect to pay around $150-$250 per night.

Camping: New Orleans has several campgrounds and RV parks located outside the city, which offer a more rustic and affordable accommodation option. These campgrounds offer tent and RV sites, as well as amenities such as showers, laundry facilities, and swimming pools. Prices start at around $30-$40 per night.

Overall, New Orleans offers a range of accommodation options to suit different budgets and preferences, making it easy to find the perfect place to stay during your visit.