Mardi Gras, the French Quarter, the Garden District — these are just a few of the things New Orleans is known for. But the Crescent City offers many other incredible things to see and do. Historic houses and cemeteries, an array of cultural dining options, world-class hotels, exciting events and unique shops are some of the reasons why this southern city is among the top travel destinations in the U.S.. Having so many things to enjoy and places to explore has one downside — it’s hard to know what to include in your trip.
AAA has decades of experience assisting members with travel plans around the country, including New Orleans. We’ve put together a New Orleans travel guide to help ensure you make the most of your visit.
How to Get Around New Orleans
Not sure if you should plan a trip to New Orleans with or without a car? The city’s a highly walkable place, making it easy to get around on foot. But what if it’s rainy or you’re just too tired to walk around? New Orleans has some great public transportation options to use to stay comfortable (and dry).
If you’re coming here via car, you may be able to leave it at your hotel. Doing so may be the best option if you’re heading into the heart of the city. Here is what you’ll need to know if you plan on driving around New Orleans during your stay.
Driving in New Orleans
Relying on your car to get around might be more of a hassle than walking or taking public transportation. The city is filled with compact streets, especially in the downtown area. The area also has many one-way streets that might make it harder to get to where you’re going. Driving means you also have to deal with the struggle of finding parking — and figuring out parking restrictions.
Public Transportation Options in New Orleans
New Orleans Regional Transit Authority (RTA) gives you a couple of options for getting around. Always double check fares, routes and schedules beforehand. If you’re paying cash, one-way fares are only a couple of dollars per person. Take note that they only take exact change. Or you can download RTA’s Le Pass app for cashless purchases. If you’re interested in saving money, check out RTA’s Jazzy Passes for unlimited bus, streetcar and ferry rides.
Streetcars
Streetcars give you a quaint way to travel around the city — but they don’t go everywhere. You can ride these charming cars along St. Charles Avenue, Canal Street, the Riverfront, Loyola Avenue and Rampart/St. Claude.
Buses
RTA’s buses may not offer the whimsical rides that the streetcars do, but they do have more routes in and around the city for convenience. If you have a packed schedule, buses might help you get around multiple spots faster.
Ferries
Planning to head over to Algiers Point? The Canal Street Ferry takes you across the Mississippi to get there. You can admire views of New Orleans from the water while heading back to town.
Bikes
Depending on when you visit, riding a bike might be a pleasant way to get around. Hot, humid summer temps may not be the best time for this. But milder temps the rest of the year make for great riding weather. You don’t have to lug your own bike to the city. Take advantage of Blue Bikes — the city’s bike-share program. It costs $1 to unlock, then 15 cents per minute. Or you can rent a bike from several rental places in town.
New Orleans Parking
If you’re bringing your car into the city, plan ahead for parking. Your options include:
- Commercial parking lots (check rates and times first.)
- Parking meters for street parking (free on meter holidays, like Christmas Day and Mardi Gras Day)
- Park-N-Shop Lots (discounted or free parking with purchase from certain department stores and businesses in the downtown area)
Best Time to Visit New Orleans
Our guide to New Orleans wouldn’t be complete without helping you decide on the ideal time to go. The best time to go to New Orleans ultimately depends on your travel goals and preferences.
If you want to visit during the city’s prime carnival season, plan on going during late winter and early spring. That’s when you’ll be able to enjoy the fun and festivities of Mardi Gras. The city comes alive with parades, concerts, parties, galas and much more. But note that this also tends to be the most expensive — and crowded — time to visit. You’ll need to book your hotel and any other reservations you need early.
Looking for a budget-friendly trip to New Orleans? Head to the city during the summer months. Just be warned that there’s a reason why prices are lower and crowds are more sparse this time of year — the sweltering heat and humidity. If you can handle the weather, you can enjoy summer events, like the Beignet Fest and Louisiana Cajun-Zydeco Festival. But make sure your summer trip itinerary also includes plenty of indoor, air-conditioned things to do.
If you prefer to avoid crowds and heat, then going in fall or early winter is your best bet. Temperatures tend to be mild and it’s not quite as humid during this time of year. You’ll usually have lower rates during this slower season and fewer crowds to deal with. But that doesn’t mean there’s not much to do. Fall is filled with exciting events, like the Crescent City Blues and BBQ Festival and more haunted/ghost tours than usual thanks to Halloween.
Top Things to Do in New Orleans
This Southern city is one of the top places to go for exciting entertainment, memorable attractions — and so much more. What should you add to your trip? We’ll go over some of the best things to do when traveling to New Orleans.
Take a Jazz Cruise Aboard the Steamboat Natchez
- Duration: 2 hours
Cruise along the Mississippi River while listening to the Steam Calliope’s jazz tunes. Get a glimpse of what life on the river was like back in olden times. Lunch cruises are available Monday through Saturday. Sunday has a brunch cruise available. Or book a sightseeing cruise to make the most of your time on the Mississippi.
Stroll Through a Spooky Cemetery
- Duration: 55 minutes
St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 is among the oldest cemeteries in the city. Take an official tour through this famous burial ground, where Voodoo Queen Marie Laveau is buried — along with other historical figures. Visit any time of the year, but make sure you add this to your itinerary if you’ll be visiting around Halloween.
Tour the French Quarter in a Carriage
- Duration: 1 hour
Ride through the streets of the French Quarter in style in a horse-drawn carriage. With so much to see in this part of the city, you won’t have to worry about missing out. Tour guides tell guests all about the area’s points of interest, including historical architecture, museums, entertainment venues and more.
Learn to Cook New Orleans Cuisine
- Duration: 3 hours
If you fall in love with local cuisine during your trip, you can learn how to make it at home. Take a cooking class focusing on authentic Louisiana dishes under the guidance of an expert chef. Bring your new skills home with you — and stock up on ingredients while you’re in town.
Zip Over Swampy Terrain
- Duration: 1 hour
Looking for and adventurous way to experience New Orleans? Take a zipline swamp tour over Maurepas Swamp. Keep an eye out for alligators and turtles while going over this cypress-filled swamp. There’s also a picnic area, an elevated seating area that overlooks the swamp and a gift shop for souvenirs.
Where to Stay in New Orleans
New Orleans has tons of places to stay. To help make your choice easier, here are some of our top picks.
Grand Victorian Bed and Breakfast
Address: 2727 St. Charles Ave., New Orleans, LA 70130
AAA Diamond Designation: Three Diamond
Parking: Street only
This historic bed and breakfast, set in a restored Victorian inn, offers tons of charm and period decor. Stay in one of only eight total units, giving you a break from the crowded streets and attractions throughout the city.
The Grand Victorian Bed and Breakfast offers relaxing accommodations in the Garden District. Walk or take the streetcar to nearby dining establishments, like Commander’s Palace or Jack Rose.
Moxy Hotel New Orleans Downtown/French Quarter Area
Address: 210 O’Keefe Ave., New Orleans, LA 70112
AAA Diamond Designation: Three Diamond
Parking: Valet only
Planning to do a lot of sightseeing throughout downtown and the French Quarter? The Moxy Hotel offers an ideal central location. This trendy hotel features chic, vibrant decor and a fun atmosphere overall.
Saving money doesn’t mean having to go without amenities. Moxy Hotel has a few to offer, including a fitness room. Staying here also means you’re conveniently close to bus routes, bike share spots and other transportation options for budget-friendly traveling.
Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans
Address: 2 Canal St., New Orleans, LA 70130
AAA Diamond Designation: Five Diamond, Best of Inspected Clean
Parking: Valet only
Planning to travel in style and pamper yourself? Four Seasons Hotel is one of the top luxury hotels in the city. Located on Canal Street, you get to enjoy views of the river, while also being close to dining, attractions, shopping and more.
The Four Seasons’ observation deck gives you impressive views of the city. And you can unwind after a long day of sightseeing in the on-site spa or swimming pool. With valet laundry and other guest amenities, you can focus on making the most of your visit instead of handling everyday tasks.
St. Charles Coach House
Address: 205 St. Charles Ave., New Orleans, LA 70130
AAA Diamond Designation: Three Diamond
Parking: Gated parking
This charming boutique hotel puts you close to Bourbon Street, the St. Charles streetcar line and tons of other amenities and entertainment. It’s not as huge as some of the hotel chain accommodations — giving you a quieter environment to enjoy overall.
Dine at the on-site restaurant or have a bite to eat and a cup of coffee in your room with in-room refrigerators and coffeemakers. Don’t want to do laundry? St. Charles Coach House has valet laundry services available.
Hilton New Orleans Riverside
Address: 2 Poydras St., New Orleans, LA 70130
AAA Diamond Designation: Four Diamond
Parking: valet and on-site (fee)
This upscale hotel gives you convenient access to Harrah’s Casino, the convention center, the Riverwalk shopping mall and more. You’re also just minutes from the French Quarter and many of the city’s other attractions and amenities.
When it comes to amenities, Hilton New Orleans Riverside has them in spades. Take a swim in the heated outdoor pool, soak in a hot tub or play some tennis. With a full bar and a few dining options on-site, you don’t have to go far for a meal and drink.
Where to Eat in New Orleans
New Orleans is known for its cuisine — from contemporary French and Southern comfort foods to Cajun and Creole. These are some of the best places to eat in the Crescent City.
Napoleon House and Bar
Address: 500 Chartres St., New Orleans, LA 70130
Type: American
AAA Diamond Designation: Approved
Prices: $$
This French Quarter restaurant offers a budget-friendly dining option. Choose from New Orleans menu favorites, like po’boys and Italian muffuletta. Enjoy your meal in the courtyard on mild days or dine inside in this quaint Old World cafe.
M Bistro
Address: The Ritz Carlton, 921 Canal St., New Orleans, LA 70112
Type: American
AAA Diamond Designation: Four Diamond
Prices: $$$$
For a fine dining experience to enhance your vacation, make reservations at M Bistro. This upscale dining establishment offers Sunday brunch, as well as breakfast, lunch and dinner. The menu is filled with Southern cuisine, such as tacos made with Gulf fish and bread pudding flavored with apple cinnamon.
Arnaud’s
Address: 813 Rue Bienville St., New Orleans, LA 70112
Type: Creole
AAA Diamond Designation: Three Diamond
Prices: $$$$$
Looking for some entertainment with your meal? Arnaud’s offers a jazz brunch with live music on Sundays. Enjoy Creole dishes, such as shrimp Creole, frog legs and crab cakes. Leave room for creme brûlée or strawberries Arnaud for dessert.
Coterie NOLA Restaurant and Oyster Bar
Address: 135 Decatur St., New Orleans, LA 70130
Type: Cajun
AAA Diamond Designation: Approved
Prices: $$$
This locally owned cafe gives you a chance to try dishes you can’t get elsewhere, like the alligator platter. The menu features traditional Cajun dishes, such as jambalaya and tempting desserts, like bourbon pecan pie.
Restaurant August
Address: 301 Tchoupitoulas St., New Orleans, LA 70130
Type: French
AAA Diamond Designation: Four Diamond
Prices: $$$$
Dine in the Historic District in a building dating back to the 1800s. The menu features contemporary French dishes with locally sourced ingredients, such as snapper Pontchartrain and pralines.
New Orleans Photo Spots
Your trip to New Orleans should include lots of photos as you create memories. But where are the best spots for the most scenic or iconic photos? Here are some that we highly recommend.
Carousel Bar in the French Quarter
Snap some memorable pics in front of this wildly designed bar — it looks just like an amusement park carousel. The French Quarter’s historic setting also gives you plenty of other sites for photos.
Langles Bridge in New Orleans City Park
Stand on this scenic bridge surrounded by towering trees covered in Spanish moss. This is a great site for outdoor shots on sunny days — or on overcast for a more moody black and white pic.
St. Louis Cathedral
As one of the city’s most well-known buildings, St. Louis Cathedral offers a beautiful place to take a few photos. You can also take a self-guided tour of the cathedral while you’re there.
St. Patrick Cemetery
New Orleans has a spooky reputation for many reasons — its historic cemeteries being one of those. With gravesites dating back to the early 1800s, the cemetery has many spots that make for eerie — yet charming — pics.
First Street, Garden District
Any Anne Rice fan knows that the famous author’s former home is located here — 1239 First St. to be exact. Take some photos in front of the house that inspired the Mayfair Witch and Vampire Chronicles.
Day Trips from New Orleans
Looking for a quick getaway during your New Orleans vacation? The following are a few top spots to consider visiting.
Baton Rouge, Louisiana
- Distance: 82 miles
As the capital of Louisiana, Baton Rouge gives you even more attractions to add to your travel plans. Take a day trip to visit the Louisiana White House, Shaw Center for the Arts and Louisiana Art and Science Museum. There’s also BREC’s Baton Rouge Zoo, Capitol Park Museum and Knock Knock Children’s Museum.
Honey Island Swamp
- Distance: 36 miles
Hoping for a chance to see alligators and other swamp critters? Take a drive to Honey Island Swamp for guided boat tour or paddling tours of the area. Explore bottomland hardwood forests and wetlands that black bears, gators and other wildlife, call home.
Chalmette Battlefield and National Cemetery
- Distance: About 6 miles
Visit the site where the Battle of New Orleans took place way back in 1815. As part of the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve, the site offers many things to see, including living history events and self-guided exhibits. Take a stroll through the cemetery, where more than 15,000 US veterans — from the War of 1812 through the Vietnam War — are buried.
Visiting New Orleans on a Budget
Traveling to New Orleans can be costly if you’re not careful. But there are great ways to enjoy a more budget-friendly trip to the Crescent City.
Lower your costs with loyalty programs
Take advantage of airline miles and credit card rewards. Go through all of your reward and loyalty programs. Redeem as much as you can to reduce your overall travel costs for flights, hotels and other trip expenses.
Look for free things to do
New Orleans offers many options that don’t come with an admission price. Take self-guided walking tours through historic neighborhoods and cemeteries, for example.
Check out AAA membership discounts
AAA memebrs can often recieve vehicle, tickets and hotel discounts. Make good use of your membership to lower trip costs. You can save on some hotels, rental cars and
Consider visiting in non-peak seasons
Accommodations, attractions and other amenities often have lower prices in the off-season. For New Orleans, this typically means during summer and fall.
Book a hotel with money-saving amenities
Look for places that include amenities you’ll need or want during your stay, such as free Wi-Fi, parking and even meals.
Plan Your New Orleans Vacation with AAA
Once you’ve gathered inspiration for your dream New Orleans trip on Trip Canvas, contact one of AAA’s Travel Agents today to start making your dream a reality, using your AAA membership to access exclusive deals. No matter your budget, they can help you simplify the planning process with prepackaged trips or a la carte options.