Live jazz, Creole cooking, and iron-lace balconies in America's most distinctive city.
Best months to visit
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Feb
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Dec
New Orleans does not feel like anywhere else in the United States. Its French and Spanish colonial past, Afro-Caribbean culture, and deep musical roots show up in everything from its architecture to its gumbo.
The best weather is in spring and autumn. Summer is very hot and humid, and hurricane season runs from June to November, peaking in August and September.
Ideal stay
3–4 days
Budget
$$ · Mid-range
Currency
US dollar (USD)
Language
English
Main airport
Louis Armstrong (MSY), ~25 min by car
Good for
Music, food, festivals, history
The full guide
Season by season, a day-by-day plan, where to stay, getting around, costs, and local tips — unlocks with a
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When to go
Spring (Mar–May)
Festival season, including French Quarter Fest and Jazz Fest.
Summer (Jun–Aug)
Hot, sticky, and quieter; good hotel deals.
Autumn (Oct–Nov)
Pleasant weather after hurricane season peaks.
Winter (Dec–Feb)
Mild; Mardi Gras usually falls in February or early March.
Suggested itinerary
Day 1
French Quarter: Jackson Square, beignets at a café, and live music on Frenchmen Street at night.
Day 2
St Charles streetcar to the Garden District, Magazine Street, and a Creole dinner.
Day 3
The National WWII Museum or a swamp tour, then Tremé and a jazz club.
Day 4
City Park and the New Orleans Museum of Art, or a plantation history tour.
Where to stay
French Quarter
Historic and central, but noisy around Bourbon Street.
Marigny
Music venues on Frenchmen Street and a more local feel.
Garden District
Beautiful, quieter, and on the streetcar line.
Getting around
Walk the French Quarter and Marigny, and use the historic streetcars for the Garden District and City Park. Take taxis or ride-hailing at night rather than walking long distances.
What it costs
Mid-range, but hotel prices spike for Mardi Gras, Jazz Fest, and big events. Many music clubs have no cover charge but expect you to buy a drink and tip the band.
Good to know
Carry cash for tips at music venues.
Check the event calendar — prices double around major festivals.
Stay aware at night and stick to busy, well-lit streets.
Travel information changes often. Prices here are rough guides, and transport, opening hours, and
entry requirements can change without notice. Confirm details with official tourism sites,
operators, and your government's travel advice before you book, and travel with suitable
insurance.
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