Travelers' pro tips for experiencing New Orleans

RiverlanGone

The best place for families to stay is in the CBD (bounded by Canal St, the River, Baronne, and Poydras St) so that you're within walking distance of all the best sites to see, near the streetcar lines, close to the French Quarter, but away from the drunken, late-night craziness.

PetePope1

Yes, visit the famous restaurants, they are institutions with well-deserved reputations but also ask locals about their favorite spots and be prepared to leave the French Quarter, to Upperline Uptown, Deanie's out by the Lake, Toups’ in Mid City. New Orleans has an excellent public transport system, there are streetcars and buses, but you're probably going to want to rent a car or take a cab to reach your destination.

James H

If you plan to spend most of your time in The French Quarter, book a hotel in The French Quarter. This will save your tired feet from blocks of unnecessary walking. Trust me — it's worth the extra money to stay right where the action is.

In the words of those who've been there before ...

HankScorpi0

New Orleans has something for everyone; all ages, interests, and lifestyles. It is described as the northernmost Caribbean city and the westernmost European city. You will not find another place quite like it in the world.

Jlmabey

New Orleans is a great city. There is plenty to see and do. And definitely plenty to eat! I could go to New Orleans over and over. It's definitely more of a couples/friends vacation.

Angela A

New Orleans is a simply gorgeous city, wonderfully laden with mystery around every cobblestone corner. There are those who visit this historical city to see what lies beneath and to stand quietly in front of buildings that have drawn every ghost hunter, psychic, and paranormal investigator in the country.

What is the best way to get there?

Flying:

Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) is the city’s main airport, where you can keep the good times rolling by catching some live entertainment while you wait for your flight.

Train:

New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal is a major Amtrak hub, with three train lines offering service to Memphis and Chicago; Atlanta, Charlotte, Washington, D.C., Philadelphia and New York; and Houston, San Antonio, El Paso, Tucson, and Los Angeles.

Bus:

Greyhound, FlixBus, and MegaBus all offer service to the New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal.

For more info on getting to New Orleans, see here.

Do I need a visa?

If you are a non-U.S. citizen, you may need a visa to visit New Orleans, unless your country is part of the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). The program allows citizens of certain countries to visit the U.S. for up to 90 days without a visa.

For more info on visas and the VWP, see here.

When is the best time to visit?

New Orleans’ best weather makes its debut in February and lasts until May, coinciding with carnival season and the world-famous Mardi Gras celebrations. The average daily temperatures this time of year typically hit highs of 71 Fahrenheit (22 Celsius) with lows dipping to 45 Fahrenheit (7 Celsius).

If you’re looking to skip the madness, and the inflated prices, opt to visit in winter when hotels are cheaper, and you won’t melt from summer’s heat or worry about fall’s possible hurricanes.

Bus/streetcar

The New Orleans Regional Transit Authority (NORTA) operates nearly 40 bus routes and four streetcar lines, as well as paratransit and ferry crossings on the Mississippi River. Some buses and streetcars run 24 hours.

For info on schedules, routes, and fares, see here.

Taxis

New Orleans has more than 1,200 taxis you can grab on the street and at major hotels.

For info on fares and companies, see here.

Ridesharing

Ridesharing: Both Uber and Lyft operate in New Orleans, and you can book via their smartphone apps.

Bikes

Since it’s a flat city, biking is a great way to navigate New Orleans, and there are several companies that offer bike rentals.

For more info on renting a bike, see here.