Guide · 3 Places
New Orleans
United States
Before You Go
October to April offers the best weather with temperatures from 15-25°C (59-77°F) and lower humidity. December to February is peak season with Mardi Gras (February/March) bringing huge crowds. May to September is hot and humid (25-35°C) with hurricane season (June-November). Summer has lower prices but intense heat and humidity.
Visa
Check requirementsInternational visitors from Visa Waiver Program countries can stay up to 90 days without a visa (requires ESTA authorization). Citizens of other countries need a B-2 tourist visa. Canadian and Mexican citizens have simplified entry requirements. Check requirements at travel.state.gov.
Getting There
TransportationBy Air: Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) is 18km west of downtown.
By Train: Amtrak connects to Chicago (19 hours), New York (30 hours), and other cities from Union Passenger Terminal.
Language
CommunicationEnglish is the primary language. New Orleans has a unique culture with French and Creole influences, but English is universal.
Currency
Money mattersUS Dollar (USD). Credit cards accepted everywhere. ATMs widely available. Tipping is customary: 18-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, $2-5 for rideshare drivers.
Getting Around
Local transportStreetcar: Historic streetcars on St. Charles, Canal, and Riverfront lines ($1.25 per ride).
Buses: RTA buses covering the city.
Uber/Lyft: Widely available.
Taxis: Available but less common.
Walking: French Quarter, Garden District, and downtown are very walkable.
From the Airport
Arrival infoAirport Shuttle: Shared shuttles ($24 per person, 30-45 min).
Uber/Taxi: $35-50 to downtown (20-30 min).
Rental Car: Available but parking downtown is expensive.
Restaurants and Food
Dooky Chase's Restaurant
Historic Creole restaurant and civil rights landmark. Leah Chase's legendary gumbo since 1941.