New Orleans travel guide: planning your stay

Getting there and choosing your base

Louis Armstrong New Orleans International (MSY): In Kenner, west of the city along I-10, a Southwest hub with a few international routes. Taxis charge a set fare to the French Quarter and CBD, and the RTA Airport Express bus runs into the CBD, so a hotel near Canal Street or Loyola Avenue keeps the transfer simple.
New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal: On Loyola Avenue at the edge of the CBD, served by Amtrak's City of New Orleans from Chicago, the Crescent from New York and the Sunset Limited from Los Angeles, plus Greyhound coaches. CBD hotels are a short taxi or streetcar ride away.

Areas to consider

French Quarter

Suits first visits, live music and those who want to walk to Jackson Square, the riverfront and restaurants. Rooms on or near Bourbon Street can be loud until the early hours; ask for one facing an inner courtyard.

Central Business District and Warehouse District

Suits convention-goers, museum visitors and anyone wanting larger chain hotels a few blocks from the Quarter. Check the walk to the Quarter and the convention centre after dark, and whether the hotel's parking is valet only.

Garden District and Uptown

Suits visitors who want historic houses, Magazine Street shops and the St Charles streetcar to Audubon Park. During Mardi Gras the major parades roll down St Charles Avenue, so check how road closures affect getting in and out.

Marigny, Tremé and Mid-City

Suits repeat visitors after guesthouses, Frenchmen Street music and City Park. Many are small B&Bs with limited reception hours; confirm check-in times and how keys are handed over.

When to go

From about late April to early October the city is hot, humid and often wet, and the height of hurricane season runs from July to October. Mardi Gras (February or early March) and Jazz Fest at the Fair Grounds (late April into May) are the two periods when rooms must be booked well ahead; the French Quarter Festival, Essence Festival and Halloween also draw large crowds to the centre.

Before choosing a room

For Mardi Gras and Jazz Fest dates, read the cancellation terms and any minimum-night rule carefully before paying, as festival rates often differ from the rest of the year.
Between July and October, check what happens to your booking if a storm forces an evacuation, and keep the hotel's cancellation policy to hand.
Older Quarter and Marigny buildings often have narrow stairs and no lift; ask before booking if anyone in your group has limited mobility.

Sources and planning resources

Facts checked on 30 October 2026. Transport services, taxes and hotel offers can change. Confirm the details for your trip before booking.