New Orleans Travel Guide, Hotels & Things to Do

Where to stay

Hotels in New Orleans

Book direct on our own New Orleans hotel pages — no booking fee and instant confirmation.

Blue Crawfish Boutique Hotel & Pool Bar

1620 Dumaine Street | New Orleans, LA 70116, US

View Deal

The Monarch Hotel HQ Collection New Orleans

210 St Charles Ave | New Orleans, LA 70170, US

View Deal

Esplanade Ave Stay wBalcony across French Quarter

427 Esplanade Avenue | New Orleans, LA 70116, US

View Deal

Historic Villa Steps from French Quarter

1138 Governor Nicholls Street | New Orleans, LA 70116, US

View Deal

Historic 1840s Cottage Villa 2 min Steps from French Quarter 9br 7ba

1205 Governor Nicholls Street | New Orleans, LA 70116, US

View Deal

Ashton's Bed and Breakfast

2023 Esplanade Ave | New Orleans, LA 70116-1708, US

View Deal

7 Bedroom - Sleeps 14! Next to Bourbon Street

New Orleans, LA 70117, US

View Deal

Copper Vine Wine Pub & Inn

1001 Poydras Street | New Orleans, LA 70112, US

View Deal

Swipe for more New Orleans hotels

View all properties in New Orleans

At a glance

Climate

Humid subtropical

Languages

English

Local currency

USD (USD)

Local time

20:15 (GMT-5)

Ideal trip length

3–7 days

Cost level

3 of 5 · our research

Suggested area to stay

French Quarter

Tap water

Generally described as safe to drink

Tipping

15-20% customary

What this place is for

History

95 · Outstanding

Culture

90 · Outstanding

Food

90 · Outstanding

Family 70 · Good

Our own 0–100 ratings for this one destination. They describe a city; they are not a league table of cities.

Food to try

Gumbo Jambalaya Beignets Po'boy

When to visit New Orleans

How good each month is here, on this destination's own scale. It compares months within this city, never one city against another.

Best months: February, April Busiest: Feb-May

Jan

75

Cool, mild
Feb

90

Mild, Mardi Gras
Mar

85

Pleasant, spring
Apr

90

Warm, Jazz Fest
May

80

Warm, humid
Jun

60

Hot, humid, rainy
Jul

55

Very hot, humid
Aug

50

Sweltering, hurricane risk
Sept

65

Hot, humid, hurricane risk
Oct

80

Warm, pleasant
Nov

85

Mild, comfortable
Dec

75

Cool, festive

75

Jan Cool, mild

90

Feb Mild, Mardi Gras

85

Mar Pleasant, spring

90

Apr Warm, Jazz Fest

80

May Warm, humid

60

Jun Hot, humid, rainy

55

Jul Very hot, humid

50

Aug Sweltering, hurricane risk

65

Sept Hot, humid, hurricane risk

80

Oct Warm, pleasant

85

Nov Mild, comfortable

75

Dec Cool, festive

Things to do in New Orleans

8 places worth your time, grouped by when they are at their best.

Best in the morning

3 places

Explore St. Louis Cathedral & Jackson Square

French Quarter 1.5 hrs

Admire the iconic cathedral and soak in the vibrant atmosphere of Jackson Square.

Outdoors Good for children

Indulge in Beignets at Cafe Du Monde

French Quarter 1 hr

Savor the classic powdered sugar doughnuts with a cafe au lait.

Indoors Good for children

Take a Louisiana Swamp Tour

Outskirts 3 hrs

Encounter alligators and wildlife on an airboat or pontoon boat adventure.

Outdoors Good for children

Best in the afternoon

1 place

Stroll through the Garden District

Garden District 2.5 hrs

Admire the stunning mansions and lush gardens on a self-guided or guided tour.

Outdoors Good for children

Best in the evening

1 place

Experience Traditional Jazz at Preservation Hall

French Quarter 1 hr

Witness an intimate, acoustic jazz performance in a historic, no-frills venue.

Indoors Good for children

Any time of day

3 places

Wander the Historic French Quarter

French Quarter 3 hrs

Immerse yourself in the architecture, street performers, and unique shops.

Outdoors Good for children

Visit The National WWII Museum

Warehouse District 4 hrs

Explore comprehensive exhibits detailing the American experience in World War II.

Indoors Good for children

Ride the Historic Streetcar

Various 1 hr

Enjoy a scenic and affordable ride through various neighborhoods like St. Charles Avenue.

Indoors Good for children

New Orleans itineraries

View All itineraries

Culture and history

3 Days in New Orleans — Culture & History

Immerse yourself in the soulful history, vibrant traditions, and unique heritage of the Crescent City.

This 3-day itinerary is crafted for history buffs and culture enthusiasts eager to explore New Orleans' iconic landmarks, delve into its rich past, and experience its distinctive cultural tapestry. From antebellum architecture to the birthplace of jazz, prepare for an unforgettable journey through time and tradition.

3 Days 13 Stops

See the full plan

With the family

Cultural Delights of New Orleans

A Family Journey through the French Quarter

Dive into the rich history and lively atmosphere of New Orleans with this family-oriented itinerary. From delicious cuisine to vibrant music scenes, this trip will create lasting memories in the heart of Louisiana.

4 Days 4 Stops

See the full plan

With the family

3 Days in New Orleans — Family with Kids

Discover the vibrant culture, delicious food, and unique charm of New Orleans with activities perfect for all ages.

This 3-day itinerary is crafted for families eager to explore the magic of New Orleans, blending iconic sights with kid-friendly adventures. From beignets and streetcars to aquariums and amusement parks, it promises a memorable trip filled with discovery and fun for everyone.

3 Days 15 Stops

See the full plan