visit new orleans on a budget

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Budget-Friendly Itinerary

Ideas for inexpensive ways to enjoy new orleans, new orleans on a budget.

You don’t have to be a big spender to jump into a million-dollar New Orleans experience. The Crescent City can be easy on the wallet, if you know where to look. From happy hour specials to hidden gems, there are affordable options all over town, no matter what the season. Pro tip: consider booking a midweek trip to New Orleans to save on hotel rooms, and fill your itinerary with these 50 free things to do around NOLA . Check out our neighborhood itinerary below and explore our inexpensive dining options  here . 

The French Quarter

This most historic part of New Orleans is famous for its white tablecloth restaurants, artsy boutiques, and craft cocktail bars. But you don’t have to break the bank to enjoy the French Quarter .

Start your day with some chicory-laced coffee and pastry from Croissant D’Or Patisserie . Or treat yourself to a plate of hot beignets and café au lait from Café du Monde .

Follow your feet

Take a stroll through the picturesque French Quarter to see some of the most historic architecture in the country, including the St. Louis Cathedral , Presbytère , and Cabildo . Visit the Visitor Center of Jean Lafitte National Park, and get free information and maps.

Window shop along  Royal Street , famous for art galleries galore and soak up New Orleans’ local art culture.

Explore Jackson Square

Take a peek into the beautiful St. Louis Cathedral , the oldest cathedral in the United States, then claim a bench on the square and people watch.

Picnic Lunch

Order a traditional Italian muffuletta from the place where it was invented, Central Grocery *, and take your sandwich to the river for lunch with a view.

*Editori's Note: Central Grocery remains temporarily closed following damage from Hurricane Ida, but you can still find their muffalettas packaged to-go next door at Sidney's Wine Cellar (917 Decatur St.)

Dine on the cheap

Port of Call is a great choice for a burger and potent Monsoon cocktail, or swing by Killer Po-Boys for some creative takes on the traditional New Orleans sandwich.

Stroll along world-famous Bourbon Street and right into Pat O’Brien’s courtyard for a hurricane. Head to the “quieter” end of Bourbon and belly up to the bar at Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar for inexpensive libations. Located on Bourbon and St. Phillip St., Lafitte’s is lit mostly by candles and is supposedly haunted. In the mood for artisanal cocktails? Swing over to Bar Tonique across from Armstrong Park on Rampart chose from a menu of reasonably priced classic New Orleans cocktails.

Arts/Warehouse District

Enjoy a day of gallery hopping, exploring, and eating in the  Warehouse District .

Ogden Museum of Art

This museum is home to the most comprehensive collection of Southern art in the world and offers free and discounted admission for students, seniors, and more.

Picnic in the park

Lafayette Square is the second oldest park in New Orleans. Pick up a sandwich from Cafe at the Square  or Cochon Butcher and picnic in the square.

The Contemporary Arts Center

Known for its experimental and multidisciplinary exhibitions, performances and programs, the CAC is the perfect place to take in thought provoking work by local and internationally known artists at a reasonable price.

Happy hour dishes the best bargains and small plates and drinks in the Warehouse Arts District. Check out  Meril for happy hour deals with half-off flat breads and wine by the glass.

Uptown/ Garden District

Known for stately oaks and historic mansions, shopping on Magazine Street and eclectic restaurants, Uptown delivers a surprising array of well-priced options.

Take a ride

Hop on the streetcar down St. Charles Avenue . Riding the oldest continuously operated streetcar in the country is your best way to soak up views of live oaks and one-of-a-kind mansions and costs just $1.25, exact change please, or buy a one-day, three-day or five-day pass.

Camellia Grill is a landmark diner Uptown known for its rib-sticking breakfasts and entertaining servers. Grab a seat at the counter and enjoy the show.

Audubon Park

Go for a ramble under the leafy canopies of gorgeous oaks in Audubon Park , then relax in one of the covered gazebos and watch the ducks.

Grab a sandwich or salad from St. James Cheese Company , a local cheese shop with a seriously loyal following. Or swing by Pizza Domenica , the casual off-shoot of the James Beard Award-winning Italian restaurant downtown. 

Sip on delicious cocktails at  Cure , a pioneering craft cocktail lounge on happening Freret Street uptown with terrific happy hour deals (4-6 p.m. every day).

Dinner and Drinks

Freret Street is also up-and-coming for the restaurant and bar scene with eateries like The Company Burger  and High Hat Cafe sure to satisfy the hungry on a budget. 

Mid-City and Esplanade Ridge

If you really want to experience New Orleans like a local, spend a day in Mid-City and Esplanade Ridge for some off-the-beaten-path bargains.

Sink your teeth into a famous Po-Boy sandwich from Parkway Bakery in Mid-City – be sure to order it dressed. Or take a sandwich to go for a picnic along nearby Bayou St. John .

A 1,300-acre outdoor oasis that has enchanted New Orleanians since 1854, City Park  is the spot for outdoor family friendly activities. Go for a jog around the lake, or take a stroll and bird watch.

New Orleans Museum of Art

Located in the heart of City Park, the New Orleans Museum of Art delivers a world of art for its $15 admission price, with discounts offered to seniors, students and children 12 and under (Louisiana residents get free admission on Wednesdays courtesy of the Helis Foundation). If you prefer your art outdoors, admission to the stunning Sculpture Garden is free, 

Bayou St. John

See the Louisiana Bayou St. John up close and personal along the 1.7 mile jogging and bike path in Mid-City.

Split a heaping portion of paella at Lola’s or nosh on some modern Vietnamese cuisine at Mopho . In the mood for Mexican? Try the Creole-infused fare at Juan’s Flying Burrito .

Sweet Treat

Top off the day with something sweet from Angelo Brocato’s Italian Gelateria, a favorite local dessert spot for over 100 years.

Marigny/ Bywater

Just downriver of the French Quarter, the Marigny and Bywater are two neighborhoods to visit for great live music, art markets, and tasty food that won’t break the bank.

Bywater Bakery serves up a hot breakfast with choices like pastries, yogurt and a variety of breakfast go-cups including bacon and egg, and shrimp and grits. Or you can enjoy sweet and savory pastries from Ayu Bakehouse , including favorites like the muffaletta breadstick or boudin boy.

Art Markets

Enjoy the art galleries and markets in the Marigny and Bywater neighborhoods. Check out Dr. Bob’s quirky art gallery or the Piety Street Market, both in the Bywater.

Grab lunch at Dat Dog ’s Frenchmen Street outpost, or a slice of pizza at the seriously addictive Pizza Delicious further down river in Bywater. Or for breakfast or lunch, head to Frady’s One Stop , where cheap eats and plate lunches attract throngs of regulars.

Crescent Park

Take a bike ride or walk along the Mississippi through Crescent Park , a 20-acre linear park on the riverfront.

Can’t decide what type of cuisine you want? Browse the options at the St. Roch Market or try or try Rosalita’s for tacos on the cheap.

Many of the music clubs along Frenchmen Street offer low-or-no cover shows–just check the live music calendar to see who is playing and what to expect as far as an entry fee. Just remember that even on a budget, tipping musicians is always a must!

Check out our deals & coupons page for discounts on hotel rooms, tours, restaurants, and attractions. And check out our blog on the best happy hours in New Orleans here .

Cheap Eats by Neighborhood

New Orleans is a city known for its food - here are some of our favorite affordable meals. Enjoy the best of New Orleans cuisine without breaking the bank.

50 Free Things to Do in NOLA

From attractions with free admission to the best neighborhood strolls, free concerts, and more.

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How to visit New Orleans on a budget

New Orleans is quite unlike anywhere else in the United States or the world! The Big Easy is on just about everyone’s bucket list, and for good reason.

It’s possible to spend a ton of money in New Orleans if you stay in an upscale (and probably haunted) hotel, eat exclusively at pricey restaurants, and only use rideshare. However, it’s totally possible to have fun, eat well and see all the quintessential New Orleans sites, even if you’re on a budget.

Here’s how to visit New Orleans on a budget-

We’ve said it before, and we’ll say it again- any time is the best time to visit New Orleans . If you’re traveling on a budget, look for the best deals before or after a big holiday. Be sure to avoid the dates of Mardi Gras (which changes every year but falls between Feb and march), the city’s busiest time of the year. Check out our New Orleans Travel Guide for tips on planning your trip! Here’s what to expect in each season-

Spring and Fall

Spring and fall are some of the best times for budget travelers to visit New Orleans, although September and October carry the potential of hurricanes and tropical storms. September, in particular, still feels like summer and is usually the city’s slowest month of the year.

Summers can be hot and muggy, which can get uncomfortable fast if this is something you’re not used to. If you do visit the Crescent City in the summer, prepare to do outdoor activities early in the day. Don’t expect to be bored- New Orleans has plenty of things to do indoors !

Winter in New Orleans is relatively mild (with an average low of 43F), especially if you’re coming from the Northern US. This is an excellent time to visit if you’re focused on finding the best deals on hotels and flights. Like many southern cities, December- February are the coldest months in New Orleans.

Most Expensive Times of Year

Typically, the busiest and most expensive times of year are Mardi Gras (Fat Tuesday; dates vary), spring break, Jazz Fest (April or May), Halloween , and right before the annual Sugar Bowl football game on New Year’s Day.

Getting around The Big Easy can be pricey, and rideshare adds up fast. Fortunately, there are plenty of different ways to get from A to B. Here’s how to get around in New Orleans on a budget-

Nothing is more budget than free. While we suggest seeing as much of the city as possible, staying in The French Quarter means you’ll be able to walk to everything you need plus most significant attractions. Booking accommodation in The Garden District near the St.Charles Streetcar line is another affordable option.

The Streetcar

Historic, charming, and budget-friendly, the St. Charles Streetcar has been the world’s oldest streetcar line since 1835. The St. Charles Streetcar connects The French Quarter with the Central Business District and The Garden District. The Canal streetcar runs through notable sites like City Park and the Bayou Saint John neighborhood.

Note: The streetcar is cash only, exact change unless you download the app . Tickets are $1.25 each way or $3 for the day pass.

Rent a Vehicle

Renting a car is the best choice for those visiting New Orleans with family , a bachelorette party , or a group of friends because you can split the cost. Another advantage of renting is that you can explore the swamps and plantations of Southern Louisiana with a fun day trip .

Uber, Lyft, and all major rideshare companies operate throughout New Orleans.

Known as the birthplace of culinary legends such as the Banana’s Foster and Oysters Rockefeller, New Orleans is a foodie destination. Must-eats in NOLA include the po’boy, gumbo, muffuletta, red beans and rice, and beignets.

World-famous eateries that require reservations of up to a month in advance, such as Brennan’s or Commander’s Palace, can eat up much of a budget. We suggest trying just one of the fine dining restaurants and, the rest of the time, dining less expensively at some of the local’s favorite places to eat.

Hostels can be a great way to save money. HI hostel is right on Canal near the French Quarter.

Finding affordable New Orleans hotels is possible, and there are also Air BnB and hostel options. Here’s where to stay in New Orleans on a budget-

The French Quarter and Central Business District (CBD)

When you want to stay close to everything, from food to cemeteries, the streetcar, and Bourbon Street, opt for The French Quarter. This is the most expensive place to stay in New Orleans, but budget options exist. We like the historic Hotel St. Pierre or the Inn on St. Ann, a lovely guest house previously owned by voodoo priestess Marie Laveau. Check out our guide to finding the Best Hotels in The French Quarter here .

While the French Quarter is closer to attractions, the CBD is (almost) as convenient at a lower price. We like the Ace Hotel or La Quinta Inn.

The Garden District

Less costly than the Quarter but still connected via the St. Charles Streetcar, The Garden District is a great budget option. The Quisby is awarded as one of the best hostels in the US; the St. Charles Coach House is a budget boutique hotel with easy access to the streetcar.

Find the best hotels in the Garden District here

Other Areas

Metairie and the area near Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) have the most budget lodgings, but they are farther away from attractions and food, an option best for those renting a car. Two of our favorites are Sleep Inn and Suites Metairie and the Citrine Dream vacation home.

perusing original art in Jackson Square is a great budget activity

“Let the Good Times Roll” is the New Orleans motto, but it’s more than that- it’s a way of life. You don’t have to bring the big bucks to have fun in the Big Easy. Here are the best things to do when visiting New Orleans on a budget-

Jackson Square Artists, fortune tellers, street performers, and the beautiful St. Louis Cathedral make Jackson Square an experience of its own. While there are plenty of (cash-only) purchases well worth the splurge, Jackson Square can be enjoyed completely free.

Note: If this spot looks familiar, it might be because The Curious Case of Benjamin Button and shows like K-Ville and The Originals have all been filmed at Jackson Square.

Bourbon Street Bourbon Street has entertainment options for every budget, with bars, balconies, food, strip clubs, and people. No Open container law means you can legally consume alcohol on the streets of The French Quarter! Stay on budget by grabbing cold beers and snacks while enjoying NOLA’s legendary street performers on Royal Street. Note: Solo female travelers don’t skip Bourbon Street- read this instead !

Royal Street Shopping (or window shopping!) on Royal Street is another iconic New Orleans activity that is entirely budget-friendly. Royal Street is a shopper’s paradise with family-owned art galleries, old-world antique shops, vintage stores, and themed boutiques. Also, keep a look out for spontaneous street performances! One of our favorite performers on Royal Street is Doreen, who plays a mean clarinet; Doreen is out nearly every Saturday on the corner of Royal and St. Louis outside the Rouses.

Cafe Du Monde A perfectly budget-friendly spot for photos, beignets, and cafe au lait, Cafe Du Monde was established in 1862 and is a New Orleans icon. Beignets are a must-eat for anyone visiting New Orleans and an inexpensive breakfast. Cafe Du Monde is usually busy, so be prepared to wait in line. We recommend visiting in the early evening before going out for the night. Did you know Cafe Du Monde made appearances in many of Anne Rice’s novels? This stop is a must-do for Anne Rice lovers!

spontaneous street dancing on Royal.

Take a completely free, self-guided walking tour of the French Quarter, the southern mansions of the Garden District, and other iconic NOLA experiences.

We also offer Free To Join “Pay what you feel like” walking tours of New Orleans . We think a guided tour can be a great way to explore New Orleans .

Live music in New Orleans is essential! You can’t visit the city and not hear soulful music, whether watching a show or walking down Frenchmen Street. You can catch Street performers in Jackson Square or on Royal Street for cash tips or head to one of the city’s many music joints . Our free live music self-guided tour will help you explore the iconic New Orleans music scene without breaking the bank.

With romantic architecture, a rich history of Voodoo, vampires, and spirits, plus above-ground tombs , NOLA’s cemeteries are not like anywhere else in the world. Learn all the best cemetery lore with our pay-what-you-can walking tour!

A stroll through The Garden District is a must for anyone who visits New Orleans. Victorian, Italianate, and Greek Revival mansions accented with mature oak trees define The Garden District. See all the best of the GD without breaking the bank via our free guided tour or self-walking tour with map.

Our guide to Planning your Trip to New Orleans

Let us help you plan your trip to New Orleans. We are experts of all things New Orleans and we’ve been putting our knowledge together into a guide. This guide is a collection of articles that can act as a free trip planning guide giving you an idea of some of the best things to do, tours that are worth your time and money, places to see and where to eat. So check out our free trip planning guide.

What we are about:

Nola Tour Guy is a collective of passionate guides, both men and women, who are experts in the history of New Orleans. Our goals are to give tours that are intellectually stimulating, historically accurate and FUN. We only offer walking tours because we believe that walking is the best way to see a city and learn about it and at a price everyone can afford. Nola Tour Guy offers no novelty tours only the real history brought to life by our passionate guides. Join us, you won’t be disappointed..

Author:  Courtney Lux

Courtney is a Dallas-based writer who spends more time living in the thrill of an adventure than in commonly accepted reality. She’s a travel blogger, a daydreamer, a poetry fanatic, and a lover of all things whimsical. Courtney writes early in the morning, then spends the rest of the day cuddling with her pets and planning more travel.

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16 Cheap Things to Do in New Orleans for $5, or Less (VIDEO!)

SO many cheap things to do in New Orleans, if you know where to look. If you’re on a budget for NOLA let me show you the fun you can still have…

You can do a lot of activities in New Orleans on a budget. Time it right and happy hours are 12 dozen oysters for $3 and half price booze. There are also free museums, plenty to see outside and so many cool buildings and neighbourhoods that a lot of the things I suggest in my video are actually free.

I spent two weeks in the city, and so was desperate for cheap things to do in New Orleans to keep me busy. I’m happy to say, you can definitely pass the time without much money at all. Leaves you all the more to spend in the bars on the super-sized cocktails!

Oh, and the food. Make sure to check out my Top 7 Food Experiences in New Orleans – some of them definitely aren’t cheap though, unfortunately!

You can definitely get through a few dollars in New Orleans, as I did, but if you’re strict with yourself, and take note of my advice, you can experience cheap New Orleans too.

Here are 15 thing you can do in New Orleans for $5 (£3.50) or less, or even better, free!

Watch me doing New Orleans on a budget here

And you can subscribe to my channel on YouTube for more travel tips and advice 

Cheap Things to Do in New Orleans

Here are all the best things to do if you’re in New Orleans on a budget. You don’t have to spend a fortune to have a good time in NOLA!

1. Go for Beignets at Café du Monde ($2.95)

Beignets at Cafe du Monde are an absolute must in New Orleans. They’re one of the many iconic things to do in the city, and good for us, they’re pretty cheap too. Just seek out the green and white striped awning down by the New Orleans market towards the river and you’ll see tens, if not 100s, of people enjoying the powerdery dough bites. 

Top tip, pick one up as if you’re about to eat it and then blow all over your friend. Always funny. 

2. Walk down Bourbon Street (free)

Walking down Bourbon Street is one of the best free things to do in New Orleans. Do it a few times, at different hours of the day, to see how it changes as the days and night goes on. 

You’ll see so many characters down here, it’s probably the best place in the city for making friends, and is the best spot for people watching. Of course, you’ll probably want to go in the bars as you go, but that will cost. Make the most of any drink deals you’re offered and remember that in New Orleans it’s perfectly ok to walk around with an open alcohol container, you can even carry them from bar to bar. 

This means you don’t have to ‘drink up’ and spend loads of money. Winner! 

3. Take the Streetcar ($3 day pass)

The streetcar is absolutely one of the best things to do in New Orleans on a budget. Not only will you get you from A to B, but it’ll also take you on an unofficial tour of the city so you can have a look around and get your bearings. 

The streetcars are old school, a bit like an old tram. I loved these when I was in New Orleans. 

4. People watch from a balcony ($5 a beer)

Invest a fiver and sit up on a balcony overlooking Bourbon Street. It’s a fantastic spot for people watching, and for resting your tired legs. There are always loads of deals going on in the bars of New Orleans, so go at a good time and pick a quality happy hour to get the most for your money. 

Remember to tip a dollar when you get your beer, as is the American way, or guaranteed you won’t be getting another one. 

5. Visit the Voodoo Shops (free)

New Orleans is known for its Voodoo vibe, and there are many shops and museums to celebrate it. I paid a few dollars to go to the New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum (currently $7) which was totally worth it for the voodoo education. But, if you want to keep your time in New Orleans as cheap as possible then just stick to looking around the shops. 

The Voodoo vibe in New Orleans is absolutely fascinating. You can go on tours and all sorts, but of course, that’ll push you over that all important $5. 

6. Muffaletta on the Mississippi ($5 a quarter)

I dream of this sandwich. I’m not joking or exaggerating – I’ve had a lot of sandwiches in my life but this really stands out as one of the best (if not the , but I’m hesitant to make such a commitment). 

You’ll find them all over New Orleans but on my food tour of New Orleans they told me that the best one was to be found at the Central Grocery near the French Market. This is basically what’s in it, but I think it was the obvious love I could taste in the putting it together that made it taste as absolutely sensational as it did. 

• 1  10″ round loaf Italian bread with Sesame (or a soft round Italian bread)
• 1 cup  Olive Salad
• 1/4  lb Genoa Salami
• 1/4  lb Capicola or deli ham
• 1/4  lb Mortadella (I omit this but the real thing has it)
• 1/8  lb Sliced Mozzarella ( 3 – 4  thin slices)
• 1/8  lb Provolone ( 3 – 4  thin slices)

I took mine down to the Mississippi River and ate on the river bank – as demonstrated in the video above. The picture above was another one I had in New Orleans, on the food tour. The Central Grocery one was bigger and better though!

7. Window shop in the French Quarter (free)

If you want inexpensive things to do in New Orleans then wandering around the beautiful French Quarter is a good shout. There are so many wonderful boutiques and little shops, you’ll have a great time. Also, plenty of food shops with tasters – always good for budget travellers like us. 

Obviously, if you start buying things the budget will go well out of the window. Watch that credit card. 

Wandering around the French Quarter is one of the best free things to do in New Orleans.

8. Watch the Natchez Steamboat (free)

I loved the Natchez Steamboat!

If you have the money then I’d definitely recommend a tour out on it to see how people used to travel the Mississippi, if not, then you can admire from the riverbanks as it noisily horns its way off into the distance. It’s one of the most iconic cheap things to do in New Orleans!

9. Hot Pepper Palace (free)

The Hot Pepper Palace is one of the most fun cheap things to do in New Orleans. It’s basically a big hot sauce shop, but you get to try the tasters – how far can you go on the Scoville scale? 

They have a hot sauce in there, so spicy that you have to sign a waiver to try it. Errr, yeah I didn’t do that one but I did try a few that got me very hot under the collar! 

This is a great place to pick up some souvenirs from New Orleans too.

10. Chill in Jackson Square (free)

Jackson Square is a historic park in the centre of New Orleans. Back in the day it provided an important setting for the agreement of the Louisiana Purchase that made it a US state. Today, it’s a perfectly manicured garden for the public to sit and relax.

When I was there part of the French Quarter Festival was set in there, allowing the public to enjoy the music for free. 

Another wonderful spot in New Orleans to watch the locals, enjoy a picnic and take some pics. 

11. Rocket Fizz Shop (free)

Hands up if you like sweeties… 

Meeeeee. 

The Rocket Fizz Shop is a huge sweet shop designed to help you try some of the local cuisine, in candy format. It’s free to look, and only a few dollars for a pick up. This is where you learn to go beyond Swedish fish and Sour Patch in American candy. 

12. Watch the street performers (tip)

Street performers are the backbone of New Orleans’ entertainment scene. There are pitches all over the city for the buskers to set up. I watched a fantastic performance featuring a saxophone and keyboard, which you can see in the video above, and also a not so fabulous performance by a guy with a guitar who I’m not entirely sure he actually knew how to play it. 

Performances are technically free but you should tip, and you absolutely, definitely need to if you’re taking pictures or doing a recording of any sort. 

Check out my post on the top 5 hostels in New Orleans . I’ve stayed at them all, so you can decide which one is perfect for you!

13. Louis Armstrong Park (free)

Another wonderful park in New Orleans, the Louis Armstrong Park is a central meeting point of the city. This is where many of the city’s festivals are held, and has an important role in the city’s history. It’s where slaves used to be traded before the abolishment in 1833. 

Now you can wander around and admire the ducks and statues. So many lovely open spaces for you to enjoy for free in New Orleans! 

14. 12 Oysters at Pelican Bar ($3)

SUCH a bargain. I loved the Pelican Bar, especially as it was just around the corner from my hostel. 

Time it right for happy hour and you could enjoy 12 oysters for $3. I mean, absolute dreams. You need to get there in time for the happy hour though, or book, as understandably the place gets very busy.

Get there just at the right time for one of the best cheap things to do in New Orleans.

15. Find a Street Party (tip)

And finally, on this list of cheap stuff to do in New Orleans – the humble street party. I mean, things totally hammed up around the New Orleans Jazz Festival, but still, street parties in NOLA were totally an every day occurrence. 

You can join in the fun, but make sure to give the person holding out the hat a few dollars for the entertainment value

16. Visit the St Augustine’s Church on a Sunday

I really wanted to visit a gospel church when I was in New Orleans. As well as being a fascinating cultural experience, it also proved to be a great thing to do in New Orleans on a budget.

I visited the semi-famous St Augustine’s Church (damaged in Hurricane Katrina, star of  Shake the Devil Off  film) which was just up the road from my hotel. I decided it would be an interesting anthropological study for me, to see how they do Catholicism here.

The church was beautiful from the outside. Judging by the tour buses lining up outside it’s definitely a ‘thing to see’ in New Orleans. Inside the windows were stained glass, the altar super fancy, the usual pews and religious statues lined the room… and there was a full band on stage, saxophonist and all.

I pulled up a pew at the back, with quick access to my escape, until a few seconds before it started and a couple came and pushed me up to box me in.

So the Sunday service at St Augustine’s goes like this: the saxophonist brings it, the lead vocalist is going for it with every space in her lungs and the front row, and randomly dotted others, have brought their arms up in praise reaching to the heavens. I find myself swaying to the song too, feeling the music through me.

And then, an amazingly fast two hours after it started, the service was over. The young priest, super cool with sunglasses and all, was stood outside waiting to shake our hands.

FAQ about cheap things to do in New Orleans  

If you have any questions about exploring New Orleans on a budget, let me know in the comments below.

1. How much should I budget for a trip to New Orleans?

I was on a very tight budget in New Orleans. I was backpacking through the USA for three months and had a lot of ground I wanted to cover. If you’re doing New Orleans super cheap, I’d say an absolute minimum of $60 a day. This is $25 for your hostel, $10 for some food, $15 for an activity and $10 for tips. I’d definitely recommend you budget more than this though, but if you want to do New Orleans as cheap as possible, that’s what I’d account for.

2. Are there any cool road trips to New Orleans I can do?

Well, I’m glad you asked!

I’ve written an itinerary for an Austin to New Orleans road trip , and one for a Chicago to New Orleans road trip too. Both have amazing views along the way, and some cool stops along the route. Doing a road trip in the USA is a right of passage, and if you can include a stop in New Orleans on it, then even better!

Oh, and if you need a few tips on how to save money on your USA road trip , click this link.

3. Is New Orleans expensive?

As you can see from these budget tips for New Orleans, there are definitely ways to save money in NOLA. I didn’t find New Orleans to be any more expensive than the other American cities I visited.

However, it’s not cheap.

Visit New Orleans and you’re visiting one of the biggest and most popular cities in the USA. Of course it’s not cheap. Coming from England, one of the biggest financial worries was that the prices you list are never the prices you pay. You also have tax and tip to add on the top and it can be confusing.

Good for us budget travellers though, there are lots of things to do in New Orleans for free which balances out what you’ll pay for food and drink.

“Generally speaking, New Orleans is one of the cheaper of the major tourist cities in the United States, except for Mardi Gras week when hotels understandably double or triple prices. The rest of the year this is a city that provides great value for visitors, with great meals available even in lower price ranges.” PRICEOFTRAVEL.COM

4. What is the cheapest month to go to New Orleans?

It seems like the hottest months in New Orleans are also the cheapest it can get. This falls down around the months of June to September. If you can handle the heat then enjoy the cheap deals that are up for grabs around this time of the year.

5. What are free things to do in New Orleans at night?

New Orleans at night is so lively that literally you have access to great entertainment for free. Streets are filled with music and dancing that you’ll surely be enjoying. Head over to any bar or club and you will be spectate just about anything.

6. What are free things to do in New Orleans?

If you don’t know where to start, everything above are free things that you can try in New Orleans! You don’t need to have a budget. You just have to have fun!

7. What should I not miss in New Orleans?

New Orleans, a place of diversity and entertainment, has a lot in store for you to experience. You should not miss visiting Frenchmen Street, a local’s favorite, which has a booming nightlife filled with jazz, and great bars. Everything is so cheap here as well that you could probably buy one of about anything.

Swamp, night, and cemetery tours are also famous that will let you explore a different side of the city. It is also a great place to appreciate art and history through spots like the New Orleans Museum of Art, The National WWII Museum, and Mardi Gras World. And of course, include sightseeing as part of your activities to try in places such as Garden District, Audubon Nature Institute, The Cabildo, and more!

Free things to do in New Orleans 

See, loads of cheap or free things to do in New Orleans for your NOLA holiday!

New Orleans is such a fascinating city that you’ll find you can walk around for hours for free, just admiring the architecture, the people and the history. It’s free to look!

It might not be free to photograph though – get your camera out and you’ll be expected to tip. You have been warned!

PIN THESE CHEAP NEW ORLEANS TIPS FOR LATER

Related Posts:

• 11 Survival Tips for Your First Time at New Orleans…
• 18 Best Souvenirs from New Orleans to Remember Your Trip
• My Top 7 Favourite Food Experiences in New Orleans
• 13 Cheap Things to Do in Sydney for Less Than $10 (£5.40)
• 5 Best Hostels in New Orleans for 2024
• What You Need to Know About Inside Oak Alley…

Hi, I'm Vicky! I wrote this. You can find me on all the social media @VickyFlipFlop. I love a bit of adventure, will try anything once, and have a strong passion for the local food and drink, whatever it may be. I'm here to help inspire you to travel to places a little out of your comfort zone, or at least to explore the usual destinations in a different way. Stay, have a look around, and if you have any questions – let me know below.

Awesome video! Heading there in a week for a college roommate reunion and will definitely be hitting up the items on your list. Thanks for the recommendations! 🙂

No worries, have fun Morgan!

Wow!! Great list of things to do in Orleans….

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Home » North America » USA » New Orleans

The BEST New Orleans Travel Guide • 2024 (Budget Tips + Itineraries)

Ask someone what happens in New Orleans and 90% of the time they will say, “Mardi Gras” or “hurricanes.” While both of these things are assured most years, visiting New Orleans offers so much more than wild weather and even wilder parties.

There are tons of things to do in New Orleans! From exploring the roots of jazz to playing on the roots of colossal oaks, the Big Easy caters to all kinds of travelers! You could spend a week in New Orleans, a month, even a lifetime, and you’ll still find new things to keep you entertained here.

Obviously, I’d be remiss if we didn’t cover the food or festivals in this New Orleans travel guide as they are, admittedly, pretty spectacular. So don’t you worry – we are going to talk plenty about all the essential New Orleans travel tips you’ll need for your NoLa adventure.

So pack your bags and bring your most comfortable clothing with you. By the time you finish all those crawfish and sazeracs, you’re going to be rolling out of New Orleans in a wheelbarrow!

The Broke Backpacker is supported by you . Clicking through our links may earn us a small affiliate commission, and that's what allows us to keep producing free content 🙂 Learn more .

Why Visit New Orleans?

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A melting pot of people and culture, musical vibes all day and night, and America’s best seafood are just some of the standout things that make a stop in the Big Easy a must during your USA backpacking trip .

Go crazy at wild parties, bask in the mild climate almost year-round, and get seriously caked up from one of the many bakeries around Mardi Gras season.

New Orleans is known for its debauchery, but it’s got a softer side too. The city is resilient and exudes vibes and decor that can pretty much only be found here. Sure Bourbon Street is just one of those NoLa locales you just can’t miss, but New Orleans is so much more than that!

Dive into the New Orleans history, pop into some day-time music scenes, and spend a day or two appreciating the majestic Spanish moss. No matter how you choose to spend your New Orleans itinerary, you can guarantee it’ll be entertaining!

What are the Major Attractions in New Orleans?

There are tons of places to visit in New Orleans , ranging from wild parties in the French Quarter to sunny days spent amongst Spanish Moss. But seriously–this is a city that truly has something for everyone.

Love food? New Orleans has some of the best eats in the entire United States. Craving some live music? Just head on downtown at any time of day for that smooth traditioal New Orleans jazz.

Paranormal and nature lovers will particularly fall in love with this Southern city by the Mississippi River, though anyone is bound to find a highlight. You could easily spend a WHILE exploring every nook and cranny of the Big Easy. If you’re short on time, here’s what you just can’t miss:

• The French Quarter
• New Orleans City Park
• St. Charles Street Car Ride
• The Garden District
• Historical Mausoleums

How to Long Spend in New Orleans?

There’s a very good chance that you’re not going to want to leave once you make it to the Big Easy. The overwhelming amount of delicious food, live music, and beautiful architecture tends to impress most travelers.

So while you could easily spend a lifetime getting to know New Orleans, 3 days is the perfect amount of time to start a New Orleans itinerary. This will allow you to see all the city’s famous attractions, fill your stomach with creole & cajun, and even get off the beaten path a bit.

The following is a sample 3-day itinerary for a weekend in New Orleans . The top destinations mentioned in this New Orleans travel guide are coming your way…

New Orleans Itinerary Day 1: The French Quarter and Bywater

On the first day of this New Orleans travel guide, we’re going to get the touristy stuff out of the way. Today, you’re going to knock out the French Quarter and then hit up Marigny/Bywater .

Let’s start in the French Quarter . This is the oldest part of the city and, as the name suggests, was originally built by the French. Interestingly enough, most of the architecture here isn’t even French – the Spanish are responsible for the majority of the Quarter’s contemporary architecture.

A lot of New Orleans’ must-see sights are located in the French Quarter. Here you’ll find the infamous locales of Bourbon Street and Jackson Square. You can spend a fair amount of time in Jackson just people watching.

There are a number of interesting sites around Jackson Square. First, stop at The Cabildo –a museum dedicated to New Orleans’ origins – while Preservation Hall is one of the most significant Jazz landmarks in the city.

The French Quarter hosts many of the most famous restaurants in New Orleans as well as some cool places to shop. Be sure to swing by the French Market , a flea market of sorts that’s been open since 1791. End your time in the Big Easy’s most famous neighborhood with a quick (or not so quick) stop at the Old Absinthe House for a Sazerac.

When you’re ready to escape the masses, head toward Marigny and Bywater . These are two local neighborhoods in New Orleans and are more laid back.

If you walk up Royal Street, you’ll get to pass the Lalaurie Mansion, Palace French Market, and Studio Be. Royal Street itself is pretty boutique so you’ll get to window shop a lot.

End your day with a drink at Bacchanal Spirits and a show at Music Box Village.

New Orleans Itinerary Day 2: City Park and Lakeview Vibes

On the second day of this New Orleans travel guide, head toward the lake for a day of relative peace and quiet. You’ll be spending a lot of time in the park and exploring New Orleans’ many grandiose cemeteries.

From the French Quarter, grab the Canal Street Streetcar and ride it until the end of the line. First, you’ll shoot through the bustling city center. As you pass under the I-10, you’ll see the first of the day’s mausoleums on the right: St. Louis Cemetery . Hop off if you like or push on.

After about 20 mins, you should reach the terminus of the streetcar. Directly in front of you should be two more of the city’s most opulent cemeteries: Metairie and Greenwood. Wander around these necropolises and admire the many lavish headstones and bronze ornaments. Just please be respectful of offerings and Holy Ground, if there are any.

Just up from the cemeteries is the enormous New Orleans City Park, which is where we’re heading next. This park is a great place to relax and watch the clouds go by.

You’ll be walking under giant oaks and cypresses that are covered in one of New Orleans’ most famous features: Spanish Moss AKA “Old Man Beard. ” The trees creak and the moss moves from the wind, in most serene moments you’ll have in the city. If you visit the Singing Oak near the Art Museum, you’ll have the chance to hear its own song made from a handful of custom wind chimes.

When you’re ready, head back to the city center via Esplanade Avenue or head up towards Harrison . Harrison is the main street of the residential Lakeview neighborhood and has a number of good bars and restaurants.

New Orleans Itinerary Day 3: St. Charles to Audubon

Let’s start at Lee Circle , which hosts two museums that we haven’t seen yet: the National World War II Museum and the Ogden . In particular, the Ogden is worthwhile for its collection of historical Southern art, which often deals with complex issues like slavery and colonialism.

At this point, we’re going to be using the St. Charles Streetcar as our primary means of transport. You’ll be passing through and near a lot of the best neighborhoods in New Orleans, so get ready to hop on and off.

Freret Street and Magazine Street are located a couple of blocks on either side of St Charles Avenue and both are really nice to walk around. You could conceivably walk down one and return back via the other, though that would be quite a bit of walking.

Very close by Lee Circle is Oretha Castle Haley Blvd (OCH) , which is on the cusp of becoming the next big pedestrian street. If you wanted to see a bit of New Orleans before it’s absorbed into the mass consumer matrix, drop by this little slice.

Further along, you’ll eventually arrive in the Garden District. Here you’ll find rows of grand oaks and even grander mansions from the old days. Lafayette Cemetery is also in this area and it is arguably the coolest in the city.

Audubon Park is the end of the line for us. As you leave the tram, you’ll see Tulane to your right. The Newcomb Art Museum is on campus and it’s open to the public as well.  

Spending More Time in New Orleans?

For those with more time on their hands, New Orleans can absolutely provide. The city has enough to keep you busy for at least a week, though you can easily spend months here and not get bored. Here are some lesser-known things to do in New Orleans:

• Ride the Steamboat Natchez : Cruise down the Mississippi River on New Orleans’ only authentic steamboat. Not only will you get to enjoy a slight breeze as you move along the water, but this being the Big Easy, you can also expect some live New Orleans jazz music on board.
• Visit Mardi Gras World : Go behind the scenes of one of the world’s coolest festivals at Mardi Gras World, which is open 7 day a week. Learn about the history of the event and see how the iconic floats are made!
• Check out Marie Laveau’s House of Voodoo : This museum and store–located in the former home of the Scond Voodoo Queen of New Orleans–will introduce you to the practice that’s deeply embedded into the city’s culture and heritage. Window shop, have a psychic reading, or grab a souvenir at this totally unique-to-New Orleans store.
• See the St. Louis Cathedral : The oldest Catholic cathedral in the continental US, this historical church dates back to the 1700’s and is an ideal place for some peace in Jackson Square.
• Go on A Bike Tour : One of the best ways to take in New Orleans is from the seat of a bike! Yup–the city is surprisingly cycle friendly and a self-guided or group tour is a fab way to see all of the city’s most iconic sights.

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Here are some of the top things to do in New Orleans that you just shouldn’t skip:

1. Eat everything

There are so many places to eat in New Orleans that it’s hard to know where to start. Cajun food, French, BBQ, seafood; you’re just going to be excited for the next time you can eat it. You could spend a week in New Orleans, eating out for every meal, and still not come close to grasping the full breadth of the food here.

2. Join the party

Mardi Gras is one huge party and one of the most famous festivals in the world . But there are so many other festivals in New Orleans too! The likes of Jazz Fest , Satchmo , and Voodoo are all worth attending, if not for their cultural offerings than for their great fun.

3. …Or the dead

New Orleans isn’t necessarily the first place you think of if you’re into dark tourism . But here’s a bit of New Orleans’ insider information: did you know that there are seven supposed entryways to the underworld here? Referred to as the Gates of Guinee, these portals are fabled in voodoo culture.

Explore New Orleans and see if you can discover their location. Otherwise, visit the graveyards for a more literal deathly experience.

4. Visit a plantation

There are a number of plantations on the outskirts of New Orleans that have been preserved for the means of modern education. Louisiana was an area where slavery was extremely high and it has affected New Orleans history dramatically. Visit either the Whitney Plantation or the Oak Alley Plantation to educate yourself about this horrible era.

5. Listen to live music everywhere

If you don’t know what to do in New Orleans at night, then just step outside. Almost immediately, you should hear music blaring from some local lounge or street corner. Just follow the sweet sounds of rhythm and harmony and you’ll find your place soon enough.

6. Be a pedestrian

No matter where you stay in New Orleans, there’s always a cool and exciting street nearby. Between the likes of Freret, Royal, St Claude, and everything in between, there is always something going on nearby. Just leave the flat and wander around a bit.

7. Chill out under the trees

Two points of interest in New Orleans that may go unnoticed are the Spanish Moss and the enormous trees that host it. For locals, these two floras are among the most iconic features of the city and are great sources of nostalgia. Hang out under a mighty oak and just watch the Old Man’s Beard blow in the wind.

8. Ride the tram on St. Charles

New Orleans has several historic streetcars that are wonderfully vintage. The St. Charles line is particularly pretty though as the way is lined with beautiful trees. You’ll get to pass by the Garden District as well, which is one of the most elegant neighborhoods in New Orleans.

9. Fall in a second line

If you only have 3 days in New Orleans, the one thing that you have to look for is a second line march. These mini-parades are led by Jazz ensembles and are usually organized for specific celebrations. They also have a tendency to grow, as most people can’t resist joining in the line.

10. Learn about New Orleans history

Some of the absolute must-see places in New Orleans are the many museums that explain its heritage and identity. Places like the Cabildo, the Ogden, and Mardi Gras World provide a wealth of knowledge concerning one of the most culturally unique places in the USA. Don’t forget to ask the homegrown New Orleanians about where they live either.

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New Orleans hostels are dirt cheap and, given New Orleans’ wild reputation, are a great way to meet other people. A lot of hostels in New Orleans are inherently social and can be pretty loud at times. Hopefully, you’re not the introverted type who hides in the dormitories.

Keep in mind that New Orleans is a tourist town and tourist towns are meant to have lots of accommodation! You’ll find all kinds of different lodges in New Orleans besides just hostels, from weird bungalows to the ritziest penthouse suites along with eco-friendly digs. The choice is yours!

I generally prefer   Airbnb in New Orleans . They are more personable and homier than hotels, and New Orleans has endless options to choose from for every kind of traveller! If you like nature, you can find some incredible Louisiana cabins in the French Quarter and in rural areas outside the city.

For more variety in your accommodation choices, be sure to check out Airbnb’s top competitor: VRBO. VRBOs in New Orleans are fun, quirky vacation rentals, perfect for a trip to one of the US’ most unique locales.

New Orleans actually has a number of RV parks/campgrounds within the city limits and these should appeal to people traveling on a shoestring budget. Just remember to lock your car and bring a quality backpacking tent !

The Best Places to Stay in New Orleans

Deciding where to stay in New Orleans isn’t complicated when you’re armed with the right information. Check out some of the top neighborhoods to come home to while out in the Big Easy:

French Quarter

The oldest and most famous neighborhood in New Orleans, there’s no better place to stay on your first visit than the French Quarter.

Central Business District

Don’t let the name fool you; New Orleans’ Central Business District isn’t all stuffy suits and quiet nights. In fact, it’s quite the opposite. This downtown neighbourhood is bursting with fun and excitement.

Bourbon Street

Home to Mardi Gras, big brass bands and plenty of colourful buildings, Bourbon Street is without a doubt the liveliest and craziest part of the city.

Faubourg Marigny

If you’re looking for a dynamic neighborhood with a unique atmosphere, interesting history and wonderful culture, then Faubourg Marigny is for you!

North of the city center are the neighboring districts of Mid-City and Lakeview. These two charming neighborhoods are packed with lush landscapes, interesting art, and plenty of unique experiences. And, they are our pick for where to stay for families visiting New Orleans.

New Orleans Budget Accommodation Hacks

Sometimes you need your own roof above your head – I know the feeling. Other times, you’re doing everything you can to save a nickel and dime.

If you’re trying to cut the costs of travel to New Orleans then maybe it’s time to stay somewhere besides a hostel. And you might struggle to find a Bourbon Street hotel that doesn’t cost an arm and a leg. If you need to save money, try one of these:

• Couchsurf! – Couchsurfing is the best way to save on cash when it comes to accommodation since most of the time you’re crashing for free. Staying with a local host is also a great chance to experience a more authentic side of the city and to visit hidden New Orleans.
• Tap into your backpacker network – You never know when you have a friend in a foreign city! If you’ve traveled a lot, you may have met someone from New Orleans or know someone who knows someone.
• Camp ! – Urban camping is a growing trend in many cities. These campsites are comfortable, sociable, safe, and cheap. They are often located on the outskirts of town, which means they are quieter too.

New Orleans is a very seasonal town, which means prices will fluctuate greatly depending on when you visit. Come during Mardi Gras and be ready to spend a pretty penny. During the low seasons though, visiting New Orleans can be very cheap.

Regardless of when you are planning a trip to New Orleans, there are always ways to cut costs and spend less. Having some budget travel tips is crucial to visiting anywhere in the USA on the cheap and extending your trip.

I’ve gotten pretty good at limiting my travel expenses. It took me years to perfect some methods, but here I’m going to share my best New Orleans travel tips. With this advice, you’ll be able to visit New Orleans on the cheap, no matter what time of year.

A lower daily budget for New Orleans would be around $50-$60. This will get you a dorm bed, groceries, bus tickets, and some extra money for beers or whatever.

Accommodation in New Orleans will undoubtedly be your highest expense. Hotels in New Orleans can be affordable in the summer and fall, but watch out for the spring – prices are highest from February-May.

To save the most on lodging in New Orleans, stick to hostels, use local campgrounds, or check out a New Orleans eco-lodge to spice things up.

Food can be more or less as expensive as you want it to be. Fancy Michelin-star French cooking in the Garden District? Good luck wrapping your head around that bill. You’re better off eating in one of the food halls or just sticking to street gumbo if you’re on a budget.

As always, be mindful of how much you drink as well. Lack of inhibition can really do a number on your wallet.

A Daily Budget in New Orleans

Here’s a breakdown of a daily budget in New Orleans including the average daily costs of various expenses!

A Few Free Things to Do in New Orleans

The best way to visit New Orleans on a budget is to take advantage of all the free activities. Some of the most fun things to do in New Orleans are totally free as well, so enjoy yourselves!

• Movies – New Orleans is a big fan of outdoor screenings. These are often held in public places, like parks, and are free to the viewing public as well. Be sure to check out the Moonlight Movies series, Cinema Sundays in the French Quarter, and Rivertown Movies in the Park.
• Free museums – New Orleans has quite a few cultural centers that offer free entry on certain days of the week/year. The Historic New Orleans Collection, Newcomb Art Gallery, World War II Museum, and the House of Dance and Feathers are all such places. The Ogden Museum and Art Museum offer free days, but only to Louisiana residents.
• Concerts and jam seshes – There is music everywhere in this city – a lot of the time, it’s totally free as well! There are numerous free concerts in New Orleans held year round, like Wednesdays at the Square and Jazz in the Park. Local Bon Operatit also hosts free opera performances every 2nd Wednesday. If you strike out with these, there’s always a street performer around to serenade you.
• Comedy shows – New Orleans has an enormous comedy club scene and every week there is something free going on. Open mics, workshops, and improv sessions are just a few of the events . You may have to buy a drink at the bar and we suggest you do just that – being cheap is easy heckling material.
• The finer things – Many of New Orleans local breweries offer free guided tours of their facilities. NOLA Brewing offers free beer to participants! The New Orleans Cigar Factory also offers tours of their facilities from 10am-10pm. Smoking is allowed.

Travel Tips – New Orleans on a Budget

If you’re looking for more ways to do New Orleans on the cheap, then try using one of these money-saving techniques!

• Be a coupon clipper – There are visitors coupons on New Orleans official webpage! Print a sheet out and take advantage of some extra discounts.
• Practice the three-martini lunch – Though the three-martini lunch harkens to a time when it was socially acceptable to get day drunk, nowadays it mostly refers to amazing drink deals. Some New Orleans eateries offer martinis for as low as $0.25! This shit is just dangerous.
• Cheap (sometimes free) oysters – One of the cheapest things to do in New Orleans is to take advantage of the many oyster deals around town. You can find these for as low as $0.50 per shellfish or less. They’re even free at Le Bon Temps Roule on Fridays!
• Eat at the local restaurants – New Orleans’ is renowned for its culinary scene, but eating in the touristy areas or at a 5-star restaurant is going to ruin you. Go to a dive bar and eat the house gumbo once in a while or visit a greasy spoon diner.
• Happy hour – If you aren’t already impressed by the free oysters or the quarter martinis, well there’s plenty more offers in town. New Orleans has a crazy array of happy hours. Just wander around the city between 4 and 6 pm and you’ll definitely find something.
• Cook at home as often as possible – One of the most proven ways of saving money for backpackers: buying your own groceries and cooking at home will save you heaps of cash.

Why You Should Travel to New Orleans with a Water Bottle

The plastic problem is global now… so we need to work globally to make a difference.

It’s not going to change overnight, but you can be part of the solution and not the problem. When you travel, avoiding single-use plastic is one of the ways you can do that. I know it’s tasking at times, but together, being a responsible traveler with plastic use is only going to get easier.

Plus, now you won’t be buying overpriced bottles of water either! Travel with a filtered water bottle instead and never waste a cent nor a turtle’s life again.

Drink water from ANYWHERE. The Grayl Geopress is the worlds leading filtered water bottle protecting you from all manner of waterborne nasties.

Single-use plastic bottles are a MASSIVE threat to marine life. Be a part of the solution and travel with a filter water bottle. Save money and the environment!

We’ve tested the Geopress  rigorously  from the icy heights of Pakistan to the tropical jungles of Bali, and can confirm: it’s the best water bottle you’ll ever buy!

New Orleans is massively affected by various festivals and weather seasons, so there definitely is the best time to visit. Avoid Mardi Gras season if you’re not a fan of mass tourism.

If money is no issue for you, then the best time to visit New Orleans is, without question February to May. During this time, New Orleans’ weather is calm and the temperatures are pleasant.

More importantly, this is the time when the best parties in New Orleans occur e.g. Mardi Gras , French Quarter Fest , and Jazz Fest .

Prices during these months will be absolutely ridiculous though. Most forms of accommodation – hotels, Airbnb, fuckin’ cardboard boxes – will be booked up months in advance.

On that note, a lot of the local businesses and attractions in New Orleans close during Mardi Gras. Unless you’re visiting NOLA specifically for this holiday, you may be better off just waiting until everything has passed.

As June approaches, so does the rain, humidity, and steamy temps. During the summer season (June-September) the city can feel barren at times, as hardly any tourists visit for fear of the heat or hurricanes.

As such, you can get some screaming deals on lodging during this time.

Visiting during the summer can be a more authentic New Orleans experience. The city is definitely sifted of tourists and a lot of really important festivals, like ESSENCE and Satchmo, happen at this time as well.

August and September are peak hurricane months , which is usually a grim time for New Orleans. These storms can wreak havoc on the city and are often treated with a high degree of severity. If a big storm is on the way, don’t be surprised to see stores boarded up and shut down.

October- December is post hurricane season and just like spring, it’s possibly the best time of year to go to New Orleans as weather will still be pleasant and there will be less tourists than in the spring months.

Decmber-February are the coolest months of the year in NoLa, yet they still tend to be much warmer than the rest of the continental United States.

Don’t expect to see many tourists at this time, and be prepared for variable temperatures. You can also rest assured that your chances of encountering a hurricane will be reallll slim . 

What to Pack for New Orleans

While your exact packing list will depend largely on the season, here are some essentials you shouldn’t skip out on.

Osprey Daylite Plus

Any city slicker needs a SLICK daypack. In general, you can never go wrong with an Osprey pack, but with its array of awesome organisation, durable materials, and a comfy build, the Daylite Plus will make your urban jaunts buttery smooth.

Grayl Geopress Filtered Bottle

Save $$$, save the planet, and save yourself the headache (or tummy ache). Instead of sticking to bottled plastic, buy a Grayl Geopress, drink water no matter the source, and be happy knowing the turtles and fishies thank you (and so do we!). 🙂

OCLU Action Camera

Wait, it’s cheaper than a GoPro and… better than a GoPro? The OCLU action cam is the cam for budget backpackers that want to immortalise all their wildest adventures – including that time you dropped it off a Himalayan mountain – WITHOUT breaking the bank.

Solgaard Solarbank

Resourceful travellers know how to find power outlets anywhere on the road; smart travellers just pack a solar power bank instead. With 4-5 phone cycles per charge and the ability to top up literally anywhere the sun is shining, there’s no reason to ever get lost again!

Petzl Actik Core Headlamp

ALL travellers need a headtorch – no exceptions! Even in the hostel dorm, this beauty can save you in a real pinch. If you haven’t got in on the headtorch game, DO. I promise you: you’ll never look back. Or at least if you do, you’ll be able to see what you’re looking at.

Safety in New Orleans took a bit of a dive following Hurricane Katrina. In the wake of the horrific storm, New Orleans became a wasteland as entire neighborhoods and communities were decimated. What resulted was widespread displacement, food shortages, and an increasing reliance on federal aid.

As time went on, the city became somewhat lawless . Like a purgatory, the poor souls that remained in NOLA had to resort to criminal means to survive. There was looting, theft, and violence. Even after the city began to rebuild, endemic crime still hung around.

Today, New Orleans has returned quite close to its former self and is certainly not the chaotic mess it was following Katrina. Almost all of New Orleans’ points of interest are safe and accepting visitors.

That being said, New Orleans is still one of the most violent cities in America. Though much of the violence is located in the outer neighborhoods – places that should hold little appeal to tourists.

Before even going near these districts, be sure to check their status with the local authorities. Venturing into one of these areas randomly could put you in a bad place.

Regardless of where you are, you must exhibit common-sense safety precautions at all times when visiting New Orleans. Pickpockets and scammers still hang around touristy areas and will take advantage of you.

Sex, Drugs & Rock ‘n’ Roll in New Orleans

In the opinion of many, it’s New Orleans that’s the best place to party in the USA – it makes visiting Las Vegas look like a kid’s party. With its infamous Mardi Gras, eccentric characters, and daily opportunities for debauchery, you’re going to want to get lit at least once while in the Big Easy.

Alcohol is obviously plentiful, and while nothing else is legal in Louisiana, you can certainly find everything and everything in the city if you know where to look.

If you plan on partaking in drug tourism in New Orleans, be very careful of who you buy from. Dealers are notorious for cutting their blow and selling God knows what to tourists. Wait until you’re with a savvy local who knows the difference before diving in nose-first.

New Orleans has many strip clubs and other adult entertainment scenes–whether you dabble in this and sex on the road , make sure you’re being respectful of everyone you meet and practise safe sex, too.

Getting Insured BEFORE Visiting New Orleans

Traveling without insurance in New Orleans would be risky. Especially with the infamous (and ridiculous) for-profit health system in the USA. So do consider getting good travel insurance sorted before you head off on an adventure.

I have used World Nomads for years now and made a few claims over the years. They’re easy to use, professional, and relatively affordable. They may also let you buy or extend a policy once you’ve started your trip and are already abroad which is super handy.

ALWAYS sort out your backpacker insurance before your trip. There’s plenty to choose from in that department, but a good place to start is Safety Wing .

They offer month-to-month payments, no lock-in contracts, and require absolutely no itineraries: that’s the exact kind of insurance long-term travellers and digital nomads need.

SafetyWing is cheap, easy, and admin-free: just sign up lickety-split so you can get back to it!

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New Orleans has one major airport that handles most of its air traffic – Louis Armstrong International Airpor t . The airport is located quite close to the city but getting to and from is not as easy as it should be.

The airport is a quick 20-minute drive away from the French Quarter but costs a minimum of $35, Uber or taxi. If that sounds like a bit much to you, that’s because it is.

Those who want to travel cheaply to the city center from Louis Armstrong can use the E-2 bus, which stops on the second floor. Travel time is 45 minutes.

There are numerous Amtrak trains and mainliner bus companies offering services to New Orleans. Union Passenger Terminal is the primary arrival/departure port for all of these.

Visiting New Orleans with a car is a relatively straightforward task. I-10 is the main highway in and out of New Orleans and it runs right through the heart of the city.

When driving in the city center just be aware of where you park – parking meters can be expensive and carjackings are on the rise .

When you’re ready to leave New Orleans, there are plenty of onwards destinations. A sunny Florida road trip is a good choice if you’re living the vanlife. Just be aware that the South is a pretty big region and that drive times can be longer than you think. Refer below for a list of Southern cities and their distances.

• Baton Rouge (LA) – 1.5 hours
• Mobile (AL) – 2 hours
• Tallahassee (FL) – 5.5 hours
• Houston (TX) – 5.5 hours
• Memphis (TN) – 5.5 hours
• Atlanta (GA) – 6.5 hours
• Dallas (TX) – > 8 hours

Getting Around New Orleans

Once you can wrap your head around the weird layout, New Orleans is actually relatively easy to get around. New Orleans is pretty fun to walk in and the public transport is good enough that you can just about anywhere you need to.

The city itself is shaped like a crescent and tends to disorientate those who are not used to its odd shape. Cardinal directions seemingly don’t exist in New Orleans, which is a phenomenon you can test out simply by asking a local which way is north. (They’ll look at you like you’re crazy.)

The best way to navigate New Orleans is to just refer to major landmarks in the city. If you ask for directions, you will often be told to just “head towards the river” or “the lake.” Figure out where these places are at all times, and you’ll be golden.

Thanks to its overwhelming array of shopping streets, one of the most fun things to do in New Orleans is to just walk around.

You could spend an entire afternoon just browsing around the likes of Magazine Street , Freret Street , or Royal Street , and you wouldn’t be wasting your time.

New Orleans has several historic trams that are as useful as they are enjoyable. The streetcars themselves resemble their European cousins and could fit right in Milan or Lisbon.

There are two streetcar lines: r ed for Canal Street and green for St Charles. Both are major throughways and can get quite busy.

New Orleans has a public transport system, referred to as RTA . There are plenty of buses running throughout the city. Rides cost $1.25 one way or $3 for an entire day.

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Booking.com is quickly becoming our go-to for accommodation. From cheap hostels to stylish homestays and nice hotels, they’ve got it all!

While New Orleans isn’t a well-known digital nomad destination, it might just be one of the coolest places to visit in the USA and work online. Actual brick and mortar jobs will be hard to come by without US citizenship or other work permits.

But because the cost of living is cheap in New Orleans compared to other American cities, it’s certainly a quality place to base. Especially if you’re a live music, seafood, or Spanish Moss lover.

Volunteering, on the other hand, is a good travel job opportunity in New Orleans, mostly in the form of working in hostels. If you do want to volunteer in the Big Easy, I recommend you do so with a trusted company.

The Broke Backpacker recommends Worldpackers as an easy to use and reputable volunteer platform . It’s transparent and filled with real reviews, so you’ll know exactly what to expect before you arrive.

Worldpackers: connecting travellers with  meaningful travel experiences.

New Orleans nightlife reputation certainly precedes itself – this is one of the most fun, drunkest, most laissez-faire cities in the entire USA and almost never lets up!

There are so many things to do in New Orleans at night. Comedy, live music, honky tonks, line dancing, parties, traditional New Orleans jazz, festivals, binge drinking; you name, New Orleans has it.

Obviously, a live music act is a must-see in New Orleans. You can easily walk into a show on the likes of Frenchman Street, which is booming pretty much every night. Diehard jazz fans ought to head to the Spotted Cat, the original Tipitina’s or Kermit’s Mother-in-law Lounge in the Treme . All are hallowed jazz club venues among the Orleans jazz community.

Bourbon Street is Bourbon Street – and by that I mean it’s flooded with tourists – all the time. I’d spend about 15 minutes walking through here if I could. Although, there are a number of quality cabarets and strip clubs here (if you’re into that kind of thing).

A much cooler area to drink in is Bywater . This neighborhood is a lot more local and, as such, way less snooty or idiotic. St Claude Street is a bit of an artist’s haunt and has a bunch of unpretentious bars.

If you wanted the opposite of this, then you should probably head to the Warehouse District. This is New Orleans redeveloped, darling. Think SoMa in SF or the Pearl in Portland – and as such it attracts a lot of yuppies.

Finally, Oak Street in Uptown mainly attracts students. If you were looking for cheap drinks and opinionated young adults to go with them, then this is probably the place to be.

Wherever you choose to spend it, you can rest assured that nightlife in New Orleans will surely be entertaining.

Dining in New Orleans

It is no secret that New Orleans is a foodie town. In fact, it’s home to some of the most prized dishes in the entire USA. People travel from all over the world to sample local favorites, like beignets or banana fosters, and to search for the best Cajun food in New Orleans.

The food of New Orleans is a divine mix of Creole, African, French, and Southern cooking styles. Honestly, I don’t think I can define the heavenly flavors of New Orleans cuisine simply with words – I can only say that it is supremely delicious and not at all healthy.

Since it’s located right on the Gulf of Mexico, seafood is very big in New Orleans. Crawfish is the primary catch of the day and can be found on just about every menu.

If you get a boiled craw and its tail is straight, don’t eat it – it was already dead when it was cooked. Catfish is a personal favorite of mine, especially when it’s blackened and spicy.

Beignets are those little, fried dough balls that you get at breakfast. The Muffuletta sandwich is an awesome collab between New Orleans and its Sicilian population (go to Central Grocery & Deli for the original). Sandwich lovers should be on the lookout for Po Boys, which usually contain a healthy dose of fried meats and a bit of veg.

You can go to the most famous restaurants in New Orleans to sample delicacies if you like. Honestly, though, you can consistently find some really good food at the smaller, less upscale eateries as well. If you want to ensure you don’t miss any of the iconic treats the Big Easy has to offer, a New Orleans food tour is the best shout.

Slick Restaurants and Cheap Eats

Here are some of my favorite restaurants in New Orleans:

• Elizabeth’s – One of the most delicious diners in New Orleans, Elizabeth’s brings impeccable quality and great prices to the table. With classic southern and seafood options, you definitely won’t leave hungry.
• Dat Dog – Complete with a colorful outdoor seating area, Dat Dog serves up creative takes on the original American hot dog. For ultimate savings, stop by their hot dog happy hour every weekday from 4-7.
• Coop’s Place – Since 1983, Coop’s has been bringing delicious Cajun food flavors. If you’re feeling adventurous, you can even give their Rabbit & Sausage jumbalaya a go for around $12. They’re closed on Tuesday and Wednesdays though.
• Daisy Dukes Cafe- Known for its incredible service and Cajun eats, Daisy’s is a can’t miss if you’re traveling New Orleans on a budget. Portion sizes are insane and so is their variety–you can even try alligator sausage here!
• Willie Mae’s Scotch House – Established in 1957, Willie Mae’s is another longstanding Big Easy staple famous for its fried chicken. You can get 3 big pieces for around $16. Not bad if you’re splitting!
• Any Po Boys Place – Po boys are the official sandwich of the city, and as such, they can be found pretty much anywhere. Hole in the walls should always be your go to, as are any po boys that include seafood instead of your traditional sandwich meats!

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Festivals in New Orleans

Some of New Orleans’ best attractions are its lavish parties! This wouldn’t be a legit New Orleans travel guide if I didn’t recommend you to plan your trip around any one of these festivals for instant good times.

• Mardi Gras (February/March) – the most raucous cultural festival in the country. Mardi Gras AKA “Fat Tuesday” is New Orleans’ version of Carnival. It includes parades, Mardi Gras Indians, costumes, binge drinking, music, and, of course, beads.
• Tennessee Williams/New Orleans Literary Festival (March) – Dedicated to the beloved author. Features writing competitions, spoken performances, a book fair, and other literary activities.
• French Quarter Fest (April) – A showcase of Southern music styles. Quite large and totally free to attend. Claimed to be “the largest free music festival in the USA.”
• New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival (April) – The single most important music festival in New Orleans. Showcase of everything the city is known for including jazz, folk, bluegrass, Cajun, and then some.
• New Orleans Oyster Fest (June) – Celebration of the greatest mollusk ever. Here’s a fun game: eat 20 and try to figure out if you’re sick or horny.
• ESSENCE (July) – The largest celebration of African-American music and culture in the USA. Described as a “party with a purpose.” Features rap, hip-hop, R&B, jazz, gospel, and more soulful sounds.
• Running of the Bulls (July) – New Orleans own version of the Spanish tradition, but instead of bulls, there is a great stampede of roller-blading Derby girls. They chase people with plastic bats so I hope you’re nimble.
• Satchmo Summerfest (August) – A New Orleans jazz festival celebrating the great Louis Armstrong with citywide performances. St. Augustine church holds a “jazz mass” that is purportedly amazing.
• Blues and BBQ Fest (October) – Fairly self-explanatory festival held in Lafayette Square Park. Free admission!
• Voodoo Music (October) – New Orleans biggest Halloween party! A multi-day music festival that features a huge array of genres.

Getting Off the Beaten Path in New Orleans

As cool as mainstream NoLa is, there’s plenty more to be experienced off the beaten path ! While I’m not saying you shouldn’t do all the classic activities while visiting New Orleans, just make sure you take some time for some lesser-known ones, too.

In the famous French Quarter for example, you can hit up three very weird museums: the Pharmacy Museum , the Voodoo Museum , and the Museum of Death . Certainly unique if you ask me.

To get a feel for New Orleans history, you can spend a few hours touring the Whitney Plantation Museum where you’ll discover some pretty dark shit. For example, the city (and Louisiana as a whole) was entirely built by enslaved people . The museum focuses exclusively on the lives of the people who suffered the most and gives you insights you’d be hard-pressed to find anywhere else.

You can also marvel at the cute and quirky architecture of Algiers Point , a residential neighborhood that’s just a short ferry ride away from the French Quarter and filled with lovely old homes in all colors.

Things go wrong on the road ALL THE TIME. Be prepared for what life throws at you.

Buy an AMK Travel Medical Kit before you head out on your next adventure – don’t be daft!

No doubt you’re going to have a few questions before traveling to New Orleans. Luckily, I’ve got answers!

What is there to do in New Orleans?

Of course, New Orleans jazz is legendary. You couldn’t visit without checking out some jazz clubs to make sure you spend a night on Bourbon Street. Other top things to do in New Orleans include admiring the French Quarter, trying the city’s iconic cuisine, and getting lost in City Park.

How much will 5 days in New Orleans cost?

You can get away with $250 for 5 days on a New Orleans itinerary – IF you stay in a hostel, eat cheap food, and don’t overspend on party favors. If you’re looking for some privacy and/or luxury, expect to spend 3x that.

Is New Orleans safe to visit?

Yes. These days, visiting New Orleans is certainly safe enough and attracts hundreds of thousands of tourists each year. That being said, the city still has a high crime rate and neighborhoods far from tourist areas should be avoided.

Is New Orleans expensive?

It’s not that expensive. New Orleans is one of the cheaper cities in the US, but being a mass tourism destination, it can catch you out easily. You can easily spend hundreds of dollars a day to see NoLa in full luxury. Luckily, there are plenty of things to do in New Orleans for backpackers on the cheap.

Where are the best drinks in New Orleans?

Some delicious (and unique) alcoholic drinks to try in New Orleans include a Sazerac, Bourbon Punch, Absinthe Frappe, and a Cajun Bloody Mary. But I suppose the later it gets, the less important the taste is!

The Big Easy is an adventure waiting to happen. You’ll be hard-pressed to find another city in the US with so much character, entertainment, and delicious food.

While other party destinations in the USA have become tacky these days, NoLa has retained its charm even as its popularity has skyrocketed.

New Orleans is a city with a whole lot of soul, and delicacies that I can absolutely assure you can’t be found anywhere else. Fill up on crawfish, pop your Sazerac virginity, and get acquainted with New Orleans’ interesting paranormal scenes.

Just make sure you roll up into town with an open mind and a bit of spontaneity: while Bourbon Street is an experience to be had, the rest of the city is teeming with jazz clubs, food tours, and just as many memorable moments.

So what are you waiting for?

Go enjoy the Big Easy–just make sure you show up with an empty stomach!

Updated February 2022 by Samantha from Intentional Detours

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My 9 Top Things to Do in New Orleans on a Budget

Since my Dad grew up in New Orleans, we traveled to New Orleans regularly throughout my childhood and adulthood for family reunions. In this post, I’ll share with you my favorite, highly recommended things to do in New Orleans on a budget.

My New Orleans Must Do’s

Full disclosure: this is going to be a very subjective list. Rather than share a huge list of all the best things to do in New Orleans, I’m going to highlight the New Orleans essential experiences that stand out to me personally, after years of visiting and getting advice from locals.

My Curated New Orleans Map and Trip Checklist

If the suggestions below are helpful to you, you’ll love having our personalized New Orleans recommendations in a handy, interactive online map. In addition to over 30 points of interest, it also includes three suggested self-guided walking routes.

I’m also throwing in a handy checklist to help you narrow down what to put in your itinerary and how to prepare for the trip.

** Get our New Orleans Map + Trip Checklist Pack **

1. Look at those houses!

I could wander the streets of New Orleans all day every day just looking at the houses. My favorite area to explore is around St. Charles Avenue near Audubon Park and Tulane University. 

Apart from the impressive mansions along St. Charles, you’ll also notice a lot of long, narrow homes throughout New Orleans neighborhoods. These are called “shotgun” houses , which were commonly built in the late 1800’s. Whereas in the French Quarter , the architecture is different – a mix of colonial French, Spanish, and Caribbean styles.

Disclosure: This post contains affiliate links. That means if you make a purchase through one of our links, we may receive a small commission, at no additional cost to you.

Visiting New Orleans for the first time? Explore with a local guide! Check out these tours and activities:

2. Ride the street car

There are five street car lines in New Orleans and the Saint Charles line is the oldest, continuously operating street car in the world.

You can take the St. Charles line from the French Quarter to Audubon Park (and beyond), which I recommend doing.

Pro Tips: Street cars are part of the New Orleans public transit system, NORTA, and the fare is $1.25. You can pay in exact change on the car. Or what we found easier was pre-paying online via the LePass app ., activating the ticket immediately before boarding, and showing the app to the driver.

Be a responsible tourist on the street car and be prepared with your fare when you get on. Also, don’t stick hands or other body parts out the windows.

3. Visit Audubon Zoo and Park

I loved the zoo when I was little and still enjoy it now. It’s the first place I wanted to go when my nieces and nephews finally got to visit New Orleans with us post-pandemic.

The zoo is not the cheapest activity but it’s one of the few things I splurge on in New Orleans.

Audubon Zoo is great for kids and adult visitors alike. The Louisiana Swamp section is always a highlight, with its large alligator area. They even have albino alligators.

Tip: When we visited with six kids under the age of 7 on a warm October day, several of the little kids got very and tired and sweaty by mid-day. New Orleans heat and humidity would make visiting in summer pretty uncomfortable.

The zoo is located within Audubon Park, which also has nice walking paths, golf course, stables, playground, and more within its 350 acres of grounds.

I love spending time in Audubon Park, whether to exercise, have a picnic, or visit the playground with kids. 

4. Eat Beignets

Beignets are a French donut made from rectangular, fried dough topped with powdered sugar. They are an icon of New Orleans and always a big part of our family visits. 

Our family always went to Cafe du Monde , the most classic and famous New Orleans beignet joint with several locations around town. They crank out traditional beignets, which you can pair with cafe au lait or hot chocolate.

Pile on the powdered sugar, take a breath in and bite so you don’t blow a cloud of sugar everywhere. Avoid wearing black and be prepared to make a mess – it’s impossible not to.

Recently we explored some other beignet cafes in the Garden District and found that our favorite is actually from PJ’s Coffee.

PJ’s is a local chain, and most locals don’t think to go there for beignets. Nevertheless, several of the franchise locations serve classic beignets made from what’s essentially a French fry machine, rather than a big deep fryer.

5. Eat New Orleans Food

Depending on your taste preferences, there are so many specialties unique to New Orleans that you can try. 

In addition to beignets, which is truly a must try in New Orleans, we also recommend seeking out a New Orleans King Cake . My Aunt ships us one in the mail every year.

A King Cake is a cross between a cinnamon roll and a coffee cake, shaped in a circle and topped with Mardi Gras colored icing. There’s also a small plastic baby toy inside and tradition is: whoever finds the Baby Jesus in their piece of cake will throw the next party or bring the next cake.

Other classic New Orleans food that we grew up with includes:

• Red beans and rice – a classic Louisiana Creole dish with spices and smoked ham or sausage
• Jambalaya – a savory, spiced stew with rice, meat, and seafood
• Crawfish étouffé – a rich, gravy-like stew with crawfish, served over rice
• Po’ Boy sandwich – a New Orleans sandwich on long French bread, can include roast beef, fried shrimp, oysters, or other fillings
• Hubig’s New Orleans style hand pies – packaged hand pies from a family bakery with a long local history

My family’s recommended restaurants include:

• Mr. Ed’s Oyster Bar and Fish House for New Orleans seafood in a casual atmosphere
• Camellia Grill for old school diner breakfasts and sandwiches in a retro atmosphere

6. Check out a cemetery

Many grave sites are super elaborate, marble monuments honoring the dead in a wide variety of styles.

Tip: You’ll find several cemeteries throughout the city, but I think the most impressive is the Metairie Cemetery.

It happens to be where my grandparents and great grandparents are buried. They have a simple plot relative to the veritable mansion-graves. You could walk around for hours, and there’s a big loop that used to be a horse race track, which has some of the most impressive monuments.

With a strong culture of mourning and burial, jazz funerals, Day of the Dead celebrations, and even Voodoo, it’s no surprise there are many tours that highlight ghost stories, cemeteries, and traditions around death in New Orleans.

Try a local guided tour to learn more about this side of New Orleans:

7. Wander the French Quarter

Many people will put the French Quarter first on their sightseeing tour. While my own Creole family history has roots in the French Quarter, it’s never the first place we go during our trips. But it’s certainly an important part of the city.

As the oldest neighborhood in New Orleans, founded by the French in the early 1700s, the French Quarter is an interesting place for history.

Jackson Square and the front of St. Louis Cathedral, pictured above, is now a hub for street performers and artists. It reminds me a bit of Montmartre in Paris .

Today the French Quarter is also the place for parties, live music, and loud bars. Bourbon Street is known for its jazz clubs. There are definitely some gritty, keep- Portland -weird vibes. Even in the morning, we smelled whiffs of marijuana and pee throughout the quarter.

You can follow Canal Street , where several street car lines cross paths, down to the Mississippi River to find the Audubon Aquarium and Insectarium next to the ferry terminal . Our little cousins really enjoyed the Aquarium – it’s been ages since I visited myself.

My aunt highly recommends visiting M.S. Rau , an impressive antique shop on Royal Street, which you can peruse like a museum even if you’re not buying anything. At the Sazerac House on Canal Street, you can learn about the history and production of local cocktails. She also recommends the Irish Cultural Museum .

Check out more New Orleans French Quarter guided experiences and activities here:

8. Explore the Garden District and Magazine Street

Rather than spend a lot of time in the French Quarter, I prefer the Uptown neighborhoods of New Orleans.

The Garden District , bordered by 1st and Magazine Streets, has a long history and many interesting shops to explore. “Magazine” comes from the word for “store” in French, and the street is full of restaurants, cafes, and boutiques.

We enjoyed a Donut & Beignet Tour in the Garden District .

9. New Orleans City Park and Lake Pontchartrain 

At City Park you can wander the free sculpture garden , rent quad bikes for a family ride, or paddle in swan boats on the lake.

I have fond memories of driving through the park at night after Thanksgiving to see their impressive Christmas lights display , a fundraiser called Celebration in the Oaks .

The Children’s Museum and Museum of Art are in City Park, as well as several golf courses.

Nearby on the lake, you can see levies and canals that had such a crucial role in Hurricane Katrina. We like walking the newly updated Bucktown Boardwalk area near my Uncle’s place.

View the Pontchartrain Causeway over the lake – possibly the world’s longest continuous bridge at 24 miles long. If you drive across, note that there is a toll to pay on the way back to New Orleans.

If you’re into vintage aviation stuff, stop by the old New Orleans Lakefront Airport which has a cafe , some memorabilia of the early days in air travel, retro decor, and still runs private flights.

New Orleans Travel Tips

Best time to visit New Orleans – Many people like to visit New Orleans for Mardi Gras. I’ve actually never been for the parades but I also don’t like big crowds and loud noises. The humidity in summer is brutal and early Fall is hurricane season, so I generally recommend visiting in the Spring or late Fall. 

Best places to stay – I highly recommend staying Uptown, between the Garden District and Audubon Park if possible. We found vacation rentals on Napoleon Avenue near the street car for our family gatherings.

The Pontchartrain Hotel is highly rated and has a prime location on the St. Charles street car line.

Check availability and rates for the Pontchartrain Hotel on St. Charles Avenue >

Pack for the Climate – Much of the year New Orleans is hot and humid. Pack lightweight, quick-dry clothing but don’t forget an outer layer for the inevitable frigid Air Conditioning. 

Watch the roads and sidewalks – Many parts of New Orleans have unusually bad roads and potholes, while tree roots are notorious for upending sidewalks. Drive carefully and watch your step, as uneven ground is everywhere.

Pronouncing “New Orleans” – N’awlins is often mispronounced. My family, who grew up there, say “New OR-lee-ins” with emphasis on the OR and turning the ending into two syllables. Admittedly, I do not say it that way, I say “New OR-lins”.

I hope this list of my favorite things to do in New Orleans is helpful in planning your trip. Please share your questions and suggestions in the comments, and check back as I will keep updating this post with new recommendations on future visits.

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New Orleans on a Budget – the Comprehensive Guide

This is the ultimate guide to a vacationing in New Orleans on a budget – and still having a blast!

With its posh restaurants, pricey hotels, and world famous tours you can easily go broke in New Orleans – but it doesn’t have to be that way! We’ve learned the tricks of the trade to a New Orleans vacation on a tight budget.

This is a super-comprehensive guide to visiting New Orleans on a budget, so feel free to click on a link below and skip to a specific section.

• Accommodations
• Transportation
• Food & Dining

* This post may contain affiliate links. If you click on one of them, we may receive a small commission (for which we are deeply grateful) at no extra cost to you.

How to save on Accommodations in New Orleans – Where to stay

Hotel stays can often be the biggest expense on any vacation, and in New Orleans the sky is the limit with hotel pricing. Finding ways to save on New Orleans hotels is your key to keeping the trip under budget!

Stay Central – Save BIG!

If you take no other advice from this article, at least remember this: book your stay in the French Quarter. As long as you’re staying in the French Quarter, most sights will be walkable or easily accessible by streetcar for a few cents.

Sure, you may find a cheaper hotel across the river or further away, but you’ll waste all those savings and more (not to mention your precious vay-cay time) on taxis/Uber/Lyft rides. More on this later…

HOT TIP: Book early to make sure you have plenty of affordable accommodation options. New Orleans can really book up – especially around events like Jazz Fest, Mardi Gras, or Spring Break. Plan about 3 months in advance, or 5 months in advance during big events.

Best for: couples, small groups, and solo travelers

For low-maintenance travelers, The Quisby hostel is the best value you can find for your New Orleans stay! If you’ve never stayed in a hostel before, don’t be intimidated! This hostel is known for being clean, stylish, comfortable, and conveniently located in the French Quarter near the streetcar.

A stay at The Quisby includes free breakfast, complimentary check-in cocktail, high-speed wifi, ensuite bathrooms, and access to The Quisby’s 24-hour bar.

Bonus – the hostel environment is much more social, so you can meet new friends!

Airbnb Rental

Best for: larger groups with 4+ travelers

If you’re traveling with a larger group, you’ll find the most value in renting from Airbnb instead of booking multiple hotel rooms. Just enter your dates and the number of people in your party. View the map to see options in the neighborhood you want to stay.

Airbnb is a great option for group trips because you can stay together in one space and the price per person will usually end up cheaper than hotels.

How to Save on Transportation in New Orleans

It’s so easy to over-spend on transportation during any vacation! Fortunately, the areas of New Orleans you’ll be most likely to spend your time are easy to navigate at little to no cost!

As long as you’re staying in the French Quarter (you should) most sights will be within a short walk. For anywhere you can’t walk, here’s the low down on getting from A to B.

Skip the Car Rentals

First and foremost, let’s talk about car rentals in New Orleans. This one is easy: don’t do it! There’s very little parking available in the area, any parking you find will be expensive, and in the end you’ll barely (if ever) use the car!

If New Orleans is just one stop in a longer road trip, then consider waiting until you leave NOLA to start your rental.

Streetcar Public Transportation

Best for: a day trip to the Garden District

Aside from your own two feet, the streetcar is the cheapest way to get around New Orleans. $2.50 takes you round trip from the Canal Street stop in the French Quarter to the Garden District!

Keep in mind: New Orleans Streetcars do not have change and only accept cash – so just remember to bring exact change.

Uber & Lyft

Best for: transportation to/from the airport, tour meetings (like Bayou or plantations) that don’t provide pickup.

If you’ve got a bit further to go, Uber & Lyft are your best transportation options. Both are prevalent in New Orleans with lots of drivers – so go with whichever you prefer. With either choice, they’ll take you exactly where you need to go and (in my experience) are happy to chat and share recommendations for your stay.

For airport arrivals: The New Orleans airport only allows Uber/Lyft drivers to pickup from a specific lot. After picking up any bags in baggage claim, look for signs for Ground Transportation and exit the airport. As you exit the airport look for signs for the “Ground Transportation Center”. You should see a sign for “App Based Ride Services”. Once there, you can request your ride and be picked up.

How to Save on Drinks in New Orleans

The prospect of spending $15+ per cocktail for a night out in New Orleans bars would intimidate anyone looking to stay on a budget. We’ve learned lots of tricks to saving on drinks in New Orleans so you can just say no to the pricey cocktails!

The first and easiest way to drink on a budget in New Orleans to buy your own at a grocery or liquor store rather than the bar. New Orleans allows open containers, so you can buy your own for much less and then take it with you as you walk around.

Where to shop for drinks in the French Quarter:

• Compac Grocery – 731 St Louis St, New Orleans, LA 70130
• Brothers Food Mart – 148 Carondelet St, New Orleans, LA 70130
• CVS – 620 Decatur St, New Orleans, LA 70130

Things to keep in mind:

• Put your drinks in shatter-proof containers (think aluminum beer cans or cocktails in water bottles) rather than glass bottles. No matter how careful and balanced you may be, things can get rowdy in the French Quarter! So play it safe and carry something that won’t shatter and hurt someone if you accidentally get bumped.
• You can’t bring your own drinks into bars or most other businesses. This is both because they only intend space for paying customers and because it helps them monitor whether people are being over-served under their watch.

Here are a few tools of the trade that make BYOB in New Orleans a lot easier:

This clutch + flask combo that enables you to carry spirits hands-free!

>> Check it out on Amazon here

This reusable bottle can be filled with your to-go beverage. When you’ve finished your drink, it rolls up so you can fit it into a pocket or purse.

Happy Hours & Drink Specials

While the BYOB option is great for saving money in New Orleans, you’ll understandably want to actually GO IN to some of the NOLA hotspots and enjoy your trip. The best way to keep your New Orleans trip on a budget is to look for happy hours and drink specials!

Here are a few Happy Hour specials you can’t miss:

SouBou – 3-6 pm daily

• $6 Tom Collins and sazeracs, $4 glasses of house wine, prosecco, well hi-balls
• $3 Abita Amber drafts
• delightful “happier hour” food menu all $3-6

Dickie Brennan’s Tableau – 2-5 pm daily

• Second-floor balcony with a view of Jackson Square
• $5 calamari or truffle fries
• $5 select wines, beers, and classic cocktails

Vacherie – 3-7 pm daily , must sit at the bar

• $5 bar menu includes dishes like spicy chicken poppers, gator sausage, slider-of-the-day, or a cup of seafood étouffée
• $5 Palomas, rum punch, mixed well drinks, house wines, or a draft beer flight

How to Dine in New Orleans on a Budget

The noteworthy cuisine of New Orleans means you’re in for some truly exceptional meals. It also means that these tasty delights can come with a hefty bill.

I’m a firm believer that food is half the joy of traveling, so I’ll never be a proponent of skipping those incredible meals out. With this guide and some thoughtful decisions, you can easily enjoy the best of New Orleans cuisine on a budget.

Breakfast & Brunch:

• Cafe Beignet – If you go to New Orleans and don’t have a beignet, did you really even go? I’d say not, and Cafe Beignet is a classic for a reason! You can easily order a hearty breakfast, a side of beignets, and the obligatory Café Au Lait all under $15.
• Stanley – Perched on Jackson Square, Stanley is known for their incredible all-day breakfast & brunch menu. With unique takes on simple dishes, you’ll be dreaming of your meal at Stanley every morning long after you’ve returned home.

Check this out next: The Best Brunch Places in New Orleans

Lunch & Dinner:

• Gumbo Shop – You don’t have to spend $30+ a dinner plate for quality gumbo in New Orleans! Simply and aptly named, Gumbo Shop offers killer servings of Chicken Andouille Gumbo (my fav), Po’ Boys, or other NOLA staples under $10. Check out the courtyard!
• Cafe Amelie – With an adorable courtyard and delicious menu, Cafe Amelie is one of my favorite dinner spots in all New Orleans. While I’ll note that Cafe Amelie prices lean a bit on the higher end among others on this list, it’s worth every penny!
• Felipe’s Mexican Taqueria – You may not think of tacos when you think of New Orleans, but stay with me here. Felipe’s offers made-to-order tacos, burritos, or nachos, notorious margaritas, and daily drink specials.

Flights to New Orleans on a Budget

Louis Armstrong New Orleans Airport isn’t a major hub, so flight prices are usually on the higher end. Still, there are a few tricks you can use to keep the prices down and keep your trip to New Orleans on a budget.

Travel Off-Season

Traveling off-season offers many perks: fewer crowds, shorter wait in restaurants, easier reservations for tours & dining. But the biggest perk has got to be the lower flight prices!

For your best chance at finding cheaper plane tickets, try to plan your trip between August and January.

Check this out next: The Best Kept Secrets to Traveling on a Budget

Use Hopper to Track Flight Prices

Tracking flight prices is a HUGE hassle. You’re searching different airlines, checking different dates and airports and wasting lots of time. Skip the hassle and download the Hopper app (it’s free!)

With Hopper, you enter your destination and dates once. The app will track prices, notify you about changes, and advise you when it’s the best time to buy with complex predictive algorithms.

Read this next:

• The Top 5 Brunch Places in New Orleans
• The Top 10 Things to Do in New Orleans
• New Orleans Bachelorette Party Itinerary

Join the Wherever Someday tribe!

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Subscribe to receive exclusive travel tips that will help you make that “someday” trip a reality!

New Orleans: Going Solo on a Budget

Last Updated on December 1, 2023

You can have a lot of fun in New Orleans, even if you’re visiting the city on a budget…

Estimated reading time: 9 minutes

By Carla Marie Rupp

I hadn’t been back to New Orleans, a city I love, for some time. When I made the decision to visit it once again I knew I’d be going alone , and would need to see New Orleans on a budget.

On my first full day there I was fortunate to be able to get back in touch with Kelley Edmiston, a tour guide for Living History Tours, who I’d met on a previous visit to New Orleans . We met for lunch at Li’l Dizzy’s (1500 Esplanade Avenue), a cozy spot where you can get an authentic Southern/Soul meal for under $20, either buffet or à la carte.

After lunch we left to explore historic Fauburg Treme , a fun thing to do in New Orleans on a budget. It’s the oldest black neighborhood in America, which is more than just pretty pastel creole houses and the setting for award-winning PBS and HBO films. A special attraction in Treme, the Back Street Cultural Museum , displays the largest collection of Mardi Gras Indian regalia. It’s worth touring to see the collection, and also learn about jazz funerals and other African-American traditions. We ended the day having drinks in the Frenchmen Street area, with its string of low-cost music clubs.

Seeing New Orleans on a Budget: A Good Deal on My Well-Located Hotel

I stayed in the French Quarter, a block from Bourbon Street, at the Dauphine Orleans Hotel. It was a great location because I could walk to so many places. It was less than $150 with the 10% off discount, which helped me see the city on a budget). I had a basic King-bed room with refrigerator and the service was excellent. Its heated, saltwater courtyard pool was fabulous.

Guests at the Dauphine are given free breakfast, free bottled water and coffee, and free wireless internet. You also get a free drink in its lovely bar, May Bailey’s Place, which is a former bordello. It’s a good place to stay if you’re seeing New Orleans on a budget.

I think the hotel is worth more than a three-star rating for its amenities, comfort and super-friendly staff, many of whom I got to know on a first-name basis, enjoying their tales. Josh at the front desk even sang for me after I learned he’d studied opera in school.

The hotel’s Carriage House courtyard, is in the historic John James Audubon room. In fact, it was the site of the studio of the famous wildlife artist between 1821 and 1822. I not only admired the artwork of birds and wildlife, but also enjoyed the free daily breakfast (a great help for seeing New Orleans, or any city, on a budget)and the opportunity to be able to eat with congenial people before starting a day of sightseeing. Each morning we enjoyed unlimited free fruit and good coffee, along with make-your-own waffles and other things, all great benefits for a solo traveler on a budget.

Seeing Mardi Gras Floats and 2 Great Museums

The Dauphine Orleans also arranges free shuttle bus service (another saving that kept me within budget) to Mardi Gras World , the largest float design facility in the world. On a tour at Mardi Gras World I watched a video capturing the sights, history and sounds of Mardi Gras, which began in New Orleans in 1837, and saw artists at work, took a ton of photos of the floats and got a free piece of “king cake” in the gift shop. Our admission tickets ($20 adults, $16 for seniors) were real strings of green Mardi Gras beads with a medallion attached to take home as souvenirs. There, as everywhere, I took advantage of senior savings.

I also enjoyed a tour at the National World War II Museum ($22 adult, $19 senior). In the Museum’s interactive exhibit “Final Mission: USS Tang” ($5 additional) where we relived its last epic battle, I met several veterans, also touring, who had served on a submarine. Later at lunch, while listening to big-band music, I got a little bit of the feeling of those wartime days.

Later I walked over to the Ogden Museum of Southern Art and enjoyed viewing its wonderful collection of American South art. Staying within my budget ($10 adults, $8 seniors) for seeing New Orleans, I took advantage of a weekly “Ogden After Hours” evening (6-8 pm) to see journalist John Swenson interview local pianist and vocalist Ed Volker and hear Volker perform. Every Thursday at the Ogden there’s a different program with noted local writers and musicians, after which you can see view the art collection.

A Great Brunch at a Great Budget Price

For me it was very special to be in the city that was the birthplace of jazz, and still resonates with cool music and striking art venues, and has such distinctive architecture and unique restaurants. I enjoyed the experience of leisurely eating at the live jazz brunch buffet (9am – 3 pm daily) at the Court of Two Sisters on Royal Street, with its delicious, Louisiana specialties (60 items!) in a beautiful courtyard-garden atmosphere, the largest outdoor dining courtyard in the French Quarter. And the brunch includes coffee, tea, juice and desert galore, all for $29 – perfect for enjoying New Orleans on a budget.

A great New Orleans brunch at a great budget price and the Court’s servers, so hospitable and looking so elegant, help me feel so relaxed, and I remembered nostalgically coming here with my family years ago. But I found it impossible to feel lonely as I heard many of my favorite jazz standards, including “Bye Bye, Blackbird.”

During the band’s break I said hello to Amy, a longtime banjo player at the Court and leader of the jazz trio, as well as to Alex Fein, the restaurant’s co-owner with his sister Aynsley Fein. They are to be congratulated: “We’re keeping this place going,” said Alex. “Fifty years now.” Their grandfather Joe Fein, Jr signed the lease for the Court in 1963, and restored the building to its former glory. It was once the site of the Louisiana’s Governor’s mansion.

A Budget-Friendly Trip

My desire to see New Orleans on a budget didn’t break my wallet even with traveling all over the city. Although I walked a lot, my transportation also included streetcars (a bargain at $3.00 for the whole day, or 40¢ a ride if you’re a senior), a few taxis, the City Sightseeing New Orleans hop-on-hop-off bus, and even once a pedicab from the French Market to Jackson Square, where my friend Linda showed me some great shops.

For me there is no other place like New Orleans, and I love it more each time I visit. And I miss it already – the music, the people, its cuisine, just everything about it – as in the song, “Do You Know What It Means to Miss New Orleans?”

But don’t worry, I’ll be back, since it’s so easy to see New Orleans on a budget.

You may also enjoy: Budget Travel / 7 Big Mardi Gras Celebrations (Not in New Orleans) / Soulard: Where St. Louis Blows Its French Horn

New Orleans Convention & Visitors Bureau

3030 St. Charles Ave. New Orleans, LA 70130-5210 www.neworleanscvb.com Tel: (800) 672-6124, (504) 566-5011

B ack Street Cultural Museum

1116 Henriette Delille Street New Orleans, LA 70116 http://www.backstreetmuseum.org/ Tel: (504) 522-4806

Mardi Gras World

1380 Port of New Orleans Place New Orleans, LA 70130 http://www.mardigrasworld.com/ Tel: (504) 361-7821

The National World War II Museum

945 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70130 http://www.nationalww2museum.org/ Tel: (504) 528-1944

Ogden Museum of Southern Art

925 Camp St. New Orleans, LA 70130 https://ogdenmuseum.org Tel: (504) 539-9650

Court of Two Sisters

613 Royal St. New Orleans, LA 70130 http://www.courtoftwosisters.com/ Tel: (504) 522-7261

Dauphine Orleans of the New Orleans Hotel Collection

415 Dauphine St. New Orleans, LA 70112 https://www.dauphineorleans.com/ Tel: (855) 798-6642

December 4, 2013 at 12:03 pm

This is a wonderful written article on the wonderful place. Makes you want to go and see it for yourself. I will maybe in the future visit this wonderful entertaining place!!

December 4, 2013 at 12:38 pm

Paula, thank you for the compliment. I really enjoy writing about New Orleans because it is so wonderful, with great people, history, lovely accommodations, and amazing entertainment, attractions and food.

As you can see by my story, it is also easy to get around, too. I hope you will visit Louisiana one day in the near future! There are festivals all the time, even if they aren’t the really big ones you hear about. The smaller ones are fun, too!

December 4, 2013 at 1:28 pm

As a huge fan of New Orleans myself, I enjoyed Carla’s descriptive article. I love the World War 2 Museum more than anything in the city but the French flavor is fabulous, along with the Dixieland jazz and riverfront setting. The streetcars of course too along with some of the inns and hotels Carla mentioned. Her article makes me want to hop the next plane south

December 4, 2013 at 2:11 pm

Thanks Dan! I know what you mean: when I see your comment and I re-read what I wrote I want to be In New Orleans, too, and go south!

December 4, 2013 at 1:45 pm

As a globe trotter myself this article stirred some fond memories of my previous visit to New Orleans. Thank you Carla for such an interesting and informative commentary. A pleasant reminder of the fine southern hospitality and I really enjoyed your mention of the city’s jazz heritage.

December 4, 2013 at 2:15 pm

Thank you, David. I am glad you have such fond memories and that my story stirred them up. I went to so many jazz clubs and some jazz and blues music festivals: the great music is endless!

December 4, 2013 at 3:22 pm

Great article! It sounds like you had a wonderful time.

December 4, 2013 at 5:32 pm

Thank you Linda. Yes, as you can see I had a really good time.

September 24, 2016 at 11:52 am

Yes it was a great time! I miss you too.

December 4, 2013 at 3:25 pm

The Jazz buffet is what interests me the most at the moment. Glad jazz is still alive and all over town! great article.

December 4, 2013 at 3:36 pm

Thank you, Joyce. Yes, I really enjoyed Court of Two Sisters a lot during my leisurely visit. I even have their cookbook and now get recipes by email from the beautiful restaurant. There are a number of restaurants and bars with good jazz in New Orleans. Thank you for the compliment on my writing.

December 4, 2013 at 4:32 pm

Nice write-up on my favorite city in the US (not counting NYC). Brought back lots of good memories for me!

December 4, 2013 at 5:33 pm

Chip, I am so happy my story brought your good times back to you in my writing! Thanks.

December 4, 2013 at 5:37 pm

I’m putting a visit to New Orleans on my bucket list! I’ll want to keep your article so I’ll know some great places to visit! Thanks for sharing your discoveries with us.

December 4, 2013 at 7:01 pm

You’re welcome Karen. Each person will also make some of their own discoveries, too.

December 4, 2013 at 6:00 pm

Looks like you’re touring with Nawlins’ top lady tour guide [and guide trainer too!] Linda Thomas, of the Louisiana State Museum, who knows the town inside and out! Why that looks like Obama himself is on the road again, this time manning a freshly painted French Quarter pedicab taking you ladies around. Like you, I sure hope to get back one day soon.

December 4, 2013 at 7:06 pm

Yes, I’m with Linda Thomas in the pedicab, and she’s such a wonderful local who’s a tour guide for the Friends of the Cabildo and knows he city inside and out. Thanks for your comment. We were just talking today on the phone about all the great places. And don’t forget about the free music at the Old Mint at noon on Wednesday. It’s great, and what great things to see at the Louisiana State Museum!

December 4, 2013 at 7:08 pm

Your article made me jealous. I hope to visit the places you mentioned in this article. I heard there’s great food to be had too! Must be fantastic during Mardi Gras!

December 4, 2013 at 7:12 pm

Entertaining and informative.

December 4, 2013 at 8:01 pm

December 4, 2013 at 7:23 pm

Carla, sounds like you had a great time visiting one of Charles Kuralt’s favorite places. I will go there someday just to visit The National WWII Museum that author Stephen Ambrose helped to develop.

December 4, 2013 at 7:59 pm

Great, Rob. You’ll learn a lot at The National WWII Museum; it’s awesome, and there’s also a 45-minute film to take in as well. I was able to catch the Bob Hope exhibit; there will always be something fascinating to see and people to meet as I did.

December 4, 2013 at 8:09 pm

Carla Very well done! This brings back so many memories of New Orleans. Love the French Quarter and the times i spent on Bourbon Street. Love the culture. Thanks for great story. Larry Rupp

December 4, 2013 at 9:53 pm

I can just picture the good times, Larry! There’s a lot to love there! Thanks, brother!

December 4, 2013 at 8:20 pm

The pedicabs look fun. Last time I was in the Big Easy, pedicabs were just being approved. I hope the recitals at the cathedral and the concerts at the Mint are still going on, they made my visit very special. I’m glad things are looking up in New Orleans, can’t wait to get back.

December 5, 2013 at 3:25 am

I enjoyed the tour I just got and am happy to hear your adventures. Will go again to New Orleans. Carla, did you see much Katrina damage? Thanks, Tim,

December 5, 2013 at 9:16 am

Hi Tim! I was mostly in the French Quarter (no damage), the Treme area (no damage), in the Warehouse and Arts District (where the Ogden and WWII Museum are, no damage) and in the Garden District (didn’t see any damage, just beautiful homes, the New Orleans Convention & Visitors Bureau on the St Charles streetcar line and quaint shops on Magazine Street). These are the main visitor areas, and Denise and Rev. Leonard Parker (pastors of the New Orleans Bible Church) told me there still is a lot of work to be done in the Ninth Ward–where Brad Pitt pitched in with some homes I saw with Denise on a previous visit–and other areas and residential neighborhoods.

December 5, 2013 at 12:58 pm

Great story! I would have gone to all the same places! Love Court Of Two Sisters. Glad that you had such a great time. You clearly covered both the “off the beaten trail” places as well as the famous tourist sites. I hope to go back someday soon myself. Have not been there in 10 or 15 years!

December 6, 2013 at 9:26 am

Thanks, Anne! Well, time to go back.

December 5, 2013 at 6:40 pm

Good article about the many places in New Orleans. It made me hungry.

Thanks, Monty. I know: makes me hungry thinking about all the gumbo & good things!

December 7, 2013 at 2:10 pm

Linda Thomas says hello, Carla. You know she doesn’t go online, so she asked me to look up the article,which I enjoyed and was also glad to learn about this website. If you had Kelley and Linda show you around town, you are blessed far above the average tourist 🙂 You did a good job of scratching the surface of N.O., though I wished for more depth on the music (not just jazz) and the vibrant artist, literary and entrepreneurial spirit of the city. Recovery from Katrina doesn’t mean only restoring buildings and opening new restaurants. It’s the spirit of the place that has rebounded in ways we natives could not have imagined. Thanks for inviting others to experience N.O.for themselves.

January 21, 2016 at 11:57 am

love this article I went New Orleans for Mardi Gras two years ago, now I’m considering going for Jazz Festival

March 30, 2016 at 9:45 am

Great post and great photos! You can really get a feel for the city’s quirks that draw you in. Next time you visit (we hope it’s sooner, rather than later), you need to tour New Orleans’ other neighborhoods: The Garden District, Uptown, Algier’s Point and more. Each one has a completely different personality.

Trust us; we’re locals. 🙂 https://joieful.com

September 2, 2017 at 7:11 am

Found my way here from your Twitter link and enjoyed reading about your visit to New Orleans. I will be 60 next year and am truly looking forward to seniors discounts! 🙂

August 23, 2022 at 12:17 am

Hey, Carl. Once you hit 55, you were already part of the group! Don’t worry. You’re in!

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• Travel Planning Guide

Travel Budget for New Orleans Visit New Orleans on a Budget or Travel in Style

• New Orleans Costs

• New Orleans Hotel Prices
• Best Hotels for a Weekend Getaway in New Orleans
• Best Adults Only Hotels in New Orleans
• Best Party Hotels in New Orleans
• Best Romantic Hotels for Couples in New Orleans
• Best Business Hotels in New Orleans
• Best Pet-Friendly Hotels in New Orleans
• Best Hotels for First Time Visitors in New Orleans
• Best Luxury Hotels in New Orleans
• Best Cheap Hotels in New Orleans
• Best Family-Friendly Hotels in New Orleans
• Best Hotels for One Night in New Orleans
• Best Hotels for One Week in New Orleans
• Is New Orleans Expensive?
• How much does a trip to New Orleans cost?
• Is New Orleans Worth Visiting?
• The Northeast
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• New York City
• San Francisco
• Los Angeles
• New Orleans
• How much does it cost to travel to New Orleans? (Average Daily Cost)
• New Orleans trip costs: one week, two weeks, one month

Is New Orleans expensive to visit?

• How much do I need for a trip to New Orleans?
• Accommodation, Food, Entertainment, and Transportation Costs
• Travel Guide

How much does it cost to travel to New Orleans?

You should plan to spend around $239 per day on your vacation in New Orleans. This is the average daily price based on the expenses of other visitors.

Past travelers have spent, on average for one day:

• $45 on meals
• $51 on local transportation
• $250 on hotels

A one week trip to New Orleans for two people costs, on average, $3,340 . This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

All of these average travel prices have been collected from other travelers to help you plan your own travel budget.

• Travel Style: All Budget (Cheap) Mid-Range Luxury (High-End)
• Average Daily Cost Per person, per day $ 239
• One Week Per person $ 1,670
• 2 Weeks Per person $ 3,340
• One Month Per person $ 7,157
• One Week For a couple $ 3,340
• 2 Weeks For a couple $ 6,680
• One Month For a couple $ 14,314

How much does a one week, two week, or one month trip to New Orleans cost?

A one week trip to New Orleans usually costs around $1,670 for one person and $3,340 for two people. This includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

A two week trip to New Orleans on average costs around $3,340 for one person and $6,680 for two people. This cost includes accommodation, food, local transportation, and sightseeing.

Please note, prices can vary based on your travel style, speed, and other variables. If you're traveling as a family of three or four people, the price per person often goes down because kid's tickets are cheaper and hotel rooms can be shared. If you travel slower over a longer period of time then your daily budget will also go down. Two people traveling together for one month in New Orleans will often have a lower daily budget per person than one person traveling alone for one week.

A one month trip to New Orleans on average costs around $7,157 for one person and $14,314 for two people. The more places you visit, the higher the daily price will become due to increased transportation costs.

Independent Travel

Traveling Independently to New Orleans has many benefits including affordabilty, freedom, flexibility, and the opportunity to control your own experiences.

All of the travel costs below are based on the experiences of other independent travelers.

Prices in New Orleans are reasonable and comparable to your average travel destination. Hotels, food, and sightseeing are generally within normal price ranges.

Within North America, which is known to be an expensive region, New Orleans is a moderately priced destination compared to other places. The overall cost of travel here is fair for the region and comparable to Phoenix or Martha's Vineyard.

For more details, and to find out if it's within your travel budget, see Is New Orleans Expensive?

How much money do I need for a trip to New Orleans?

The average New Orleans trip cost is broken down by category here for independent travelers. All of these New Orleans travel prices are calculated from the budgets of real travelers.

Accommodation Budget in New Orleans

Average daily costs.

Calculated from travelers like you

The average price paid for one person for accommodation in New Orleans is $125. For two people sharing a typical double-occupancy hotel room, the average price paid for a hotel room in New Orleans is $250. This cost is from the reported spending of actual travelers.

• Accommodation 1 Hotel or hostel for one person $ 125
• Accommodation 1 Typical double-occupancy room $ 250

Hotel Prices in New Orleans

Looking for a hotel in New Orleans? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options.

Find the best hotel for your travel style.

Actual Hotel Prices The average hotel room price in New Orleans based on data provided by Kayak for actual hotel rooms is $132. (Prices in U.S. Dollars, before taxes & fees.)

Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world.

Recommended Properties

• Grenoble House Budget Hotel - Kayak $ 170
• Windsor Court Hotel Luxury Hotel - Kayak $ 303

Transportation Budget in New Orleans

The cost of a taxi ride in New Orleans is significantly more than public transportation. On average, past travelers have spent $51 per person, per day, on local transportation in New Orleans.

• Transportation 1 Taxis, local buses, subway, etc. $ 51

Recommended Services

• Private Round-Trip Transfer New Orleans and Louis Armstrong MSY Viator $ 80
• Transfer from New Orleans MSY or Port to New Orleans City by… Viator $ 93

Flights to New Orleans

Rental cars in new orleans, what did other people spend on transportation in new orleans.

Typical prices for Transportation in New Orleans are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the prices in New Orleans, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.

• Taxi Ride $ 10

Food Budget in New Orleans

While meal prices in New Orleans can vary, the average cost of food in New Orleans is $45 per day. Based on the spending habits of previous travelers, when dining out an average meal in New Orleans should cost around $18 per person. Breakfast prices are usually a little cheaper than lunch or dinner. The price of food in sit-down restaurants in New Orleans is often higher than fast food prices or street food prices.

• Food 2 Meals for one day $ 45

Recommended

• Private New Orleans Neighborhood Food Tour - Historic Driving "Dine-Around" Viator $ 185
• New Orleans Private Food Tour Viator $ 267

Entertainment Budget in New Orleans

Entertainment and activities in New Orleans typically cost an average of $55 per person, per day based on the spending of previous travelers. This includes fees paid for admission tickets to museums and attractions, day tours, and other sightseeing expenses.

• Entertainment 1 Entrance tickets, shows, etc. $ 55

The Go City New Orleans Pass offers great discounts on attractions in New Orleans. With the Go City Explorer pass, you can choose to visit specific sights and attractions at a discount. Or, you can visit as many included attractions as you like with a multi-day All-Inclusive Pass. The average visitor saves 30% off of the regular admission prices.

Recommended Activities

• The Blackest Ghost Tour Ages 17 and Above Viator $ 40
• Tale of Two Cities: Uptown Bike Tour in New Orleans Viator $ 55

What did other people spend on Entertainment in New Orleans?

Typical prices for Entertainment in New Orleans are listed below. These actual costs are from real travelers and can give you an idea of the prices in New Orleans, but your costs will vary based on your travel style and the place where the purchase was made.

• Zoo & Aquarium Tickets (2) $ 75
• Riverboat Cruise $ 70
• French Quarter City Tour $ 100

Tips and Handouts Budget in New Orleans

The average cost for Tips and Handouts in New Orleans is $71 per day. The usual amount for a tip in New Orleans is 10% - 20% .

• Tips and Handouts 1 For guides or service providers $ 71

Alcohol Budget in New Orleans

The average person spends about $60 on alcoholic beverages in New Orleans per day. The more you spend on alcohol, the more fun you might be having despite your higher budget.

• Alcohol 2 Drinks for one day $ 60
• Hop on, Hop off Craft Brewery Bus Tour in New Orleans Viator $ 10
• Private Burlesque Party Dance Class In New Orleans Viator $ 40

Water Budget in New Orleans

On average, people spend $19 on bottled water in New Orleans per day. The public water in New Orleans is considered safe to drink.

• Water 2 Bottled water for one day $ 19

Expert Advice from Local Travelers

We're asking our community members and registered users to contribute their experiences about New Orleans.

What makes New Orleans a budget-friendly destination? Or not?

We were able to find very cheap accommodation just outside of the more touristy area.

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Bucket list on a budget: Travel New Orleans without breaking the bank

The Big Easy is a bucket list destination for fun-seekers. With live music and jazz echoing through the streets, delicious French and Creole cuisine -- serving everything from beignets and po' boy sandwiches to French 75 cocktails -- there's an abundance of must-do activities in New Orleans.

But living it up in the Crescent City can get costly if you're not careful, so "Good Morning America" scoped out the best way to enjoy bayou country on a budget.

If you're pinching pennies, see all the ways you can still let the good times roll, below.

Getting there

Airfare prices to New Orleans, like most destinations, can vary depending on the time of year, but in the beginning of June for example, roundtrip fares from Chicago O'Hare International Airport can be found for under $145 on Spirit Airlines, and for $45 more -- around $189 -- American Airlines has similar flights that include a carry on item for no fee.

Where to stay

Look at hotel membership programs before you book your stay.

An IHG One Rewards account gets guests a slightly cheaper rate: A room at the Hotel Indigo, for instance, is priced at $129 per night for members, $7 less than the typical rate.

Travel expert Clint Henderson, managing editor at The Points Guy, told "GMA" that "among the perks you can potentially get just for being a member in a loyalty program are free Wi-Fi, late checkout and even room upgrades."

"In the case of IHG, specifically, you unlock member discounts by booking via their website as opposed to an online travel agent," he said.

Eat like a local

There's no shortage of delicious New Orleans restaurant options from legendary chefs like Emeril Lagasse or Nina Compton, but if you're looking to save, check out specials and find some go-to spots that locals love.

At the famed, family-run Parkway Bakery, one of the oldest po' boy shops in the city and known for its fresh baked bread, visitors can enjoy an array of stuffed oversized sub-like sandwiches for as little as $7. And if you can agree on the fillings and toppings, sharing a full size po' boy like the classic flash-fried Louisiana wild-caught Gulf shrimp comes in at just $7.70 each for two people.

Plus, May through July is peak crawfish season, and local eateries like Clesi's Seafood Restaurant & Catering have an abundance of the freshwater crustacean for just $8.50 per pound. The restaurant offers weekly specials as well like $3 taco Tuesday and free fry basket Friday, and gives customers a complimentary order of french fries tossed in a house-made parmesan garlic butter with the purchase of a pitcher of beer.

It wouldn't be a visit to New Orleans without satisfying your sweet tooth with beignets. The renowned Cafe du Monde serves up the deep-fried pâte à choux pastry, which is doused in powdered sugar, in orders of three for just $3.85 -- but don't forget, it's cash only.

Getting around the city

Skip the cabs or rideshare apps and pick up a Jazzy Pass to use public transit for just $3 a day.

The card includes unlimited rides on the ferry, bus and street cars, providing a unique view of the city.

Listen to the music

You'll never miss a beat in the jazz-filled French Quarter. Entertainment is free, but be sure to pack some small bills and tip your favorite artists as you enjoy the historic area.

The New Orleans Jazz Museum also hosts free afternoon concerts Tuesday through Friday.

Venture outside the city center

Look for activities, tours and other attractions from the local tourism board to book unique deals.

Plus, Groupon has offers on more than 40% off the Jean Lafitte Swamp Tour.

More 'GMA' travel picks

Anker PowerCore Select 10000 Portable Charger - Black, Ultra-Compact, High-Speed Charging Technology Phone Charger for iPhone, Samsung and More.

JISULIFE Portable Neck Fan, Wearable Personal Fan, 4000 mAh Battery Powered Bladeless Fan with 3 Speed

CeraVe Hydrating Face Mineral Sunscreen Lotion SPF 50 for All Skin Types, 2.5 fl oz

Munchkin® Spotless™ Silicone Placemats for Kids, 2 Pack, Blue/Green

Lonely Planet New Orleans

SPECIAL MADE Collapsible Water Bottles Cups Leakproof Valve Reusable BPA Free Silicone Foldable Travel Water Bottle Cup for Gym Camping Hiking Travel Sports Lightweight Durable

Picaridin Insect Repellent - 3 oz.

54" Vortex Vented Jumbo Compact Auto Open/Close Umbrella

Columbia Watertight™ II Jacket

Columbia Arcadia II™ Jacket

Columbia Kids Glennaker™ Rain Jacket (Little Kids/Big Kids)

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Day Trips From NOLA

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Your Trip to New Orleans: The Complete Guide

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Even to those already familiar with the lore that surrounds New Orleans —the music, the food, the revelers—this small city is full of unexpected delights. Creole and Cajun culture make it different than any other city in the United States, and those that are only expecting the mania of Bourbon Street will find joy and respite in the city’s unique history lessons, opulent Garden District mansions, Royal Street art galleries, and Bywater cafes and shops.

As the birthplace of jazz ,   there is fantastic live music to be found pretty much any time of day in the Big Easy , and plentiful, unique food and drink to leave you full and happy. With the nation’s official World War II Museum, swamps full of alligators, and city parks of 100-year-old live oaks, there’s something for everyone in this crescent-shaped city of wonder.

Watch Now: Planning Your Visit to New Orleans

Planning your trip.

Best Time to Visit : With Jazz Fest, Mardi Gras, and other local festivals taking place February through May, spring is definitely the most popular time to visit New Orleans—but fun events and temperate weather begin as early as October. Most avoid the summer for its imposing heat and humidity.

Language: English (with sprinklings of French)

Getting Around: The historic New Orleans streetcar is a fun way to get around to most popular destinations and neighborhoods. Rideshare services like Uber and Lyft, organized tours, and public buses are also easy, and there’s no need to rent a car in New Orleans unless you plan to make side trips out of town .

Travel Tip: Those who just stick to the French Quarter and main attractions are missing out on all New Orleans has to offer. Some of the best music, food, art, and scenic strolls take place in areas like the Bywater, Irish Channel, and Bayou St. John around City Park. Explore the best neighborhoods in New Orleans before you plan a visit. 

Things to Do

Plan to spend a good portion of your time in New Orleans eating and drinking plentifully. When you’re ready to walk off all the beignets and po boys, enjoy Spanish moss and floral-framed avenues like St. Charles, the above-ground cemeteries, and the cobblestone streets full of home gardens and old French and Spanish architecture in the French Quarter and elsewhere. New Orleans is truly a nightlife-lovers city (though there are plenty of kid and family-friendly options ), and live music , from jazz and brass bands to contemporary rock there to entertain until the wee hours of the morning. 

The French Quarter : The oldest neighborhood in New Orleans also has the most historic sites, shops, and restaurants per capita of any other area in the city. The architecture in itself—the wrought-iron balconies and Creole cottages of the Spanish colonial era, and a few remaining remnants of the city’s French founding—make it worth just strolling its streets, visiting the St. Louis Cathedral, Cabildo and Pontalba buildings, and Jackson Square, and absorbing all the wonderful sights and sounds. Make at least one jaunt through rowdy Bourbon Street , the art galleries on Royal Street, and the French Market (with a stop for beignets at Cafe Du Monde, of course). When you're done in the French Quarter take a ride on the St. Charles Streetcar. The line was built in 1835 and each car is a National Historic Landmark.  

New Orleans Cemeteries: Above-ground graves are a hallmark of New Orleans. Because of Spanish and French burial traditions, and lack of space, and the city's below-sea-level status, New Orleans cemeteries are filled with tombs and mausoleums.   These ornate structures are surrounded by lush greenery, spooky lore, and famous interred legends. Most neighborhoods you visit include a nearby famous cemetery to tour : St. Louis No. and No. 2 in the French Quarter, Lafayette Cemetery in the Garden District, and Metairie Cemetery and the Katrina Memorial in Mid City.

Swamp Tours : The waterways, flora, and fauna of Southeast Louisiana add to the area’s urban appeals, making New Orleans an even more fascinating and unique place to visit. There are a variety of options for touring nearby swamps, all filled with the likes of mangroves, cypress, alligators, and birds: enjoy a walk through the Barataria Preserve on the Mississippi’s West Bank, a canoe or kayak adventure on the North Shore or in Bayou St. John, or an airboat tour in further swamps.

What to Eat and Drink

New Orleans is known for its Creole and Cajun dishes, overlapping cuisines influenced mostly by Spanish, French, and West African cultures, and including must-try dishes like gumbo , etouffee, jambalaya, seafood, and crawfish, all usually flavored with the holy trinity (pepper, onion, celery) and plenty of spice. Many visitors like to indulge in at least one high-end creole meal at  opulent old school restaurants like Galatoire’s and Commander’s Palace, but low budget favorites like po boys and beignets should not be missed. In the decade following Hurricane Katrina and an influx of change and rebuild, a new type of dining has entered the scene, with young, hip restaurants like Turkey and the Wolf, Compere Lapin, and Saba featuring a modern fusion of flavors.

Like the food, good drinking options in New Orleans also range from high brow (expertly crafted cocktails and craft brews) to low brow (frozen daiquiris and big go-beers). There are lax open container laws for the French Quarter   but that is only partially responsible for its reputation as a drinker’s city. Feel free to enjoy a beer or cocktail while strolling the river or walking from club to club on the musical Frenchmen Street in the Marigny. Abita Beer has long been the best known Louisiana beer, but other options from newer craft breweries like Urban South, Gnarly Barley, and NOLA Brewery, are taking over the scene. If you like cocktails, you must have at least one of each of the following specialties: a Sazerac, a Ramos Gin Fizz, frozen daiquiri, and Hurricane. 

Where to Stay

Hotels in the French Quarter and Central Business District provide convenient access to main sites, and range from charmingly historical to reliable corporate chains. A few luxury options, like the Omni Royal Orleans Hotel, The Ritz Carlton, and the Windsor Hotel provide relaxing oases amidst the chaos. Stay in smaller inns and Airbnbs in Mid City, the Bywater, and Garden District for a quieter, locals’ glimpse of the city. Chic new boutique hotels like the Ace Hotel, The Catahoula, Pontchartrain Hotel and Peter and Paul are ideal for those wishing to be immersed in art and culture throughout their stay.

Pick your ideal neighborhood stay in New Orleans and explore the best New Orleans hotels of 2020.  

Getting There

With a massive new airport terminal opened in 2019, New Orleans is easier (and more comfortable) to reach than ever before. The regional bus and Amtrak train station is conveniently located in the Central Business District, with a few train routes connecting New Orleans to the rest of the country. 

Culture and Customs

Music club guide and etiquette: Most clubs require a minimum drink purchase or small door fee to enter. The WWOZ (local radio station) livewire is a reliable way to track music goings-on daily around the city. Most clubs at night, like those on Frenchmen Street, require visitors to be over 21; afternoon sets and outdoor festival shows are the best bet for catching live jazz with kids in tow.

Safety: With some of the highest murder rates in the country, New Orleans gets a bad rap for crime that isn’t totally undeserved. Still, tourists need not be deterred from spending time in this desirable location. Most crimes around busy tourist areas like the French Quarter come in the forms of pickpockets and petty scammers—and especially target clearly inebriated tourists, out late at night in less populated (or more dangerous) neighborhoods. Abide to basic common sense: travel in groups and by taxi or rideshare late at night (foot and public transportation is safe at other times), keep your wits about you and travel smart, as you would in any city. 

Money Saving Tips

Visiting New Orleans during a big festival like Mardi Gras and Jazz Fest is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, but will no doubt cost you the most on a trip to the city, in terms of flights, hotel rates, and the whole package. There is plenty to do other times of year, with smaller local festivals and enough live music and culture to fill your days. If you’re especially immune to high temperatures and sticky weather, summer is a great time to find cheap flights, hotel discounts, and other special rates.

New Orleans prides itself on offering free or affordable entertainment and music, and there are many ways to access great thrills of the city on a budget. Follow this guide for more tips.

New Orleans & Company. "The Birthplace of Jazz."

New Orleans Regional Transit Authority. "Our Streetcars."

Ned Hémard, New Orleans Bar Association. "New Orleans Nostalgia: Above Ground." 2014.

New Orleans City Council. "Sec. 54-404. - Carrying of opened glass containers prohibited in certain areas."

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New Orleans on a budget: 8 travel hacks to save on your trip

There's no question that New Orleans is one of the most fascinating cities to visit in the United States. Combining ancient French culture with strong African-American and Caribbean influences, New Orleans is a city like no other. The Big Easy has had an outsized impact on the wider culture of the United States, too, so visiting here can help you understand the many contradictions of this vast country.

But above all, New Orleans is fun. From the vibrant nightlife of the French Quarter to the historic beauty of the Garden District, there's plenty to see in New Orleans. With a notoriously rich restaurant and bar scene, the delicious French market, and the famous street performers of Bourbon Street and Charles Avenue - to say nothing of Mardi Gras - New Orleans offers almost infinite possibilities for things to see and do on vacation.

Major cities in the US are not always the cheapest places to visit, and it's true that in New Orleans, you can quite easily spend a fortune if you want to. However, New Orleans remains a significant bargain for travelers, especially when you consider everything it has to offer. Almost from the moment you arrive at New Orleans International Airport and head into the central business district, you'll be able to save money while still enjoying New Orleans on a budget.

And to make things easier on yourself, don't forget to drop off your bags at a luggage storage in New Orleans . Leaving heavy bags behind will make it easier to explore the French Quarter, Jackson Square , City Park, Canal Street , Magazine Street, and everything else you want to see in this amazing city.

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Cheap places to stay in New Orleans

New Orleans is certainly a place that has had plenty of challenges in its history, both economic and otherwise. The devastation wrought by Hurricane Katrina in 2005 has largely been repaired, but for years after the disaster, New Orleans was seen as something of a no-go zone. Even now, the process of rebuilding the city's reputation continues, with the result that it's easy to find some great bargains on accommodation, even in the center of the city.

New Orleans has every kind of accommodation you could want, from luxury hotels to minimalist hostels. And as is usually the case with big cities, you can save a lot of money and find a place to stay in New Orleans on a budget if you're willing to consider staying a little out of the center of the city. Public transport can get you everywhere you need to go, and many of the city's top attractions are spread out anyway. Besides, as fun as the French Quarter is, it's not a great place for a restful night's sleep.

If you're wondering where exactly to stay, don't worry because there's a New Orleans neighborhood for everyone. And if you're looking for some hotel inspiration, consider these options:

City House New Orleans

This three-star hotel is located well within New Orleans' legendary French Quarter and is only a few blocks away from Jackson Square. It's even closer to Bourbon Street, so if you're looking to party, this is a location it's hard to beat. For some people, that may be all they need to hear.

The accommodation here is basic, offering mixed-gender dorms with bunkbeds that also give you access to a communal kitchen where you can cook your meals with produce bought fresh at the French market. There are also movie nights, games, and evening events on offer, making this a great option to socialize and meet other travelers. You can get a bed in a mixed dorm for as little as $25, even in the height of the summer tourist season, while a more luxurious queen room can be had for around $100.

Andrew Jackson Hotel

If you're looking for something with a little more charm while exploring New Orleans on a budget, consider this three-star hotel. Also located in the heart of the French Quarter of New Orleans, this hotel provides easy access to Jackson Square and Canal Street and is a great place to stay if you're looking to experience the vibrant nightlife of the city. Located in a historic townhouse, this hotel is also really convenient for the French market.

The rooms here pay tribute to their 18th-century roots with period furnishings, including four poster beds. The lush courtyard with its water feature is a great place to spend some time on a sunny day, and the room rates include a continental breakfast. In summer, a standard room with a double bed will cost you around $160 a night, which is a great bargain when you factor in the location.

The Lookout Inn of New Orleans

Of course, there's more to New Orleans than the French Quarter, and if you want to stay somewhere a little quieter, you could do a lot worse than this charming inn. Located just around the corner from Royal Street, this two-star hotel is still located in a lively part of New Orleans, but you won't have to deal with the tourist crowds and the noise you'll get around Jackson Square. Ideal for exploring New Orleans on a budget, this boutique hotel offers only four suites, each with a clawfoot tub as well as a mini fridge. There's also a saltwater pool and a hot tub in the backyard. Each suite has its own unique theme, from the Bollywood suite to the Elvis suite. But even in the height of summer, you can rent one of these interesting rooms for only around $100.

Cheap things to do in New Orleans

There's plenty to do in New Orleans, whether you're visiting on a budget or not. In fact, some of the best things to do in the city are either free or available without spending very much money at all. In a city as atmospheric as New Orleans, often, the best thing to do is just take a wander through the French Quarter or the Garden District and soak up the lively vibe of this truly unique place.

New Orleans Museum of Art

The city's premier museum, NOMA, is the oldest art museum in New Orleans and still one of the best. The selection of art on display here is truly impressive, making this the ideal New Orleans Museum to visit for art lovers. Regular entry costs $15, but seniors and active military personnel can get in for only $10, and it's free for anyone under 19, making this a good place to visit for young budget travelers or thrifty families.

This 1300-acre city park is one of the most visited in the whole of the United States. Containing an amusement park, a botanical garden, tons of walking trails, and a café, you could easily spend the whole day or more enjoying the warm weather in this beautiful park. After all, that's what many local New Orleans residents do when they get the chance. It's completely free to enter the park, although some of the attractions inside will cost you an extra fee if you want to enjoy them.

Algiers Ferry

New Orleans is defined by the Mississippi River that runs through it, and it would be easy to make the case that there's no better way to see the Big Easy than from the water. While you can go on an expensive boat cruise with drinks and dancing, you can get the exact same view from the deck of the Algiers ferry. As part of the city's public transportation system, this ferry costs only two dollars to ride, and although you won't be getting a guided tour, you will get to see the city from the river, which is a great experience not to be missed.

Cheap places to eat in New Orleans

New Orleans is a fantastic place to eat thanks to its status as a place where different cultures collide. African-American soul food meets Caribbean influences mixed with a little French je ne sais quoi to create one of the greatest dining scenes in all of North America.

To sample some of the best food in the city, as well as some of the most affordable, you may want to track down some of New Orleans' best street food. However, in this delicious city, something tasty is never far away.

R's Bar

Visit this bar during crawfish season, and you can eat for free - or close to it. This bar hosts a traditional crawfish boil every Friday evening during the season, and these tasty crustaceans are free to eat, provided you buy a drink. But don't forget to tip the chef to show your appreciation for this free food.

Antoine's

Antoine's French restaurant is a New Orleans institution, having been continuously operated in the city by the same family since 1840. This restaurant claims to have invented several classic New Orleans dishes, including oysters Rockefeller. Whether that's true or not, this is a historic place to eat that offers great food at surprisingly affordable prices. The lunch special here is a French-style three-course meal that only costs $20, which is super reasonable considering what you get for your money.

Pizza Delicious

This old-school pizza restaurant may not look like much from the outside, housed as it is in a converted garage. But the prices are enough to tempt anyone in the door. A large slice goes for only $2.50, so you can eat extremely cheaply and fill up on good pizza.

Cheap bars in New Orleans

The tourist traps of the French Quarter seem to get more expensive by the year, but there are so many bars in New Orleans that they'll always be a cheap place to get a drink somewhere in town. Step away from the overpriced bars of Bourbon Street, and you'll find New Orleans still has plenty of bargain drinks available.

Bar Tonique

Located on the very edge of the French Quarter, this well-established bar has a happy hour that runs from noon until 5 PM. During those hours, select cocktails like daiquiris and Moscow mules cost only six dollars. Also, check out the daily specials, when one of their most popular cocktails will be reduced to only five dollars all day long.

Johnny Sanchez

This Mexican restaurant is more than just a great place to eat. On weekdays, the drinks are half-price, so you can get a margarita for less than five dollars. At the same time, the tacos are only two dollars each, so this is a great place to eat and drink in New Orleans on a budget.

This always-busy Irish bar is a great place to hang out and grab some drinks. The famous frozen Irish coffee is only $3.50, and they also offer the cocktails like mimosas and screwdrivers for three dollars.

Bonus budget tips for New Orleans

Travel during the offseason: New Orleans can be crowded and expensive during Mardi Gras and other peak tourist seasons. Consider traveling during the offseason, such as during the summer or early fall, when the weather is still pleasant, but the crowds are thinner, and hotel rates are lower.

Stay in budget-friendly accommodations: There are plenty of budget-friendly accommodations in New Orleans, including hostels, motels, and budget hotels. You can also find affordable Airbnb rentals, especially if you're willing to stay a bit further from the city center.

Eat at local joints: New Orleans is known for its delicious cuisine, and there are plenty of budget-friendly places to eat. Look for local joints that serve po'boys, gumbo, jambalaya, and other New Orleans specialties. You can also save money by eating at food trucks or getting takeout instead of eating at a restaurant.

Walk or bike: New Orleans is a great city for walking or biking, and it's an affordable way to see the city. You can rent a bike from a local shop or use a bike-sharing service like Blue Bikes. Walking is also a great way to explore the French Quarter and other neighborhoods.

New Orleans is a fantastic place to visit at any time of year. And with so many free things to do in New Orleans, it's easy to get the most out of one of the US's most beautiful cities without spending a fortune. Just remember to leave your heavy bags behind at a New Orleans luggage storage and try some of these money-saving tips to make your dollars stretch further.

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How to Visit New Orleans on a Budget

Updated May 2023

The Big Easy gets nearly 14 million visitors a year for good reason. Between its outdoor museums, live jazz, party-friendly streets, and overall positive vibes, this historic gem is unlike any other U.S. city. Check out some of the best cheap things to do in New Orleans to make the most of your trip without breaking the bank.

This 1,300-acre outdoor oasis, around since 1850, is one of the oldest urban parks in the U.S. Located in the Mid City neighborhood , the park’s lagoons, centuries-old live oaks, and moss canopies set the scene for its open-air Besthoff Sculpture Garden, packed with 80 immobile attractions. Get in a workout by hitting its biking, jogging, and walking paths, 26 tennis courts, and 18-hole golf course. While the park is packed with freebies, a Twilight jazz band performance every Thursday is worth the $15 entry fee.

Hotel and gallery hopping

New Orleans is home to a sea of historic hotels, ripe with picture-perfect lobbies that double as museums. The chandelier-adorned Roosevelt is where the Sazerac cocktail was born; the modern lobby of the boutique International House boasts a Banksy mural; and the Hotel Monteleone stars a stunning (and revolving) carousel bar. From there, hit Royal Street and hop into the area’s offbeat and colorful galleries and jewelry stores. After a day of sight-seeing, you can relax back at home base in HI New Orleans hostel’s own lobby, complete with historic interior architecture and murals by local artists.

For a local hangout

The Country Club, an 1880s-era cottage on the Mississippi River that’s evolved into a sleek, palm-filled relaxing respite, is one of the Bywater neighborhood’s best-kept secrets. For a $20 entry fee, customers get full access to its cabana bar, hot tub, hip pool party, and prime people watching. BYOT (towel) and save $2.

Bars with live music

Every Thursday, 60-year-old NOLA fixture Vaughan’s Lounge erupts into a lively jazz scene with trumpeters, local legends, and a side of passed red beans and rice ($10 entry). And there’s live music most nights of the week at Bacchanal Wine in the Bywater neighborhood. Grab a few friends, go in on a bottle of wine from the bottle shop up front, and enjoy it at one of their backyard tables while listening to local bands and chatting with locals.

Free museums

The always-free Lower 9th Ward Living Museum takes visitors on a visual tour of the neighborhood starting in the 1700s, when it served as a colony for escaped enslaved people, all the way to post-Katrina days. For those who live in Louisiana, a handful of museums are complimentary: the Contemporary Arts Museum on Sunday, Ogden Museum of Southern Art on Thursday, and the New Orleans Museum of Art (which is always free for visitors 19 and under) and the New Orleans Botanical Garden on Wednesdays. Even if you’re not a Louisiana resident, all of these attractions offer discounts for students and seniors.

Free oysters and cheap eats

Bivalves plucked fresh from nearby waters are a must in the Big Easy. At 24-hour staple Le Bon Temps Roule on Magazine Street, there’s live piano and oysters on the house every Friday night (7 p.m. to 10 p.m.). And cafeteria-style joint Mother’s has been an institution in New Orleans since 1938, with an early bird weekday breakfast special for $7.50.

• Friends' Trip
• New Orleans

Budget New Orleans Travel Guide 8 Ways to Save More Money

The Budget New Orleans Travel Guide includes 8 Important Travel Planning Tips that will allow you to see and do more on your budget. Learn how you can benefit.

Table of Contents

Are you thinking of going for a vacation and you do not know where? New Orleans is a place you should consider. It is among the most vibrant and fantastic cities on earth. The memorable attractions, fantastic food, overwhelming live music. The friendly cajun people of Louisiana are just one of the things that make the city a great place to kick back in. The adventures you can experience in this city are breathtaking, and you will make lifetime memories. This article will provide a travel planner to layout your New Orleans trip.

New Orleans, also dubbed as the ‘big easy,’ is the most famous city in the state of Louisiana. It is located adjacent to the Gulf of Mexico along the Mississippi River. The city is famous not only in the U.S, but in the world for its unique music, annual festivals and celebrations, the unique language, and the cuisine that reflects the history of the American, French, and African culture. We lived in NOLA for 6 years and everything in the New Orleans travel guide is based on our own experiences living there.

New Orleans Travel Guide – What Are the Best Things to Do in New Orleans?

There are plenty of things to see and do while in the city. Here are some of the 20 top things you should do in New Orleans.

1. Visit the French Quarter

Many people think that the French Quarter is just a Bourbon Street, which is not the case. The French Quarter, also identified as Vieux Carré, is among the ancient historic region and home to many restaurants, street performers, and museums. During your visit to the quarter, you will see the gorgeous Jackson Square and the marvelous St. Louis Cathedral.

2. Listen to New Orleans’ music

The city is known to be among the cities in the world with the greatest art of music. You will find live music everywhere in the city. Whether in the parks, in restaurants and bars, on the streets or anywhere else.

3. Visiting a Swamp

New Orleans city is located on the Mississippi River, and this implies that it is encircled by marshland and swamp. Visiting the swamp and having airboat tours in the local rivers is a great and unique experience that you wouldn’t want to miss.

4. Go for Mardi Gras

This is a famous festival in New Orleans that happens annually. If you miss the festival, you can visit Mardi Gras World, a studio that works to make and store the celebration’s floats and costumes. Some museums are committed to some facets of the Mardi Gras. Some of them are free such as Mardi Gras Museum, while others you pay though a low fee, for example, Presbytère.

5. Watch a Theatrical Performance

New Orleans has an amazing exciting theatre scene, and each month there is at least one great theatrical or musical production. One of the most popular locations for such performances is the Saenger Theatre. Seeing these musical performances can be a great family activity.

6. Visit a Plantation

It is uncommon to find a plantation in the city, but New Orleans is a unique city. Not far from the city, there are some of the best-preserved plantations in southern estates in the United States. You can drive on your own or get a tour guide to visit the plantations. Most of the plantations are within a one-hour drive from the city. At night you can stay in some of the plantations.

7. Go for a Sporting Event

The city is home to various sports teams. Whichever time you choose to visit, there is always a high chance that there will be some games to watch. Whether you are a fan of football, basketball, baseball, or any other game. Some of the great teams in New Orleans are Tulane Green Wave NCAA Basketball, New Orleans Saints, and New Orleans Pelicans.

8. Stroll Around a Cemetery

Taking a stroll around the ‘the cities of the dead’ can be a fascinating and a lifetime experience. The city has a tradition of burials above-ground makes it unique from other places across the globe.

9. Journey the Mississippi River

Several riverboat cruises sail over the river. Some of these cruises offer jazz music, serve both lunch and dinner. Though ancient cruises do not offer food. With as little as $2, you can sail across the Mississippi river using the Algiers ferry, but they will not offer you with music.

10. Visit a Park

There are many great parks in the city, with the City park being the center of attraction. Other parks include Audubon park, Louis Armstrong park, and National Jazz Historical Park .

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11. Visit the Voodoo Museum

The Voodoo is a museum in the French Quarter and can only be accessed through a guided tour. It has held the lead in the city’s history, folklore, and legends.

12. Visit the Garden District

The garden is located about 4 kilometers from the French Quarter. The garden has beautiful greenery, stately mansions, and great shopping. In the Garden District is the Lafayette Cemetery. Therefore, you can make your trip a three-experience trip, where you visit the cemetery, the French Quarter, and the garden.

13. Cocktail City

New Orleans has a history of combining various cultures, such as French, American, African, Spanish, and Caribbean. As a result, the city offers ingredients for experimental drink and food.

14. Wander Around the Neighborhoods of the City

New Orleans is a city with so many areas that awaits your discovery. Other than the Garden District and the French Quarter, there are several wonderful places in the city’s neighborhood.

15. Get Lessons About the History of the City

One of the interesting things about the city is its history. To get full coverage of how the city came to be, visit any of the exhibits that cover all the eras of the city, for instance, Louisiana galleries.

16. Watch People

The city attracts people of different characters and natures, who want to enjoy themselves and have fun. While touring New Orleans, hanging out at various streets will allow you to enjoy watching people’s unique lifestyles.

17. Learn the Post-Katrina Rebirth

One of the interesting tours to make while in New Orleans city is visiting the areas that were affected by the 2005 Hurricane Katrina, and discover the renaissance that has occurred since then.

18. Visit the Aquarium

Be sure to check the Audubon Aquarium that is situated just at the edge of the French Quarter, and hosts more than 10,000 animals. What makes it outstanding is the fact that it’s a walk through an underwater tunnel.

19. Throw Yourself a Parade

In a city like this one, you do not need to wait for someone to organize a parade for you. You can do it for yourself. All you will require is book a band and apply for a permit to allow the parade, and you can as well invite some friends.

20. Visit the Chalmette Battlefield

At Chalmette battlefield, Andrew Jackson fought the British and defeated them, bringing to an end the world war in 1812. Visiting this battlefield will be an exciting experience for you, especially if you are a history buff.

New Orleans Travel Guide – What Kind Of Budget Do I Need In New Orleans?

When planning to go for a tour in New Orleans, you need to prepare a budget. Some of the essential things to consider when budgeting are:

Hostel prices: Prices of a bed will depend on the season in which you are visiting the city. The average cost of a bed in a dorm is $20 – $25 for one night. If you want a bed in a private room, you will pay an average of $40 – $105 for one night.

Budget hotel prices: To get a 3-star hotel room for one night, you will be required to pay approximately $226 and $348 if you choose a 4-star hotel room. If you want to stay in a 5-star hotel, it will cost you about $516 for one night.

Airbnb prices: You can get rooms that are shared in apartments that range about $34 per night. The average cost of a full apartment ranges about $115 for one night.  This is not the best option in NOLA, the AirBNB price can be quite high and most of the readers of the New Orleans travel guide find that the hostels leave more money in their pocket to enjoy the food, music and bars with.

1. Eating pre-made sandwiches from the city’s takeaways shops and vendors.

Taking a pre-made sandwich in the streets or takeaways shops of New Orleans city will cost you between $7 to $11.

2. The average cost for one week of groceries, if you cook your food.

Cooking your food is cheaper than buying already cooked food. Nevertheless, the cost of your groceries for one week will depend on the amount of food you cook every day. You will spend an average of about $45, but this can vary depending on your rate of consumption.

3. If you decide to cook your food, you can assume to pay approximately $55 for groceries that are basic staples, for one week. However, if you get a grocer with a discount, for example, Lidl or Aldi, you can be sure to pay much less. Therefore, to save on your money, it is essential to buy your groceries in a grocer offering a discount.

New Orleans Travel Guide – How Can I Save Money

New Orleans can be quite expensive, so you need to get ways to cut some costs and save money. There are several ways in which you can do so and still enjoy the beauty and charm of the city. Here are some of the tips to help you save money while in New Orleans.  We can tell you from the New Orleans travel guide that New Orleans can be expensive and to truly experience the city will require some spending money.

1. The new Orleans Pass

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2. Get a hotel outside the French Quarter

Some of the most expensive hotels in the city are in the French Quarter and the Central Business District. The hotels also fill up quickly, even in the low seasons.

3. Use public transportation to go around the city

Though public transport can be slow, it is the cheapest mode of transport, whether you are getting off the airport or going around the city. A ride can is as low as $1.25. If you want to take several trips, get a day pass for $3 or $9 for three days.

4. Use the Ferries

When exploring river Mississippi, you can use the Canal St. ferry, which is free instead of using a cruise, which can cost up to $50.

5. Maximize on the happy hour

New Orleans is a night city, and getting drinks or dishes at night can be very expensive. However, you can enjoy half-prices before dark, which is usually a happy hour.

6. Eat like a resident

Local foods tend to be so good and cheap as well. You do not need to go to the fancy hotels to get yourself a good meal; it will save you a good amount of money when you eat like other locals.

7. Take a walking tour

To get an excellent overview of the great city of New Orleans, take a walking tour around the city.

New Orleans Travel Guide – Where to stay in New Orleans?

New Orleans has many hostels where you can get accommodation while on tour in the city. You can get a fabulous and comfortable room at a relatively low price. Here are five hotels you can stay at a cheap accommodation fee:

1. Auberge NOLA Hostel located on 1628 Carondelet street, 1.8 km from the city center.

2. India House Hostel located on 124 South Lopez St, 2.3 km from the city square.

3. NOLA Jazz House located on 3414 Canal St. Downtown, 2.6 km away from the city center.

4. The Quisby, located on 1225 St. Charles Ave, 1.5 km away from the city center.

5. Atlas House, located on 1354 Magazine Street, Greyhound Amtrack Station, 2km from the city square.

New Orleans Travel Guide – What are the Best Transportation Options

1. rer train.

RER is a train that operates above the ground and has five lines. It serves the same way as a metro. The only difference is that you will need to use your ticket as you alight in the automatic barriers.

Riding a bus in New Orleans is a convenient way to get around the city. There are about 34 bus lines that run almost 24 hours. For a one-way trip, it will cost you $1.25 or $3 for one day pass.

Three Amtrak trains terminate in the city. To view the fare and schedules of the trains, you need to check Amtrak’s website or contact (800) USA-RAIL.

4. Bike-sharing

New Orleans is full of bikes, which are a superb way of navigating the city. You can get the bikes at an affordable rate, and they align with the transit system in New Orleans.

Vietnam5. Taxi

Most taxis in the city are owned privately; thus, it can be expensive. It will cost you about $10.00 for three passengers or more and $28.00 for one or two passengers.

If you are going around New Orleans and do not want to incur the cost of renting a car, then you should consider taking Uber, which is very convenient. You will pay a minimum of $5.45 a relatively fair price.

New Orleans Travel Guide – When Is the Best Time to Visit

There is no particular time you cannot visit New Orleans since any time is enjoyable how the New Orleans travel guide has found Spring the best since it is cool and flowers are magnificent in the garden district. However, some times and seasons are considered a better choice of when to go there. The favorite time of the year to tour New Orleans is between November to December. During this time, the temperatures are quite warm for winter, and people are not many. This means the rates of accommodation and travel are cheaper. If you are looking for the best prices, this is the best time to visit the city.

If you are on a low budget, the season between February to April is not a good time to visit the city. This is because the famous festival, Mardi Gras, takes place in the middle of February or early March. During this time, there are many people in the city, making accommodation and travel rates very high. Also, during this season, there are JazzFest and French Quarter Festival, which draws traffic of people in the city. Therefore, the prices are extremely high.

New Orleans Travel Guide – How To Stay Safe On My Trip

New Orleans is known to have a high rate of crime, such as robberies at gun-point and murders. However, you can remain safe while in New Orleans, depending on how you conduct yourself and the precautions you take. New Orleans also is at risk of experiencing natural disasters. For instance, in 2005, there was the famous Hurricane Katrina that left the region devastated. Here are some tips to help you stay safe.

1. Avoid Some Wards

Avoid neighborhoods that are riskier and have a higher crime rate and shun away from visiting the cemeteries, especially after dark, if you do not have an official tour guide.

2. Use the Buddy System

While traveling, take a companion with you if possible, and avoid walking around alone after dark. Use public transit because they are safer, as vehicle break-ins are common in the city.

3. Watch for Scammers

Be on the lookout for scammers, especially in areas such as the Bourbon Street and the French Quarter, where there are plenty of petty criminals.

4. Be Aware of the Weather During Hurricane Season

If there is a natural disaster, immediately move to higher ground if there are floods, lie down beneath an object, and stay indoors.

In conclusion, with this travel guide , you can tour the city of New Orleans and get to enjoy the breathtaking sceneries and create unforgettable memories.

We hope you enjoyed reading the Budget New Orleans Travel Guide – and good travels! Contact us with any questions you may have about travel to New Orleans. We lived there for many years and can answer any questions.

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New Orleans on a Budget

This post is a travel guide for visiting New Orleans on a budget. Here are some insider tips for free and affordable tours, attractions, music, food, and more. 

• Concession Passes & Affordable Attractions
• Accommodations
• Transportation
• Food and drink

Self-Guided Tours 

If our pay-what-you-wish guided walking tours don't work in your schedule, then we have a range of self-guided New Orleans tours that you find here .  

Plantation And Swamp Tours

If you’re thinking about getting out of the city to take a swamp tour or plantation tour, it’s worth comparing prices, both for the tours themselves and for the transit if you’ll need help getting to the site.  

Most plantation and swamp tour sites are at least thirty minutes drive outside of New Orleans.  

Our post  comparing swamp tours and our post comparing plantation tours  can help you decide which excursion is the best for you.

If you’re considering more than one of these activities, or if you’re traveling with several people, renting a car for a day can sometimes prove more affordable than taking shuttles; this also opens up choices where a shuttle isn’t available.

It’s worth noting that having a car in the French Quarter is costly both in cash and time – it’s a difficult neighborhood to drive in, and parking is expensive and often hard to find – so many visitors find that confining the use of a rental car to a single day of out-of-town activities is the best idea.

Based on TripAdvisor and Yelp reviews, Enterprise and Budget appear to be the most reliable major rental companies with locations near the French Quarter.

CONCESSION PASSES 

Several tour providers offer package deal and concession passes can earn you better rates on attractions and tours, including swamp and plantation tours.

Check out our post comparing the various concession passes to see which one is the best fit for you.

FREE AND AFFORDABLE ATTRACTIONS

The Louisiana State Museum has five excellent locations in the French Quarter, where base prices are low and drop still further for students, seniors, children, active military, and large groups.

The Cabildo and Presbytere museums in Jackson Square both offer large exhibits on local history and culture for no more than $6 per person

The 1850 House Museum allows a self-guided tour of a 19th-century residence for $3 per adult, and the Old US Mint Museum charges no admission for their exhibits on local music and art, or for their concerts.

New Orleans is famous for its above-ground cemeteries , and while the most renowned, St. Louis Cemetery #1 just outside the French Quarter, is not open to the public except on a guided tour, most others can be visited for free, including Lafayette Cemetery #1 in the Garden District.

Our self-guided tour of the Garden District can help you make the most of your time exploring this cemetery and the surrounding neighborhood.

Also in the French Quarter, the New Orleans Pharmacy Museum reproduces a 119th-century medical establishment, which you can attend with or without a tour for $5 per person for one of the scariest experiences available in the neighborhood.

A block away, the Historic New Orleans Collection offers a free museum of local history, including a permanent collection and special exhibits that change every few months.

** For more ideas, see our post on Things to do for free in New Orleans  ** 

TRANSPORTATION 

For most people, walking is the best way to get around in the French Quarter area. The streets are narrow, mostly one-way, and often closed to cars.

But for getting outside the French Quarter, or for visitors not used to lots of walking or with limited mobility, other choices are available.

Public transit in New Orleans is fairly comprehensive with regard to the main neighborhoods of interest to most tourists while also being far more affordable than in most cities.

A single ride, without concession, is $1.25, and Jazzy Passes for one day, three days, or an entire month are also available.

These rates and passes apply to streetcars as well as to city buses.

For more information about using streetcars in New Orleans, check out our post,  Getting Around New Orleans by Street Car .

During the busy seasons (fall and spring), streetcars can get crowded, and the weather is the best of the year, so these can be ideal times for renting a bike.

At least one bike shop is available in most major visitor neighborhoods, and some B&Bs or Airbnb lodgings may offer access to a bike as part of their room rental.

See our article  New Orleans Bike Rentals .

CHEAP AND AFFORDABLE ACCOMMODATIONS

Hotels in the French Quarter and the adjacent business district can run several hundred dollars per night during the busy season (fall and spring).

However, better prices can often be found during the quiet seasons – summer and January – when demand is lower.

Further-flung hotels, such as those on St. Charles Avenue in uptown New Orleans, are rarer but often more affordable, while still being convenient to interesting sites like Magazine Street and the Garden District and to transit like the St. Charles Streetcar.

For more insight on hotels and hostels, check out our post comparing lodging options across the city . 

Most neighborhoods in New Orleans, besides the French Quarter and the Business District, are primarily residential, making hostels, bed, and breakfasts, and short-term home rentals much more common in those areas.  

Many short-term rental listings will use neighborhood names like “French Quarter” or “Garden District” without actually being located in those neighborhoods – another reason to map the address and make sure it’s near the attractions you’re interested in.

For proximity to the French Quarter, a rental in the Marigny or on Esplanade Avenue  can be a good idea. Some have the added benefit of offering a bike for use while you’re in town, making location less of a concern.

In high-demand seasons, such as during Jazz Fest or around Mardi Gras , even these smaller lodgings are often booked many months in advance, so planning can pay off enormously.

EATING AND DRINKING IN NEW ORLEANS ON A BUDGET

Food is one of the most in-demand and costly attractions in New Orleans.

Many of the best and most renowned restaurants are located in the French Quarter and the neighboring Business/Warehouse District, and in these areas, high prices are the norm.

Happy hours are a saving grace, especially in the Business District, where there are plenty of choices on weekday afternoons.

Happy hours are fewer in the French Quarter, but besides the standard afternoon time, some places offer a late-night happy hour.

Options are ever-changing, so a survey of recently published articles around the time of your trip will provide the most up-to-date list.

Lunch specials, especially on Fridays, can bring many fine dining establishments within reach in these same neighborhoods.

And depending on the timing of your trip, you may be able to take advantage of citywide bargains on prix-fixe multi-course menus through Coolinary New Orleans (the entire month of August),  NOLA Restaurant Week (mid-September), or Reveillon menus (all December, in tribute to the traditional Creole Christmas Eve meal).

If the thrill of carrying a drink in the street is part of the fun for you, then bear in mind you don’t have to go to a bar on the main drag to get a to-go drink – or to a bar at all.

Bars on Bourbon Street charge high prices for the convenience of the location, but a mere block away on Dauphine Street, or on the lower end of Bourbon between St. Ann and St. Philip Streets, are bars patronized mostly by locals, where the same to-go drink will cost less, although it may not come in a grenade-shaped container.

(Bear in mind most bars will not let you carry a to-go drink into their building – so once you’ve got one, you’re either in the bar where you bought it or else in the street until it’s done.)

Furthermore, while glass or metal containers are illegal in the outdoors in the French Quarter, this restriction does not apply in other neighborhoods unless a parade is taking place.

So if you’re walking down Magazine Street, or through the Marigny, or visiting a park, you can pay a visit to a grocery store beforehand, get a six-pack (or more), and carry your own supply.

New Orleans has several craft breweries whose products you can usually find in grocery stores, such as Rouse’s, in the French Quarter right by Jackson Square.

It’s worth taking into account that drinking on public transit is prohibited and that the liberty to drink outdoors at all ends at the parish line (parishes are Louisiana’s version of counties) – so check that you haven’t left Orleans Parish before you crack open a beer.

You might enjoy taking a self-guided tour of the best watering holes in town - so check out New Orleans Cocktail Tour .

HEAR MUSIC FOR FREE IN NEW ORLEANS

Music is one of the main reasons for a visit to New Orleans, and while plenty of it happens in upscale clubs or bars with a cover, the French Quarter is famous for great street music.

Any day of the week, but especially Thursday through Sunday, music in many styles can be found outdoors on Royal Street, Bourbon Street , and Frenchmen Street . 

It’s worth thinking of street music as a low-cost option for entertainment rather than a completely free one.

The city does not license, audition, or compensate street performers – they live entirely on what appreciative listeners give them. It’s a great system that allows musicians to make a living at what they love.

And playing on the street doesn’t represent an echelon beneath playing indoor venues – plenty of bands perform in both settings, and many respected street musicians are eagerly sought out for weddings, fundraisers, and parties.  

(For information on venues that might be a budget-buster but worth it, take a look at our post Frenchmen Street New Orleans: 12 Awesome Places to Hear Live Music ).

Royal Street in the French Quarter is the biggest destination for street music.

Several blocks of the street closed off to vehicle traffic, forming a pedestrian mall, from 11 am-7 pm Saturday and Sunday and 11 am-4 pm every other day of the week.

The street is full of art galleries, antique shops, boutiques, cafes, and restaurants to complement the music.

In particular, listen for Tanya and Dorise, a violin/guitar duo who tend to play at Royal and St. Louis, and for Doreen Ketchens, who plays clarinet and sings jazz standards with her band at Royal and St. Peter.

Options outside Royal Street are more variable but still plentiful. Jackson Square, a block from Royal Street, hosts musicians, acrobats, and magicians from early morning until the crowds disperse, often late at night.

Brass bands play nights on Frenchmen Street and in the first few blocks of Bourbon Street .

Acrobats, dancers, and costumed characters (think PG-13 more than Disney) are also plentiful on Bourbon during the daytime through the early evening.

To get yourself in the mood for New Orleans music, it’s worth tuning in to the city’s listener-supported radio station, WWOZ, which can be streamed live here .  

WWOZ also produces the Livewire Music Calendar , a broad listing of live music happening all over the city.

If you have an Apple smartphone, their Livewire app allows you to locate music happening near you, as well as to filter the day’s shows by their genre.

If music is the main priority of your trip, but tickets to an event like the Jazz and Heritage Festival aren’t realistic, it’s worth considering the month of April, when the  French Quarter Festival  takes place.

There’s no admission fee and stages are scattered all over the French Quarter , integrating an amped-up music experience with all of the neighborhood’s usual options for fun.

Lastly, since food is the other main reason to visit New Orleans, you can kill two birds with one stone by choosing restaurants with live music.

For a reasonably priced upscale Creole option with traditional jazz, consider Palm Court Jazz Café .  

For a more affordable choice, you can take an outdoor table at French Market Café or  Gazebo Café , both located in the historic French Market.

Or, for the classic coffee and beignets , Morning Call Café in City Park often has live music during the day.

Bands at restaurants typically are supported by the restaurant but accept tips, with the exception of Morning Call, where musicians will ask you to direct any extra tip your waiter instead. 

SOUVENIRS 

Souvenir shops are one of the most common sights in the French Quarter, offering t-shirts, figurines, spices, and the like.

We also have a post on the 12 top souvenirs you can take home with you.

The highest density of these are clustered on Canal Street or in the historic French Market.

While prices here will tend toward the higher end, the flea market portion of the French Market will often reward a skilled haggler with much lower prices than the initial one offered.

If you prefer reasonably priced art or crafts, a few options can be found in the flea market, but more of this sort of souvenir art is found in shops on lower Decatur Street near the French Market, in the Dutch Alley Artists’ Co-op, on the fence surrounding Jackson Square, or in the Frenchmen Street art market in the evenings Thursday through Monday.

Since New Orleans is a culinary city, many of our favorite souvenirs are edible (or drinkable).

Souvenir shops throughout the French Quarter offer spice blends, hot sauces, local brewing or distilling, praline and turtle candy, and mixes for making beignets or gumbo.

For the most part, these are items that locals buy and use regularly, and you’ll, therefore, find most of them at much better prices in a typical grocery store, like Rouse’s, which has locations in both the French Quarter and the Business District.

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About The Author

Sarah Hester

North america, united kingdom & ireland, middle east & india, asia & oceania.

Voyage Scribe

For Writers Who Travel

The Ultimate Guide to Traveling New Orleans on a Budget

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New Orleans may just be my new favorite city in the U.S. It wasn’t easy traveling in New Orleans on a budget, but the extra effort was well worth it.

Walking through the streets of the French Quarter, you get a sense of being in Europe without having to leave the country, and it seems like everywhere you go the sound of brass instruments playing jazz follows you in the air.

There are numerous original cocktails to try, and the even more delicious fresh beignets and Creole food that won’t fail in satisfying your tastebuds.

What I loved most about New Orleans (well, after the jazz) was the rich history, pride, uniqueness and authenticity—something that I admire in most of my favorite cities. New Orleans is a place where everything goes (from wearing wacky costumes to drinking on the streets) and a haven for people who want to express themselves in untraditional ways.

What this wonderful city offers can get pricey, however. But like I said, it’s definitely possible to travel New Orleans on a budget. And you don’t even have to do all the extensive research I did, because I’ve pulled together all the things I learned from my budget trip to New Orleans.

So here it is: my guide on how to experience New Orleans on budget in the best way possible. Read on for my general tips on saving money and the best things to do for free or cheap in New Orleans.

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Table of Contents

Some tips for traveling to New Orleans on a budget

Stay at a hostel.

Hotels in New Orleans are expensive. Luckily, there are several hostels in New Orleans, which are ideal for anyone on a budget. I actually stayed at a few hostels in New Orleans, and I had great experiences in all of them!

One was The Quisby , which was really nice and had a bar in the lobby (complete with happy hour and free breakfast in the morning). The rooms were really nice compared to other hostels I’ve stayed at. I stayed in a four bed all-female dorm with a private bathroom. It’s located in the business district and pretty close the French Quarter.

The other hostel I stayed at, and highly recommend, is India House Backpackers Hostel . It’s a big property located in between the French Quarter and City Park, and it’s right next to a street car stop. The best part about it was that it was amazing for socializing. It had lots of space to meet fellow travelers, including a pool, and it also had social activities planned for guests. If you’re looking with a more social environment, book your stay here!

Never stayed at a hostel before? Read my 10 tips for making it a good first experience .

Go during the winter

Spring is going to be expensive with Mardi Gras season, spring break and the Jazz Fest. Summer is busy as well (and just too hot), and fall is hurricane and tropical storm season. That leaves winter as the best time to travel New Orleans if you want the budget prices of low season.

I went end of January and it was the perfect time to go! It wasn’t crowded and the temperature was in the 50’s and 60’s. This felt like tropical weather to me coming from Chicago where it was -50 degrees (not exaggerating—my flight going back was actually canceled because it was that insanely cold).

It was already Mardi Gras season then too, and I happened to be there on the weekend of the King Cake Festival. I of course went and got to try from the bakeries competing for the title of best king cake in New Orleans.

It’s unlucky to eat king cake outside of Mardi Gras season, so if you wanna try one then I’d recommend visiting early in the Mardi Gras season, before prices get too high.

Save money by eating smart

New Orleans is well known for its excellent food, yet many of the best restaurants are really expensive. But if you’re traveling to New Orleans on a budget, that doesn’t mean you have to miss out!

If you want to try the best restaurants, I’d suggest going during the day for the lunch specials. It’s much cheaper than the dinner menu. You still get great food, and then you can grab something smaller (cheaper) for dinner.

Grab a slice of pizza or fried chicken in the French Quarter for something cheap and conveniently located for a night out. And FYI, Cafe du Monde is open all night, although I wouldn’t recommend eating a plate of sugary beignets for a late dinner right before going to bed. Although they’re delicious, you will have trouble falling asleep. I may or may not know this from experience…

Don’t drink too much

This might be something you’re not willing to compromise on, and if so, make sure you have the budget for it. New Orleans is and always was a party city, so it may very well be the reason why you’re visiting. But drinks are really expensive, especially all those fancy New Orleans cocktails.

You’ll be saving a lot of money by not drinking loads while out on Bourbon Street. I’d recommend just buying the minimum while at jazz bars (see below) if you’re trying not to spend too much while in New Orleans.

Cheap and free things to do in New Orleans

When figuring out an itinerary for your New Orleans budget trip, there are more than enough things you can do that won’t break the bank much. Many of the things I did were free, or were offered at very affordable prices.

Listen to free jazz at a Bourbon Street or Frenchman Street jazz bar

So this is a little misleading because it’s not entirely free—you do have to buy a drink, which can be quite pricey—but there is no cover at most places. And real New Orleans jazz is not something that you want to miss out on when you’re there, even if you are on a budget. Also, don’t forget to tip these talented jazz musicians when their sets are done!

Alternatively you can go to Preservation Hall where you don’t have to pay for a drink, but there is a cover—usually $20.  If you want to drink, you’re better off at one of the jazz bars that have no cover.

One of my favorites was Fritzel’s European Jazz Bar on Bourbon Street, and Spotted Cat on Frenchman Street had great music both times I went there. Do be aware that both of these bars did get crowded, so be prepared to cozy up with your neighbor. But even if you don’t like crowds like me, the music will be well worth it!

Enjoy the River Walk

One of my favorite parts of my first day in New Orleans was lounging on the steps of the River Walk. The Mississippi River in front of me and the Cathedral behind me, I soaked in the sun and enjoyed the famous muffaletto sandwich from Central Grocery.

(Unfortunately, this establishment didn’t survive Covid and is permanently shut down. But you can grab a po boy instead from somewhere in the French Quarter!)

With the sound of brass instruments being played by musicians on the streets behind me, I wanted to lounge on the River Walk for the entire day. But there was too much to do and see in New Orleans, so I had to force myself to leave this peaceful spot.

Hang out at Jackson Square in front of the Cathedral

This square is a lovely place to walk around. It’s reminiscent of a European square (in fact, the entire French Quarter reminded me of Europe).

The Cathedral itself is worth checking out. If its exterior looks familiar to you, that’s because Walt Disney supposedly used it as inspiration for the castle in Disney World.

In the square you can sit on a bench in the park at its center and listen to the musicians and performers filling the square with sound. Or you can stroll along the square to shop from local artists selling their colorful works.

Take a stroll through the Lafayette Cemetery (for free!)

Before flying out to New Orleans, I pumped myself up for the trip by binge watching The Originals . So I was super excited to visit Lafayette Cemetery, which was where they filmed parts of the show.

When I told my mom about how I went to a cemetery that was “really cool,” she didn’t understand how “really cool” could be an adjective for a cemetery. But it is for this one! 

(By the way, if you agree, you might be interested in other cemeteries around the world that I think are really cool.)

The above ground tombs that hold the remains of entire families are rather unique. And walking through these tombs you get a feeling that you’re walking through a mini city, the tombs resembling little houses.

Take the ferry to Old Algiers Point at sunset

It’s a really short trip and there isn’t too much to do on the other side of the Mississippi. But at least you could say that you were on the Mississippi, and it’s great place for sunsets.

I had a really nice evening watching the sun set over the city’s skyline after taking a walk in this quiet area, a large contrast from the noisy Bourbon Street on the other side of the river.

It’s only a few bucks, so hop on the ferry to watch the sunset. After this little escape to somewhere so peaceful, you’ll be ready to head back to the other side, where the chaos of Bourbon Street at nighttime awaits.

Take a walk through the Garden District

The best thing about this is that it’s completely free to take a walk through this neighborhood with its gorgeous houses! It’s a must if you’re in New Orleans on a budget.

The reason why it’s called the Garden District is because as opposed to the French Quarter, which was built with Spanish architecture influence and intended for defense, the Garden District was built to be more open with green, tree-shaded yards surrounding the large mansions.

If you want, you can take a tour of the neighborhood and get shown the houses of famous, rich people who have houses there. I took a free, tip-based tour from the front of Lafayette Cemetery (in the Garden District). The tour guide pointed out the houses of Sandra Bullock, John Goodman, the Manning family, Jefferson Davis, Alice Rice and the house that was featured in the Benjamin Button movie.

If you’d like to take a more in-depth tour, book this one online, which also includes a tour of Lafayette Cemetery.

Take a ride through the city on a streetcar

At only $1.25 per ticket, you won’t be setting yourself back much on your budget. And your tired legs will be very thankful after walking all day.

It’s a great way to see the city and experience one of the iconic parts of the city. New Orleans is one of only a few cities in the U.S. that still uses streetcars for transportation!

Louis Armstrong Park and Congo Square

I’d suggest coming to this park on a Sunday. Traditionally, Congo Square (located in the park) was a place where slaves met on Sundays. Here, they would trade, socialize and create music together.

On Sundays, there are still people who perform traditional music played by slaves. I accidentally stumbled upon this, and it was really cool to witness.

This one is a bit of a trek from the French Quarter, but easily accessible by street car. This park is the largest in New Orleans and has quite a lot of free things to do. I personally loves The Singing Oak the best, and there is also a free sculpture garden that is fun to wander around.

Take a nighttime walking tour

Learn more about the ghosts, vampires, witches and voodoo of New Orleans in the best way possible: a nighttime haunted walking tour! I took the tour and it was one of the cooler things I did in NOLA.

These supernatural stories New Orleans is known for is a huge part of its charm. And it was really cool to see the buildings featured in American Horror Story and The Originals .

If you’re planning on taking a walking tour of the city, I’d suggest taking a unique one like this . Obviously it’s not free, but it was one of the splurges I made that was well worth it.

Bonus : Take a day trip

So this one wasn’t really a “budget” thing as it’s quite pricey, especially if you don’t have a car and need to take a tour. And it’s not technically a “New Orleans” thing to do, since it’s not located in the city. But I am so happy I decided to splurge and take the venture out of New Orleans, because it was one of my favorite parts of my trip.

My first time in New Orleans I took a day trip to Oak Alley Plantation, and the second time I went on a swamp tour and Laura Plantation. I loved all three.

Interested in a day trip? Don’t have a car? No worries—I compiled a list of the best tours from New Orleans that provide transportation for a day trip.

So there you have it! It’s most definitely possible to enjoy a trip to New Orleans on a budget. As long as you follow my tips and take advantage of all the free things to do in New Orleans, you won’t break the bank and still enjoy your time in the Crescent City.

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14 Comments

Loved your visit to New Orleans. You sounded like a local lol. I’m not a local but considered an imported local from Canada. Have been going there for 12 years and was married at Jackson Square the year the Saints won the Super Bowl. Check back on NOLA periodically and you will find a second home.

Thanks so much, Tammy! That’s amazing! Haha I wish I was a local. I am absolutely in love with New Orleans, so I’ll definitely be returning next chance I get 🙂

• Pingback: Old Cemeteries to Visit Around the World | Voyage Scribe

Great post. I haven’t been to New Orleans but would love to visit and take a day trip to a plantation. Saving this for later.

Thank you for this guide! I love NOLA but it can get expensive! Very helpful article.

As a budget backpacker, I love posts like this because it proves that you don’t have to be super rich to travel. Thank you for these tips. I’ll keep them in mind when I do visit New Orleans.

You shared some great tips especially that one of listening Jazz for free. Sounds like you have spent a lot of time there. I wish to visit one day and saved this for later!

Great tips! I loved New Orleans so much and really want to go back, but it’s definitely not the cheapest – and my friend we stayed with before moved! But I had no idea there were hostel there, that’s great to know!

I love New Orleans so much! It’s been a few years since I last went, but I recall the food being amazing the jazz as well! Such a spot-on post.

I loved my trip to New Orleans and I can’t wait to go back! Great tips for exploring the city on a budget. City Park is an oasis of solitude and I loved exploring the French Quarter. I had done two free walking tours and they were fantastic.

I would add to your list to get your palm read but this can be expensive. But it is one of my favorite memories from visiting New Orleans.

NOLA is such a fun destination! Great tips!

Thank you for this guide – it is good to know how to visit a place without breaking a bank. I’m saving this for my New Orleans visit!

Oak Alley Plantation looks like a unique thing to do in New Orleans area. I haven’t seen this mentioned before, and this looks right up my alley. Excellent guide with wonderful tips!

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Bucket list on a budget: Travel New Orleans without breaking the bank

Check out local eateries, free live music and more!

The Big Easy is a bucket list destination for fun-seekers. With live music and jazz echoing through the streets, delicious French and Creole cuisine -- serving everything from beignets and po' boy sandwiches to French 75 cocktails -- there's an abundance of must-do activities in New Orleans.

But living it up in the Crescent City can get costly if you're not careful, so "Good Morning America" scoped out the best way to enjoy bayou country on a budget.

If you're pinching pennies, see all the ways you can still let the good times roll, below.

Getting there

Airfare prices to New Orleans, like most destinations, can vary depending on the time of year, but in the beginning of June for example, roundtrip fares from Chicago O'Hare International Airport can be found for under $145 on Spirit Airlines, and for $45 more -- around $189 -- American Airlines has similar flights that include a carry on item for no fee.

Where to stay

Look at hotel membership programs before you book your stay.

An IHG One Rewards account gets guests a slightly cheaper rate: A room at the Hotel Indigo, for instance, is priced at $129 per night for members, $7 less than the typical rate.

Travel expert Clint Henderson, managing editor at The Points Guy, told "GMA" that "among the perks you can potentially get just for being a member in a loyalty program are free Wi-Fi, late checkout and even room upgrades."

"In the case of IHG, specifically, you unlock member discounts by booking via their website as opposed to an online travel agent," he said.

Eat like a local

There's no shortage of delicious New Orleans restaurant options from legendary chefs like Emeril Lagasse or Nina Compton, but if you're looking to save, check out specials and find some go-to spots that locals love.

At the famed, family-run Parkway Bakery, one of the oldest po' boy shops in the city and known for its fresh baked bread, visitors can enjoy an array of stuffed oversized sub-like sandwiches for as little as $7. And if you can agree on the fillings and toppings, sharing a full size po' boy like the classic flash-fried Louisiana wild-caught Gulf shrimp comes in at just $7.70 each for two people.

Plus, May through July is peak crawfish season, and local eateries like Clesi's Seafood Restaurant & Catering have an abundance of the freshwater crustacean for just $8.50 per pound. The restaurant offers weekly specials as well like $3 taco Tuesday and free fry basket Friday, and gives customers a complimentary order of french fries tossed in a house-made parmesan garlic butter with the purchase of a pitcher of beer.

It wouldn't be a visit to New Orleans without satisfying your sweet tooth with beignets. The renowned Cafe du Monde serves up the deep-fried pâte à choux pastry, which is doused in powdered sugar, in orders of three for just $3.85 -- but don't forget, it's cash only.

Getting around the city

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Skip the cabs or rideshare apps and pick up a Jazzy Pass to use public transit for just $3 a day.

The card includes unlimited rides on the ferry, bus and street cars, providing a unique view of the city.

Listen to the music

You'll never miss a beat in the jazz-filled French Quarter. Entertainment is free, but be sure to pack some small bills and tip your favorite artists as you enjoy the historic area.

The New Orleans Jazz Museum also hosts free afternoon concerts Tuesday through Friday.

Venture outside the city center

Look for activities, tours and other attractions from the local tourism board to book unique deals.

Plus, Groupon has offers on more than 40% off the Jean Lafitte Swamp Tour.

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17 free or cheap activities in new orleans and tips for a budget-friendly trip.

T he fun never stops in New Orleans, whether that’s because the drinks are always flowing or because it’s full of great things to see. No matter how you want to spend your time in the Big Easy, downing Hurricanes on Bourbon Street and throwing beads , or checking out historical attractions and beautiful architecture, all of that non-stop good time can add up very quickly. But worry not: If you know the right tricks, you can save hundreds of dollars on your trip — or use those savings to keep the fun going a little longer. Here’s how to enjoy New Orleans on a budget.

Free or cheap activities in New Orleans

1. free: visit jean lafitte national historical park and preserves.

Photo: Jaimie Tuchman /Shutterstock

The Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserves is comprised of six sites, one of which are in New Orleans proper (the French Quarter Visitor Center) and are very easy to get to. The Chalmette Battlefield and the Barataria Preserve are only 15 and 30 minutes from Downtown New Orleans, while the other three (the Acadian Cultural Center, the Prairie Acadian Cultural Center, and the Wetland Acadian Cultural Center) are over one hour away. All of them are free to visit.

For an immersion into the fauna and flora of Louisiana, get yourself to the Barataria Preserve , a 26,000-acre area comprised of bayous, swamps, marshes, and forests. You’ll see wildflowers, alligators, birds, and more enchanting native creatures and plants. There are free guided walk on a boardwalk trail Wednesday through Sunday at 10:00 AM, or you can take a self-guided tour — just make sure to stay on the boardwalk or designated trail.

Where: Barataria Preserve, 6588 Barataria Blvd., Marrero, Louisiana 70072

2. Cheap: Take a tour of the NOLA Brewing Company and sample the goods

Want to support a company that helps the community and gives back in charitable donations to help the planet and the community? NOLA Brewing Company does just that and a little more. Have a beer and take a free tour to learn about the brewing process. Tours are Friday between 3 and 4 PM and Saturday between 2 and 4 PM. Show up early because they do not take reservations.

Where: 3001 Tchoupitoulas St., New Orleans, Louisiana 70115

3. Free: Visit St. Louis Cathedral

St. Louis Cathedral is a beautiful landmark in Jackson Square. Since the eighteen century, New Orleans residents, and out-of-towners have admired the painted ceilings and stunning stained glass of this exceptional edifice. St. Louis Cathedral is open to the public from 9:00 AM until 4:00 PM, during which time you can walk around at your own pace for free, but we recommend that you buy the $1 brochure inside to get details on the artifacts and historical structures. When available, volunteer docents give impromptu tours to visitors. The daily mass is held at 12:05 PM and open to all.

Where: 615 Pere Antoine Alley, New Orleans, Louisiana 70116

4. Free: Attend a glassblowing demonstrations

Watch professionals in action turn a glass blob into a work of art and tour their workshops and galleries. Choose from New Orleans Glassworks & Printmaking Studio , or Rosetree Blown Glass Studio and Gallery . Please contact ahead and check the studio’s websites to find the hours for the daily glass blowing demonstrations.

• New Orleans Glassworks & Printmaking Studio, 727 Magazine Street, New Orleans, Louisiana 70130
• Rosetree Blown Glass Studio and Gallery, 446 Vallette St., New Orleans, Louisiana 70114

5. Free: Check out the vendor markets

These markets contain local artists’ original crafts and retail options. Bring cash for better sales negotiation. Many vendors also accept credit/debit cards.

Where: 1008 N. Peters St., New Orleans, Louisiana, 70116

Where: 801 Harrison Ave., New Orleans, Louisiana 70124

Where: 1209 Decatur St., New Orleans, Louisiana 70116

6. Free/cheap: Visit a historical cemetery

Photo: amadeustx /Shutterstock

Visit the resting places of local legends, New Orleans voodoo priests, and other historical luminaries. Many of the tombs (all above ground because of the flooding risks) provide historical details and stories about their residents. Enter for free and walk around the impressive tombstones at Saint Patrick Cemetery No. 2 , Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 , and Saint Louis Cemetery No. 3 . To tour the very popular Saint Louis Cemetery No. 1 , it is mandatory to have a licensed tour guide with you — and it is well worth the trip. Tours are offered Monday through Saturday at 10 AM, 11:30 AM, and 1 PM, and Sunday at 10 AM. Admission is $20.

• Saint Patrick Cemetery No. 2, 5000 Canal St., New Orleans, Louisiana 70119
• Lafayette Cemetery No. 1, 1400 Washington Ave., New Orleans, Louisiana 70130
• Saint Louis Cemetery No. 3, 3421 Esplanade Ave., New Orleans, Louisiana 70119
• Saint Louis Cemetery No. 1, Basin at St. Louis St., New Orleans, Louisiana 70112

7. Free: Discover Saint Charles Avenue

Saint Charles Avenue is known for its oak trees and 19th-century grand mansions. Many of the mansions are converted into Bed and Breakfasts and the hosts are happy to share the history of their homes to those who stay there. The avenue is perfect for walking or biking to restaurants, historical churches, hotels, boutiques, Audubon Park, Loyola University, and Tulane University. When you need to rest, hop on the historic streetcar that runs along the avenue.

8. Free/cheap: Experience City Park

City Park is a 1,300-acre self-supporting public park and it is one of the biggest and oldest parks in the country. Dating back to the 1850s, its beautiful landscape includes 600-plus-year-old oak trees, ponds, and more. Stop by the New Orleans Botanical Gardens to see over 2,000 plants from around the world ($10); get a treat at the City Park snoball stand for a couple of dollars; and visit the New Orleans Museum of Art ($15). Visitors will need one or two days to enjoy everything in the park. Although concessions accept debit/credit, we recommend bringing cash to purchase from the vendors. Comfortable walking shoes are a must for the various terrains.

Where: 1 Palm Drive, New Orleans, Louisiana 70124

9. Free: Admire the street performers on Jackson Square

Photo: Enrico Della Pietra /Shutterstock

In front of St. Louis Cathedral and across from the iconic Café Du Monde , is Jackson Square. It is home to artists showcasing their talents from artworks to music and is a never-ending stream of live entertainment.

Where: 701 Decatur St., New Orleans, Louisiana 70116

10. Free: Enjoy live music on Frenchmen Street

Frenchmen street is full of live music performances in the bars, clubs, and lounges. The best places to check out are The Spotted Cat , Apple Barrel , and they do not have a cover fee. If the venues are full, the sounds can be enjoyed from the street.

• The Spotted Cat, 623 Frenchmen St., New Orleans, Louisiana 70116
• Apple Barrel, 609 Frenchmen St., New Orleans, Louisiana 70116

11. Free: Take a private tour of Antoine’s Restaurant

Antoine’s is a French-Creole restaurant opened in 1840. This fine dining restaurant has 14 dining rooms, each with its decor own story to tell. We recommend asking the waiter for a guided tour of the restaurant during slower hours. Don’t fight the urge to dine.

Where: 713 St Louis St., New Orleans, Louisiana 70130

12. Free: Spend a day in Audubon Park

Photo: Fotoluminate LLC /Shutterstock

Located in the historic Uptown neighborhood of New Orleans, Audubon Park is accessible by Magazine Street and Saint Charles Avenue public transportation. It’s a great place to spend a sunny day outdoors away from the urban environment. The park has a 1.8-mile jogging path, a golf course, picnic areas, a lagoon, tennis courts, a pool, and more.

Where: 6500 Magazine St., New Orleans, Louisiana 70118

13. Free: Visit Faulkner House Books

Not only does this French Quarter bookstore carry author William Faulkner’s collection, it also used to be his residence. Faulkner House Books is almost hidden in Jackson Square alley, and carries fine literature, selected signed hardback editions, and rare editions.

Where: 624 Pirate’s Alley, New Orleans, Louisiana 70116

14. Free: Experience Louis Armstrong Park

Louis Armstrong Park , also known as Congo Square, is a 31-acre park in the Tremé neighborhood. This historic site is where the slave population gathered on Sunday to sing, dance, and trade. Take the time to read the informative plaques along its river walk. We recommend that you visit in the daytime unless you are attending a special evening event. If in New Orleans during the week, check out Jazz in the Park , a free event, on Thursday evenings.

Where: 835 N. Rampart St., New Orleans, Louisiana 70116

15. Free: Watch the sunset at The Fly

This is the locals’ favorite spot to watch the sunset over the Mississippi River. The Fly is a park located along the waterfront behind the Audubon Zoo. On the weekends, it’s a popular place for barbecues and pickup games at the numerous fields. Sitting can be limited, so bring a blanket and a chair. It is a great location for a relaxing picnic, to read a book, and marvel at the big world.

Where: Exposition Dr., New Orleans, Louisiana 70118

16. Free: Attend festivals

Louisiana has more festivals than days of the year, and on most weekends you’ll have more than one festival to choose from. Many festivals have free admission and offer a chance to sample food and drink from dozens of local restaurants at pretty fair prices. French Quarter Fest is the crown jewel of free festivals, but Satchmo Summerfest , Poboy Fest and an ever-growing list of food-specific festivals (Fried Chicken, Oyster, Creole Tomato, Beignet) are all worth your time.

17. Free: Window shopping

There are shopping options in New Orleans other than Canal Street and the mass production souvenir shops.

• Located near the French Quarter, Royal Street is known for antiques and art galleries. Don’t forget to ask for a guided tour and viewing of sword-canes at M.S. Rau Antiques .
• Locally known as Gallery Row, Julia Street is the place for fine and expensive art. Try participating in the First Saturday Gallery Openings for free every first Saturday of the month.
• Parallel to St Charles Ave, Ortha Castle Haley Boulevard is known for culturally diverse arts and crafts from local artists.
• Freret Street has high-quality merchandise from art galleries, upscale boutiques, and other specialty shops.
• Located between Poydras Street and Lafayette Street, Fulton Street has a pedestrian-only outdoor mall.
• Between Loyola and Tulane universities, Maple Street is known for consignment shops, affordable boutiques, and bookstores.
• Near the French Quarter, Chartres Street is known for art galleries, antiques, and boutiques.

Tips to save money in New Orleans

1. drinking on the streets is legal — bring a roadie when you’re going out.

Drinks in New Orleans are not especially expensive, but even $2 beers can add up when you’re drinking enough of them. It is perfectly legal to drink on the streets in New Orleans and the Go-Cup is a way of life (just no glass please). So fill in your cup with your beverage of choice at your accommodation and enjoy the sights of the city with a mild buzz.

2. Use public transportation

Photo: f11photo /Shutterstock

If you didn’t come with a car, don’t rent one. Parking rates downtown can be astronomical and public transportation is widely available. While buses offer more coverage, don’t miss a ride on the streetcar, which is an experience unto itself. Purchase a Jazzy Pass from your driver when you board and ride for $3 all day.

3. Stay in an Airbnb close to the action

A version of this article was previously published on August 4, 2017, and was updated on January 25, 2022, with more information.

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• Budget Travel

Travel New Orleans on a Budget – Best Guide!

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Travel New Orleans on a Budget: Discover money-saving tips and hidden gems for an affordable trip. Looking to explore the vibrant city of New Orleans without breaking the bank?

Discovering the best attractions, flavors, and experiences on a budget is entirely possible. From visiting free museums and parks to indulging in affordable local cuisine, there are plenty of ways to make the most of your trip without overspending. New Orleans is renowned for its rich culture, history, and music scene, and you can immerse yourself in all of it without straining your budget.

Whether you’re a history buff, a food lover, or a music enthusiast, this guide will help you navigate the city’s budget-friendly options and make your trip a memorable one. So, grab your travel wallet and get ready to discover the budget-friendly wonders of New Orleans.

Table of Contents

Exploring The Many Free Attractions

When it comes to exploring New Orleans on a budget, you’ll be thrilled to discover that there are plenty of free attractions to enjoy. From the colorful streets of the French Quarter to the historic Garden District, there is no shortage of things to see and do without breaking the bank. So, pack your walking shoes and get ready to embark on an adventure through the many free attractions this vibrant city has to offer.

The Vibrant French Quarter

The French Quarter is the heart and soul of New Orleans, known for its lively atmosphere and unique architecture. One of the best ways to experience this vibrant neighborhood is by simply strolling through its streets. As you wander, you’ll be met with colorful buildings adorned with wrought-iron balconies, street performers showcasing their talents, and the famous jazz music that fills the air. Don’t miss the chance to explore the lively open-air market at the French Market, where you can browse through an array of local crafts, art, and souvenirs.

Discover The Historic Garden District

Located just a streetcar ride away from the French Quarter, the historic Garden District is a must-visit for those seeking a glimpse into New Orleans’ storied past. This picturesque neighborhood is known for its meticulously preserved mansions, adorned with beautiful gardens and intricate architectural details. Take a stroll along Magazine Street, where you’ll find charming boutiques, quaint cafes, and art galleries. Keep an eye out for the Lafayette Cemetery No. 1, a hauntingly beautiful cemetery dating back to the 19th century, which offers free self-guided tours.

Strolling Along The Mississippi Riverfront

No visit to New Orleans is complete without taking in the beauty of the Mississippi River. Head down to the riverfront and enjoy a relaxing walk along the scenic Riverwalk. As you stroll, you’ll be treated to breathtaking views of the river, passing steamboats, and the bustling activity of the port. If you’re lucky, you might even catch a live performance at the open-air Spanish Plaza, where local musicians and artists showcase their talents. Make sure to bring your camera to capture the picturesque sunset over the water, creating a truly memorable experience.

Affordable Accommodation Options

When planning a budget -friendly trip to New Orleans, finding affordable accommodation is essential to make your trip more affordable without compromising on comfort and convenience. Fortunately, several options suit various budget ranges, from budget-friendly hotels to unique and quirky Airbnbs.

Budget-friendly Hotels In New Orleans

If you prefer the convenience and amenities of a hotel while keeping your expenses in check, New Orleans offers a range of budget-friendly hotel options. These hotels provide clean and comfortable rooms, friendly service, and proximity to the city’s top attractions without breaking the bank.

Here are some budget-friendly hotels you can consider:

• Hotel A – This affordable hotel is located in the heart of the French Quarter, offering easy access to popular landmarks such as Bourbon Street and Jackson Square.
• Hotel B – Situated in the vibrant Garden District, Hotel B provides comfortable accommodation with a charming atmosphere. It’s within walking distance of Magazine Street, known for its unique shops and restaurants.

Unique And Quirky Airbnbs

If you prefer a more personalized and unique accommodation experience, renting an Airbnb in New Orleans can be a fantastic option. With a wide range of options available, you can find everything from cozy apartments in historic buildings to charming cottages with a touch of local flair.

Consider these unique and quirky Airbnbs that offer a memorable stay:

• Airbnb A – This colorful shotgun house is located in the Marigny neighborhood, known for its vibrant music scene. With its eclectic decor and proximity to Frenchmen Street, you’ll be immersed in the city’s unique culture.
• Airbnb B – Nestled in the Garden District, this historic Victorian home offers elegant rooms with a touch of Southern charm. You can relax in the lush garden or take a stroll along the picturesque streets lined with beautiful mansions.

No matter your preferred accommodation style, these budget-friendly options allow you to explore the enchanting city of New Orleans without straining your wallet. Whether you choose a budget-friendly hotel or a unique Airbnb, you can enjoy a comfortable stay while leaving room in your budget for the vibrant experiences that New Orleans has to offer.

Budget-friendly Dining Options

New Orleans is a city renowned for its vibrant culture, historical significance, and mouthwatering cuisine. While dining in this eclectic city can be a memorable experience, it doesn’t have to break the bank. There are plenty of budget-friendly dining options that allow you to indulge in the flavors of New Orleans without emptying your wallet. From local street food to affordable Creole and Cajun eateries, you can savor the city’s culinary delights while staying within your budget.

Trying Out Local Street Food

One of the best ways to immerse yourself in the local food scene while sticking to a budget is by exploring the abundance of street food options scattered throughout New Orleans. The city is known for its diverse street food culture, offering a wide range of flavors and culinary experiences. Whether you’re craving a delicious po’boy sandwich or a hearty bowl of gumbo, you’ll find numerous street food vendors and food trucks eager to satisfy your taste buds. Here are some popular street food options to try out:

• Grab a shrimp po’ boy from a local food truck for a tasty and affordable meal on the go.
• Indulge in a plate of crispy beignets dusted with powdered sugar from a street-side cafe.
• Sample a steaming bowl of jambalaya, a hearty combination of rice, meat, and vegetables, from a street food vendor.

Affordable Creole And Cajun Eateries

Another great way to enjoy New Orleans on a budget is by dining at affordable Creole and Cajun eateries scattered throughout the city. These establishments offer a taste of traditional local cuisine at prices that won’t break the bank. From gumbo to red beans and rice, you’ll find a variety of dishes that showcase the unique flavor profiles of Creole and Cajun cooking. Here are some affordable eateries to check out:

By dining at these affordable Creole and Cajun eateries, you can savor the iconic flavors of New Orleans without blowing your budget. From the bustling French Quarter to the vibrant neighborhoods scattered throughout the city, there are plenty of budget-friendly options to satisfy your cravings.

Enjoying Free And Low-cost Entertainment

When it comes to travel, one aspect that can quickly eat into your budget is entertainment. However, in New Orleans, you don’t have to break the bank to have a good time. The city is known for its vibrant culture, diverse music scene, and rich history, offering plenty of free and low-cost entertainment options for budget-conscious travelers. From discovering the local music scene to exploring the art and culture of the city, numerous activities won’t put a dent in your wallet.

Discovering The Local Music Scene

New Orleans is often referred to as the birthplace of jazz, and the city continues to be a melting pot of musical styles and genres. From street performers to talented jazz musicians, you can enjoy incredible live music without spending a fortune. Whether you’re strolling through the lively French Quarter or venturing into the Marigny neighborhood, you’re bound to encounter talented local musicians showcasing their skills.

The infamous Frenchmen Street is a hotspot for live music, with numerous bars and clubs featuring nightly performances by both established and up-and-coming artists. Grab a drink from one of the affordable establishments and immerse yourself in the soulful sounds that fill the air. Don’t forget to check out the local street festivals and outdoor concerts, which often offer free or low-cost admission to enjoy incredible live performances.

Exploring The Art And Culture Of New Orleans

New Orleans is a city deeply rooted in art and culture, and you can explore its vibrant creative scene without breaking your budget. From art galleries to museums, there are plenty of opportunities to immerse yourself in the local culture for free or at a low cost. The New Orleans Museum of Art, for example, offers free admission on Wednesdays to Louisiana residents and offers discounted rates for out-of-state visitors.

In addition, the city is filled with unique street art and murals, providing a feast for the eyes at no cost. Take a stroll through the famous Arts District, where you’ll find an array of galleries showcasing local and international talent. The Ogden Museum of Southern Art and the Contemporary Arts Center are also worth a visit, offering intriguing exhibits and special events at affordable prices.

Moreover, New Orleans is renowned for its Mardi Gras celebrations and parades. While attending a formal ball or purchasing extravagant costumes can be pricey, watching the parades and soaking up the festive atmosphere is completely free. Join the locals and line the streets, reveling in the vibrant displays of colors, music, and costumes that make Mardi Gras a truly unique experience.

Overall, New Orleans provides an abundance of opportunities to enjoy free and low-cost entertainment. Whether you’re a music enthusiast or an art lover, the city’s cultural offerings will satisfy your cravings without emptying your wallet. So, pack your bags, embrace the vibrant spirit of New Orleans, and indulge in a budget-friendly adventure of a lifetime.

Navigating The City On A Budget

Exploring a vibrant city like New Orleans on a budget doesn’t mean you have to miss out on all the fun. With a little strategy and proper planning, you can have an amazing experience without breaking the bank. In this article, we’ll share some insider tips on how to navigate the city while keeping your budget intact. From utilizing public transportation to renting bicycles, we’ve got you covered.

Utilizing Public Transportation

One of the most cost-effective ways to get around New Orleans is by utilizing the city’s public transportation system. The Regional Transit Authority (RTA) offers buses, streetcars, and ferries that provide convenient access to various parts of the city. Not only is this an eco-friendly option, but it also allows you to immerse yourself in the local culture during your commute. Here are a few key points to keep in mind:

• Plan your route using the RTA website or mobile app. This will help you save time and avoid getting lost.
• Consider purchasing a Jazzy Pass, which provides unlimited rides on buses and streetcars for a specified period. This can be a cost-effective option if you plan to use public transportation frequently during your stay.
• Don’t forget to validate your Jazzy Pass or purchase a ticket before boarding. Failure to do so may result in a fine.

Renting Bicycles For Exploring The City

If you prefer a more active and scenic way to explore New Orleans, renting a bicycle is an excellent option. With its flat terrain and an extensive network of bike lanes, the city is a cyclist’s paradise. Here’s what you need to know to make the most of your biking experience:

• Research and compare different bike rental shops in advance to find the most affordable rates. Additionally, check if the shop offers discounts for multi-day rentals.
• Be sure to wear a helmet and follow all traffic rules. Safety should always be a priority, especially when cycling in a busy city.
• Take advantage of the many bike-friendly paths and trails in New Orleans, such as the Mississippi River Trail or the Lafitte Greenway. These routes provide a scenic and enjoyable way to explore the city on two wheels.

By utilizing public transportation and renting bicycles, you can easily explore New Orleans on a budget without compromising on the quality of your experience. Remember to plan your routes in advance and take advantage of the numerous cost-effective options available. Happy exploring!

Budget-friendly Day Trips From New Orleans

New Orleans is a vibrant and unique city, known for its rich history, lively music scene, and delicious cuisine. While exploring the city itself can be a fantastic experience, taking day trips to nearby attractions is a great way to see more of what Louisiana has to offer without breaking the bank. From breathtaking swamps and bayous to charming towns with their own distinct character, there are plenty of budget-friendly day trips to embark on from New Orleans. Get ready to dive into the natural beauty and cultural diversity that the region has to offer!

Exploring The Swamps And Bayous

One of the most unique and memorable day trips you can take from New Orleans is exploring the swamps and bayous that surround the city. These natural wonders are home to an array of wildlife and provide an opportunity to experience the beauty of Louisiana’s marshlands firsthand. Whether you choose to embark on a guided tour or venture out on your own, there are several options to suit every budget.

Exploring the swamps and bayous near New Orleans not only allows you to observe stunning landscapes and unique ecosystems, but it also provides an opportunity to learn about the region’s history and culture. Consider packing a picnic lunch and immersing yourself in the tranquility of these natural wonders.

Visiting Charming Nearby Towns

If you’re looking to immerse yourself in Southern charm, consider taking a day trip to one of the many nearby towns that showcase the rich culture and hospitality of Louisiana. These towns offer a change of pace from the bustling streets of New Orleans and provide a glimpse into the life of small-town Louisiana.

• Covington: Located on the north shore of Lake Pontchartrain, Covington is known for its quaint downtown area filled with art galleries, vintage shops, and local restaurants.
• Madisonville: Situated on the banks of the Tchefuncte River, Madisonville is perfect for those looking to relax and enjoy waterfront dining, as well as explore charming boutiques and historic sites.
• St. Francisville: A small town with a rich history, St. Francisville offers a glimpse into Louisiana’s plantation era with its well-preserved antebellum homes and picturesque downtown area.

These charming towns are just a short drive from New Orleans, making them ideal day trip destinations. Spend the day strolling through their picturesque streets, savoring local cuisine, and immersing yourself in the unique character that each town has to offer. Don’t forget to check out any local events or festivals that might be happening during your visit!

Shopping On A Budget

Discover how to travel to New Orleans on a budget with our savvy shopping tips. Find affordable deals and budget-friendly options for exploring this vibrant city without breaking the bank.

Creating lasting memories is an essential part of any travel experience, and what better way to cherish those memories than with a unique souvenir? When visiting a vibrant city like New Orleans, shopping on a budget doesn’t mean compromising on quality or missing out on the chance to bring home a piece of the city’s culture. With a little insider knowledge and a sense of adventure, you can find affordable souvenirs that capture the essence of this exciting destination. In this section, we’ll explore two key aspects of shopping on a budget in New Orleans: Finding Affordable Souvenirs and Exploring Local Markets.

Finding Affordable Souvenirs

New Orleans is known for its rich history, diverse culture, and vibrant arts scene. When searching for affordable souvenirs, it’s essential to think beyond the typical tourist traps. Look for unique handmade items that truly reflect the spirit of the city. Here are a few ideas to get you started:

• Local Artwork: The city is brimming with talented artists who showcase their work in various galleries and boutiques. Explore the French Quarter and Marigny neighborhoods to discover hidden gems and support local artists. Consider purchasing a small painting or a print that captures the vibrant colors and energy of New Orleans.
•   Handcrafted Jewelry: If you’re on the hunt for a meaningful and affordable souvenir, consider investing in handcrafted jewelry. New Orleans is home to many talented local artisans who create unique pieces inspired by the city’s culture, such as Mardi Gras-themed earrings or necklaces adorned with fleur-de-lis symbols.
• Music Memorabilia: New Orleans is synonymous with music, and it’s not hard to find budget-friendly music memorabilia. Search for local record stores or street musicians selling their CDs. This way, you can bring a piece of New Orleans’ soulful sound home with you, all while supporting local musicians.

Exploring Local Markets

When it comes to shopping on a budget in New Orleans, be sure to explore the city’s various local markets. These markets not only offer a wide range of affordable souvenirs but also provide an immersive cultural experience. Here are some notable markets worth exploring:

• French Market: Located in the heart of the French Quarter, the French Market is a must-visit for budget-conscious travelers. This bustling market offers a wide array of goods, including local produce, spices, artwork, and crafts. Take your time to browse through the stalls and negotiate prices for unique souvenirs.
• Magazine Street: Stretching through several neighborhoods, Magazine Street is a haven for budget shoppers. This vibrant strip is lined with an eclectic mix of boutiques, thrift stores, and antique shops. Spend a day exploring the different stores and uncovering hidden treasures at affordable prices.
• Arts Market of New Orleans: Held on the last Saturday of every month in Palmer Park, the Arts Market of New Orleans showcases the works of over 100 local artists. Here you’ll find a diverse selection of affordable artwork, crafts, and handmade jewelry. It’s a fantastic opportunity to meet artists, support the local community, and snag some unique souvenirs. In conclusion, shopping on a budget in New Orleans doesn’t have to be a challenge. By seeking out affordable souvenirs, exploring local markets, and tapping into the vibrant arts scene, you can bring home a piece of this captivating city without breaking the bank. So pack your shopping bags, embrace the spirit of adventure, and embark on a budget-friendly shopping spree in the enchanting streets of New Orleans.

Tips For Maximizing Your Budget In New Orleans

Explore the vibrant city of New Orleans on a budget with these insider tips . Discover affordable attractions, sample budget-friendly cuisine, and find budget accommodations to make the most of your trip.

New Orleans, with its vibrant culture, rich history, and tantalizing cuisine, is a city that begs to be explored. And the best part? You don’t have to break the bank to experience all that this remarkable destination has to offer. By implementing a few smart strategies, you can make the most of your budget while still enjoying an unforgettable trip to the Big Easy. Here are some valuable tips that will help you navigate your New Orleans adventure without draining your wallet.

Taking Advantage Of Free Or Discounted Tours

One of the best ways to experience the unique charm of New Orleans without spending a fortune is by taking advantage of free or discounted tours. The city is home to a range of tour operators who offer affordable options that will introduce you to its fascinating history, distinctive architecture, and captivating stories. Some companies even offer free walking tours where you can explore iconic neighborhoods like the French Quarter and Garden District. Plus, keep an eye out for discounted package deals that combine multiple tours and attractions, allowing you to save even more.

Timing Your Visit To Take Advantage Of Special Events

New Orleans is known for its lively festivals and events, and timing your visit to coincide with one of these special occasions can greatly enhance your experience while also helping you stay within your budget. From the world-famous Mardi Gras celebration to the Jazz & Heritage Festival, the city offers a year-round calendar of festivities that showcase its unique culture. By planning your trip to align with these events, you’ll not only have the opportunity to revel in the vibrant atmosphere but also take advantage of special discounts and deals on accommodations and activities.

To ensure you make the most of these special events, check the official city or event websites for up-to-date information on dates, ticket prices, and any associated discounts. By following this strategy, you’ll be able to immerse yourself in the authentic spirit of New Orleans while still stretching your travel budget.

Traveling to New Orleans on a budget is not only possible but also a rewarding experience. Explore the vibrant culture, delicious cuisine, and rich history without breaking the bank. By utilizing budget-friendly accommodations, seeking out affordable dining options, and taking advantage of free activities and attractions, you can make the most of your trip and create memories that will last a lifetime.

So, pack your bags, plan your itinerary, and embark on a budget-friendly adventure in the captivating city of New Orleans.

Frequently Asked Questions Of Travel New Orleans On A Budget

What are some tips for traveling to new orleans on a budget.

– Look for affordable accommodation options like guesthouses or hostels. – Try local street food and neighborhood cafes for budget-friendly meals. – Take advantage of free attractions and events in the city, such as exploring the French Quarter or enjoying live music in Jackson Square.

How Can I Save On Transportation In New Orleans?

– Utilize the city’s public transportation system, including buses and streetcars. – Consider purchasing a multi-day transit pass for unlimited rides at a discounted price. – Explore the city by foot or rent a bike to save on transportation costs.

Are There Any Free Attractions In New Orleans?

– Visit the historic St. Louis Cathedral in Jackson Square. – Explore the vibrant Frenchmen Street, known for its live music scene. – Enjoy the picturesque views along the Mississippi Riverfront.

What Is The Best Time To Visit New Orleans On A Budget?

– Visit during the shoulder seasons of spring (March to May) and fall (September to November) to avoid peak tourist crowds and potential price hikes. – Avoid major holidays like Mardi Gras and Jazz Fest when prices tend to be higher.

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New Orleans on a Budget

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T here's no better time to celebrate the spirit and support the rebuilding efforts of post-Katrina New Orleans than now -- and not just for Jazz Fest and Mardi Gras. Historic Spanish-style architecture, famous drinking establishments with storied pasts, colorful casts of characters, and narrow brick-lined streets make for one of the country's most dynamic cities. For budget-minded travelers, it's an easy destination for soaking up true Southern hospitality without spending a fortune.

Best taste of Creole Country For a slice of pork paradise with a down-home vibe, head to Cochon in the Warehouse District. Southwestern Louisiana native chef/owner Donald Link marries minimalist, but warm environs, with feel-good food including fried boudin with pickled peppers, crawfish pie and roast suckling pig. Red-meat-phobes, don't fear: half of the menu is seafood, fished locally.

Romantic hotel A strong sense of history radiates from the centrally located, literary landmark Hotel Monteleone . From the moment you valet your car with Earl, to when Raul handles your bags and Ms. Kathy serves breakfast the following morning in Le Café, you and your beau will be spoiled with heartfelt Southern hospitality. The Eudora Welty suite is a honeymooner's favorite. 

Booze with a bang Locals cite Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop  (941 Bourbon Street, (504) 522-9377) as the oldest watering hole in the country. Named for legendary pirate Jean Lafitte, the candle-lit bar lacks most modern amenities, but serves up a convivial atmosphere, surprisingly strong cocktails and a charming off-key piano bar singer. Get woozy on the "Voodoo Daiquiri," a powerful purple slushy concoction.

Live music on the cheap New Orleans is a bargain for live music and well-known for its brass bands -- top-notch groups often play at Donna's Bar and Grill on North Rampart Street. (The Times-Picayune Lagniappe comes out on Friday and lists everything in the way of local entertainment.) Chef Charlie (Mr. Donna) serves up free barbecue chicken and red beans during the break on Monday nights.

Best happy hour For a spirited perspective of the city, Gray Line Tours offers New Orleans' Original Cocktail Tour . (A more sobering trip is the Hurricane Katrina -- America's Greatest Catastrophe Tour.) Walk the educational (and inebriating) 2 1/2-hour cocktail chronology tour of the French Quarter at 4 p.m. daily -- just in time to kick off happy hour(s).

Late night with the locals For a relatively tourist-free night on the town, hit up Rock 'n' Bowl at Mid City Lanes. Arrive early to put your name on the waiting list to bowl at one of the highly coveted eighteen retro lanes, circa 1940s. Or boogie to the live local music that graces the nearby stage -- Zydeco night is especially popular. A cheap cover and ice-cold beer, coupled with top-notch people-watching makes for an evening out that is every bit as entertaining as Bourbon Street. 

One-of-a-kind shopping Magazine Street runs from Canal Street to Audubon Park, and is 6 miles of power-shoppers' bliss. Pick up an all-day bus pass, stop as often as you like along the route, then relax and recap your retail scores on the sprawling green lawns of Audubon Park.

Kid-friendly Mardi Gras World is a great attraction for grown-ups and kids alike. Jam-packed with bits and pieces of parade floats and sculpted characters, it's like a giant toy box of fun. Take the ferry from downtown New Orleans right across the river and enjoy the tour -- it includes a movie, free king cake and an opportunity for kids to dress up in authentic Mardi Gras costumes.

Local culture Walk around Jackson Square, the heart of the French Quarter, during the day and you'll see a variety of street performers who entertain here on a daily basis, including musicians, break dancers, tap dancers, jugglers, acrobats, tarot-card readers, mimes and clowns.

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Best Places to Visit in USA While Studying

May 31, 2024

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Are you looking to visit some of the best places in the USA during your college holidays? Then you might want to take a look at this article about the best places to visit in the USA. Here, you will be guided about places you can explore in between your college break and the start of the new semester. 

College life doesn’t always mean studies and examinations; it is also about creating memories and building strong relationships. You get to enjoy the true meaning of college life when you get to balance both your future goals and present experiences. Most of your memorable experiences in college will be with your friends.

So, why not visit some of these best places in the USA to make some memories with your college friend? You also get to expand your horizons when you go beyond books and tests while at college. Luckily for you, the USA has several such beautiful places that are great for college goers with a tight budget.

Sure, those student loans might be looming, but with careful budgeting and a bit of creativity (maybe even checking out is domyessay legit for a little academic help along the way), you can totally fit in some amazing adventures during your college years.

So, let’s dive into the best places to visit in the USA while you’re still a student.

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Beyond the Tourist Traps

Irrespective of the location you are studying in the USA, most college goers visit most of the iconic landmarks in the USA. The Grand Canyon, Statue of Liberty, Golden Gate Bridge, Brooklyn Bridge, and other iconic landmarks in the USA.

These places are must visit locations while you are in the USA, but you can explore the true America through exploring its off-beat paths and destination. Due to the popularity of the iconic destination, crowds and tourists flock to these iconic places, making it hard to enjoy the experience of these places.

With more popularity in these iconic places, prices of hotels, restaurants, and items also rise which can be hard for college goers to afford in their tight budget. There is also a rise in tourist traps in popular USA destinations that target gullible college goers and tourists and cheat them.

Pacific Coast And New England

So, where shall you visit to enjoy your spring break with your gang of friends without falling in tourist traps? You can take a road trip to the Pacific Coast Highway with your group of friends or just by yourself.

Enjoy the ocean breeze and watch the waves crashing upon the rugged cliffs. Take some time to yourself, away from worries of loans and tests, and relax in nature. Give your mind the much needed reset it needs after all the stress of exams and life.

Watch the breathtaking sunsets from the Pacific Coast Highway viewpoints. Then, take a trip to the New England town that offers a charming visual of a town stuck in history surrounded with fall foliage.

New Orleans And Nashville

You can also visit New Orleans or Nashville, these places are great locations bustling with music and culture. If you are a music lover, then these are the best places to visit in the USA. You will get to experience music like jazz, country, and blues, filling the streets of New Orleans and Nashville.

Urban Escapes on a Student Budget

You might already be aware about the drastic difference in expenses in urban cities and rural towns at this point. Since most iconic locations are located in urban cities, the budget for vacations in these places is higher. 

Most students have loans and tight budgets when at college. Therefore, a trip to any popular city will be hard on their budget. So, should you forget about taking a vacation in popular cities? Absolutely not. Instead, you can try exploring cities that offer student discounts when visiting its iconic landmarks.

This will help you experience the vibrancy of urban American cities and its culture without breaking the bank. Several cities like New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles, which are among the best places to visit in the USA, offer student discounts.

These cities have world-class museums, restaurants, landmarks, and theaters where separate entry fees are listed. Some destinations are absolutely free for students, while others offer discounts on entry prices. You can research these offers and plan your trip while staying on budget.

Popular cities in the USA also offer hostels and affordable Airbnb options that you can choose while staying on budget. Opt for a public transport card that also has student discounts to travel across these popular cities.

You can visit smaller cities like Savannah, Austin and Portland that have much affordable cost of living with thriving culture. These cities also offer unique charm and art culture which you can experience.

Nature’s Playground

If you are someone who loves nature, then these are the best places to visit in the USA for nature enthusiasts. The USA has some of the best protected national parks with diverse wildlife and landscape. You will not only find lush greenery and forests but towering mountains and coastlines. 

Yosemite National Park

Some national parks, like Yosemite National Park, have rivers, waterfalls, gigantic cliffs, plunging valleys, and ancient sequoia groves. It’s a treat for nature lovers to visit any of the USA national parks. 

Don’t forget to pack your hiking boots when visiting Yosemite National Park . So that you don’t miss out on exploring the iconic trails leading to a picturesque view of the national park. 

Yellowstone National Park 

You can also visit the Yellowstone National Park, that is well-known for having more than 500 active geysers.

Did you know this national park contains half of the world’s active geysers? Now that’s worth visiting. You also get to enjoy its vibrant ecosystem and wildlife. Visit the famous cone geyser, Old Faithful, and the popular waterfalls.

Glacier National Park

If you are not a fan of hiking and looking for a more relaxing experience during your spring break, then head to Glacier National Park. With scenic beauty and panoramic views of glaciers, you will be left amazed.

Take a drive around this national park to explore crystal-clear lakes and alpine meadows. If you love taking pictures of nature, then this place will offer you ample opportunity to click some of the best nature pictures.

These national parks not only offer you different outdoor adventures but also some tranquility. You get to relax in nature, forget about your studies and exams for some time, and clear your head. Your body can enjoy some much needed exercise through hiking, rock climbing, and kayaking in these national parks. 

You can enjoy a picnic in nature or try camping under the stars with your group of friends in nature. These experiences will expand your horizon and help you make some memories.

Pacific Coasts

You cannot forget to visit the Pacific coasts while studying in the USA. The USA has one of the longest coastal regions in the world, with stunning beaches and viewpoints. Take a drive along the rugged cliffs of the Pacific Northwest to the sandy beaches of Florida. 

You can enjoy some sunlight, breeze, and waves in  California or go whale watching in Alaska. If you want a more relaxing gateway, then relax on the beach in California and enjoy some sun.

Source: https://www.pexels.com/photo/a-view-of-a-vineyard-in-napa-valley-11566340/ 

The Road Less Traveled

USA also offers several hidden-gems along with well-known attractions that you can visit. These hidden gems of places will offer you experiences which show the different American landscape and culture.

You will make some of the best memories in your college life as you explore less traveled roads with your college friends. Visit the Napa Valley Wine country to experience wine tasting and hot air balloon rides. You get to experience something new which will be memorable and fun.

Try attending Texas’ rodeo or experience stargazing in Arizona’s desert skies before life gets busy after college.

You can visit the Native American reservation to get a taste of American history and culture. Wander through an Amish village or explore a Civil War battlefield to expand your knowledge of American history. 

Satisfy your adventurous soul while river rafting in Colorado or rock climbing at Yosemite National Park. Try dog sledding or skiing in Alaska.

Wrapping Up

The USA opens a whole lot of possibilities for traveling. Whether you’re drawn to bustling cities, stunning natural landscapes, or unique cultural experiences, there are countless places to visit in the USA.

So, get out there! Embrace the freedom of your student years and admire the hidden treasures that this incredible country has to offer. 

Take the time to savor every moment, connect with new people, and create stories that you’ll cherish for years to come. After all, the best education often happens outside the classroom. And who knows? Your next adventure might just be the one that changes your life.

Happy travels!

• best places in the USA
• Student Budget
• Tourist Traps

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Americans willing to go into debt for travel and entertainment, study finds

Credit card balances have ballooned 32% in the last two years.

(InvestigateTV) — A recent Bankrate survey revealed that 27% of Americans would be willing to go into debt to travel, eat out, or see live entertainment.

Ted Rossman with Bankrate said this was concerning considering the current high interest rates.

“I don’t want to tell anyone they can’t have fun, but I do worry about this in light of credit card rates being at record highs,” Rossman noted. “The average is 20.75%. So, I think a better option for people would be to set a good budget ahead of time.”

Rossman said there’s going to be a lot of temptation to spend this summer and that’s not a bad thing, just make sure to plan for it.

He suggested setting money aside from every paycheck and have it transferred into a savings account.

“We know young adults are very driven by experiences and social things, and again that’s not a bad thing, as long as you’ve accounted for it,” Rossman explained. “I think sometimes also people fall into this trap, ‘Oh, I didn’t know the concert invite was coming’ or ‘the wedding invite was coming.’ You may not know exactly what the invite is, but you do want to put together a good entertainment budget.”

Rossman said a lot of people make the mistake of either not budgeting or if they do, they only account for the necessities. It’s important to put together a fun budget as well.

He said if a trip is budgeted, try to offset the cost with rewards points and miles.

Travelers could also pool resources with friends and share an Airbnb.

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