Where to Stay in New Orleans: Top Tips For Every Traveler
New Orleans is one of America’s most vibrant and soulful cities. Known for its jazz music, Creole cuisine, and historic charm, it offers a mix of old-world beauty and modern energy. From the lively streets of the French Quarter to the quiet oak-lined avenues of Uptown, every neighborhood tells a different story.
Whether you are visiting for Mardi Gras, a food-filled weekend, or a romantic getaway, choosing the right place to stay will shape your experience. This guide helps you find the best areas and accommodations across the city for every style and budget.
Quick Facts about New Orleans
A few essential details to know before choosing where to stay in the Crescent City:
- Location: Southeastern Louisiana, along the Mississippi River
- Founded: 1718 by the French explorer Jean-Baptiste Le Moyne de Bienville
- Nicknames: The Big Easy, Crescent City, NOLA
- Famous For: Jazz music, Mardi Gras, Creole and Cajun cuisine, French Quarter architecture
- Population: Around 351,000 residents in 2025
- Best Time to Visit: February to May for festivals and pleasant weather; or October for fewer crowds
- Main Airport: Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY)
- Transportation: Streetcars, buses, rideshares, and walkable neighborhoods
- Average Hotel Price: $120-$300 per night, depending on season and location
- Nearby Destinations: Baton Rouge, Gulfport, Biloxi, and Lafayette
Where to Stay in New Orleans
New Orleans is a city unlike any other in the U.S. It offers a blend of history, jazz, Creole cuisine, and lively culture. Whether you are visiting for Mardi Gras, the music, or the architecture, choosing the right place to stay shapes your experience. From the heart of the French Quarter to the laid-back charm of the Garden District, each area offers its own rhythm, style, and flavor. Here is a detailed look at the best neighborhoods to stay in New Orleans, plus their pros and cons.
French Quarter
The French Quarter is New Orleans’ oldest and most famous neighborhood. Its cobblestone streets, colorful Creole townhouses, and live jazz echo the city’s soul. Visitors can walk to Bourbon Street, Jackson Square, and the French Market. This area brims with boutique hotels, charming guesthouses, and historic inns. Everything is within walking distance, restaurants, galleries, and nightlife are everywhere. If you want to feel the energy of the city nonstop, this is the place to be. However, the crowds and late-night noise can be overwhelming for some travelers.
Pros and Cons of Staying in the French Quarter
Garden District
The Garden District is famous for its oak-lined streets, antebellum homes, and charming vibe. It’s perfect for those who want a peaceful stay while still being close to downtown. Magazine Street runs through this area, lined with boutique shops, cafes, and restaurants. Streetcars provide easy access to the French Quarter and Uptown. You’ll find beautiful inns, luxury hotels, and B&Bs in converted mansions. The atmosphere here is refined yet relaxed. It is a great recommendation for couples and families who prefer calm over crowds.
Pros and Cons of Staying in the Garden District
Central Business District (CBD) / Warehouse District
The CBD offers a more urban experience with high-rise hotels, restaurants, and easy access to the Superdome and French Quarter. The nearby Warehouse District, once full of factories, is now a hub for art galleries and trendy loft hotels. Travelers here enjoy a balance, quieter than Bourbon Street, but still convenient. It’s ideal for business travelers, families, or anyone attending festivals like Essence or Jazz Fest. You’ll find big-name hotels with modern amenities and parking, which can be rare elsewhere.
Pros and Cons of Staying in the CBD / Warehouse District
Marigny and Bywater
Just east of the French Quarter, these neighborhoods pulse with creativity. Frenchmen Street in Marigny is famous for live music venues and local bars. Bywater adds a more residential, bohemian flair with coffee shops, street art, and independent galleries. You’ll find boutique guesthouses, cozy Airbnbs, and smaller inns with character. These areas feel authentic and are perfect for travelers who want local culture rather than tourist crowds. Safety varies block by block, so check reviews before booking.
Pros and Cons of Staying in Marigny and Bywater
Uptown / Carrollton
Uptown feels like a small town within the city. It’s home to Tulane and Loyola Universities, Audubon Park, and beautiful residential streets. Visitors enjoy a quieter atmosphere with local cafes and restaurants. The St. Charles streetcar runs through this area, making it easy to reach downtown and the French Quarter. Lodging includes guesthouses, mid-range hotels, and vacation rentals. Uptown offers space, greenery, and a sense of local life away from tourist crowds.
Pros and Cons of Staying in Uptown / Carrollton
Faubourg Treme
Treme is one of America’s oldest African American neighborhoods and the birthplace of jazz. Staying here immerses you in the city’s cultural history, with landmarks like Louis Armstrong Park and the Backstreet Cultural Museum nearby. It’s close to the French Quarter but less touristy. You’ll find small inns, boutique hotels, and vacation rentals. This area offers genuine local flavor, especially for those interested in music and heritage.
Pros and Cons of Staying in Treme
Mid-City
Mid-City lies between downtown and Lakeview, offering a balanced local experience. It’s popular among repeat visitors who prefer residential vibes. The neighborhood is known for City Park, the New Orleans Museum of Art, and plenty of local eateries. It’s a great base if you’re driving, with better parking and lower prices than downtown. Mid-City’s charm lies in its authenticity and access to public transport.
Pros and Cons of Staying in Mid-City
Lakeview
Lakeview is close to Lake Pontchartrain and feels more suburban. It’s perfect for travelers who prefer open spaces, walking paths, and waterfront dining. The area has plenty of Airbnbs and vacation rentals. While it’s not central, it offers a peaceful retreat within a short drive from downtown. Families and long-term visitors appreciate the safety, parks, and restaurants.
Pros and Cons of Staying in Lakeview
Esplanade Ridge
Esplanade Ridge is an elegant, tree-lined area connecting the French Quarter to City Park. It’s full of Creole architecture and small B&Bs housed in old mansions. The vibe is local and laid-back, ideal for travelers who want history without the crowds. It’s close to both the Quarter and Mid-City, making it a good compromise between action and calm.
Pros and Cons of Staying in Esplanade Ridge
Algiers Point
Located just across the Mississippi River, Algiers Point offers beautiful skyline views of New Orleans. It’s accessible by a short ferry ride from Canal Street. The area has a village feel with colorful cottages, local pubs, and parks. It’s ideal for travelers wanting a calm base while staying near the French Quarter. Lodging options include cozy guesthouses and B&Bs.
Pros and Cons of Staying in Algiers Point
Tips for Booking Hotels in New Orleans
Simple travel tips to help you find the best hotels and avoid common booking mistakes in the Big Easy.
- Book Early During Major Festivals: Events like Mardi Gras, Jazz Fest, and Essence Festival fill hotels months in advance. If you plan to visit during these times, book as early as possible, ideally 3-6 months ahead, to lock in fair prices and availability.
- Choose Location Based on Your Travel Style: If you love nightlife and local energy, stay in the French Quarter or Marigny. For a peaceful, residential vibe, try the Garden District or Uptown. Families may prefer Mid-City for space and quiet surroundings.
- Use Streetcars to Explore: New Orleans’ historic streetcars make getting around easy and fun. Look for hotels near St. Charles Avenue or Canal Street to save on transportation and see the city at a slower pace.
- Consider Parking Before You Book: Parking in the French Quarter and downtown can be expensive or limited. If you are renting a car, choose a hotel with on-site or nearby parking to avoid paying high daily rates.
- Check for Hidden Fees: Some hotels add resort or amenity fees not shown in the initial booking price. Always check the final total before confirming your reservation.
- Look Beyond Chain Hotels: Boutique guesthouses, historic inns, and bed-and-breakfasts in areas like Faubourg Marigny and Bywater offer a more local, personal experience, often at better rates than big chains.
- Stay Hydrated and Cool in Summer: Summers in New Orleans are hot and humid. Look for hotels with good air conditioning, pools, or shaded courtyards to stay comfortable.
- Read Reviews Before Booking: Check recent traveler reviews to confirm cleanliness, safety, and service. Conditions can change, especially in smaller properties, so don’t rely on outdated feedback.
- Plan for Safety at Night: Most tourist areas are safe, but it’s smart to stay near well-lit streets and avoid walking alone late at night. Hotels in central, populated areas offer better safety and convenience.
- Take Advantage of Off-Season Deals: If you visit between June and September, you will find major discounts on hotels. The weather is warmer, but you can score luxury rooms at mid-range prices.
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Best Things to Do in New Orleans
From soulful jazz and riverfront strolls to delicious Creole eats, New Orleans offers endless things to do for every type of traveler.
Explore the French Quarter
The city’s most iconic neighborhood, the French Quarter, is packed with history, music, and architecture. Walk along Royal Street for art galleries, Bourbon Street for nightlife, and Jackson Square for street performers. Don’t miss Café du Monde for a beignet and coffee. Every corner tells a story, blending French, Spanish, and Creole influences.
Ride the St. Charles Streetcar
Hop on the historic St. Charles Avenue Streetcar, one of the oldest continuously operating streetcars in the world. It’s a scenic, affordable way to see the Garden District’s mansions, Audubon Park, and oak-lined streets. Sit by the window and enjoy one of the most charming rides in America.
Visit the National WWII Museum
Ranked among the best museums in the U.S., this world-class museum offers immersive exhibits, restored aircraft, and personal stories from the war. Located in the Warehouse District, it’s a must-see for history buffs and families alike. Allow at least half a day to explore fully.
Experience Live Jazz on Frenchmen Street
Skip the touristy crowds and head to Frenchmen Street for authentic New Orleans jazz. Local musicians fill the bars and open-air venues with rhythm and soul every night. Venues like The Spotted Cat and Blue Nile deliver unforgettable live music experiences.
Take a Steamboat Cruise on the Mississippi River
See New Orleans from a different perspective aboard a classic paddlewheel boat. The Steamboat Natchez and Creole Queen offer scenic daytime and dinner cruises with live jazz and skyline views. It’s a peaceful way to experience the city’s riverfront charm.
Wander Through the Garden District
Admire grand 19th-century mansions, shaded streets, and wrought-iron fences in the Garden District. Take a self-guided walking tour or join a guided one to learn about the area’s rich history and architecture. Stop by Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 for a glimpse of New Orleans’ unique above-ground tombs.
Eat Your Way Through Local Cuisine
Food is at the heart of New Orleans culture. Try gumbo, jambalaya, crawfish étouffée, and po’boys at iconic spots like Commander’s Palace, Cochon, or Parkway Bakery. For dessert, grab pralines or beignets. Every meal here tells part of the city’s story.
Join a Ghost or Voodoo Tour
New Orleans is famous for its legends and mysteries. Evening ghost tours and voodoo walks through the French Quarter reveal haunted mansions, cemeteries, and supernatural tales. It is fun, spooky, and gives a unique insight into the city’s past.
Relax at City Park
One of the largest urban parks in the U.S., City Park offers art, nature, and recreation. Visit the New Orleans Museum of Art, stroll through the Besthoff Sculpture Garden, or rent a paddleboat. It’s a family-friendly escape from the busier parts of town.
Attend a Festival
No city celebrates like New Orleans. Depending on when you visit, you might catch Mardi Gras, Jazz Fest, or French Quarter Festival. Even smaller local events feature live music, parades, and endless food. Each festival showcases the city’s lively, inclusive spirit.
Visit the Historic Cemeteries
New Orleans’ above-ground tombs, often called “cities of the dead,” are both eerie and beautiful. Visit St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, the resting place of voodoo queen Marie Laveau, or Lafayette Cemetery in the Garden District. Guided tours provide a fascinating cultural context.
Take a Day Trip to the Swamps
Just outside the city, Louisiana’s swamps offer a chance to see alligators, birds, and bayou landscapes. Join a swamp tour from nearby towns like Jean Lafitte or Honey Island. Local guides share stories about Cajun traditions and the region’s wildlife.
Conclusion
Finding the right place to stay in New Orleans depends on your travel style, budget, and what you want to experience. The French Quarter puts you close to the action, Marigny brings live music and nightlife, and the Garden District offers peace and elegance. If you prefer a local atmosphere, explore Bywater, Uptown, or Mid-City. Wherever you choose, New Orleans delivers its charm through music, food, and warm Southern hospitality.
Get a free PDF guide with area maps, hotel tips, and the best local experiences, perfect for planning your New Orleans getaway.
Frequently Asked Questions
The French Quarter is the best choice for first-time visitors. It’s close to top attractions like Jackson Square, Bourbon Street, and the Mississippi River. You will be within walking distance of restaurants, shops, and live music venues.
Book early in the French Quarter or Central Business District (CBD). These areas offer easy access to parades, festivities, and restaurants. The Garden District is also a good option for families who want to join the fun but stay somewhere quieter.
The Garden District, Uptown, and parts of the French Quarter are generally considered safe for tourists. Always stay alert, especially at night, and book accommodations in well-lit, populated areas.
Mid-City and Bywater offer affordable guesthouses, hostels, and small hotels. You will save money while still being a short ride away from main attractions via streetcar or rideshare.
The French Quarter is the most walkable neighborhood. You can easily explore restaurants, bars, museums, and historic landmarks without needing a car.
Head to Faubourg Marigny, especially Frenchmen Street, for authentic jazz and live performances. It is lively but more local than Bourbon Street, making it ideal for music lovers.
Couples often prefer the Garden District or Marigny for their charm and romance. Boutique hotels and cozy bed-and-breakfasts in these areas offer a quiet and intimate atmosphere.
Families will enjoy Uptown or Mid-City, where you will find larger accommodations, parks, and family-friendly attractions like the Audubon Zoo and City Park.
Plan for at least 3 to 4 days to experience the main attractions, local food, and a festival or two. A longer stay allows time to explore neighborhoods beyond downtown.
Choose the French Quarter for nightlife, restaurants, and walkability. Pick the Garden District if you prefer quiet streets, historic homes, and a more relaxed pace. Both areas offer easy access to the rest of the city.
Hotel prices range from $120–$300 per night, depending on the season and location. Expect higher rates during major events like Mardi Gras or Jazz Fest.
New Orleans is walkable in most central areas. The streetcar system and rideshares like Uber and Lyft make it easy to explore other neighborhoods affordably.
Stay in Bywater or Faubourg Marigny to experience local life, colorful homes, and neighborhood bars away from the main tourist zones.
Yes, the Warehouse District and CBD have several hotels close to the cruise terminal. These areas are ideal for pre- or post-cruise stays.
For a peaceful experience, try Uptown or the Garden District. Both offer beautiful scenery, great restaurants, and a slower pace away from the nightlife crowds.
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