How to Get Around New Orleans

New Orleans is a city bursting with life, culture, and vibrant neighborhoods. And the best part? You don’t need a car to explore it all! Here’s a quick guide on how to get around New Orleans.

Walking

New Orleans is super walkable. The French Quarter, Downtown, and the Arts/Warehouse District are perfect for a stroll. Wear comfy shoes and explore the streets on foot. You’ll discover hidden gems around every corner.

Get Around on New Orleans Public Transportation

The city’s public transport is pretty solid. The Regional Transit Authority (RTA) runs buses and streetcars that cover most areas.

Streetcars:

• St. Charles Line: Runs from St. Charles Avenue to Canal Street and the French Quarter. Fares are $1.25.
• Canal Street Line: Connects the Central Business District with Mid-City and City Park.
• Riverfront Line: Along the river with stops like the Aquarium and French Market.
• Rampart Line: From Union Passenger Terminal to Elysian Fields Avenue.

Buses:

• Reliable but not super frequent. Use the RTA’s Le Pass app for schedules and real-time tracking. Fares are $1.25.

Biking

New Orleans is flat, making it ideal for biking. Rent a bike from companies like FreeWheelin’ Bike Tours or Blue Bikes, the city’s bike-share program. Pedal through the neighborhoods or take the Lafitte Greenway from Mid-City to the Mississippi River.

Taxis and Rideshares

• Taxis: United Cabs is a trusted option. Use the Curb app for easy booking.
• Uber and Lyft: Widely available and usually cheaper or comparable to taxis.

Airport to City

• Airport Shuttle: $24 one way, $44 round trip to Downtown, Uptown, and the French Quarter.
• Taxis: Around $36 from the airport to Central Business District and French Quarter.
• Uber and Lyft: Also available at the airport.

Ferries

Take the Algiers Ferry across the Mississippi River for a scenic and practical way to travel. It’s a fun alternative to the usual routes.

Pedicabs

Pedicabs are a fun way to get around, especially within the French Quarter. They can get pricey if you venture out further.

Train

Amtrak offers scenic routes to New Orleans:

• City of New Orleans Route: Daily from Chicago.
• The Crescent: 30-hour ride from New York, stopping in cities like Atlanta and Washington, D.C.
• Sunset Limited: Three times a week from Los Angeles, with stops in San Antonio and Tucson.

Final tips to get around New Orleans

• Streetcars and Buses: Get a Jazzy Pass for unlimited rides (1, 3, 5, or 31 days). Prices range from $3 to $55.
• Walking Tours: Great way to learn about the city’s history. Don’t forget your water bottle and comfy shoes.
• Rideshares: KreweCar is a family-friendly option if you need car seats.

New Orleans is a city that’s easy to explore without a car. From the historic streetcars to the scenic bike rides, you’ll find plenty of ways to experience the charm and vibrancy of the Big Easy. And what goes better than exploring a new city than celebrating with a few drinks after? The perfect way to take in even more of the city and see the best bars in NOLA is on a New Orleans Bar Crawl. Book your’s now to complete your exploration of New Orleans. Enjoy your adventure!