best time to visit new orleans

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Best Times To Visit New Orleans

The best time to visit New Orleans is from February to May when the weather is comfortably cool and the celebrations are in full swing. If you're not interested in Mardi Gras mania, plan to visit in December or January, when the city is calm and you don't have to worry about making hotel reservations a year in advance. To save on room rates, travel in the summer or fall. Just note that these seasons are known for their stifling heat and humidity, not to mention the threat of hurricanes – making travel insurance  a worthy investment for those traveling to New Orleans during this time.

Weather in New Orleans

Data sourced from the National Climatic Data Center

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Popular Times to Visit New Orleans

Tourism volume is estimated based on in-market destination search query interest from Google and on travel.usnews.com in 2015-2016. Hotel prices are sourced from a sample of U.S. News Best Hotels rates through 2015-2016.

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Time your trip right: the best time to visit New Orleans

Mar 13, 2023 • 6 min read

Honestly, there isn't a bad time to visit New Orleans; festivals fill the calendar year-round © Kris Davidson / Lonely Planet

The best time to visit New Orleans is whenever you're feeling like you need to add some fun and random beautiful chaos to your life, because this city manufactures good times in overdrive. Good times aside, you probably want to arrive at the fun factory when the weather is pleasant.

When it comes to New Orleans climate, there are basically two seasons: summer and not-summer. Summer lasts from May until October but can rear its muggy head at any time of the year: 80°F (26°C) days in the middle of a 50°F (10°C) week in winter are definitely a thing. Keep in mind that most of summer also overlaps with hurricane season, which has its own climatic footnotes. Meanwhile, "not-summer" (October to April) can include a surprisingly chilly winter, bracketed by a roughly two-month long, gorgeous spring on the one end, and an autumn that lasts maybe three days on the other (we’re exaggerating, but only just).

But "best time to visit" is not just a question of climate. There are other major concerns when visiting New Orleans, namely: what festivals are happening, and how many formal opportunities will exist for overindulgence? Spoiler alert: something will be happening, and yes, you can always have too much of a good thing. Read on to find out how, and more importantly, when.

January to mid-March: It’s Carnival Tiiiiiime

The above is the hook for Al Johnson’s masterpiece Carnival Time , which was recorded in 1960 and, some six decades later, remains the definitive Mardi Gras banger (OK, yes, it shares the title with Professor Longhair’s Go To the Mardi Gras ). If you're from outside Louisiana you might think Mardi Gras is a one-day party, but you'd be mistaken. While Mardi Gras French for Fat Tuesday – is just the one Tuesday, it caps off the whole Carnival season, which lasts from Twelfth Night/The Feast of the Epiphany (January 6) until the day before Ash Wednesday. That latter date is set by the Catholic liturgical calendar – you can get a list of upcoming Mardi Gras dates here , but the holiday always hits in February or early March.

Carnival begins with the streetcar procession of the Phunny Phorty Phellows , and then continues to grow in fever-dream fantasy, with parades like the science fiction-themed Chewbacchus , and culminates in the five days before Mardi Gras, when everything in the city shuts down, everyone throws on a costume and the greater New Orleans metro area becomes an explosion of glitter, costuming and king cake .

Which is all to say: Carnival season is a ton of fun. If you’re coming from up north, the weather will almost certainly be warmer than what you’re used to, although the high humidity of South Louisiana makes the chill of 50°F (10°C) feel a lot more bitter than you’d expect – on the flip side, 70°F (21°C) or warmer days are certainly not unknown. Rates for everything, of course, are high – and you’ll want to make any sort of bookings, be it for accommodation or dining, well in advance.

Mid-March to May for the best festivals

Lent begins the day after Mardi Gras , but big communal celebrations are decidedly not on the list of things New Orleans gives up. Spring in the city heralds festival season, marked by two big-name events: the French Quarter Festival (which is free!) and the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival (ie, Jazzfest), and sprinkled by several smaller parties. The weather approaches chef’s kiss perfection at this time; Louisiana spring is sort of like the golden days of early summer in many other parts of the country.

Are room rates high? Definitely, and anything that can be booked should be done so well in advance. But in return, you’re getting good weather and great live music around the clock, and the city just feels like it’s in a good mood. In addition, on the last weekend of April, Lafayette in Louisiana, some 140 miles west of New Orleans, hosts Festival International de Louisiane, a rollicking free festival that celebrates Francophone music and heritage.

The summer slog of high heat and humidity settles in around mid-May, but prices don’t drop until after Memorial Day weekend.

June to September means summer heat and hurricanes

Summer in New Orleans is, to be frank, interminably long and pretty miserable. Temps regularly hit the 90s (32°C), but high humidity means the real feel is often in the triple digits. It can feel hard to breathe, and being outside for longer than 30 minutes means dealing with copious amounts of sweat. The main relief comes from thunderstorms: the humidity swells and swells until it gets swept away by a dramatic storm. On top of everything, hurricane season starts, and while it technically lasts from June through November, peak hurricane time in South Louisiana is August and September.

Why visit at this time? Well, it’s as cheap as New Orleans gets. Waitstaff and hospitality workers tend to seem a little friendlier, a nod of respect to those who come here during the swelter. And there are parties, like the chichi White Linen Night, and the more down-to-earth Dirty Linen Night (both art gallery extravaganzas).

There's also the New Orleans Running of the Bulls (featuring roller derby skaters), the Essence Music Festival , Satchmo Summerfest , and Southern Decadence (the city's most energetic LGBTQIA+ festival) takes place over Labor Day weekend. You’re a lot more likely to rub shoulders with a local during a show and there is a sweaty romance in the air on those long, sticky summer nights. Then, in September, New Orleans usually experiences a "false fall" (we just call it "Fallse") when temps drop to 70°F (21°C) before the heat comes raging back for a few more weeks.

October to December for the best of fall, with Halloween and Christmas

There is no wishful thinking like the Louisiana family that hangs an autumnal wreath come late September, when the real feel still regularly tops 100 degrees (38°C). Still, by October the hellish heat gets broken up with cooler days, "cooler" here meaning 80-ish degrees (26°C). It’s not unusual for the air-con to be switched on on Halloween day, although sometimes Spooky Season in the Crescent City is decently temperate.

Either way, Halloween is fun in New Orleans, a time when costuming and silliness and defiant celebration manifests itself after the looong summer. Rates go up Halloween weekend but drop again in November, itself a generally quiet month and an excellent time for exploring the city free of the trifecta of heat, hurricane threats and high season rates. Indeed, if you’re into just having a (relatively) quiet New Orleans experience of strolling and admiring historical buildings, November is tough to beat.

Christmas is big in New Orleans, and while the weather will often top 70 degrees (21°C), there are days that drop into the 50s (10°C) and 40s (4°C), which feels cold in that humid air. December in New Orleans is all about hitting up holiday parties and celebrations, and while rates climb back up in anticipation of Carnival season, this is more or less a shoulder window with the added bonus of sincere, warm family cheer.

This article was first published Feb 12, 2021 and updated Mar 13, 2023.

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Best Times to Visit New Orleans for Great Weather and Smaller Crowds

There's no real "bad" time to visit the Big Easy, but here's when to go if you want to beat the heat, avoid the crowds, or snag a great deal.

The Big Easy is just that: an easygoing, jovial city where you'll find incredible food, fantastic live music, and friendly locals any time of year. While there's really no bad time to go to New Orleans, there are times that are better (and worse), depending on your vacation agenda.

If you're aiming to catch a major event — Mardi Gras or the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival, for instance — you'll have to plan far ahead to make sure you arrive within the specific dates, and book a hotel room before they're all sold out. Travelers seeking perfect weather, fewer tourists, and travel bargains will also find some months preferable to others.

• High season: February through May
• Shoulder season: September through January
• Low seasons: June through August

Here’s what you need to know about the best times to visit New Orleans.

Best Times to Visit New Orleans for Smaller Crowds

New Orleans sees the greatest influx of visitors for major cultural events such as Mardi Gras and the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, which happen on weekends from February to early May.

Plan your trip to New Orleans well in advance if you want to avoid the crowds — made up of tourists and locals alike — that come with these high-traffic, family-friendly festivals. In general, though, the sweet spots tend to be between late February (or early March, depending on when Mardi Gras is) and late April, or in the fall.

December and January are also good times to visit New Orleans if you’re looking to score solid deals on flights and hotels, experience the city with fewer crowds, and see it decked out for the festive season. The weather is relatively mild and it’s a wonderful place to celebrate the holidays or New Year’s Eve if you’re looking for a timely reason to go.

Best Times to Visit New Orleans for Good Weather

New Orleans in spring is marvelous. Humidity is relatively low and the city comes alive as the days get warmer. Try to time your trip with the French Quarter Festival in mid-April, a massive celebration of Louisiana music, food, and culture that features free tours of the neighborhood’s beautiful homes and gardens.

The weather can also be pleasant in the fall, with average temperatures falling between the mid 60s and high 70s. Although hurricane season poses a threat from June through November, severe storms are rare. Barring any major natural disasters, October and November typically see the lowest rainfall of the year — and the crowds of the festival-packed spring season will be long gone.

July and August are the hottest, muggiest, and rainiest months of the year, with average highs of 90 degrees Fahrenheit and humidity typically over 80 percent. While air conditioning can make this more bearable, if you think the heat and humidity will hinder your desire to get out and enjoy the city, avoid a trip during the summer.

Winter is cooler with average highs in the low 60s and lows dipping into the upper 40s in January. And while snow is rare in New Orleans, cold snaps do occur and temperatures have been known to drop below freezing.

Best Times to Visit New Orleans for Lower Prices

If you can bear the heat, summertime is when you'll save money on a New Orleans vacation. Hotel rates tend to drop in August — perfect if you want to book a stay at one of New Orleans's best hotels — while average domestic flight prices are especially affordable from July through September. Be on the lookout for slashed rates at high-end hotels and check for summer specials, many of which include free extras like breakfast and parking.

In August, many restaurants — including NOLA institutions like Commander's Palace, Arnaud's, and Galatoire's — offer Coolinary prix-fixe deals: multicourse lunch, brunch and dinner specials for $50 or less.

Just be prepared for the intense summer weather: Avoid outdoor activities midday and seek out air conditioning whenever you can. Pack layers, too, as most air conditioners are cranked to meat locker levels.

If you can wait until September, that may be the best possible time to go, as you can still get good deals on flights and hotels but you'll have more enjoyable weather, with less rain and temperatures topping out in the 80s.

Winter is also a good time to save — not counting the holidays in December and Mardi Gras in February — as prices tend to be lower during this part of the shoulder season.

Best Time to Visit New Orleans for Mardi Gras

Hoping to participate in one of the biggest celebrations of the year? To really partake in all the Mardi Gras revelry , arrive the weekend before and stay through Fat Tuesday (which can fall any time between early February and early March, depending on the year). That's when you'll catch the most popular parades, including Endymion, Orpheus, Bacchus, Zulu, and Rex.

Needless to say, this is an extremely popular time to visit, so plan ahead. Reserve your hotel room a year in advance for more reasonable rates, and expect pricey airfares. Many hotels in the French Quarter and Central Business District require a four-night minimum stay, and because Mardi Gras is a public holiday, many attractions and restaurants will be closed. But you should be too busy dancing in the streets and collecting beads from parades to mind.

While Fat Tuesday is the culmination of the season, the celebrations actually begin long before, on January 6 (the Twelfth Night of Christmas). If you'd like to experience Carnival and see krewes parading through the streets, but want to avoid the madness and inflated prices of Mardi Gras, go in January. You can still catch masquerade balls and parties while enjoying thinner crowds and more hotel availability.

Best Time to Visit for the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival

The birthplace of jazz positively shines during the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival , which features a lineup highlighting different musical styles, cultural attractions, and good food. The festivities usually take place around the end of April, so the weather will be fair for your trip, even if the prices aren’t. Definitely plan ahead for this one (rooms can fill up quickly), and check the website for hotel deals and packages.

Worst Times to Visit New Orleans

Unless you want to join the hordes of revelers and jazz fans celebrating Mardi Gras or the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival, avoid visiting on weekends from February to early May. Other than that, the most popular annual events linked to large crowds include the Allstate Sugar Bowl — a beloved college football championship game that’s typically held on New Year’s Eve or New Year’s Day — and Halloween, with events taking place throughout late October.

If you're someone who can't stand humidity — or you don't want to worry about the possibility of encountering a hurricane — pass on a summer trip to the Big Easy, when the heat can be particularly intense.

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The Best Time to Visit New Orleans

 TripSavvy /  Ran Zheng

The best time of year to visit New Orleans depends entirely on what you want out of a vacation. While the Big Easy is enjoyable any time of the year, the best time to visit New Orleans is November through December. Temperatures are plenty warm for most visitors, the city is dressed up in holiday decorations, and there are no crowds—which means cheaper rates for travel and accommodations.

Read on for more about the weather, the seasons in New Orleans, key events and festivals, and more information to help you plan your perfect trip.

The Weather in New Orleans

In New Orleans, expect long, hot, and muggy summers, with short yet sometimes surprisingly cool winters. The temperature in New Orleans typically ranges anywhere from 45 degrees Fahrenheit to upwards of 90 degrees, but rarely below. Mid-July is usually the hottest, although summer heat can last well into September. Rain is also more common during summer, contributing to the oppressive temperature and humidity.

If you're hoping to escape scorching summer temperatures, October, November. February and March tend to be the best bets. The early spring months are particularly nice when you're avoiding icy winter conditions up North, and the fall months are great for cozy, homey neighborhood street fairs and a touch of holiday festiveness. Fall is also the driest time to visit.

While Mardi Gras is among the busiest times to visit, the weather tends to be nice, making it a great time to plan a trip incorporating other activities, too, such as a day trip to the Tabasco factory or even a swamp tour.

Peak Season in New Orleans

Go ahead and come to visit at Mardi Gras, remembering that the Mardi Gras season, called Carnival, runs for several weeks before the big event, which is usually in mid-February or early March. Parades, parties, balls, and general entertainment occur from January 6 until Mardi Gras. You'll need a slightly higher budget to visit during this time of the year, but if you enjoy the festive, bustling nature of the festival, this is the ideal time. If you visit for the French Quarter Festival (early April) or JazzFest (late April to early May), expect large crowds but plenty of music, food, and fun. 

If you're on a budget, consider visiting during the summer. July and August are hot, yes, but hotel deals are abundant, and August brings COOLinary New Orleans, a month of special restaurant deals designed to lure tourists on a budget. Take advantage! You'll find that the heat makes outdoor activities challenging, but there's plenty to do indoors, and if you take it slow and drink lots of fluids, you can survive just fine outside, too.

Key Events and Festivals

Louisiana—and New Orleans residents in particular—love celebrations. With 130-plus festivals held in the state each year, there's undoubtedly something to do year-round. The most well-known festival is Mardi Gras, which spans two or three weeks in February or March. Festive "krewes" take to the street of New Orleans and surrounding cities, complete with floats, marching bands, and dance groups. Fat Tuesday, the day before Ash Wednesday, is the most popular day for celebrations.

Other popular events throughout the year include the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival, the French Quarter Festival, and the Voodoo Music & Arts Experience.

Spring is New Orleans' peak travel season, which isn't surprising given the mild weather and packed events calendar. You'll want to book your hotels early—up to a year in advance if you're planning on visiting during Mardi Gras—and expect crowds at restaurants and other popular establishments.

Events to Check Out:

• The Mardi Gras season runs through March, although the exact time frame varies each year. Locals and tourists alike flock to the city's streets to see parades and catch the famed beads.
• The New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival runs from the last weekend in April to the first in May. Local musicians, as well as world-renowned artists, come to perform.

Summer can be brutally hot, but if you're hoping to avoid crowds and maybe save a few bucks, a summertime visit isn't a bad idea. July and August are the hottest months, with average temperatures of 91 degrees, but June and September are quite warm too. As a perk, however, the crowds are smaller, and you'll pay less for accommodation than you will in other months.

• On the Fourth of July, New Orleans hosts "Go 4th on the River," a celebration with fireworks shot off from dueling barges on the Mississippi River.
• The annual Essence Music Festival, held in July, showcases performances from some of the most popular R&B and hip-hop artists.

While the city can still be hot in September, October and November in New Orleans are squarely shoulder seasons with great weather, small crowds, and reasonable hotel rates. While you won't find as many exciting events as winter or spring, it's a great time to visit.

• The New Orleans Film Festival, one of the nation's premier film festivals, takes place in October.
• The Voodoo Music and Arts Experience is held at the end of October. The event features hundreds of performers, including some of the biggest names in music entertainment. 

Winter is a sweet spot for a New Orleans visit. Temperatures are still pleasantly balmy (average highs are usually around 60 degrees) and bargain hotel rates can be found. Plus, if you visit around the holidays, you'll get to catch the city dressed up in Christmas decor.

• "Celebration in the Oaks" is an annual holiday attraction in New Orleans. From Thanksgiving through the New Year, the city hosts one of the best holiday light shows in the country. 
• On Christmas Eve, don't miss "Bonfires On The Levee." This Cajun tradition consists of fires erected on the river levees, intended to light the way for "Papa Noël," the Cajun version of Santa Claus.

Frequently Asked Questions

If you want minimal crowds, hotel deals, and mild weather, then December and January are the best time of year to visit. If you're going for Mardi Gras, you'll want to plan for February or March—but book your reservations several months or a year in advance.

Mardi Gras lasts several weeks and the first events start on January 6. However, the biggest events and parades take place during the week leading up to Fat Tuesday, which falls sometime from mid-February to early March.

The summer humidity is oppressive, but if you can withstand the heat then this is the best time to find deals on flights and hotels in the Big Easy. July and August are the cheapest months to visit, but look for options as early as June and as late as September.

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The Best Time to Visit New Orleans in 2024: When to Go Guide

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When is the best time to visit New Orleans? Virtually every season has its pros and cons and I’m here to share them with you

New Orleans’ distinct culture of music, architecture, food, and nightlife make it an attractive place to visit at any time of year, though many people prefer visiting during the city’s warmer months to enjoy its outdoor activities and festivals.

I’ve been to New Orleans on several occasions, all at different times of the year. It depends on what I want to do that dictates the best time to visit. I’ll outline some of my favorites below.

The best time to go to New Orleans varies depending on the season and your personal preference, but our tips will help you plan an unforgettable trip to the Big Easy.

To help you plan your next trip to New Orleans, here are some tips for choosing when to visit based on when festivals or events will take place and how busy the city will be overall.

Table of Contents

Mardi Gras Season

If you’re planning a trip to New Orleans, one of the best times to visit is during Mardi Gras season.

Mardi Gras season starts as early as the day after Three Kings Day, January 6th , all the way until the actual Mardi Gras day. Because of New Orleans’ long history and love of Mardi Gras, it’s going to be the most popular time to visit. That shouldn’t deter you from visiting, however. You can get plenty of Mardi Gras before the big event in late February or early March.

From January through Fat Tuesday, the city comes alive with music, parades, and parties. With its vibrant culture and renowned cuisine, there’s no better place to be during this festive time of year.

When it comes to experiencing Mardi Gras in all its glory, timing is key. If you’re traveling to New Orleans for the festivities, you’ll want to make sure that you’re there during the peak of the celebration. Parades usually begin around the Saturday before Ash Wednesday and last until the day before Lent begins. Although, there are parades, also called Krewes, as early as January 6 , so don’t count out January as a great time to visit. It’s important to note that many parts of the city are closed off to vehicular traffic on parade days, so plan your trip accordingly.

If you’re looking for an even more immersive experience, consider attending one of the many festivals or parades that take place leading up to Fat Tuesday. There are a variety of events to choose from, from traditional second-line parades to more contemporary music festivals. It’s also worth noting that many restaurants, bars, and clubs will offer special menus and entertainment during this time. Find a complete festival and Krewe list here .

So, what is the best time to visit New Orleans for Mardi Gras? For maximum parades and festivities, the week leading up to Mardi Gras is great. For fewer crowds and still a lot of fun, early February.

No matter how you choose to experience Mardi Gras in New Orleans, it’s sure to be a memorable trip. Keep in mind that this is a popular time of year to travel, so it’s best to book accommodations and tickets as far in advance as possible. With a bit of planning and some luck, you’re sure to have an incredible trip to New Orleans.

History of Mardi Gras

The celebration of Mardi Gras in New Orleans dates back centuries, and today it’s one of the most famous festivals in the world.

Mardi Gras began as a religious holiday celebrated by early French settlers in Louisiana. In 1699, French explorers brought their Catholic faith to the area and named the spot Pointe du Mardi Gras.

By the late 18th century, locals had embraced the tradition of celebrating Mardi Gras with parades and parties. As time went on, the celebration of Mardi Gras grew, becoming more elaborate and grand. Today, Mardi Gras is celebrated in many cities throughout the world, but none quite like New Orleans.

If you want more history of Mardi Gras, be sure to check out the Presbytere Museum in the French Quarter .

Where to Celebrate Mardi Gras in New Orleans

Contrary to popular depictions of Mardi Gras in New Orleans, you do not have to celebrate it on Bourbon Street to have a good time. In fact, I wouldn’t recommend Bourbon Street for families and even teens.

Festivals, krewes, and parades take place all over the city and the surrounding parishes. In fact, Jefferson Parish, where New Orleans is located, offers up Family Gras in Mardi Gras Plaza in early February. Safely experience Mardi Gras celebrations, local Cajun and Creole dishes, and outdoor concerts.

On the day of Mardi Gras, visitors can enjoy colorful floats, marching bands, and plenty of beads along Canal Street. The route changes every year, but it typically starts at Lee Circle and ends in the French Quarter. Another great spot for watching parades is at City Park, where a few family-friendly parades take place.

For those looking to learn more about the Mardi Gras tradition, visit the Mardi Gras World. Located in the Warehouse District, this location is the world’s largest float designing and building facility. Get an up close and personal look at authentic Mardi Gras costumes and tour the elaborate floats used in more than 80 percent of the Mardi Gras parades. You’ll also learn the history of Mardi Gras in New Orleans along with traditions and customs, including King Cake. Bonus, you can visit here year-round.

When is Mardi Gras in 2024?

Mardi Gras Day falls on Tuesday, February 13, 2024.

Spring in New Orleans

Early spring might see the tail end of Mardi Gras or a St. Patty’s Day Parade. It’s possible to combine these two events, depending on how long you will be in the Crescent City. St. Patrick’s Day always falls on March 17th, so at least that day is easy to figure out. In 2025, Mardi Gras is March 4th, and in 2030 Mardi Gras is March 5th .

Spring is one of the most popular times to travel to New Orleans. With its mild temperatures and festive atmosphere, there’s no better place to enjoy the season than the Big Easy. Whether you’re planning a trip to explore all of the city’s attractions or just looking for some good old-fashioned fun, here are a few tips for making the most out of your trip to New Orleans.

First and foremost, take advantage of the mild temperatures and make sure to pack light. The weather in New Orleans during the spring ranges from 50°F to 85°F. It’s best to dress in layers so you can adjust to any temperature changes.

Make sure to plan your visit during one of the city’s many festivals and events. With music festivals like the French Quarter Festival and the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival in April , there’s always live music happening in the city. There’s also a wide selection of excellent restaurants and bars in the city, so take some time to explore the city’s culinary delights.

The Tennessee Williams Literary Festival is a personal favorite of mine. Best known for A Streetcar Named Desire, the playwright set his scenes in New Orleans. This festival also takes place during the spring months.

Finally, take some time to explore the city’s many historic landmarks. The French Quarter, Garden District, and other neighborhoods offer plenty of opportunities to experience New Orleans’ history. Make sure to check out some of the city’s iconic architecture and stroll along Royal Street for a taste of what makes New Orleans so special.

When it comes to traveling to New Orleans, spring is one of the best times of the year. With its vibrant atmosphere, mild weather, and countless attractions, you’re sure to have an unforgettable experience on your trip to New Orleans!

Summer in New Orleans

The summer months are going to be hotter with average highs in the 80s to low 90s during the day. High humidity might make outdoor activities a little more challenging if you’re not used to it. However, that doesn’t mean it’s not a great time to visit. This city is alive no matter the time of year, even in the hottest months!

Summer would be a great time to take advantage of all the exciting indoor attractions the city has to offer.

Enjoy interactive historical figures and musical influences New Orleans has played a part in when you visit Vue Orleans . This new experience offers high-tech, no-touch, colorful interactive elements spanning the history of Crescent City from Camonche Hunters to Jelly Roll Morton and more influential figures.

Then head to the 33rd floor where you’ll see a 360-degree mural of the Mighty Mississippi River and every tributary that feeds this important body of water. One more floor up, and you can take in the entire city from the outdoor observation deck.

Keep in mind that hurricane season in the Gulf of Mexico is from June through November . It’s a good idea to check the weather before you travel to New Orleans. Active months for Hurricanes are August and September.

That being said, the city is well-prepared and equipped with measures such as hurricane evacuation plans and shelters. I don’t avoid travel during hurricane season, but I would also recommend travel insurance to cover things such as trip cancellation and interruption.

Fall in New Orleans

Fall is one of the best times to experience the vibrant culture and energy of the city. From jazz festivals and outdoor events to tantalizing cuisine and unique attractions, you’ll find something to do no matter what your interests are.

From September to November, visitors are welcomed by warm temperatures and comfortable humidity levels . The summer heat has dissipated and crowds have thinned, so you can enjoy the city’s attractions without the hustle and bustle.

September in New Orleans is when the city comes alive with fall festivities such as the Voodoo Music + Arts Experience , and the New Orleans Wine & Food Experience .

For foodies, fall in New Orleans is a must-visit. From classic dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, and po’boys to modern culinary delights like oyster shooters and softshell crabs, there’s something for everyone. The iconic beignets at Café du Monde or Cafe Beignet and pralines from New Orleans Cooking School will satisfy your sweet tooth.

I highly recommend a food-based walking tour through the French Quarter . You’ll not only get to sample these iconic dishes but get a history of the architecture as well.

For outdoor enthusiasts, there are plenty of activities to enjoy during your trip to New Orleans. Take a hike at City Park, explore the Louisiana swamps on an airboat tour, or go fishing in Lake Pontchartrain.

New Orleans Holidays

For a quieter, more relaxed trip, consider traveling during winter. December is the best month to visit New Orleans in my opinion. The city celebrates Christmas with lights, parades, and live music performances.

The Christmas in the Oaks lights extravaganza, The Cajun Christmas Preservation Hall Concerts, and Reveillon, are all great events to take part in when you travel to New Orleans during the winter months.

We recently visited New Orleans again over the Christmas holiday and I was pleasantly surprised at the crowd levels.

During Christmas, lights are everywhere, Christmas jazz music is everywhere, and it’s still walkable and enjoyable.

Best Time of year to Visit New Orleans

Peak season will be during Mardi Gras and either late February or early March, depending on when the holiday falls.

That said, if you’re looking for a rich cultural experience (not on Bourbon Street) it is easily an event and experience you can’t get anywhere else and one of the best times to visit New Orleans. However, because it is iconic to New Orleans, expect large crowds the closer you get to Fat Tuesday.

Other popular events such as Jazz Fest will also attract more visitors, but once again, it’s an iconic event and a great way to experience New Orleans.

I love the holidays, so I would also recommend traveling to New Orleans during the Christmas season. It is one my personal favorites for the best time to visit New Orleans with family. With the lower average temperatures, yet still comfortable enough to be outside, you can enjoy city lights through the city and Jefferson Parish.

Consider the Weather – New Orleans has hot and humid summers, with temperatures often reaching the 90s. If you’re looking to avoid the heat and humidity, consider visiting in the spring or fall, when temperatures are milder.

Best time to Visit New Orleans without Crowds

Visit in the shoulder season in the fall or in January, when the temperatures are a bit cooler. You’ll likely find cheaper rates at accommodations and maybe even some specials.

To get the best value for your money, try to stay in hotels during the off-season. Prices tend to drop during the winter months, but you may be able to score a good deal to save some money .

My vote personally would be mid-January. for the best time of the year. You’ll find neighborhood Krewe parades and lower hotel rates, the temperatures are perfect, and with fewer tourists, you’ll feel as if the city is yours.

how to visit New Orleans

Now that you know when to go, it’s time to figure out how to get to New Orleans.

You can fly directly into Louis Armstrong International Airport or take the train to Union Passenger Terminal. Once you’ve arrived, you can travel around the city by public transportation or by walking.

A ride on one of the streetcars is also a must-do attraction and an exciting mode of transportation. The Historic Green Line runs along St. Charles Avenue through the Garden District and beyond, while the other lines run along Canal Street, the Riverfront, and Rampart Streets. A one-day pass is only $3 and it’s both an effective mode of transport while also being a scenic ride. Parking, especially in the French Quarter will be tight and at times, not available.

If you’re driving into the city, I’d recommend the streetcars or walking. It’s a 10-15 minute walk from the Warehouse District. to the French Quarter for example, and a compact enough city that between the public transport and walking, you can see most of it.

How Many Days in New Orleans?

Initially, I’d start with a 4-day trip to New Orleans. I’ll be working on a full itinerary soon to give you an idea of what to see and do in those 4 days.

Final Thoughts When to go to New Orleans in 2024

New Orleans is great any time of year and there is so much to do. I’ve been in the fall, at the holidays, and in the spring and have not been disappointed in any of those times.

If you want Mardi Gras, but don’t want the crowds, you can still get a taste of the experience by visiting places such as the museums, Mardi Gras World, and shops on Royal Street.

Food is good year-round, but I love fall and winter for warm, spicy jambalaya and gumbo.

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The Best Time To Visit New Orleans For Every Type Of Traveler

Plan the perfect Nola vacation with these insider tips.

When To Visit for Mardi Gras

When to visit for the best weather, when to visit for live music, when to visit to score major deals, when to visit for spirited fun, when to visit for holiday traditions.

It’s hard to argue with Bob Dylan’s maximalist endorsement: “Everything in New Orleans is a good idea.” But if you’re planning to visit the Crescent City , it does pay to be intentional about your travel timing. The best advice for getting the most out of your stay? Think about your priorities and schedule your trip accordingly. Read on for recommendations on avoiding hurricane season, beating the heat, and navigating Mardi Gras.

Michael DeMocker/Getty Images

Carnival season kicks off on Jan. 6—the Epiphany—and runs up until the day before Ash Wednesday. That leaves roughly a four to eight week window during January and February to indulge in parades, parties and king cakes . If Mardi Gras is on your bucket list, do yourself a favor and check the parade schedule . About 80 parades criss-cross New Orleans neighborhoods during Carnival season each year. If you plan it right, you can stake out a spot and see two or three in a row. Expect crowds and energy to amp up the closer you get to Fat Tuesday. Two of the flashiest evening parades (Endymion and Bacchus) headline the final weekend. Zulu and Rex famously close out the show on Mardi Gras day.

Courtesy of New Orleans Tourism

There’s a reason early spring is the high season for New Orleans travel. March and April bring lower humidity, comfortable temperatures and outdoor festivals from Freret to the Quarter . You’ll likely pay more for airline tickets and hotels, but there’s nothing quite like strolling ( or jogging , if that’s your thing) through the Garden District when the azaleas are in full bloom.

The New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival draws thousands of people to New Orleans over two weekends in late April and early May. Go for the headliners, sure. But another perk of scheduling your visit during Jazz Fest is the explosion of live music in venues throughout the city. Bars on Frenchmen Street and beyond pack their musical lineups throughout the week and keep the festival spirit going long after the sun sets on the Fairgrounds. 

Summer in New Orleans brings triple-digit heat and unforgiving humidity. That said, budget-minded travelers can take advantage of perks and markdowns at some of the city’s best hotels during June and July. Grab a snoball and spend plenty of time indoors during the day (the National WWII Museum , Ogden Museum of Southern Art and New Orleans Museum of Art are all worthwhile options). You can enjoy the city’s vibrant nightlife once things cool off each evening. Keep in mind, hurricane season runs from June to November, but peaks in late August and September.

Known for its haunted history year-round, New Orleans takes things to the next level during the month of October. Catch the mystical “Krewe of Boo!” parade or ride the streetcar down St. Charles Avenue to see elaborate Halloween decorations, including a dramatic display of satirical skeletons. You can also take a guided walk through one of the city’s above ground cemeteries, tour a haunted house or go on a ghost hunt carriage ride. And remember, for New Orleans locals , “costume” is a verb—not a noun—so pack accordingly.

Snowbirds can appreciate Louisiana’s tropical winters, with average December temperatures staying well above freezing. And unless you book your stay during the Sugar Bowl, you likely won’t have to dodge too many crowds. Don’t miss the bedazzled lobby of the Roosevelt Hotel (stay for a snack or a sazerac) or a chance to go sailing with Santa on the steamboat Natchez . Dozens of restaurants offer their take on the Creole tradition of Réveillon Dinners , while the majestic live oaks in City Park set the stage for a magical festival of lights—tickets required . Ring in the new year with fireworks over the Mississippi and a Fleur de Lis drop in Jackson Square.

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