To get around New Orleans, you can use a variety of transportation options including taxis, ride-hailing apps, buses, and streetcars, as well as walk or bike through the city's historic neighborhoods.
Quick Facts
Getting There
New Orleans is easily accessible by air, with Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) serving as the main gateway to the city. The airport is located about 11 miles west of downtown New Orleans and offers direct flights to many major cities in the United States, as well as some international destinations. You can also reach New Orleans by car or bus, with several major highways and intercity bus routes passing through the city. If you're coming from nearby cities, you can take a bus or drive, and there are also several overland entry points from neighboring states.
If you're traveling from outside the United States, you can fly into MSY or connect through a major hub airport such as Houston or Atlanta. Once you arrive, you can take a taxi, ride-hailing service, or shuttle bus to get to your destination. The city is also accessible by train, with Amtrak's Crescent and City of New Orleans routes passing through New Orleans' Union Passenger Terminal. Additionally, intercity buses such as Greyhound and Megabus offer service to New Orleans from many cities across the United States.
Domestic Flights
New Orleans is well-connected to the rest of the United States by air, with domestic airlines such as American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, and United Airlines offering frequent flights to many major cities. You can fly to New Orleans from cities such as New York, Los Angeles, Chicago, and Miami, among others. To book a domestic flight, you can use online travel agencies such as Expedia or Kayak, or visit the website of your preferred airline. Approximate costs for domestic flights to New Orleans can vary depending on the time of year and how far in advance you book, but you can expect to pay anywhere from $200 to $500 or more for a round-trip ticket.
Trains & Rail
While New Orleans has a limited rail network, you can still take the train to get to the city. Amtrak's Crescent route runs from New York to New Orleans, passing through major cities such as Washington, D.C., and Atlanta, while the City of New Orleans route runs from Chicago to New Orleans. The train journey can be scenic and relaxing, but it's often slower and more expensive than flying. To book a train ticket, you can visit Amtrak's website or visit a ticket office in person. High-speed options are not available in New Orleans, but you can take a bus or drive to nearby cities with faster rail connections.
Buses & Coaches
New Orleans has a well-developed intercity bus network, with companies such as Greyhound, Megabus, and FlixBus offering service to many cities across the United States. You can take the bus to get to nearby cities such as Baton Rouge, Houston, or Memphis, or travel to more distant destinations such as New York or Los Angeles. Bus quality can vary depending on the company and route, but many buses offer comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, and onboard amenities. Costs can be relatively affordable, with fares starting from around $20 to $50 for shorter routes and $100 to $200 or more for longer journeys.
City Transport
| Mode | Available In | Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Streetcar | New Orleans | $3 | Historic streetcars run on several routes, including the famous St. Charles Avenue line |
| City Bus | New Orleans | $3 | An extensive network of buses covers many neighborhoods and suburbs |
| Taxi | everywhere | $2.50 + $2/mile | Taxis are widely available, but can be more expensive than ride-hailing |
| Ride-Hailing | New Orleans | $5-$10 | Uber and Lyft operate in the city, with prices varying depending on demand |
| Bike-Share | New Orleans | $8/day | A bike-sharing system allows you to rent bikes for a day or by the hour |
Driving
- To drive in New Orleans, you'll need a valid driver's license from your home state or country.
- Road conditions can be variable, with some streets in poor condition due to flooding and aging infrastructure.
- Fuel costs are generally in line with national averages, but can vary depending on the location and time of year.
- If you plan to rent a car, be sure to book in advance and choose a reputable company.
- Be aware of traffic hazards such as potholes, construction, and aggressive drivers.
- Parking can be challenging in some areas, especially in the French Quarter, so be prepared to pay for parking or walk from a nearby lot.
Transport Tips
- Be aware of scams such as fake taxi drivers or street performers who may try to distract you and steal your belongings.
- Payment methods such as credit cards and mobile payments are widely accepted, but it's still a good idea to have some cash on hand.
- Download transportation apps such as Uber or Lyft to get around the city, and consider using a maps app to navigate.
- Safety is a concern in some areas of the city, especially at night, so be sure to stay in well-lit and populated areas.
- Consider purchasing a Jazzy Pass for unlimited rides on public transportation, which can be a cost-effective option.
- Bike safety is important, so be sure to wear a helmet and follow local traffic laws.
- Tipping is customary for taxi drivers and ride-hailing services, as well as for tour guides and other service staff.