Cruise Port in New Orleans Guide
Port of New Orleans, LA, Cruise Port
The Port of New Orleans, located along the Mississippi River, is a major departure point for Caribbean and river cruises. Known for its rich cultural heritage, world-famous cuisine, and vibrant music scene, New Orleans is a fantastic destination to explore before or after a cruise. Whether you’re strolling through the historic French Quarter, indulging in Creole cuisine, or enjoying live jazz, this port city offers a memorable experience for every traveler.
Cruise port in New Orleans, LA
General
General
Information
Location: New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
Currency: US Dollar (USD)
Time Zone: Central Time Zone (CT) | UTC -6 (Standard), UTC -5 (Daylight Saving Time)
Language: English is the primary language.
Electricity: 120V, 60Hz (North American standard plug types A & B)
Tipping: 15-20% for restaurants, 10-15% for taxis
Emergency Number: 911
Getting Around
- Walking: The cruise terminal is within walking distance of downtown and the French Quarter.
- Streetcar: New Orleans RTA operates historic streetcars with routes throughout the city.
- Taxis & Rideshares: Taxis, Uber, and Lyft are readily available.
- Shuttle Services: Many hotels and cruise lines offer shuttle transportation.
- Car Rentals: Available at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) and downtown.
Top Attractions & Activities
- French Quarter – The heart of New Orleans, known for its historic architecture, jazz clubs, and lively atmosphere.
- Bourbon Street – A world-famous street lined with bars, restaurants, and music venues.
- Jackson Square – A picturesque square with street performers and historic landmarks.
- The National WWII Museum – A must-visit museum showcasing World War II history.
- Garden District – A charming neighborhood with historic mansions and oak-lined streets.
- Mardi Gras World – A behind-the-scenes look at New Orleans’ famous Mardi Gras parade.
- Steamboat Natchez River Cruise – A scenic Mississippi River cruise with live jazz.
- City Park – A beautiful park featuring botanical gardens, walking trails, and art installations.
Monthly Weather & Events
| Month | Avg Temp (°F / °C) | Weather Notes | Key Events |
|---|---|---|---|
| January | 56°F / 13°C | Cool and mild | King’s Day Parade |
| February | 60°F / 16°C | Pleasant winter days | Mardi Gras |
| March | 67°F / 19°C | Warm and sunny | Tennessee Williams Festival |
| April | 73°F / 23°C | Warm and dry | French Quarter Festival |
| May | 79°F / 26°C | Humid, start of summer | Bayou Boogaloo |
| June | 84°F / 29°C | Hot and humid | New Orleans Pride Festival |
| July | 86°F / 30°C | Very hot, occasional rain | Essence Festival |
| August | 86°F / 30°C | Peak hurricane season | Satchmo Summerfest |
| September | 82°F / 28°C | Hot but cooling down | Southern Decadence |
| October | 75°F / 24°C | Pleasant, low humidity | Voodoo Music + Arts Experience |
| November | 67°F / 19°C | Cooler, breezy | Oak Street Po-Boy Festival |
| December | 60°F / 16°C | Festive and mild | Celebration in the Oaks |
Guided Tours
- French Quarter Walking Tour (2 hours) – Explore historic sites and hidden gems.
- Ghost & Vampire Tour (2 hours) – A spooky adventure through the haunted side of New Orleans.
- Swamp Boat Tour (3 hours) – See alligators and bayou wildlife on an airboat tour.
- Jazz & Cocktail Tour (2.5 hours) – Visit historic bars and learn about New Orleans’ jazz history.
- Plantation Tour (4 hours) – Discover the history of Louisiana’s antebellum plantations.
Cruise Port in
New Orleans Guide
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Getting To and From Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY)
- Distance: 16 miles (25 km) from the cruise port.
- Transportation Options:
- Shuttle: Several private shuttle services operate between the airport and cruise port.
- Taxi/Rideshare: Approx. $40–$50 one-way.
- Public Transit: Jefferson Transit (JET) bus service to downtown.
- Car Rentals: Available at MSY and throughout New Orleans.
Accommodation Recommendations
- Luxury:
- The Roosevelt New Orleans – A historic luxury hotel with a rooftop pool.
- Windsor Court Hotel – An elegant five-star hotel near the French Quarter.
- Mid-Range:
- Hotel Monteleone – A classic New Orleans hotel famous for its revolving Carousel Bar.
- Royal Sonesta New Orleans – A Bourbon Street hotel with live jazz performances.
- Budget:
- Holiday Inn Express New Orleans Downtown – A great budget option with easy access to the cruise port.
- French Market Inn – A charming boutique hotel in the French Quarter.
Shopping, Cafés & Dining
Best Shopping Areas:
- French Market – A historic open-air market with local crafts, souvenirs, and regional delicacies.
- The Shops at Canal Place – Upscale shopping mall with designer brands and boutiques.
- Magazine Street – A six-mile stretch of eclectic shops, art galleries, and antique stores.
- Royal Street – Known for its high-end antique shops, art galleries, and unique jewelry stores.
- Riverwalk Outlets – Outlet shopping with discounted name-brand stores and scenic river views.
Best Cafés:
- Café du Monde – A New Orleans icon famous for beignets and chicory coffee.
- Café Beignet – A charming café with a classic New Orleans atmosphere and great coffee.
- Spitfire Coffee – A small specialty coffee shop known for its expertly brewed espresso drinks.
- The Vintage – Offers creative beignets, craft cocktails, and coffee in a cozy setting.
- Mammoth Espresso – A hip coffee spot known for artisanal lattes and pastries.
Best Restaurants:
- Commander’s Palace – An iconic fine-dining restaurant serving Creole cuisine.
- Brennan’s – Famous for its decadent breakfasts and Bananas Foster dessert.
- Antoine’s Restaurant – The oldest family-run restaurant in the U.S., known for classic French-Creole dishes.
- Cochon – A rustic eatery specializing in Cajun-style pork and Southern cuisine.
- Willie Mae’s Scotch House – Home to some of the best fried chicken in America.
- Dooky Chase’s Restaurant – A legendary spot serving Creole soul food with deep cultural roots.
- Herbsaint – A contemporary bistro with a fusion of French and Southern flavors.
- Peche Seafood Grill – A seafood-focused restaurant featuring wood-fired dishes and fresh Gulf catches.
- GW Fins – A top-rated seafood restaurant with an ever-changing menu of fresh fish selections.
- Café du Monde – Famous for beignets and chicory coffee.
- Commander’s Palace – A must-visit for Creole fine dining.
- French Market – A historic open-air market with local crafts and foods.
Recommended Reading & Local YouTubers
- Books:
- “New Orleans: A History” by Richard Campanella
- YouTube Videos:
- Ultimate NEW ORLEANS Bucket List | First Timer’s Guide Vlog by The Traveling Stewarts
- 10 Reasons to visit NEW ORLEANS Louisiana in 2024 || USA Travel Vlog by Scott Escapes
- One Day in New Orleans – the Most Energetic City in the US by Kristi Travel Escapes
Printable Map
Download a detailed map of New Orleans here: Printable Map.
