Planning a trip to the Big Easy? Here are some essential tips and mistakes to avoid for first-time visitors to New Orleans. This NOLA travel guide will help you make the most of the city and everything it has to offer!
With our multiple visits to New Orleans, we’ve gained valuable insights on transportation, weather, food, and more. We’re here to ensure you’re 100% prepared so you can fully enjoy your experience in one of the most unique cities in the United States!
Planning a trip to New Orleans? Whether you’re looking for insider tips, detailed itineraries, or unique experiences, here are a few other articles that might help you make the most of your visit:
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1. Plan Around the Weather
New Orleans is known for its hot, humid summers and mild winters. If you’re not a fan of very hot weather (who is?), consider visiting between October and April when the weather is cooler and more comfortable. Hurricane season runs from June to November, so keep an eye on the forecast and consider that there might be more chances for rain throughout the day.
Mistake to Avoid: Not packing for the weather. Bring lightweight, breathable clothing and sun protection for summer, a light jacket for cooler evenings in winter, and a rain jacket and/or umbrella if visiting during the rainy season.
2. Stay in the Right Neighborhood
Where you stay can make or break your trip. The French Quarter is a very popular choice for first-time visitors to New Orleans, thanks to its central location and iconic charm, and we think it is the best option if you have never visited the city before. However, you can consider the Garden District or Marigny if you prefer a quieter vibe. These neighborhoods are still close to the action but offer a more relaxed atmosphere and competitive prices.
Mistake to Avoid: Booking a hotel too far from the main attractions. New Orleans is a walkable city, but staying too far out can make exploring harder. When it is very hot or rainy, it is also lovely to have the option to go back to your hotel room for a break without wasting too much time.
👁️🗨️ Also Read: Virgin Hotels New Orleans Review
👁️🗨️ Also Read: Roami At Factors Row Review
3. Get Familiar with Public Transportation
New Orleans has an excellent public transportation system, including streetcars and buses. The historic streetcars are affordable (just $1.25 per ride) and a fun way to see the city. Riding the St. Charles Avenue streetcar is a must-do for first-timers, as it offers scenic views of the Garden District (it can also be a great activity for rainy days or to take a break from walking).
Although not public transportation, we also recommend the New Orleans Hop-on Hop-off Bus, especially for your initial tour of the city. It stops at all the major attractions, and if you purchase the New Orleans Sightseeing Pass, your ticket will also include free entry to several of them.
Mistake to Avoid: Relying solely on rideshares or taxis (even if they are pretty affordable compared to other major US cities). Streetcars are a budget-friendly and iconic way to get around.
👁️🗨️ Also Read: Our Epic 3-Day New Orleans Itinerary & Top Sightseeing Pass Perks.
4. Embrace the Local Cuisine
New Orleans is a food lover’s paradise, and trying the local cuisine is part of the experience. Don’t leave without sampling classics like gumbo, jambalaya, po’boys, chargrilled oysters, and beignets, and research the restaurants. Besides the most famous ones, there are many other spots to try that are loved by travelers and locals alike.
Mistake to Avoid: Sticking to chain restaurants. New Orleans is all about local flavors, so venture beyond familiar names.
FOODS TO TRY IN NEW ORLEANS:
• Gumbo: A rich, flavorful stew made with a dark roux, okra, and a mix of seafood, sausage, or chicken. It’s often served over rice.
• Jambalaya: A one-pot dish featuring rice, tomatoes, onions, peppers, and a mix of meats like sausage, chicken, and shrimp.
• Po’ Boy: A classic sandwich served on French bread, typically filled with fried seafood (like shrimp or oysters) or roast beef, dressed with lettuce, tomatoes, pickles, and mayo.
• Crawfish Étouffée: A creamy, spicy dish made with crawfish (or shrimp) smothered in a roux-based sauce, served over rice.
• Muffuletta: A hearty sandwich made with Italian bread, layered with cured meats (salami, ham, mortadella), cheese, and olive salad.
• Red Beans and Rice: A Monday tradition in New Orleans, this dish features slow-cooked red beans with sausage or ham, served over rice.
• Oysters Rockefeller: A New Orleans original, this dish features oysters on the half-shell topped with a rich, buttery sauce made with greens and breadcrumbs, then baked.
• Boudin: A Cajun sausage made with pork, rice, and spices, often served as a snack or appetizer.
• Shrimp and Grits: A Southern staple featuring creamy grits topped with sautéed shrimp in a flavorful sauce.
• Turtle Soup: A rich, savory soup made with turtle meat, often finished with a splash of sherry.
• Crawfish Boil: A festive dish where crawfish are boiled with potatoes, corn, and Cajun spices, typically served family-style.
• Fried Alligator: A unique local delicacy, fried alligator is tender and slightly chewy, often served as bite-sized pieces with a dipping sauce. It’s a must-try for adventurous eaters!
• Beignets: Iconic New Orleans pastries, similar to doughnuts, deep-fried and generously dusted with powdered sugar.
• Bananas Foster: A decadent dessert made with bananas sautéed in butter, brown sugar, cinnamon, and rum, then flambéed and served over vanilla ice cream.
• Pralines: A sweet treat made with sugar, cream, butter, and pecans, with a creamy, fudge-like texture.
5. Be Prepared for New Orleans Party Scene
New Orleans is famous for its nightlife, especially on Bourbon Street. While it’s a must-see for first-time visitors, it can get rowdy, particularly during weekends and festivals. If you’re not into that type of frenetic party scene, consider exploring Frenchmen Street instead, which offers live music and a more laid-back vibe.
Mistake to Avoid: Thinking Bourbon Street is the only place to have fun.
6. Respect the Culture and Etiquette
New Orleans has a rich cultural heritage, and it’s important to be respectful of its traditions and beliefs. Here are a few key points to keep in mind:
Voodoo: A Sacred Tradition
Voodoo is an integral part of New Orleans’ history and culture, blending West African spiritual practices with Catholicism. It’s often misunderstood or misrepresented, so it’s essential to approach it with respect. If you visit voodoo shops or museums, like the New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum, remember that these are places of cultural and spiritual significance. Avoid treating voodoo as a novelty or spectacle.
- Do’s: Ask questions respectfully, learn about the history, and support local voodoo practitioners by purchasing authentic items like herbs, candles, or talismans.
- Don’ts: Don’t take photos without permission, and avoid making jokes or disrespectful comments about voodoo practices.
Ghosts and Haunted History
New Orleans is one of the most haunted cities in the U.S., and ghost stories are a big part of its charm. From the infamous LaLaurie Mansion to the eerie St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, the city is filled with tales of spirits and supernatural occurrences. If you take a ghost tour or visit haunted sites, keep these tips in mind:
- Do’s: Listen to the stories with an open mind and respect the sites as places where people lived (and died). Many locals believe in these spirits, so be mindful of their beliefs.
- Don’ts: Don’t trespass on private property or disturb gravesites, and avoid making jokes.
Mistake to Avoid: Being unaware of local customs or treating cultural practices like voodoo and ghost stories as mere entertainment. A little respect goes a long way in NOLA.
7. Stay Safe and Be Aware of Your Surroundings
Like any major city, New Orleans has areas that are safer than others. Stick to well-lit, populated areas, especially at night. Avoid walking alone in unfamiliar neighborhoods, and keep an eye on your belongings in crowded places like the French Quarter and Bourdon Street.
Mistake to Avoid: Letting your guard down completely. Stay alert and trust your instincts.
8. Don't Overpack Your Itinerary
We (well, I) are guilty of this! There is so much to see and do in New Orleans, and it is tempting to try to cram everything into your first trip. However, New Orleans is best enjoyed at a leisurely pace to fully absorb its unique vibes. Trust me, your first trip to the Big Easy will definitely not be your last one, so you will have more opportunities to explore this magical city! Leave room for spontaneous discoveries, like stumbling upon a live jazz band or exploring a hidden courtyard.
Mistake to Avoid: Trying to do too much. Focus on a few key experiences and savor them. Especially if you visit during the hot months, you will probably want to go back to your hotel for a midday break, so account for that time while putting together your itinerary.
New Orleans is a city full of surprises, and your first visit will surely be unforgettable. Follow these tips and avoid common mistakes to explore the Big Easy like a pro and make your experience even more enjoyable. Whatever Nola Itinerary you decide to put together, the city has something for everyone! Let its unique energy take over and do its job! You will love it!
Got questions about New Orleans? We’re here to help. Leave a comment below, and we’ll do our best to provide the answers you need to make your trip successful!
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