New Orleans, LA
Welcome to the vibrant and soulful city of New Orleans, a major homeport on the Mississippi River! The Big Easy serves as a popular departure point for cruises to the Caribbean and beyond, with major lines like Carnival Cruise Line, Royal Caribbean, and Norwegian Cruise Line frequently docking here. Its unique blend of French, African, and American cultures, world-renowned cuisine, and legendary music scene make it a destination in itself, offering an unforgettable start or end to your cruise vacation.
A visit to New Orleans is incomplete without exploring the historic French Quarter, which is just a short taxi ride or a pleasant walk from the cruise terminals. Here you can stroll down Bourbon Street, admire the architecture, and listen to live jazz. Within the French Quarter, you'll find the iconic Jackson Square, a beautiful park centered around a statue of Andrew Jackson, facing the stunning St. Louis Cathedral. For a uniquely local experience, consider a cemetery tour of the city's famous above-ground tombs at historic cemeteries like St. Louis Cemetery No. 1.
Last updated on February 19, 2026
For those with a full day, a popular excursion is a journey back in time on a plantation tour along the Mississippi River's Great River Road. Famous estates like Oak Alley Plantation and Laura Plantation, with their stunning antebellum architecture and complex histories, are located about an hour's drive from the port. Alternatively, experience the wild side of Louisiana with a swamp tour. These guided boat trips, typically a 30-45 minute drive from the city, take you through the bayous to see alligators, birds, and other native wildlife in their natural habitat.
Last updated on February 19, 2026
The cruise terminals in New Orleans, primarily the Erato Street Cruise Terminal and the Julia Street Cruise Terminal, are conveniently located right on the Mississippi River, adjacent to the New Orleans Ernest N. Morial Convention Center. This prime location places you on the edge of the downtown area, within a 1-to-2-mile distance of the French Quarter and other major attractions. While walkable for some, a short taxi or streetcar ride is often preferred. The Outlet Collection at Riverwalk is located right next to the terminals, offering immediate access to shopping and dining. Ships dock directly at the terminals, so no tendering is required.
Last updated on February 19, 2026
The official currency used in New Orleans is the United States Dollar (USD). Major credit cards such as Visa, MasterCard, and American Express are widely accepted in almost all restaurants, shops, and tourist attractions. For smaller purchases or tips, it's always a good idea to have some cash on hand. ATMs are readily available throughout the city, including near the cruise port and in the French Quarter.
Last updated on February 19, 2026
New Orleans is a generally safe city for tourists, but like any major metropolitan area, it's important to be aware of your surroundings. Stick to well-lit, populated areas, especially at night, and avoid walking alone in unfamiliar neighborhoods. The French Quarter and other tourist-heavy zones are well-policed, but can be crowded, so be mindful of your personal belongings to prevent pickpocketing. Using taxis or ride-sharing services for late-night transportation is recommended over walking long distances.
Last updated on February 19, 2026
New Orleans has a humid subtropical climate. Cruise passengers can expect hot and humid summers, with average temperatures often exceeding 90°F (32°C), accompanied by frequent afternoon thunderstorms. Winters are generally mild and pleasant, with temperatures ranging from the 40s to the 60s°F (4-16°C). It is important to note that the Atlantic hurricane season runs from June through November, which overlaps with much of the cruise season. Visitors should pack light clothing, comfortable walking shoes, sunscreen, and rain gear, regardless of the season.
Last updated on February 19, 2026
Getting around New Orleans is relatively easy. The city's main attractions are concentrated in a compact area, making walking a popular option. For a scenic and historic ride, the St. Charles Streetcar line offers a charming way to see the Garden District for a very low fare. Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available throughout the city and at the port. In the French Quarter, you'll also find pedi-cabs for short, enjoyable trips. From the cruise port, a short taxi ride is the most direct way to reach the heart of the French Quarter.
Last updated on February 19, 2026
New Orleans offers a diverse shopping experience for cruise passengers. The Outlet Collection at Riverwalk is conveniently located right next to the cruise terminals, featuring dozens of brand-name stores. For unique souvenirs and local crafts, the shops and stalls of the French Market in the French Quarter are a must-visit. If you're looking for art galleries, antique shops, and upscale boutiques, a stroll down Royal Street or Magazine Street will not disappoint. Be sure to pick up local specialties like pralines, Cajun spices, hot sauce, or a festive Mardi Gras mask to take home.
Last updated on February 19, 2026
Veer off the bright lights of Bourbon Street for a walk on the wild side with native "Horrorstorians." This is not a gimmicky fake ghost story tour, but an experience that shares the city's sick, morbid, and disturbing secrets. Your guides will educate, entertain, and scare you on this tour which is strictly for adults only.
Experience the world's first fully aquatic swamp zipline, soaring over the Maurepas Swamp. You’ll traverse over a half-mile of ziplines and suspension bridges, viewing the swamp ecosystem and critters like alligators from the cypress treetops. The facility also features a gift shop, an elevated viewing deck, and a baby alligator and turtle enclosure.
Join award-winning author and historian Sally Asher for a walking tour of a famous cemetery featured in her book. You will learn about New Orleans' unique burial practices and visit the graves of the city's notable and notorious citizens. Discover the untold stories of a secretive photographer, a famed architect, and legendary chefs who introduced the turducken. This engaging tour is under a mile and reveals the scandals and truths that make New Orleans history so fascinating.
Discover New Orleans' history through its architecture on a 2-hour walking tour of the Garden District. Admire exquisite mansions in Greek Revival, Italianate, and Victorian styles, and see the homes of past and present celebrities. This tour also includes a visit to Lafayette Cemetery to learn about the city’s unique above-ground burial customs in an intimate group of no more than 14 people.
Challenge yourself at an award-winning escape room located in the famed French Quarter. Choose from four unbelievable, family-friendly themes, where you will follow clues and solve puzzles to complete your mission together. Each highly immersive adventure includes multiple rooms to escape from and can hold up to 8 players.
Join a small, intimate, hands-on cooking class in the French Quarter that feels more like a dinner party with friends. You will be welcomed directly into the kitchen by friendly, personable, and entertaining chefs. Learn their impeccable culinary skills in a fun and welcoming atmosphere for a memorable experience.
Visit a distillery on North Claiborne Avenue that reflects a love of New Orleans and a commitment to making spirits with a sense of place. You are welcomed to join them for a fun tour of the facility. The experience concludes with a tasting of their unique spirits.
Join guide Sally Asher on a 2-hour walking tour through Metairie Cemetery, one of the world's must-see cities of the dead. You'll see the extravagant tombs of Popeyes' founder Al Copeland, novelist Anne Rice, and the famous weeping angel statue. Discover unique monuments like a pyramid guarded by a sphinx as your guide reveals the unusual, outrageous, and untold stories behind them.
Enjoy New Orleans from a different perspective on a 3-hour, small-group bike tour. This guided experience gives you a complete look at the city's past and present, perfect for those who love history, architecture, and incredible sights. You'll ride from the French Quarter to see iconic landmarks like the Mississippi River, St. Louis Cemetery, and Louis Armstrong Park.
Begin with a tour of St. Joseph’s Cemetery to learn about the city’s unique burial traditions before rolling through the tree-lined Garden District. You will marvel at beautiful mansions owned by wealthy merchants and celebrities while hearing stories of their past. This tour is provided by a small, owner-operated company, ensuring a high-quality experience with a truly local perspective.
Take to the skies for a bird's-eye view of New Orleans and its magnificent surroundings. Lifting off from Lakefront Airport, you will get an up-close aerial view of the French Quarter, St. Louis Cathedral, and Bourbon Street. You will also see New Orleans City Park, the Fairgrounds, and the Causeway Bridge from a distance.
Uncover the mysteries of Voodoo, from its 18th-century origins to its practice as a modern-day religion. This tour explores the heart of Congo Square and reveals the life and legends of the famous Voodoo Queen, Marie Laveau. You will get hands-on with artifacts like Voodoo dolls and gris-gris bags and end your tour outside contemporary Voodoo temples.
Explore the vibrant French Quarter with a Pirate guide who will explain what life was really like in the early 1800s. Hear fascinating tales of sword fights, smuggling, rum, and the pirates' involvement in the Battle of New Orleans. This tour is perfect for history buffs and pirate fans of all ages. You'll even find out where the treasure is buried!
Spend time in the oldest neighborhood in New Orleans as you walk the streets of the Vieux Carré. Learn the stories of Louisiana's Creoles and the unique blend of West African, Native American, and European influences that define the culture. This exploration of the culture that gave birth to jazz and gumbo also includes a visit to a private 19th-century courtyard.
Explore the captivating Metairie Cemetery, a site on the National Register of Historic Places famed for its grand monuments and temples. As the official tour provider, Save Our Cemeteries guides you through the final resting places of New Orleans' most influential citizens. You will learn the stories of governors, mayors, Carnival royalty, musician Louis Prima, and author Anne Rice. Your tour directly supports the non-profit's mission of restoration, education, and advocacy in the city's cemeteries.
Your tour experience begins with a comfortable ride in a luxury passenger van featuring leather seats. As other guests are picked up around the city, you will be treated to a mini-tour. Alternatively, you can watch a film about other plantations to prepare for your visit, while being entertained by your driver.
Begin your journey in a luxury passenger van, where you will be treated to comfortable leather seats for your ride. To prepare you for your tour, enjoy a mini-tour of the city or watch a film about other plantations during pickups. Your entertaining driver ensures you will not just sit in silence.
Go off the beaten path on a 2-hour architectural tour of the culturally diverse Marigny neighborhood. Discover the stories of Creoles, Haitian refugees, and Free People of Color as told through their historic dwellings. You'll see everything from grand mansions on the Esplanade Ridge to charming Creole Cottages in a small group of no more than 14 people.
Experience the historic sights, sounds, and amazing food smells of the French Quarter on this walking tour. You will discuss interesting history, admire beautiful architecture, and learn about Creole cuisine and movie filming locations. In a small group of just nine people, you will get personalized recommendations on the city's best restaurants and famous dishes.
This fast-paced excursion is ideal if you are short on time and want to see the highlights of the Garden District. The fun and visual tour focuses less on in-depth storytelling and more on covering all the most impressive homes in this unique neighborhood. Your guide will provide a brief rundown of history and architecture, and include a stop to see into the gates of Lafayette Cemetery #1.
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Last updated on June 13, 2025
The cruise terminals are close to the main attractions; walking is feasible for many, or you can use the streetcar, taxis, or rideshares for quick access to areas like the French Quarter.
Must-see attractions include the historic French Quarter, Jackson Square, St. Louis Cathedral, and the National WWII Museum, many within walking distance or a short ride from the port.
Near the port, especially in the French Quarter and Warehouse District, try iconic New Orleans dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, po'boys at local eateries, and beignets from Café du Monde.
The local currency is United States Dollar (1 USD = 1.00 USD). The local currency is the US Dollar. ATMs are widely available at banks, hotels, convenience stores, and near tourist attractions throughout the city.
New Orleans typically has hot, humid summers and mild winters; rain is possible year-round. Pack light, breathable clothing, comfortable walking shoes, and a light rain jacket or umbrella.
New Orleans is a river city, not a beach destination; true Gulf Coast beaches are several hours' drive away and generally not practical for a typical port day.
Popular shore excursions include guided French Quarter tours, swamp boat tours to see wildlife, and visits to historic plantations. Both cruise line and reputable independent operators offer good options.
The Outlet Collection at Riverwalk is adjacent to cruise terminals, and the French Quarter offers unique boutiques and art. Good souvenirs include Mardi Gras masks, local hot sauces, pralines, and New Orleans themed art.
For a port day, explore different New Orleans neighborhoods like the Garden District (via streetcar) or Algiers Point (via ferry). Focus on the city itself as other towns are too distant for a short visit.
New Orleans is known as the birthplace of jazz music, and its unique above-ground cemeteries, called "Cities of the Dead," are a distinctive feature due to the city's high water table.
Overall sailings from New Orleans are fairly inexpensive compared to other ports. Sailings scheduled from New Orleans during the the peak season of summer are significantly more expensive than the the low season of fall. The graph below shows the monthly average cost per day for cruises from New Orleans.
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