Where to Stay in New Orleans
Family-friendly areas, safe neighborhoods, and activities for all ages
Best Neighborhoods for Families
Ranked by relevance for families visiting New Orleans
Garden District
Mid-rangeElegant residential area famous for its stunning Victorian mansions and lush gardens.
- +Beautiful architecture and tranquil atmosphere
- +Excellent for walking and photography
- +Access to boutique shopping and dining on Magazine Street
- -Limited nightlife
- -Fewer dining options compared to more central areas
- -Can feel quiet at night
🛡️ Very safe during the day for walking tours; generally safe at night, but stick to well-lit main streets.
Marigny
Mid-rangeBohemian neighborhood renowned for its vibrant live music scene, especially on Frenchmen Street.
- +World-class live music venues
- +More local feel than the French Quarter
- +Great restaurants and bars
- -Can be loud on music nights
- -Fewer major tourist attractions within walking distance
🛡️ Generally safe due to the crowds around Frenchmen Street, but exercise caution on quieter side streets, especially late at night.
Uptown (Irish Channel/Touro)
Mid-rangeLively, diverse neighborhood known for its excellent restaurants, bars, and proximity to Tulane and Loyola Universities.
- +Abundant and diverse dining and bar options
- +More local and less touristy feel
- +Good value for money
- -Further from major French Quarter attractions (requires streetcar or taxi)
- -Can be noisy near university areas
🛡️ Generally safe, especially along Magazine Street; exercise standard city precautions at night on less populated streets.
French Quarter
LuxuryHistoric heart of the city, brimming with iconic architecture, lively music, and abundant nightlife.
- +Unmatched historical atmosphere
- +Concentration of famous attractions and restaurants
- +Constant entertainment and music
- -Can be overwhelmingly crowded and noisy, especially on weekends
- -Higher prices for accommodation and food
🛡️ Generally safe during the day with crowds, but be highly aware of your surroundings at night; pickpocketing is common, and some side streets can feel unsafe after dark.
Daily Budget (Mid-Range)
USD 250/day
Hidden Gems in New Orleans
Lesser-known spots the locals love
New Orleans Pharmacy Museum
Step back in time at this wonderfully preserved 19th-century pharmacy, complete with vintage medical instruments, bizarre potions, and even a vampire-hunter's kit. It offers a fascinating and slightly eerie glimpse into old New Orleans medicine.
St. Roch Cemetery
FREEVisit one of the city's oldest and most atmospheric cemeteries, known for its unique votive offerings, especially tiny baby shoes left at the shrine of St. Roch. It's a poignant and quiet place for reflection, offering a different perspective on local traditions.
Crescent Park
FREEThis expansive urban park along the Mississippi River offers stunning panoramic views of the New Orleans skyline and the bustling port, away from the crowds. It features meandering trails, native plantings, and a beautifully restored wharf, perfect for a peaceful stroll or bike ride.
Frenchmen Art Market
FREEWhile Frenchmen Street is known for music, this adjacent open-air market showcases local artists selling everything from paintings and jewelry to handmade crafts. It's a fantastic place to find unique souvenirs and support New Orleans artists.
Safety in New Orleans
ModerateSolo Female Travel
Exercise caution, especially at night. Stick to well-lit, populated areas. Be aware of your surroundings and avoid displaying valuables. The French Quarter can be overwhelming; stay on main streets after dark.
At Night
The French Quarter and Frenchmen Street are generally busy and safer due to crowds, but petty crime is common. Avoid walking alone on quieter streets, especially those away from the main tourist hubs. Be wary of overly friendly strangers offering unsolicited help.
Emergency
911
Common Scams to Watch For
- 1Overly friendly strangers offering 'free' tours or advice that leads to expensive recommendations.
- 2Pickpocketing in crowded areas like Bourbon Street and streetcar stops.
- 3Bogus charity collectors, especially around tourist hotspots.
2 areas to be cautious about
Read our full safety guide for New Orleans