There’s a lot to see and do on your visit to New Orleans – and also a lot of different ways to go about exploring the Crescent City once you’re here. While New Orleans is pedestrian-friendly, sometimes you’ll need a little help to reach certain destinations. Many forms of New Orleans transportation are a tourist attraction within themselves – so you really can’t go wrong!
Below are some of our favorite ways to discover the city of New Orleans:
One of the most historic means of transporation in New Orleans, be sure to take a ride on a St. Charles streetcar while you’re here. (Photo courtesy Flickr user BriYYZ.)
New Orleans Streetcars
It’s hard to find a poster of New Orleans without this iconic mode of transit plastered somewhere on the front. The New Orleans streetcar has been an integral part of the New Orleans transportation system since the first half of the 19th century.
The oldest line of the streetcar winds down St. Charles Avenue, and visitors can enjoy a ride while viewing some of the oldest and most majestic mansions in the city. We recommend riding the dark green St. Charles streetcar down to Audubon Park, one of the best city parks in America.
On the other hand, the red and yellow Canal streetcars will take you to some of the city’s historic cemeteries or to City Park and the New Orleans Museum of Art. There are also streetcars that run along the riverfront, providing convenient access to the French Market, and the newest addition, which will take you down Loyola Avenue to the Amtrak train and Greyhound bus stations.
Be prepared with exact change, in cash, of $1.25 for each passenger, each way. If you plan on taking multiple streetcar trips or using the bus during your visit, you can also purchase a Jazzy Pass in advance to save time and money.
Mississippi River Boat
Any trip to New Orleans should include some dedicated time to appreciate one of the world’s major river systems. There’s no better way to cruise the Mississippi River than on board the Steamboat Natchez. All of their riverboat cruises feature live jazz music, and you can choose from a 2-hour daytime cruise, a dinner jazz cruise or a Sunday brunch cruise. Reservations are recommended for the dinner jazz cruise and Sunday brunch cruise; you can book online or ask our concierge for assistance.
Algiers Point Ferry
Riding the Algiers Point Ferry across the Mississippi River is not only a fun way to see the city – it’s very affordable at just $2 each way per passenger. (Children under 2 years old ride free.) You can board the ferry next to the Aquarium of the Americas. It runs every day from 6am-8:30pm. You’ll be dropped off at Algiers Point on the other side, a charming residential neighborhood perfect for afternoon exploring.
Like most New Orleanians, pedicab drivers are a fun loving bunch. (Photo courtesy Flickr user John Rigney.)
Pedi Cabs
Pedi cabs are a quick and easy way to get to a nearby locale when you’re staying at Bienville House. You can find these friendly drivers in the French Quarter, Central Business District, Marigny and other downtown neighborhoods. There are 3 pedicab companies currently operating in New Orleans: Bike Taxi Unlimited (504-891-3441), Need a Ride Pedicabs (504-488-6565) and NOLA Pedicabs (504-274-1300). Pedicab rates are mandated by the city, and a ride will cost you $5 for the first six blocks and $1 per block per person after that.
Taxis, Uber and Lyft
Uber and Lyft are the latest additions to the transportation offerings in New Orleans. Use your mobile phone app to request a ride, but keep in mind that prices sometimes surge during peak times and popular events.
If you prefer to use traditional cabs, there are plenty to be found throughout the French Quarter. United Cabs (504-522-9771) is the largest taxi company in town, but Nawlins Cab (504-522-9059) is a more recent addition which offers online booking and a mobile app.
Horse Drawn Carriage Ride
Maybe not the most efficient – but definitely the most romantic form of New Orleans transportation! You can find horse drawn carriages located around Jackson Square. The drivers can also offer plenty of interesting stories about New Orleans as well!
With all of the great modes of New Orleans transportation, you really can’t go wrong. Book your trip to New Orleans now, and start exploring!
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From a pedicab to the streetcar, here’s how to navigate #NOLA like a pro: https://t.co/ShSt5ItmvK #followyournola pic.twitter.com/EBvOi5JjCx
— Bienville House (@BienvilleHouse) May 3, 2016