This post will guide you to the top lodging options in New Orleans. For various budgets and vacation objectives, we will discuss the best area to stay in New Orleans. Where, how to go, cost all in one script. I hope you are stress-free. And the trip will be memorable.
Read to the end and I’ll share a few insider tips. Stay tuned to Itinerary Plans for more travel ideas.
Table of Contents
Map
About New Orleans
Louisiana’s New Orleans is a thriving metropolis on the Mississippi River known for its lively culture, live music, party vibe, and Creole and Cajun cuisine. It is the location of the world-famous Mardi Gras celebration, which features enormous parades culminating on Fat Tuesday, the day before Lent, throughout two weeks. Together with its numerous music festivals and live events, the Jazz Fest is just another fantastic incentive to visit this vibrant city.
Along with having some of the top restaurants in the world for oysters, Rockefeller, shrimp gumbo, jambalaya, po-boys, and its weekly ritual of red beans and rice, New Orleans also has a fantastic culinary scene.
The French Quarter, with its vibrant atmosphere and abundance of attractions, is the best areas to stay in New Orleans with family. Known as a national landmark, the centre of the party is here, especially on its nighttime Bourbon Street, which spans thirteen blocks and is home to several bars and clubs.
Best Hotel Area To Stay In New Orleans
Just looking for the top hotels in New Orleans? My top choices for the best areas to stay in New Orleans are as follows:
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- Hotel Monteleone: Best Overall Hotel
- The Windsor Court: Best Luxury Hotel
- Kimpton Hotel Fontenot: Best option for business travellers.
- Residence Inn by Marriott French Quarter Area: Best for families.
- The Hotel Peter and Paul: Is the Best Boutique
- Marsh Hotel: Top Pick for Value.
- Maison Perrier Bed and Breakfast: Ideal for couples
Now, let’s do a closer look at the top 7 Best Area To Stay In New Orleans while making your selection:
7 Best Areas to Stay In New Orleans With Family
1. Garden District
The Garden District is a fantastic area to base yourself in New Orleans with your family. It’s known for its:
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- Stately mansions with beautiful architecture
- Tree-lined streets draped in Spanish moss
- Peaceful atmosphere away from the French Quarter’s hustle and bustle
- Family-friendly activities like museums and Lafayette Square
Location:
The Garden District is located Uptown on the west bank of the Mississippi River. It’s bordered by St. Charles Avenue, Louisiana Avenue, and Prytania Street.
What to Expect:
The Garden District offers a slower pace than the French Quarter. You’ll find plenty of things to keep your family busy, including:
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- Lafayette Square: A historic park with playgrounds, a carousel, and live music on weekends.
- National World War II Museum: Learn about the war’s history through interactive exhibits.
- Audubon Zoo: See animals from around the world, including Louisiana swamp creatures.
- Magazine Street: Shop for clothes, antiques, and souvenirs on this long shopping street.
- St. Charles Avenue Streetcar: Take a ride on this historic streetcar for a scenic tour of the neighborhood.
How to Reach:
The Garden District is easily accessible by car, streetcar, or rideshare. The streetcar lines running along St. Charles Avenue and Prytania Street can connect you to other parts of the city.
How Far to Nearest Areas:
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- French Quarter: The French Quarter is about a 20-minute drive or streetcar ride from the Garden District.
- Central Business District (CBD): The CBD is about a 10-minute drive or streetcar ride from the Garden District.
- Warehouse District: The Warehouse District is about a 15-minute drive or streetcar ride from the Garden District.
Pros:
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- Safe and quiet neighborhood
- Beautiful architecture
- Plenty of family-friendly activities
- Easy access to other parts of the city
Cons:
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- Limited nightlife compared to the French Quarter
- Fewer restaurants than in the French Quarter
- Can be more expensive to stay in than in other neighborhoods
2. Warehouse District
The Warehouse District in New Orleans is a perfect place to stay for families who want to experience the city’s vibrant arts scene, delicious food, and unique history. Here’s a closer look at what the Warehouse District offers:
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- Location: The Warehouse District is located on the edge of the French Quarter, between Poydras Street, Canal Street, and the Mississippi River.
- What to Expect: This area is known for its converted 19th-century warehouses that now house art galleries, museums, restaurants, and shops. There is a mix of young professionals, artists, and families living in this trendy neighbourhood.
- How to Reach: The Warehouse District is easily accessible by car, streetcar, or bus. If you’re flying into Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY), you can take the E Line streetcar directly to the Warehouse District.
- How Far to Nearest Areas: The Warehouse District is adjacent to the French Quarter, so you can easily walk between the two neighborhoods. It’s also a short walk or streetcar ride to the Central Business District and the Garden District.
Pros of Staying in the Warehouse District:
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- Art and Culture: The Warehouse District is home to some of New Orleans’ best museums, including the National WWII Museum and the Ogden Museum of Southern Art. There are also many art galleries, studios, and theatres in the area.
- Food Scene: The Warehouse District has a wide variety of restaurants, from casual cafes to upscale eateries. You’ll find everything from Cajun and Creole cuisine to international flavours.
- Walkability: The Warehouse District is a very walkable neighborhood. You can easily get to most of the attractions on foot.
- Family-Friendly: While not specifically geared towards children, there are still plenty of things for families to do in the Warehouse District. The museums offer special exhibits and programs for kids, and there are several parks and green spaces in the area.
- Cons of Staying in the Warehouse District:
- Limited Nightlife: The Warehouse District is not known for its nightlife. There are a few bars and clubs in the area, but they tend to be more on the upscale side.
- Limited Parking: Parking can be expensive and difficult to find in the Warehouse District.
- Noise: The Warehouse District can be noisy, especially on weekends when events are happening.
3. Central Business District (CBD)
The Central Business District (CBD), also known as Downtown New Orleans, is a great option for families visiting the Big Easy. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect in the CBD:
Location
The CBD is located on the banks of the Mississippi River, directly adjacent to the French Quarter. You can find it on the map below:
About
The CBD is the heart of New Orleans’ business district. It’s a bustling area with skyscrapers, office buildings, and a variety of shops and restaurants. However, there’s more to the CBD than meets the eye. The area also has several family-friendly attractions, such as the Audubon Aquarium of the Americas and the National World War II Museum.
What to Expect
The CBD is a lively area with a mix of business and leisure activities. During the day, you’ll see office workers and tourists alike. At night, the area is more subdued, but there are still a few bars and restaurants that stay open late.
How to Reach
The CBD is easily accessible by car, streetcar, or rideshare. Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) is about 20 minutes from the CBD by car. You can take a rideshare service like Uber or Lyft, a taxi, or an airport shuttle service to get from the airport to your hotel.
How Far Nearest Area
The French Quarter is the nearest area to the CBD, and it’s just a short walk or streetcar ride away. The Garden District and Warehouse District are also within walking distance.
Pros
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- Central location: The CBD is close to all of the major attractions in New Orleans.
- Family-friendly attractions: There are several museums and aquariums in the CBD that are perfect for families.
- Variety of hotels: The CBD has a wide range of hotels to choose from, from budget-friendly options to luxury accommodations.
- Good public transportation: The CBD is well-served by public transportation, so you can easily get around the city without a car.
Cons
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- Can be noisy: The CBD is a busy area, so it can be noisy, especially during the day.
- Not as much character: The CBD doesn’t have the same historic charm as some of the other neighborhoods in New Orleans.
- Limited green space: There are not many parks or green spaces in the CBD.
4. Faubourg Marigny
Faubourg Marigny is a historic district in New Orleans, known for its colourful shotgun houses, lively music scene on Frenchmen Street, and laid-back atmosphere. It offers a unique blend of family-friendly attractions and vibrant nightlife, making it a good choice for families seeking a more authentic New Orleans experience compared to the bustling French Quarter.
Location:
Faubourg Marigny is bordered by Esplanade Avenue (north), Rampart Street (east), Interstate 10 (south), and Frenchmen Street (west). It’s directly adjacent to the French Quarter and within walking distance of the Mississippi River.
What to Expect:
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- Family-Friendly Activities: City Park, the Audubon Zoo, and the NOLA Kids Museum are all within a short drive or streetcar ride.
- Lively Music Scene: Frenchmen Street offers a fantastic selection of live music venues featuring jazz, blues, and other genres. While the music can get lively at night, the daytime scene is generally family-friendly.
- Architectural Gems: Explore the beautiful shotgun houses with their distinctive balconies and bright colours.
- Delicious Food: Enjoy a wide range of restaurants serving everything from classic Creole cuisine to casual cafes.
How to Reach:
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- Walkable: Faubourg Marigny is a walkable neighborhood, and many attractions are within a comfortable distance of most accommodations.
- Streetcar: The St. Charles Avenue streetcar line runs along the edge of the district, providing easy access to the French Quarter and Garden District.
- Ride Sharing: Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available.
How Far to Nearest Areas:
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- French Quarter: Bordered by Faubourg Marigny to the east. Accessible by a short walk.
- Garden District: Directly south of Faubourg Marigny. A 15-20 minute walk or short streetcar ride.
- Central Business District (CBD): A 15-20 minute streetcar ride or drive.
Pros:
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- More relaxed and less crowded than the French Quarter
- Great selection of family-friendly attractions nearby
- Lively music scene
- Beautiful architecture
- Wide variety of restaurants
Cons:
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- Limited public transportation options compared to the French Quarter
- Some areas can feel less safe than the Garden District at night
- Nightlife on Frenchmen Street can be loud
5. Treme
Treme is known as the oldest African American neighbourhood in the United States. It’s a historic district with a rich cultural heritage, known for its vibrant music scene and colourful shotgun houses.
Location
Treme is located geographically centred around Esplanade Avenue between North Claiborne Avenue and Interstate 10.
What to Expect
Treme offers a glimpse into a different side of New Orleans. It’s less touristy than the French Quarter, with a slower pace and a strong sense of community. Here are some things you can expect in Treme:
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- Rich history and culture: Treme is steeped in African American history and culture. It’s the birthplace of jazz and home to many historic landmarks, such as Congo Square and Louis Armstrong Park.
- Vibrant music scene: Treme is a great place to experience New Orleans’ legendary music scene. You’ll find live music venues all over the neighborhood, featuring everything from jazz and brass bands to funk and gospel.
- Architectural charm: Treme is known for its colourful shotgun houses, a type of narrow Victorian house with tall windows and balconies.
- Local flavour: Treme offers a more authentic New Orleans experience than the French Quarter. There are lots of neighbourhood eateries and shops where you can mingle with locals and experience the distinct character of the area.
How to Reach
Treme is easily accessible by car, streetcar, or bus. Treme is served by multiple bus lines, and the neighborhood’s edge is served by the St. Charles Avenue streetcar line. If you’re coming from the French Quarter, you can easily walk or take a short taxi ride to Treme.
How Far to Nearest Areas
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- French Quarter: 0.7 miles east
- Faubourg Marigny: 0.3 miles west
- Central Business District: 0.7 miles north
Pros and Cons of Staying in Treme
Pros
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- Authentic New Orleans experience
- Rich history and culture
- Vibrant music scene
- Architectural charm
- Affordable compared to the French Quarter
Cons
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- Less touristy, which can mean fewer amenities
- Can feel a bit desolate at times
- Some streets may not be as well-lit at night
- Not as many family-friendly activities as in other neighborhoods
6. Mid-City
Mid-City is a vibrant and historic neighbourhood located just north of the French Quarter. It provides a laid-back, family-friendly vibe with a solid sense of community.. Here, you’ll find beautiful architecture, delicious restaurants serving diverse cuisines, and easy access to many of New Orleans’ must-see attractions.
Location
Mid-City is bordered by Canal Street to the south, North Carrollton Avenue to the north, Bayou St. John to the east, and City Park to the west.
What to Expect
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- Family-Friendly: Mid-City is known for its slower pace compared to the French Quarter. You’ll find plenty of green spaces, like City Park, and a mix of historic homes and trendy restaurants.
- Eclectic Vibe: From Vietnamese pho to classic po’boys, Mid-City boasts a diverse culinary scene. You’ll also find quirky shops, art galleries, and live music venues.
- History and Culture: Explore the stunning above-ground cemeteries, take a ride on the historic Canal Street streetcar, or visit the New Orleans Museum of Art.
How to Reach
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- Streetcar: The iconic red Canal Street streetcar runs through the heart of Mid-City, offering a scenic and affordable way to get around.
- Bus: The New Orleans Regional Transit Authority (RTA) operates several bus lines that serve Mid-City.
- Car: If you’re driving, Mid-City offers a mix of on-street parking and paid parking lots. Be aware of one-way streets and parking restrictions.
How Far to Nearest Areas
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- Located immediately south of Canal Street, the French Quarter is reachable by short streetcar ride or a 15-minute walk.
- Garden District: Uptown from Mid-City, about a 20-minute streetcar ride.
- Warehouse District: Northeast of Mid-City, about a 10-minute drive.
Pros
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- Family-friendly atmosphere
- Diverse restaurants and shops
- Easy access to City Park and other attractions
- More affordable than the French Quarter
- Slower pace and less crowded than the French Quarter
Cons
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- Limited nightlife compared to the French Quarter
- Not as walkable as the French Quarter (although the streetcar helps)
- Some areas can have spotty public transportation
7. Uptown/Carrollton
Uptown/Carrollton is a great choice for families visiting New Orleans! It’s a safe and residential neighbourhood with a slower pace than the French Quarter, but it still has plenty to offer in terms of attractions, restaurants, and shops. Here’s a closer look at what you can expect in Uptown/Carrollton:
Location
Uptown/Carrollton is located on the west bank of the Mississippi River, directly above the bend. It’s bordered by St. Charles Avenue to the south, Napoleon Avenue to the north, Carrollton Avenue to the east, and the Mississippi River to the west.
What to Expect
Uptown/Carrollton is known for its beautiful historic homes, tree-lined streets, and relaxed atmosphere. There are also several universities in the area, including Tulane University and Loyola University, which contribute to the youthful vibe. You’ll find a good mix of families, young professionals, and students living here.
How to Reach
The easiest way to get to Uptown/Carrollton from Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) is to take a taxi or rideshare. The trip should take about 20-30 minutes. You can also take the airport shuttle, which makes stops at several hotels in the area.
If you’re coming from another part of the city, you can take the St. Charles Avenue streetcar, which runs through the heart of Uptown/Carrollton. The streetcar is a great way to see the sights and get around the neighborhood.
How Far Nearest Area
The French Quarter is about 3 miles from Uptown/Carrollton. You can take the St. Charles Avenue streetcar to the French Quarter, or you can take a taxi or rideshare.
Pros
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- secure residential area
- Plenty of historic homes and beautiful architecture
- Relaxed atmosphere
- Good mix of families, young professionals, and students
- Easy access to the St. Charles Avenue streetcar
- Close to Tulane University and Loyola University
Cons
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- Not as near the French Quarter as certain other communities
- Not as much nightlife as the French Quarter
- Can be a bit quiet at night
FAQs for “Best Area To Stay In New Orleans”
What’s the best area for nightlife in New Orleans?
-French Quarter (vibrant, historic, can be noisy)
Where’s best for families in New Orleans?
-Garden District (peaceful, charming mansions) or Warehouse
District (lively, family-friendly options).
What area is good for budget travellers?
-Faubourg Marigny (relaxed vibe, near French Quarter, can be budget-friendly).
I want to experience New Orleans culture!
-Treme (historic African-American neighborhood, rich cultural scene).
Where can I stay near the action (Mercedes-Benz Superdome)?
- Central Business District (CBD) – close to stadiums and attractions.
- Warehouse District or Mid-City (blend of lively areas and residential streets).
What’s a good area for young travellers?
-Uptown/Carrollton (lively college district, youthful vibe).