Touching down in New Orleans isn’t just the beginning of a trip—it’s the moment the city starts whispering to you. Even before you catch your first whiff of powdered sugar or hear the blare of a trumpet, there’s a slow unfolding that begins the second you arrive. Maybe it’s the warm, heavy air as you exit the airport, or the “Where y’at?” from a baggage handler.
Whatever it is, New Orleans doesn’t wait for the French Quarter to welcome you. It starts in the terminal, on the freeway, in the back seat of a streetcar—and it doesn’t let go.
Flying Into the Crescent City
Most travelers begin their New Orleans story at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY). It’s a sleek, modern terminal with jazz piped through the speakers, and unlike most airports, it’s got real food. We’re talking po’boys, muffulettas, even beignets if you can’t wait. It’s only about 15 miles west of downtown, but don’t let that short distance fool you—how you get from MSY into the city sets the tone for your stay. For updated flight and ground transportation information, visit the official MSY airport website.
If you want low stress, pre-booking a rideshare or taxi is your best bet. Uber and Lyft are both allowed to pick up right outside baggage claim, and taxis operate at a flat rate—around $36 for one or two people to downtown. If you’re not in a hurry (and in New Orleans, you rarely should be), the airport shuttle costs about $28 round-trip. It’s slower, but you’ll hear accents from all over the country and probably get a few food recommendations before you even hit Canal Street.
Driving In? Buckle Up for Unexpected Turns
If your journey involves a car, welcome to the unpredictable world of New Orleans traffic. GPS works fine—until it doesn’t. Construction zones pop up like jazz solos, and one-way streets seem to change direction when you blink. But there’s charm in the chaos. You might find yourself rerouted through the Marigny or passing a second-line parade. Parking is tricky downtown, so look for hotels with valet or book a spot through an app like SpotHero. And if you’re staying Uptown or in the Garden District, enjoy the slower pace and shady oak-lined drives.
Amtrak, Buses, and the Romance of Rail
For the nostalgic traveler, arriving by train can feel like stepping into a Tennessee Williams play. Amtrak’s Crescent, City of New Orleans, and Sunset Limited lines all stop at the New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal (NOUPT). The station’s art deco charm and laid-back atmosphere make for a soft landing, and from there, you’re just a streetcar ride away from most neighborhoods. Greyhound and Megabus also drop passengers nearby, and for budget travelers, buses are an underrated way to see the country and meet characters you’ll never forget.
Streetcars, Shuttles, and Local Moves
Once you’re in the city, getting around becomes part of the experience. The streetcar system isn’t just a photo op—it’s actually a decent way to travel between neighborhoods if you’re not in a rush. The St. Charles line is the most iconic, running through the Garden District and Uptown under canopies of live oaks. The Canal Street line will get you from the French Quarter to City Park, and the Riverfront line is perfect for hopping between the French Market and Aquarium area. Fares are just $1.25, or you can get a Jazzy Pass for unlimited rides. For routes, fares, and schedules, check the New Orleans RTA website.
Buses round out the city’s public transit system and are useful for reaching places beyond the streetcar routes. But apps like RTA GoMobile help demystify schedules, and locals are usually happy to help if you look a little lost. New Orleans is a city that rewards talking to strangers.
Bike and Scooter Culture—Yes, Really
If you’re feeling adventurous (and the humidity isn’t unbearable), renting a bike or electric scooter can be a fun way to explore. The city has expanded its bike lanes in recent years, especially in neighborhoods like Mid-City and the Bywater. Blue Bikes is the city’s official bike share program, and you’ll spot their light blue cruisers all over town. Just be cautious—cobblestone streets and potholes are part of the package.
Accessibility and Travel Tips
New Orleans is slowly becoming more accessible for travelers with disabilities, though some of the historic charm does come with older infrastructure. The airport is ADA-compliant, and most major hotels are equipped with accessible rooms and entrances. Streetcars are a mixed bag; only the newer red cars on Canal Street and the Riverfront lines are wheelchair accessible. If accessibility is a concern, it’s a good idea to contact transportation providers and hotels ahead of time to confirm specific accommodations.
What Locals Know (And You Should Too)
Here’s the real secret to arriving in New Orleans: don’t rush. This isn’t a city where efficiency is the priority. Let yourself linger. Talk to your rideshare driver. Watch the Spanish moss sway as your streetcar slowly clanks forward. You’ll miss the magic if you’re in too much of a hurry. Arrival isn’t just about logistics here—it’s a ritual. One that begins your relationship with a city that’s unlike any other in the country.
So whether you’re stepping off a plane, rolling in on Amtrak, or coasting down I-10 with zydeco on the radio, just know: you’ve already started your New Orleans story. And it only gets better from here. If you’re still deciding where to stay once you’ve arrived, check out this list of new hotels in New Orleans that just might become part of your story, too.
