The best time to visit New Orleans

Spring (March–May): festival season

Warm days and lower humidity make spring the most popular time to visit. French Quarter Festival typically takes place in April, and New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival runs across late April and early May.

• Book lodging early for festival weekends.
• Expect higher hotel rates and fuller restaurants.
• Pack a light layer for cooler evenings.

Summer (June–August): hot, humid and quieter

Summer brings heat, humidity and frequent afternoon thunderstorms, but often lower hotel prices and shorter lines. Plan outdoor sightseeing for mornings and save museums, music venues and long lunches for the afternoon.

Hurricane season (June 1–November 30)

Atlantic hurricane season overlaps summer and early fall, with the greatest activity usually from August through October. Consider flexible bookings or travel insurance and monitor official forecasts before and during your trip.

Fall (October–November): pleasant and lively

Temperatures ease through October and November, making fall a strong choice for walking neighborhoods and dining outdoors. Halloween is a popular time in the city, and the holiday season brings festive decorations in December.

Winter (December–February): mild with Carnival

Winter is generally mild, with cool nights. Carnival season begins on January 6, and Mardi Gras day falls in February or early March depending on the calendar — expect big crowds and premium rates around parade weekends. Early-to-mid December and the weeks after Mardi Gras can be calmer.

Quick picks

Choose by priority:

• Best weather: March–May and October–November.
• Biggest celebrations: Carnival season and Jazz Fest.
• Lower prices: summer, if you can handle the heat.
• Fewer crowds: early December and summer weekdays.