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Best time to visit New Orleans

A month-by-month breakdown of weather, crowds, and prices in New Orleans — so you book the right week, not just any week.

New Orleans, LA, USA· Airport: MSY
New Orleans — Best time to visit | CheapoTrav travel guide

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Key facts

  • Peak tourist season runs February to May, aligning with Mardi Gras and major spring festivals; expect significant hotel and flight premiums.
  • September through November offers pleasant weather with fewer crowds than spring, making it ideal for exploring without peak season surcharges.
  • Summer (June-August) brings high heat and humidity, and is the slowest tourist period outside of major holidays, offering potential lodging savings.
  • Mardi Gras (date varies) requires booking flights and hotels at least six months ahead, with prices often doubling or tripling.
  • Hurricane season runs June 1 to November 30; travel insurance is advisable for summer and fall visits, though direct hits are uncommon.
  • December and January feature cooler, drier weather, but can be chilly; expect price increases around Christmas and New Year's Day.
  • Avoid last-minute trips during major events like Jazz Fest (late April/early May) unless prepared for limited availability and higher costs.

Deciding when to visit New Orleans often balances favorable weather against event calendars and potential crowds. The city experiences distinct seasons, each with its own character and implications for your travel experience. Generally, the spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures, making them popular for good reason. These periods see moderate humidity and lower chances of rain, ideal for exploring the French Quarter on foot or enjoying outdoor dining.

However, these desirable conditions coincide with a packed schedule of festivals and events, ranging from the world-renowned Mardi Gras to the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival. While these events are central to the city’s appeal, they also drive up demand for accommodations and flights into Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY), leading to higher prices and a need to book well in advance. Flexibility with travel dates can significantly impact your budget and overall experience.

Conversely, the summer months bring intense heat and humidity, along with the peak of hurricane season. Winter offers a reprieve from the heat, with cooler, drier air, but can still see brief cold snaps. Traveling during the off-peak times can yield better deals on hotels and fewer crowds at popular attractions, offering a more laid-back pace to discover New Orleans. Be prepared for climate variations and plan your activities accordingly, considering both the weather and the local event schedule.

For personalized guidance on navigating New Orleans' seasonal nuances, consider contacting a travel agent for tailored advice.

In this guide

  • Peak vs. shoulder vs. off-season in New Orleans
  • Month-by-month overview
  • Weather and what to pack
  • Events to plan around or avoid

Frequently asked questions

What months have the best weather in New Orleans?
The most pleasant weather in New Orleans typically occurs from February through May and again from September through November. These periods offer comfortable temperatures, generally ranging from the low 60s to mid-70s Fahrenheit, with lower humidity compared to summer. Spring is particularly popular, with mild days perfect for walking and enjoying outdoor activities. Fall also presents similar agreeable conditions, often with fewer crowds than the spring festival season. Be aware that even during these months, temperatures can fluctuate, so layering is often a good strategy.
When is the cheapest time to visit New Orleans?
The cheapest time to visit New Orleans is generally during the summer months, from June through August. This period coincides with the city's highest temperatures and humidity, which deters many tourists. Hotel rates and flight prices to MSY airport tend to drop significantly during this low season. If you can tolerate the heat and plan activities that incorporate air conditioning, such as museum visits or indoor dining, you can find substantial savings. Late fall, after hurricane season fears subside and before the holiday rush, can also offer reasonable deals.
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What is hurricane season like in New Orleans?
Hurricane season in New Orleans runs from June 1st to November 30th. While this timeframe includes the possibility of tropical storms or hurricanes, a direct hit is not an annual occurrence. The peak months for tropical activity are typically August and September. When visiting during this period, it's advisable to monitor weather forecasts and consider purchasing travel insurance that covers weather-related disruptions. The city has robust emergency preparedness plans. Despite the season, most days are clear and sunny; it's only a risk to be aware of, not a guarantee of bad weather.
When are the biggest festivals in New Orleans?
New Orleans is famous for its festivals, with two of the largest being Mardi Gras and the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival. Mardi Gras's date changes annually, falling between early February and early March. It's a multi-week celebration culminating on Fat Tuesday. The Jazz Fest typically takes place over two weekends in late April and early May. Other significant events include French Quarter Festival in April and Voodoo Music + Arts Experience in October. These festivals draw massive crowds, so planning accommodations and transport well in advance is essential.
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Is December a good time to visit New Orleans?
December can be a pleasant time to visit New Orleans, offering cooler and drier weather than the scorching summer months. Temperatures are generally mild, ranging from the low 50s to mid-60s Fahrenheit, making it comfortable for sightseeing. The city also gets into a festive spirit with holiday decorations and events, such as Celebration in the Oaks. However, prices for hotels and flights tend to increase significantly around the Christmas and New Year's holidays, similar to other major tourist destinations. Visiting earlier in December can offer a good balance of festive atmosphere and manageable costs.
When should I avoid visiting New Orleans?
Travelers seeking a quieter experience and lower prices might consider avoiding peak festival times, such as Mardi Gras (February/March) and the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival (April/May). While these events are iconic, they bring immense crowds, significantly higher prices for accommodations and flights, and require booking many months in advance. Additionally, if you are sensitive to extreme heat and humidity, you might prefer to avoid the peak summer months of July and August, when temperatures frequently exceed 90°F with high humidity levels.
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