Budget Bliss in the Big Easy: New Orleans Day Trip

Experience the jazz, soul, and flavor of New Orleans without breaking the bank.

21 June 2023

Visiting New Orleans on a limited budget is possible with careful planning and smart decisions. Enjoy delicious food at affordable prices by exploring local food markets and eateries. Take advantage of free attractions such as live music performances and stroll through the vibrant streets of the French Quarter.

Day trip plan

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Day

French Quarter Frolic

  • Start the day off with beignets and café au lait at Café du Monde
  • Walk down Bourbon Street and admire the vibrant architecture and street performers
  • Pop into the French Market for a cheap local trinket or two
  • Take a free self-guided tour of St. Louis Cathedral and the surrounding historic buildings
  • Treat yourself to a muffuletta sandwich at Central Grocery before heading out of the Quarter
  • End the night with live music at Preservation Hall, but be prepared to stand in line for a cheap seat.

How to get there

Plane

The best way to get to New Orleans by plane is to fly to Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport from your departure airport. There are several airlines such as American Airlines, Delta, and United that operate flights to the airport from various destinations.

Car

Driving to New Orleans is an option for those who prefer to have more control over their transportation. You can take Interstate 10, which connects New Orleans with major cities across the US. Some popular stops along the way are Houston, TX, and Pensacola, FL.

Train

While there are no direct trains to New Orleans, Amtrak's City of New Orleans route is a popular train option. You can take a train from various cities to Memphis, TN, and then transfer to another train to New Orleans. The nearest train station to New Orleans is the New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal.

Boat

New Orleans is a popular port for several ocean and river cruises. Visitors can board a cruise ship from various ports such as Miami, FL, or Houston, TX, and sail into the port of New Orleans. Some popular cruise lines that stop at New Orleans include Norwegian Cruise Line, Carnival Cruises, and Royal Caribbean International.

Bus

Taking a bus to New Orleans is a cost-effective option. Greyhound and Megabus are two popular bus companies that provide service to the city from different locations within the US. The Greyhound bus station is located at 1001 Loyola Ave, and the Megabus stop is located at 1001 Howard Ave.

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