February -which area for 2 nights with family- advice please

Question

We will be in New Orleans the latter part of February for just 2 nights. We will arrive on night 1, and then we’ll have 1 full day to explore the city. Then we will depart the next day.

It will be a quick trip, but we’re looking for recommendations on the best, safest area to stay. We are a family of three (dad, mom, and our 20-something year old).

Would the French Quarter be our best bet? Any favorites?

We know it will be a quick trip, but we would love to hear of your recommendations for the best area to soak in the scenery, architecture, and culture of New Orleans. We love nature, photography, history, and exploring vibrant cities as well.

We will have our car, so we will need a hotel with parking.

Thank you very much!

Answer

For a short two-night stay with your family in New Orleans, the best area to stay in will depend on what kind of experience you're seeking. Since you're interested in soaking in the scenery, architecture, and culture, and you're traveling with a car, I would suggest considering a location that's central, safe, and offers easy access to key attractions. Here are a few great options:

### 1. The French Quarter

The French Quarter is the heart of New Orleans and a must-see, especially if it's your first visit. It’s a vibrant, historic neighborhood filled with unique architecture, lively streets, delicious food, and famous landmarks like Jackson Square and St. Louis Cathedral. The French Quarter is ideal for those who want to immerse themselves in the culture, photography opportunities, and history of New Orleans. However, it can get busy, especially during February with Mardi Gras season, so it might be a bit overwhelming in terms of crowds and noise.

Pros: Close to top attractions, rich history, lively atmosphere, easy access to iconic sites like Bourbon Street, Jackson Square, and the Mississippi River.
Cons: Can be noisy, especially during peak tourist seasons like Mardi Gras, and parking can be tricky or expensive.
Recommendation: Look for hotels with parking options such as Hotel Monteleone or The Royal Sonesta (both offer valet parking). If you're looking for quieter corners, try staying on the outer edges of the Quarter.

### 2. The Garden District

If you’re looking for a quieter, more relaxed area with beautiful, historic architecture, the Garden District is a great option. This neighborhood is known for its grand, 19th-century mansions, tree-lined streets, and picturesque gardens. It’s much quieter than the French Quarter, making it perfect if you're traveling with a family and prefer to avoid the bustle of the city. The area is also home to some great photo opportunities, particularly along Magazine Street, where you’ll find boutique shops, cafes, and local restaurants.

Pros: Quieter, more residential, beautiful architecture, close to St. Charles Avenue and the historic streetcar line.
Cons: A bit further from some of the main attractions (though still very accessible by streetcar or car). It's not as bustling as the French Quarter, so there’s less of the “New Orleans energy” here.
Recommendation: Hotels like The Pontchartrain Hotel or Hotel Indigo New Orleans Garden District offer great options with parking.

### 3. The Warehouse District (Arts District)

The Warehouse District is another great area, especially if you're interested in contemporary art, history, and more modern attractions. It's home to the National WWII Museum, the Ogden Museum of Southern Art, and several great restaurants and bars. The neighborhood is becoming increasingly popular with both locals and tourists but still offers a more laid-back vibe compared to the French Quarter. You’ll have easy access to the Mississippi Riverfront and the Garden District, and it’s just a short drive or streetcar ride from the French Quarter.

Pros: Modern, quieter vibe, lots of cultural attractions, close to museums and galleries, excellent food scene.
Cons: Not as historic or “New Orleans” in feel as the French Quarter or Garden District, though it’s still close to everything.
Recommendation: Look into hotels like The Old No. 77 Hotel or ACE Hotel New Orleans, both offering parking and a trendy atmosphere.

### 4. Marigny/Bywater (for a more off-the-beaten-path experience)

If you're open to exploring a more off-the-beaten-path area with local charm, consider staying in the Marigny or Bywater neighborhoods, just east of the French Quarter. These areas offer a more residential vibe, with colorful Creole cottages, local restaurants, and live music venues. They’re perfect if you want to explore a less touristy side of the city but still be close to the action. They also have great photo opportunities and are less crowded compared to the French Quarter.

Pros: Authentic, local vibe, artistic and bohemian atmosphere, quieter and more relaxed, close to the French Quarter.
Cons: Slightly farther from some of the top tourist attractions (but still a quick ride or walk). Fewer hotel options compared to the French Quarter.
Recommendation: Consider Hotel Peter & Paul or The Frenchmen Hotel in this area, both offering a more intimate stay with parking options.

### Summary

For your short trip with your family, I would recommend staying either in the French Quarter or the Garden District depending on whether you prefer to be in the heart of the action or a more peaceful, scenic area. Both neighborhoods offer excellent photo opportunities, access to New Orleans' history and architecture, and plenty of local flavor.

If you want to be right in the middle of the action with easy access to the most iconic spots, The French Quarter is your best bet. But if you're looking for a quieter, more picturesque area with access to New Orleans’ architectural beauty, The Garden District is a great choice. If you're interested in more modern art, museums, and a quieter vibe, the Warehouse District is a solid option as well.

Wherever you choose to stay, be sure to confirm that parking is available, as many hotels in New Orleans charge for valet parking or offer limited spaces.

February -which area for 2 nights with family- advice please

More New Orleans Travel Questions

The attractions mentioned in this question

Popular Destinations

Popular Travel Questions