2025 Mardi Gras hotel

Question

Hello,

I need your help to decide where to stay in New Orleans for Mardi Gras. I’ll be driving from Texas and have found an Airbnb with parking on St. Charles and Washington Avenue. Is this a good location, or should I consider another option, such as the Marriott on Canal Street (though I’d have to pay for parking)?

A couple of questions:

Will I be able to see the parades from St. Charles and Washington Avenue?

How big will the crowd be in this area?

Is this a good location for Mardi Gras?

Thanks in advance!

Answer

Hi there!

It sounds like you're planning a fantastic Mardi Gras trip to New Orleans! Both St. Charles Avenue and Canal Street are great areas, but each has its unique advantages depending on your preferences. Let me walk you through both options:

St. Charles and Washington Avenue (Airbnb with parking):

Proximity to parades: St. Charles Avenue is a major parade route during Mardi Gras, so you'll definitely be in the action. Parades typically roll down St. Charles towards the French Quarter, and you can catch them right from your Airbnb if you're staying close enough. Washington Avenue is one street off of St. Charles, so you may need to walk a little to get to the parade route, but it’s still very close and convenient.
Crowd size: This area can get crowded, especially as parades approach, but it tends to be less intense than the French Quarter. You'll still experience a lot of excitement, but it's not as overwhelming as the main downtown areas. If you’re looking for a more relaxed spot to watch the parades but still want to be close to the action, this could be a great choice.
Parking: The fact that your Airbnb offers parking is a big plus, especially during Mardi Gras when parking is limited and often very expensive. You’ll be able to easily access your car if needed, which is a huge convenience in the busy festival atmosphere.
Other considerations: The neighborhood around St. Charles and Washington is safe and charming, with many local shops, restaurants, and bars to explore. However, keep in mind that since it’s a residential area, you may not get the same level of 24/7 excitement as you would near Bourbon Street or Canal Street. It’s more laid-back, but still filled with Mardi Gras energy.

Marriott on Canal Street (with parking fee):

Proximity to parades: Canal Street is one of the main Mardi Gras parade routes, so staying here means you'll be in the heart of the action. You can easily walk to the parade route and catch multiple parades throughout the day. The French Quarter is also just a short walk away, so you'll be able to enjoy both the parades and the festive atmosphere.
Crowd size: This area is significantly busier and more crowded than the St. Charles area, especially around Mardi Gras. Canal Street and the French Quarter become packed with people, making it both exciting and chaotic. If you prefer being right in the middle of all the festivities, this could be the ideal spot for you.
Parking: As you mentioned, parking at the Marriott will come at an additional cost. Expect to pay higher fees for parking in this area, as it’s a popular location for visitors during Mardi Gras. However, you’ll be in a prime location, so it may be worth it if you want to be right near the action.
Other considerations: The Marriott is a larger hotel with a more commercial feel, but it offers great amenities and is a convenient base for exploring the city. If you want to be right in the heart of Mardi Gras with easy access to both the parades and nightlife, this could be a good choice. However, the crowds will be much more intense than in the St. Charles area.

Final thoughts:

If you're looking for a more relaxed atmosphere with easy access to the parades and parking, the St. Charles and Washington Avenue area is a great choice. You'll be close enough to the action, but without the overwhelming crowds of the French Quarter. On the other hand, if you want to be right in the middle of the Mardi Gras excitement, the Marriott on Canal Street is the way to go, though you’ll pay more for parking and deal with larger crowds.

Either way, New Orleans is an unforgettable experience during Mardi Gras, so you’ll be in a great location no matter what!

Enjoy your trip!