Best time...criteria in my question

Question

I asked a question about dog accommodations and received some helpful answers.

My other question is this...

When would be the best time to book a trip? We can go anytime from the middle of March to the first week of June. We plan on a Monday-Friday trip.

We both would like to avoid crowds as much as possible. I know it's more crowded on the weekends, but sometimes there is a function going on that adds to the amount of people. I've been there during a few Spring Breaks, etc., and I'd rather not deal with that sort of thing.

We really just like to walk around, hit our favorite shops, and eat some good meals.

My past few trips have been in April and May with my partner and some friends, but, again, this time we're going to have the dog with us.

Answer

For your trip to New Orleans with the dog, considering that you'd like to avoid crowds, here’s a breakdown of the best times to visit, based on crowd levels, events, and the weather:

Best Time to Visit for Fewer Crowds:

Mid to Late March: After Mardi Gras (which typically ends in mid-February), New Orleans is much less crowded, but the weather is still mild and pleasant. Early spring offers a good balance of pleasant weather without the heavy crowds. This is one of the best times to visit if you're looking to avoid Spring Break crowds, as many schools are not on vacation during this time.
Mid-April to Early May (Post-Spring Break): This is another great time to visit. Many tourists have already left after Spring Break, and the weather is comfortable, with fewer crowds. You’ll be able to enjoy the city at a slower pace, with pleasant temperatures. The city also has a lot of events and festivals in the spring, but these tend to be more spread out and manageable.
Late May (Before Memorial Day Weekend): Late May can be a sweet spot before Memorial Day weekend. The weather is warm but not oppressively hot, and it's just before the influx of summer tourists. However, there could still be a few events going on that add to the crowds, so it’s worth checking the local event calendar.

Avoid These Times:

March (Spring Break): As you noted, Spring Break can bring larger crowds, particularly around Bourbon Street and popular tourist spots. If you're looking to avoid these crowds, it’s best to steer clear of mid-March when Spring Break is in full swing.
Early June: Early June marks the beginning of the summer tourist season, which means higher hotel prices and more tourists. While the crowds are not as intense as they are during Mardi Gras, summer tourists start arriving in larger numbers, especially with families on vacation.
Major Events: Keep an eye on any major festivals or conventions that may be happening, such as the Jazz & Heritage Festival (usually in late April/early May) or other large events. These can significantly increase crowds in the French Quarter and around popular tourist spots. If you’re looking for a more relaxed experience, check the New Orleans event calendar before booking.

Dog-Friendly Considerations:

Since you're traveling with your dog, another consideration is finding pet-friendly activities. New Orleans is a relatively dog-friendly city, and you’ll find many outdoor spaces where your dog can enjoy the trip as well. Many cafes, parks, and some hotels allow pets, but it's always a good idea to confirm pet policies in advance. Also, the cooler weather in March or early April will make it more comfortable for your dog to walk around with you, as the summer heat can be harsh for pets.

Summary:

To avoid crowds and enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere, your best bet would be to visit between mid-March to early April, ideally avoiding the Spring Break period. Late April to early May is also excellent, as the crowds thin out post-Spring Break, and the weather is ideal for walking around with your dog.

Best time...criteria in my question

More New Orleans Travel Questions

The attractions mentioned in this question

Popular Destinations

Popular Travel Questions