Where to stay..safe!

Question

We are doing a road trip to USA from UK and will be visiting New Orleans for about 5 days. We prefer to stay outside the downtown area somewhere quiet and safe when we can park the car.

Can you give some advice on best areas to stay up to 20 mins or so away where we'll have restaurants etc and can get to downtown attractions.

Also is there a good & safe public transport system that we can use to get around or can we park near attractions. thanks

Answer

New Orleans is a wonderful city to explore, and while staying downtown can be an exciting experience, there are several quieter, safe neighborhoods within a 20-minute drive that offer good access to the city's attractions while also providing a more relaxed atmosphere. Here are some great areas to consider for your stay:

1. Garden District

The Garden District is one of New Orleans' most charming and safe neighborhoods. It is known for its beautiful historic homes, tree-lined streets, and vibrant atmosphere. While it’s only about a 5-minute drive from downtown, it feels a bit removed from the hustle and bustle of the French Quarter. There are plenty of restaurants and cafes nearby, especially along Magazine Street, which offers unique shopping and dining options. It’s a great place for a quiet, scenic stay with easy access to downtown via public transport or a short drive.

2. Uptown

Uptown is another peaceful area that is well-connected to downtown. It's home to Tulane University and Loyola University, and it has a relaxed, residential vibe with beautiful oak-lined streets. St. Charles Avenue, which runs through Uptown, is served by the historic streetcar line, which can take you downtown. The area has many great restaurants and cafes, and you’ll find it easy to park your car and enjoy a quieter stay. The streetcar is an easy and safe way to get downtown if you don’t want to drive.

3. Mid-City

Mid-City is a centrally located, up-and-coming neighborhood that offers a mix of residential charm and trendy spots. It’s about 10-15 minutes from downtown and is close to City Park, one of the largest urban parks in the U.S. In this area, you’ll find a lot of local dining spots, bars, and some fantastic breweries. The neighborhood feels more local than touristy, and you’ll still have good access to the French Quarter and other downtown attractions. There’s also good public transport here, with buses and the streetcar providing easy access to downtown.

4. Bywater

If you're looking for something a little more artsy and off the beaten path, Bywater is a trendy, up-and-coming neighborhood just outside of the French Quarter. It’s about 10-15 minutes from downtown and offers a quieter, more eclectic vibe with art galleries, funky cafes, and unique shops. It’s also a bit more affordable than some other areas while still being safe and offering great access to downtown. The neighborhood is walkable and offers easy access to public transport to get around.

5. Faubourg Marigny

Faubourg Marigny is another great neighborhood to stay in. Located just next to the French Quarter, it offers a quieter atmosphere while still being very close to downtown. Known for its colorful Creole cottages, it’s full of character and has a great music scene (especially jazz). The Marigny is home to the famous Frenchmen Street, which has a number of live music venues and bars, but it’s quieter than the French Quarter itself. You’ll be able to park easily and enjoy a more residential feel with good public transport options.

Public Transportation Options:

New Orleans does have a public transportation system, although it’s not as extensive or fast as in some larger cities. The good news is that most of the neighborhoods mentioned above are well-served by either the streetcar or bus systems, which are easy to navigate. Here are some key points:

Streetcar: The St. Charles streetcar line runs through Uptown and Garden District, making it an excellent way to get to downtown attractions, including the French Quarter. It’s a very scenic and affordable way to travel.
Bus: Buses run throughout New Orleans and are a good option for getting around the city, though they can take longer than the streetcar. Bus stops are generally close to most neighborhoods.
Rideshare: Uber and Lyft are widely available in New Orleans, and they can be a convenient and safe way to travel around, especially if you want to avoid parking in busy areas.

Parking near Downtown Attractions:

If you prefer driving, New Orleans does have public parking near most major attractions, though it can be pricey, especially in the French Quarter. You’ll find parking garages and metered street parking around downtown, and many hotels offer valet parking. If you plan to visit specific places like the French Quarter, it might be more convenient to park at one of the designated lots and walk or use public transport to get around.

Conclusion:

Staying outside the downtown area in one of these quieter neighborhoods is a great idea if you prefer a more relaxed environment while still being close to the city’s main attractions. The Garden District, Uptown, and Mid-City are all safe, convenient, and well-connected to downtown. Public transportation options like the streetcar and bus are available, but rideshare services like Uber or Lyft are also good alternatives for getting around. Enjoy your stay in New Orleans!