Planning my first Visit - Help Requested

Question

Hi;

My wife and I are coming to some specific point to define for our intended visit. I hope I can get your help with the following;

It seems like our likely date will be the first week in November. Are there any major events happening those days?, what are the likely conditions weather wise?, would still be worth it to visit gardens?

Do you have any recommendation on how to move around in NOLA?, we are seniors and would prefer not to walk long distances, lets say not more than a mile.

All the Hotels thus far (another discussion thread) look very nice. However, their website do not mention anything about fees and taxes. Any comments or info?

Apparently not many hotels offer breakfast. Any suggestions for Cafes around the French Quarter?

Answer

Hi there,

It’s great to hear that you and your wife are planning your first visit to New Orleans! November is a wonderful time to be in the city, and I’d be happy to help you with your questions. Here’s what you need to know for your trip.

Major Events in Early November:

November is a great time to visit, as it offers fewer crowds compared to peak tourist seasons. There are a few key events happening in New Orleans during the first week of November:

Voodoo Music + Arts Experience (October 28 – October 30): Although it ends just before November, it’s worth mentioning if your travel dates are flexible. This is one of the biggest music festivals in New Orleans, and even if you miss it, you’ll feel the vibrancy it brings to the city.
New Orleans Film Festival (November 1-7): A fantastic event for film lovers, with screenings of independent films, documentaries, and shorts. You can check out some unique local culture through the eyes of filmmakers.
Louisiana Seafood Festival (November 4-6): Another major event you may want to consider. It celebrates the local cuisine, and you’ll get to try a variety of seafood dishes, from crawfish to oysters, in a fun, lively atmosphere.

Weather in Early November:

The weather in early November is generally mild and pleasant, with average temperatures ranging from the low 50s°F (about 10°C) in the mornings to the mid-70s°F (about 24°C) in the afternoons. This makes it a great time to explore the city outdoors without the extreme heat and humidity of summer. There might be a few rainy days, but overall, it’s a fantastic time to visit.

Visiting Gardens:

Yes, it’s definitely still worth visiting the gardens in November! The weather will be cool enough to enjoy walking around the beautiful spaces, and many of the city’s gardens remain lush even into the fall. Some highlights include:

New Orleans Botanical Garden: Located in City Park, this garden is a peaceful oasis with beautiful landscapes, walking paths, and seasonal exhibits.
Longue Vue House and Gardens: Another gem in the city, this historic home and garden offers a tranquil environment and beautiful autumn colors.
Audubon Park: A lovely spot for a relaxing stroll with large oak trees, scenic views, and a calm atmosphere.

Getting Around New Orleans:

Since you mentioned that you’d prefer not to walk long distances, New Orleans is quite senior-friendly in terms of transportation options. Here are a few suggestions for getting around:

Streetcars: The iconic New Orleans streetcars are a fun and convenient way to travel around the city. The routes are fairly short, and you can hop on and off at several stops. The St. Charles Line, for example, takes you through the Garden District, which has lovely historic homes and shady streets.
Rideshare Services (Uber/Lyft): These services are widely available in New Orleans and are a good option for getting to places that are a little farther than you’d like to walk. You can easily book a ride to most attractions and restaurants.
Private Car Services: If you prefer something more personalized, there are also private car services available in New Orleans, which can take you to specific destinations without the hassle of public transport.
Taxi Services: Traditional taxis are also available, though rideshare options may be more convenient for booking on-the-go.

Hotel Fees and Taxes:

It’s common for many hotels in New Orleans (and in general) not to mention all taxes and fees on their website, but these charges are typically added when you check in. The standard hotel tax rate in New Orleans is around 13-15%, and some hotels may also charge a "destination fee" or resort fee, which can vary. It’s a good idea to contact the hotel directly to confirm the total cost before booking to avoid surprises when you check out.

Breakfast Spots Around the French Quarter:

While many hotels in New Orleans do not offer complimentary breakfast, there are plenty of great cafes and eateries nearby in the French Quarter where you can enjoy a delicious breakfast. Here are a few popular recommendations:

Café du Monde: A must-visit for tourists, this iconic café serves famous beignets (fried dough covered in powdered sugar) and café au lait. It’s a great place to start your day in the French Quarter.
Royal Street Po-Boy: Known for its classic New Orleans po’ boys, they also offer breakfast options like omelets and sandwiches.
Petit Bakery: A great local spot known for fresh pastries, croissants, and breakfast sandwiches. It’s a smaller and more intimate spot if you’re looking for something more relaxed.
Elizabeth’s: Located a bit outside the French Quarter, but worth the short trip for its fantastic breakfast menu, including praline bacon and eggs Benedict with a New Orleans twist.

Overall, early November is a fantastic time to visit New Orleans with great weather and a lively atmosphere. There are plenty of transportation options to suit your preferences, and you’ll have no trouble finding delicious meals and beautiful places to visit. I hope this helps you plan your trip!

Enjoy your visit to New Orleans!

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