If you’re traveling to or from New Orleans, Louisiana, using a cruise ship, you might want to know more about the local surroundings. Before arriving or departing the cruise port in New Orleans, it’s worth knowing what you should do to enjoy what this place offers. This guide takes you through some essential details any traveler would want to know.
Port Overview
Cruise port New Orleans is one of the main ports in Louisiana, and the terminal is right at the heart of the city. Downtown New Orleans is only a few minutes away, and so is the French Quarter.
The port is also close to Metairie and Gretna cities. If you’re driving to the port, interesting landmarks to watch out for include The Louisiana Children’s Museum on Julia Street and National WWII Museum on Magazine street.
Getting to the port mainly depends on the terminal you want to go to. Julia Street Cruise Terminal serves ships from Royal Caribbean International and Norwegian Cruise Lines.
On the other hand, Erato Street Cruise Terminal serves ships from Disney Cruise lines and Carnival Cruise Lines.
Sightseeing and Activities
New Orleans is a big city with many exciting things to do and see.
French Quarter
The French Quarter is one of the oldest neighborhoods in the city. It’s rich in culture and history, making it the perfect spot to tour during your stay around cruise port New Orleans.
The French Quarter is home to museums, restaurants, bars, and shops. Some of the best places to visit in the French Quarter include Jackson Square, French Market, and historical museums like The Cabildo.
You should also spend time in some of the most iconic restaurants in the region. Enjoy courtyard dining at Antoine’s or a hot breakfast at Brennan’s.
WWII Museum
You’ll find the National World War II Museum along Magazine Street. This is only a few minutes from the cruise port in New Orleans.
The museum features an on-site restaurant complete with entertainment. Make a stop here and grab some lunch while you listen to the rich history of New Orleans.
City Park
If you’re new to New Orleans and want to avoid traveling a lot for sightseeing, you can stroll around the City Park. There’s something for everyone in New Orleans City Park, and it’s the perfect spot to relax in the afternoon.
New Orleans Museum of Art
You can also tour the New Orleans Museum of Art for free. This is a popular tourist destination that is open seven days a week. The New Orleans Museum of Art is notable for its rich collection of French and American art, glass, photography, and Japanese and African works.
Shopping and Food
Love to shop? There’s a wealth of shopping stores at the French Market. You can locate it in the French Quarter.
Besides getting unique gifts and treasures from these stores, you’ll find the Flea Market, where you can buy art, crafts, jewelry, and antiques. The Farmers Market is also worth the visit for local food and delicacies.
You can also head to Royal Street to explore more antique shops and art galleries. Magazine Street has plenty of shops and restaurants for you to survey.
As for dining, it’s worth noting that everyone in the city takes food seriously. After all, New Orleans is home to some of the world’s celebrated chefs. Visit the Crescent City and sample the jambalaya, gumbo, crawfish étouffée, or andouille.
Ensure you don’t skip dessert, as this is your only opportunity to try the Creole pralines, bread pudding, or beignets.
Other top-rated restaurants around the area include Mike Anderson’s Seafood, Dino’s Bar & Grill, Ugly Dog Saloon & BBQ, Cochon Butcher & Restaurant, and Emeril’s.
Most of these restaurants are suitably located in cruise port New Orleans, so you can access them easily.
Other Things To Do
There is no shortage of options in this haunting and beautiful city.
Tours
If you’re running out of time and want to see the best of the best, take the Ghost Tour. Take guided tours that allow you to visit the city’s most haunted cemeteries and streets. You can also take a tour of New Orleans’ famous Bourbon Street. Grab a drink at one of the many renowned drinking establishments.
Visiting the Garden District will also ensure you enjoy most of the architectural sights along the way. People come from all over the world to take in the splendor of the oak-lined streets and grand architecture of the area.
Festivals
Don’t miss out if you’re in town during one of its festivals. Be a part of the festivals. You can attend a jazz fest in April hosted in the French Quarter.
There are a dozen food festivals for food enthusiasts, including the Soul Fest in March and Tremé Creole Gumbo Festival in November.
Visit Mardi Gras World
Mardi Gras World is another popular destination in New Orleans that is rich in history. When you’re ready to visit, the guided tours can pick you up from where you are.
Streetcars
A trip through St. Charles Avenue using streetcars is a great way to explore all the good things about the city. Usually, these vehicles move slowly, meaning you won’t miss anything during your tour.
Go for a Carriage Ride
You shouldn’t leave New Orleans without taking a carriage ride through the city. You’ll be under the guidance of knowledgeable and experienced guides. There are many carriage services in the city. So you will be able to find one that suits your tour needs.
Currency
The main currency at cruise port New Orleans is the US dollar. Only one ATM is near the port, while others are in the French Quarter.
English is a common language in the city, but you might hear others speaking French Creole.
How To Get To Downtown New Orleans from the Cruise Port
There are several ways to get to downtown New Orleans from the cruise port.
Uber and Lyft
Take advantage of convenient rideshare services like Uber or Lyft. These services are highly recommended if you are thinking of using taxi services.
One of the main advantages of these services is that you simply need to install the application on your smartphone to access them. They are everywhere, meaning you can quickly get to your destination without a hassle.
Taxis
Taxis can also help to move you around New Orleans. Hop in and go to the port or any other location you want. Taxi services are somewhat economical, given that some have flat rates.
Cruise Line Shuttles
You can also book shuttle services to your destination. However, it’s important to confirm whether the shuttles can take you where you want. Some have limited traveling distances. Remember that booking these shuttles should be done early to avoid inconveniences.
Car Services
Private vehicle services might suit you better if you’re traveling as a group or want to move around Seattle in style. Luckily, many companies are offering these services near the port. Irrespective of the ride you want to use, you can surely get it.
Cruise Lines That Sail Here
Multiple cruise lines sail into the New Orleans port, including:
- Carnival Cruise Lines
- Disney Cruise Line
- Norwegian Cruise Line
- American Cruise Lines
- American Queen Voyages
- Viking River Cruises
Conclusion
What attractions are you planning to try at cruise port New Orleans? If you’re new to the city, this post should help you maneuver around and ensure you don’t miss out on the excitement that New Orleans cruise port offers.
