New Orleans on a budget: exploring the city affordably

NOLA is known for its vibrant culture and cuisine, and in this article, we dive into the best ways to experience the city without breaking the bank. Discover the best of New Orleans – from its vibrant parks to legendary local live music – all on a budget. Get ready to soak up the city’s unique spirit with highly rated, wallet-friendly stays right in the heart of the action.

Explore City Park

City Park is the green heart of New Orleans. Spanning five square kilometres, it’s one of the largest urban parks in the US. The park is free to enter and a great spot for a leisurely day out, where you can rent a pedal boat or lie under the shade of its big oak trees. 

Don’t miss the Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden for a dose of outdoor modern art or swing by the New Orleans Museum of Art (with discount days for budget-conscious visitors). For families with children or the young at heart, the Carousel Gardens Amusement Park and Storyland playground add a magical, inexpensive twist to any visit.

Right inside the park, you’ll also find the Louisiana Children’s Museum, a favourite on rainy (or extra-hot) days, with interactive exhibits making it brilliant value for kids and parents alike.

Wander around the French Quarter

No visit to New Orleans is complete without getting lost in the French Quarter’s mosaic of colours and sounds.

This lively neighbourhood features jazz echoing from street corners, treasure-filled antique shops and talented street performers. Take a stroll through Jackson Square and grab a piping hot beignet (a local pastry speciality) from the iconic Café du Monde or Café Beignet. You’ll find both cafés right in the heart of the French Quarter, serving up coffee, pastries and a slice of NOLA magic.

You can also book an affordable French Quarter food tour for a deliciously immersive introduction to Cajun and Creole specialities (beignets included). Or join a free historic walking tour ending at the legendary Café du Monde.

Venture down Magazine Street

Magazine Street stretches for nine kilometres through popular neighbourhoods packed with affordable eateries, vintage shops and independent boutiques. Among the highlights for budget explorers is The Vintage, a renowned Magazine Street café famous for its fresh beignets and fancy coffee flights – perfect for a midday pick-me-up.

For a deeper taste of the neighbourhood, book a beignet or doughnut-themed walking tour, combining the best pastries with local stories and a friendly, energetic vibe. Even if you skip the tour, enjoying Magazine Street’s free festivals and curbside music will sprinkle plenty of Big Easy magic onto your trip.

When it comes to New Orleans, you’ll want somewhere to stay that’s as incredible as the city itself. Below, we’ve listed some of the most affordable accommodations in the city so you can truly explore New Orleans on a budget.

New Orleans Courtyard Hotel

The New Orleans Courtyard Hotel is just a block away from must-see attractions like Jackson Square and Café du Monde. It’s also a quick walk from riverside parks and evening music on Frenchmen Street. 

Mardi Gras Patio

For lovers of the outdoors and the arts, hotels in the Mid-City or City Park area put you beside expansive parkland and family fun, while keeping you a tram ride away from downtown’s buzz. 

Stays like the Mardi Gras Patio offer a cosy oasis in the middle of the city – and it’s just an eight-minute walk from Canal Street.

Garden District Bed and Breakfast

Opt for accommodation near Magazine Street for an affordable but conveniently located stay. This part of town is known for its leafy avenues, cafés and relaxed character.

Book a night at the Garden District Bed and Breakfast to enjoy staying in a historic NOLA building.

So, there you have it: New Orleans proves that you don’t need to spend big to have an amazing time. With affordable accommodation, entertainment and cuisine, you really will be spoilt for choice. It’s time to get ready for affordable adventures in this soulful city with magic around every corner.