If you want to see the city of New Orleans like a local, learning how to ride the streetcar is a must. Aside from being a convenient way to see the city, this unique mode of transportation is also quintessential New Orleans.
In this blog, we’ll cover ticket info, tips for riding, routes to popular attractions, and how to make the most of this charming way to explore New Orleans.
Why the Streetcar is the Best Way to Get Around New Orleans
Is there anything more NOLA than riding through the city in a vintage streetcar? The streetcar plays a unique role in the city’s culture and history, first appearing in New Orleans in 1835. The St. Charles Streetcar is actually the oldest continuously operating streetcar line in the world.
While New Orleans has other means of public transportation, buses only come every 45-60 minutes, and calling a ride share is way more expensive than the $1.25 streetcar fare.
Because it’s an eco-friendly and affordable way to explore the city with convenient routes and schedules, the streetcar is our favorite way to get around New Orleans.
New Orleans Streetcar Ticket Information
You’ll find the most up-to-date pricing and ticket information on the transit authority’s website, but we’ve broken down the most important information for you below.
Streetcar Ticket Options
You have a few fare options when you’re using the streetcar.
First, you can simply buy a single-ride ticket (and pay with exact change when you board). One-way tickets cost $1.25 for adults and $0.50 for children.
But if you’ll be hopping on the streetcar more than once during your visit to NOLA, you might want to buy a day pass (or multi-day pass), which could be more cost-effective. For instance, a day pass is just $3.00 for adults, and it’s good for 24 hours after first use.
Current Jazzy Pass costs are as follows:
- 1-Day Jazzy Pass: $3.00 for adults, $1.00 for children
- 3-Day Jazzy Pass: $8.00 for all
- 7-Day Jazzy Pass: $15.00 for all
Where to Buy Streetcar Tickets
Paying When You Board
If you pay when you board the streetcar, it’s important to know it’s cash only, and you’ll need exact change. So if you’re planning to ride the streetcar, you’ll need to be prepared with coins.
Buying a Jazzy Pass
An easier method than paying with cash when you board is to buy a Jazzy Pass. You can buy one in advance online, at the Regional Transit Authority office on Canal Street, at a kiosk, or at local vendors like Walgreens.
Ticket vending machines can be found along the Canal Streetcar Line. They dispense 1-Day, 3-Day, and 7-Day Jazzy Passes, as well as Stored Value Cards in the amounts of $10, $15 and $20. If you choose to purchase your pass at a ticket vending machine, know that they only accept cash.
Using the RTA Les Pass App
The easiest way to pay for your streetcar ride is by using the mobile app. Download the Les Pass app right to your smartphone (iPhone, Android), and purchase Jazzy Passes through there. That way, you don’t have to worry about using cash or having exact change at all.
General Tips for Riding the Streetcar in New Orleans
To make the most of your experience, you’ll want to keep a few things in mind.
Enter at the front of the streetcar and exit at the back.
Have your fare ready before boarding. Whether you’re showing your Jazzy Pass, using the app, or paying with exact change, be prepared so you don’t hold up other passengers.
If you have pets, know that service animals are allowed on board, as well as pets carried in small containers. (Pet carriers must fit on your lap.)
Traveling with kids? You can bring a stroller on board, but be sure to remove children from the stroller and fold it up out of the way of other passengers.
Understanding the Streetcar Lines
There are four main streetcar lines (five if you count the two parts of the Canal Street Line), all originating downtown and running through some of the most iconic areas of New Orleans. For up-to-date routes and schedules, visit the RTA website.
St. Charles Line
Known for its scenic views and access to the Garden District and Uptown, the dark green St. Charles Streetcar ferries passengers through the Central Business District and Uptown, around the Riverbend to Carrollton. As you’re transported through a tunnel of live oaks, past dozens of antebellum mansions, you can stop off at Loyola and Tulane universities, Audubon Park and Zoo, and lots of excellent restaurants and bars.
Canal Street Line
The Canal Street Line traverses 5.5 miles through the Central Business District and Mid-City. There are actually two lines within the Canal Street line – Canal-Cemeteries and Canal-City Park. They travel most of the way together along Canal Street. The Canal-Cemeteries streetcar will take you to NOLA’s historic cemeteries. The City Park branch’s final stop is City Park, where you can access the New Orleans Museum of Art and the Louisiana Children’s Museum.
UPT – Riverfront Streetcar
Hop on the Riverfront Line to easily explore the French Quarter and the waterfront. This line will take you to the shops of the French Market, the Audubon Aquarium, Jackson Square, the French Quarter Riverwalk, the Canal Place shops, and Caesar’s New Orleans Casino.
Rampart-Loyola Streetcar
The Rampart-Loyola Line is great for visiting Marigny and Bywater. It’ll take you past the French Quarter and Louis Armstrong Park to the heart of Marigny, where you can explore the St. Claude Arts District and Frenchmen Street for live music and local cuisine. On the other end, the streetcar will take you to Union Passenger Terminal for easy access to Amtrak and Greyhound services. The Loyola at Poydras stop is just one block away from the Superdome, providing easy access if you’re visiting for Superbowl LIX.
Where to Stay Near the Streetcar
The streetcar is a convenient and affordable way to explore New Orleans, so staying near it is an added benefit to consider when booking a stay.
When you stay with Book NOLA, we offer many options for accommodations conveniently located near the streetcar, providing you with the quintessential New Orleans experience.
From the historic charm of the Garden District to the lively atmosphere of the French Quarter, our properties serve as the perfect base for your adventures, with the city’s most beloved attractions just a streetcar ride away. Experience the convenience, comfort, and character of New Orleans, all while staying close to the heart of its iconic transportation.
Explore New Orleans with Ease
We love recommending the streetcar to our guests – it’s both a great transportation method and a unique way to experience New Orleans. For more insider tips and guides to experiencing NOLA with ease, check out the rest of our blog. And be sure to browse our Book NOLA properties to find the New Orleans vacation rental that’s perfect for your stay.
We can’t wait to host you in NOLA!