Why Summer is The Best Time to Visit New Orleans

When you Google ‘Best time to visit New Orleans,’ you’ll likely get an answer that says ‘February to May.’ But if you’re not afraid of hot temperatures, summer proves to be an excellent time to explore Crescent City and all its offerings. In fact, there are plenty of exciting festivals happening, and there is no shortage of ways to beat the heat. Sipping fresh cocktails in the bustling French Quarter doesn’t sound too shabby, right?

Here’s why summer is the perfect time to plan your New Orleans getaway and what to do while you’re there.

Have Fun at Summer Fests

Mardi Gras and Jazz Fest are cool, sure, but summer festivals in New Orleans have their own funk, too. Whether you’re planning your adventure in June, July, or August, there’s plenty of fun to be had.

For example, did you know the beginning of summer is when one of the city’s largest foodie festivals takes place? That’s right. The New Orleans Wine & Food Experience (June 5-9, 2024)  is the ‘it’ place to satisfy your inner gourmand. Likewise, if you’re hoping to learn secrets about the art of pastry making, you won’t want to miss the Pastry World Cup (from June 11-13). And this is just the beginning! Essence Festival is the pinnacle of summer festivals in New Orleans. This massive festival celebrating black culture is always held during the Fourth of July weekend, so there’s so much to do in the city at the same time as well. You can have a look at the full list of New Orleans events here.

Enjoy Fewer Crowds

Every year, New Orleans welcomes around 20 million visitors, and most of them head to Crescent City during peak season (from February to May). The advantage of visiting NOLA in summer is that you get to escape crowds! Forget about long queues or other tourists taking up your space. You can have New Orleans all to yourself! 

Cool off With Delicious Cocktails

New Orleans is known to be the ultimate foodie destination. But the city’s cocktail scene is no less impressive. So whenever it feels like the heat is a bit too much, you can always cool it off with a delicious drink!

While you’ll find great bars all around the French Quarter and the city, our tip is to visit Cure, which has been listed as one of the “Best Cocktail Bars in the U.S.”

Explore NOLA’s Museums

When it’s hot outside, museums are the best place to be! Luckily, New Orleans has plenty of incredible options for all tastes and interests. If you’re looking to get your daily dose of art, head to the New Orleans Museum of Art, which always has exciting exhibits on offer. History buffs will certainly have a great time at the WWII Museum, one of the best museums in the country. And if you’re a jazz fan, you can’t miss the New Orleans Jazz Museum!

Swim in Style

What better way to refresh on a sticky afternoon than to have a dip in a refreshing pool? Many fabulous hotels in New Orleans welcome the public to their pools for a small fee. So whether you’re craving a chill afternoon or a fun-filled pool party (with delicious snacks, of course), you’re sure to find a place that offers just that. Not to mention – the hotels often have the best city views! But if you’re looking for a low-key gem to sip on your drinks, we recommend The Country Club. Day passes are only $20, and the 21+ requirement makes for the perfect pool day vibes on a summer day in New Orleans.

You Can Always Hit the Beach

On those blazing hot days, there’s nothing quite as lovely as hitting the beach. Luckily, if you’re near NOLA, there are plenty of beaches just a short drive away! This means you can soak up the fabulous Gulf beach vibes during the day and still return in time for some night action in Crescent City.

So where should you go to have a fun day in the sun? Our favorites in Mississippi are Bay St. Louis and Pass Christian, which offer stunning, pristine white sand beaches with a quaint small-town feel.

Where to Stay in New Orleans in the Summer?

If you’ve decided on having a New Orleans summer adventure, you’ll have to find comfortable accommodation. The good news about visiting in the quiet season is that you’ll have many more options to choose from. At Book NOLA, we have a selection of the best New Orleans vacation rentals that allow you to experience the city in the most authentic way.

Book a stay at the Lower Garden District and discover the stunning antebellum mansions and lush gardens the city is so recognized for. Opt for Uptown, and you’ll get to experience the everyday life of New Orleans locals! Not your cup of tea? No worries. There are plenty of other vacation rentals in New Orleans to choose from. Have a look at our full list of vacation rentals in New Orleans here, and don’t forget to follow our blog for more tips and tricks on exploring NOLA!

We can’t wait to see you here!

FAQ

What are the average temperatures in New Orleans during the summer months?

In New Orleans, summer months (June through August) typically feature hot and humid weather, with average high temperatures ranging from the upper 80s to mid-90s°F.

How does the cost of visiting New Orleans in the summer compare to the peak season? 

Visiting New Orleans in the summer can often be significantly cheaper than during the peak Mardi Gras season. Travelers will find lower prices on accommodations and possibly flights due to reduced demand, though it’s always best to book early and check for any summer festival price surges.

Can you recommend any specific local dishes or restaurants to try in New Orleans during the summer? 

Summer in New Orleans is a great time to try local seafood dishes, such as boiled crawfish, shrimp po’boys, and oysters, which are plentiful and fresh. Additionally, visiting local sno-ball stands for a classic New Orleans treat to beat the heat is highly recommended.