New Orleans Cruise Port
Port of New Orleans Cruise Terminals
New Orleans, United States Port
Louisiana UN/LOCODE USMSY Port of call
New Orleans Cruise Port Location
| Port Details | |
|---|---|
| Country | United States |
| Region | Louisiana |
| UN/LOCODE | USMSY |
| Contact | |
| Address | 1350 Port of New Orleans Pl, New Orleans, LA 70130 |
| Port phone | +1 504-522-2551 |
| Website | portnola.com |
| Geography | |
| Coordinates | 29.95465, -90.07507 |
| Accessibility | |
| Accessible | Limited |
The ocean cruise terminals at Julia Street and Erato Street are located approximately 2.4 km (1.5 miles) from the center of the French Quarter, a distance that requires a 30-minute walk or a $15.00–$20.00 USD taxi ride depending on terminal traffic. Situated in the Mississippi River Delta of Southeast Louisiana, this destination serves as a complex intersection of Caribbean, French, and Spanish cultures. You are visiting a city that rewards the early riser and punishes the unprepared; the morning hours offer the only respite from the humidity that often defines the afternoon. New Orleans is 130 km (80 miles) southeast of Baton Rouge and 230 km (140 miles) west of Mobile, Alabama. Keep in mind that most passengers mistakenly attempt to walk to the French Quarter in July heat, a decision that typically results in exhaustion before lunch. This port serves both large-scale ocean cruise itineraries and boutique river cruise routes navigating the lower Mississippi River. It is worth noting that exiting the terminal before 8:45 AM saves nearly 20 minutes of queuing for transport. The destination rewards those who venture into the Garden District but punishes travelers who spend their entire stay on Bourbon Street, which is largely a caricature of local culture.
New Orleans — Port Overview
History
New Orleans was founded in 1718 by Jean-Baptiste Le Moyne de Bienville, chosen for its strategic position on a crescent-shaped bend of the Mississippi River. The city served as the capital of French Louisiana until it was secretly ceded to Spain in the 1762 Treaty of Fontainebleau. You will see this Spanish influence today in the architecture of the French Quarter—iron-lace balconies and stuccoed walls—which actually dates to the Spanish rebuilding efforts after the Great Fires of 1788 and 1794. The Louisiana Purchase of 1803 remains the most significant event in the city’s history, overnight transforming New Orleans into a primary American port and an essential gateway for the nation's interior trade. In January 1815, the Battle of New Orleans solidified the city’s importance, as Andrew Jackson’s forces defeated the British two weeks after a peace treaty had already been signed. Throughout the 19th century, the city grew wealthy on the labor of enslaved people and the commerce of cotton and sugar, becoming the fourth-largest city in the U.S. by 1840. Your ship docks near the very wharves where steamships once lined the riverfront six deep. Today, the massive floodwalls and the elevated architecture of the Warehouse District stand as modern testaments to the city’s ongoing, precarious relationship with the rising waters of the river.
The Verdict
New Orleans is a city that rewards the curious traveler who is willing to look past the neon of Bourbon Street to find the soul in the oak-lined avenues of the Garden District. This guide has been fact-checked by J. Richard and the Waterways Cruise editorial team. Excursions that guarantee a return to the ship can be tailored to your mobility, interests, and pace, so missing departure is never a concern. No two travelers want the same day in the Big Easy.
Things to Do & See in New Orleans
| Attraction | Type | Address | Phone | Hours | Website | Admission |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| The National WWII Museum | Museum | 945 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | +1 504-528-1944 | 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Daily | nationalww2museum.org | USD $35.00 USD |
| St. Louis Cathedral | Historical Site | 615 Pere Antoine Alley, New Orleans, LA 70116 | +1 504-525-9585 | 9:00 AM – 4:00 PM | stlouiscathedral.org | Free |
| Preservation Hall | Cultural Site | 726 St Peter, New Orleans, LA 70116 | +1 504-522-2841 | 5:00 PM – 10:00 PM (Check for occasional afternoon sessions) | preservationhall.com | USD $20.00–$40.00 USD |
| The Sazerac House | Tourist Attraction | 101 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | +1 504-910-0100 | 11:00 AM – 6:00 PM | sazerachouse.com | Free |
| Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 | Historical Site | 1400 Washington Ave, New Orleans, LA 70130 | +1 504-658-3781 | 8:00 AM – 3:00 PM (Subject to closure for restoration) | saveourcemeteries.org | Free |
The National WWII Museum · Museum
USD $35.00 USDVisitor feedback is consistent that unanimous: this is not just a collection of artifacts, but a visceral storytelling experience. Why is it in New Orleans? Because this is where the 'Higgins Boats' that won the war were designed and built. You will start by receiving a 'digitized dog tag' that follows a real soldier's journey through the war. As you walk through the various pavilions, you'll see massive aircraft suspended from the ceilings and tanks positioned in recreations of French villages. It is worth starting in the 'Boiler Room' to understand the industrial might behind the effort. The experience is emotional and deeply researched. Do not rush the 'Road to Berlin' section; the temperature literally drops as you enter the Battle of the Bulge recreation. It is a world-class institution that justifies a New Orleans port call on its own.
945 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70130 ·+1 504-528-1944 ·9:00 AM – 5:00 PM Daily ·www.nationalww2museum.org
St. Louis Cathedral · Historical Site
FreeThe triple spires of St. Louis Cathedral are the most recognizable silhouette in Louisiana. Founded in 1720 and rebuilt in 1850, it is the oldest continuously active cathedral in the United States. You'll stand in the same spot where the Louisiana Purchase was celebrated. The interior is a masterclass in French religious art, featuring a high altar made of gilded wood and marble that draws the eye upward to the frescoed ceiling. When you walk inside, the noise of Jackson Square's trumpeters fades into a profound, cool silence. You will find that the 11:00 AM to 2:00 PM window is the worst time to visit due to massive tour groups. Instead, try to arrive when the doors first open. Expect a sense of the city's deep Catholic roots and its survival through fires and hurricanes. Even for non-religious visitors, the history of the building—and the cemetery vaults beneath—is a vital piece of the New Orleans narrative.
615 Pere Antoine Alley, New Orleans, LA 70116 ·+1 504-525-9585 ·9:00 AM – 4:00 PM ·www.stlouiscathedral.org
Preservation Hall · Cultural Site
USD $20.00–$40.00 USDThis is the sanctuary of New Orleans Jazz. It isn't a club; it’s a living museum of sound. Established in 1961 to protect traditional jazz from the rise of rock and roll, the Hall has hosted every major name in the genre. You won't find neon lights or plush chairs here. Instead, you'll find a weathered, wooden room where the acoustics are perfect and the history is palpable. Visitors who initially balked at the lack of amenities have returned saying this was the highlight of their trip. You'll be inches away from the musicians, feeling the vibration of the upright bass in the floorboards. You will come away with an unfiltered, acoustic connection to the soul of the city. Because many cruise ships depart in the late afternoon, it is a good idea to check their schedule for the rare 'Jazz Educational' matinees, which occasionally occur during port call hours. It is the most authentic musical experience you can have in the Quarter, far removed from the amplified cover bands on Bourbon Street.
726 St Peter, New Orleans, LA 70116 ·+1 504-522-2841 ·5:00 PM – 10:00 PM (Check for occasional afternoon sessions) ·www.preservationhall.com
The Sazerac House · Tourist Attraction
FreeLocated in a stunningly restored 19th-century building at the corner of Canal and Magazine, Sazerac House is part museum, part distillery, and part masterclass in New Orleans culture. You'll explore three floors of interactive exhibits that detail the evolution of the city's drinking habits from the early 1800s to the present. You will find that this is one of the few 'Free' attractions that delivers true premium value. You will see actual rye whiskey being distilled on-site and learn about the chemistry of bitters. The highlight is the virtual bartender exhibit, where you learn the precise technique for a proper Sazerac stir. The experience is polished, climate-controlled, and sophisticated—the perfect escape from the midday sun. It offers a much deeper look at the city’s social history than you’ll find in any Bourbon Street bar. Even if you don't partake in the complimentary samples, the architectural restoration of the grand staircase and the historical dioramas of old New Orleans pharmacies are worth the visit.
101 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70130 ·+1 504-910-0100 ·11:00 AM – 6:00 PM ·www.sazerachouse.com
Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 · Historical Site
FreeThis is New Orleans' 'City of the Dead.' Because the city is built on swampy land below sea level, the deceased are traditionally buried in ornate above-ground tombs. Lafayette No. 1 is the most cinematic of these, famously appearing in numerous films. You'll see rows of marble and granite houses for the dead, many adorned with intricate ironwork and crumbling angels. The walking time from the streetcar stop takes just 3 minutes. The visit offers a poignant look at the city's 19th-century struggles with Yellow Fever and its unique cultural approach to mourning. Even if the gates are closed for restoration, the view through the perimeter iron fence along Washington Avenue provides a clear sense of the architectural scale. It is a hauntingly beautiful place that contrasts sharply with the 'vibrant' life of the French Quarter. Travelers often report that a quiet walk around the perimeter, followed by lunch across the street at Commander's Palace, is their most memorable New Orleans moment.
1400 Washington Ave, New Orleans, LA 70130 ·+1 504-658-3781 ·8:00 AM – 3:00 PM (Subject to closure for restoration) ·www.saveourcemeteries.org
Eating & Drinking in New Orleans
New Orleans' culinary identity is divided into two distinct lineages: Creole and Cajun. Creole is 'city food'—refined, French-influenced, and heavy on rich sauces like remoulade and hollandaise. Cajun is 'country food'—rustic, spice-forward, and based on the 'holy trinity' of onions, celery, and bell peppers. You must try Gumbo, but be aware that every restaurant has its own version, from dark, chocolate-colored roux to lighter, seafood-based broths. To drink, look for the Sazerac or a French 75. While tourists flock to Cafe du Monde for beignets, locals actually prefer the versions at smaller shops like Loretta's Authentic Pralines. One honest note: most visitors expect New Orleans to be 'spicy-hot,' but authentic Creole cooking is actually about deep, complex seasoning rather than raw chili heat. Look for 'Etouffée' for a genuine taste of the river’s influence on the local diet.
| Place | Address | Phone | Hours | Website | Price range |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Peche Seafood Grill | 800 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | +1 504-522-1744 | 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM | pecherestaurant.com | $35.00–$60.00 USD |
| Napoleon House | 500 Chartres St, New Orleans, LA 70130 | +1 504-524-9752 | 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM | napoleonhouse.com | $15.00–$25.00 USD |
| Jewel of the South | 1026 St Louis St, New Orleans, LA 70112 | +1 504-265-8816 | 4:00 PM – 11:00 PM | jewelnola.com | $16.00–$22.00 USD |
Peche Seafood Grill
$35.00–$60.00 USDThis is a James Beard award-winning kitchen that focuses on the open fire. You'll find the freshest Gulf seafood here, often sourced from small local boat captains. The atmosphere is loud, energetic, and industrial. Order the whole fish to share—it is the signature experience. One honest limitation: reservations are very hard to get during the lunch rush, so aim for a 2:00 PM 'late lunch' to avoid the 45-minute wait.
800 Magazine St, New Orleans, LA 70130 ·+1 504-522-1744 ·11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Napoleon House
$15.00–$25.00 USDThe building was originally offered as a refuge to Napoleon Bonaparte in 1821. It feels like it hasn't been painted since. You'll sit among peeling walls and classical music, eating the best warm muffuletta in the city. The Pimm's Cup is their signature drink—refreshing and low-alcohol, perfect for a midday break. It delivers the most authentic 'Old World' feel in the French Quarter.
500 Chartres St, New Orleans, LA 70130 ·+1 504-524-9752 ·11:00 AM – 10:00 PM
Jewel of the South
$16.00–$22.00 USDThis isn't a bar for a quick beer. It is a temple to the lost cocktails of New Orleans. You'll sit in a meticulously restored cottage or a lush courtyard. It’s the right place for a drink because they treat the Brandy Crusta and Sazerac with the reverence of fine art. The crowd is sophisticated and appreciative of the quiet elegance.
1026 St Louis St, New Orleans, LA 70112 ·+1 504-265-8816 ·4:00 PM – 11:00 PM
Getting There & Around
Once you exit the terminal, your best friend is the RTA streetcar system. You should download the 'Le Pass' app to buy a $3.00 USD ($3.00 USD) Jazzy Pass, which gives you unlimited streetcar and bus rides for 24 hours. The St. Charles Avenue line is the oldest continuously operating streetcar in the world; use it for the Garden District. Uber and Lyft are both highly reliable here and typically cost $12.00–$18.00 USD for crosstown trips, which is often cheaper and faster than a taxi if you are not at a hotel stand. Avoid bike rentals for the French Quarter—the cobblestones and heavy pedestrian traffic make it more of a burden than a benefit. When leaving the terminal, one navigation tip is to walk through the Riverwalk Outlets' second floor. It is fully climate-controlled and takes you halfway to the French Quarter without the humidity of the street level.
Itineraries & Sample Walks
4-Hour Shore Excursion in New Orleans
The National WWII Museum
9:00 AM (150 min)
This is arguably the finest museum in the country. You'll walk through immersive pavilions that recreate the forests of Germany and the islands of the Pacific. Most visitors miss the 'Beyond All Boundaries' 4D cinematic experience narrated by Tom Hanks—book this ticket first as it sells out daily.
- A 10-minute walk from the Julia Street terminal or a 5-minute taxi. ($8.00 USD)
- Entry: $35.00 ($35.00)
- The Higgins Hotel across the street has a rooftop bar (Rosie's on the Roof) that opens at 11:00 AM and offers the best view of the museum's unique architecture.
Sazerac House
11:45 AM (60 min)
An interactive exploration of the city's cocktail culture. You'll learn how the Sazerac became the official cocktail of New Orleans and see the production of bitters. It is a high-tech, beautifully designed space that provides the history of the city through its spirits.
- A 10-minute walk down Magazine Street toward the French Quarter. (Free)
- Entry: Free (Free)
- Reservations are free but required. Book three weeks in advance to secure a slot during your port call window.
Lunch Recommendation
Herbsaint
While tourists line up for hours at Galatoire's, locals come here for Donald Link's impeccable modern French-Southern fusion. It is quieter, more consistent, and perfectly located on the streetcar line.
Order: Gumbo of the Day, Muscovy Duck Leg Confit with Dirty Rice
701 St Charles Ave, New Orleans, LA 70130
Cost: $45.00 USD ($45.00 USD)
8-Hour Full Day Experience in New Orleans
Jackson Square & St. Louis Cathedral
9:00 AM (90 min)
The visual heart of the city. Walk through the cathedral to see the stunning murals and stained glass. Most people miss the quiet garden behind the cathedral featuring the 'Touchdown Jesus' shadow at night, though in daylight it's a peaceful spot to escape the buskers.
- 12-minute taxi from terminal. ($15.00 USD)
- Entry: Free (Free)
- Arrive exactly at 9:00 AM when the Cathedral doors open to avoid the mid-morning tour groups.
Royal Street Antique Galleries
11:00 AM (60 min)
One block over from Bourbon, Royal Street is the elegant heart of the Quarter. You'll find multi-million dollar European antiques and world-class street jazz performers. It's the best street for window shopping and people-watching without the Bourbon Street grit.
- 2-minute walk from Jackson Square. (Free)
- Entry: Free (Free)
- Look for the street performers between St. Louis and St. Peter streets—they are often graduate students from the local music conservatories.
Garden District Mansion Walk
2:30 PM (120 min)
Walk past the Commander's Palace restaurant and into the neighborhood. You'll see the 'Short-Favrot House' and 'Colonel Short's Villa' with its famous cornstalk fence. It is the most tranquil part of the city.
- Take the St. Charles Streetcar from Canal St to Washington Ave. ($1.25 USD)
- Entry: Free (Free)
- Skip the paid walking tours; the 'New Orleans Historical' app provides excellent free audio narration for these specific houses.
Getting back to the ship
To guarantee your return before a typical 4:30 PM all-aboard, you should leave the French Quarter no later than 3:30 PM. This 60-minute buffer allows for the notorious New Orleans traffic jams on Canal Street and potential bridge openings on the river. A taxi from Jackson Square to the terminal will cost roughly $15.00 USD ($15.00 USD) and takes 15–20 minutes. If you are using the Riverfront Streetcar, leave by 3:15 PM as service frequency can be inconsistent. If you are running late, call the Port of New Orleans dispatch at +1 504-528-3231. The ship will generally not hold for independent passengers; those who miss the ship in New Orleans face a complex overland journey to the next port, often Cozumel, requiring an international flight and significant expense.
Weather & Best Time to Visit New Orleans
Weather & What to Pack
Cruise season: October through May
14°C–24°C (57°F–75°F). Rainfall is frequent but usually short. Humidity remains high even in winter.
What to wear: Pack breathable layers. Even in winter, you'll want a short-sleeved base layer for the humid afternoons. A lightweight, packable rain poncho is more practical than an umbrella in the narrow French Quarter streets. Wear broken-in walking shoes with substantial cushioning; the combination of hard pavement and uneven bricks will punish thin-soled footwear. Sunscreen is non-negotiable even on overcast days as the river reflects significant UV rays.
Weather risks: Hurricane season runs June to November, potentially causing port cancellations. Dense morning fog in February and March can delay river navigation for several hours.
Spring (March-April) offers the best balance of manageable humidity and blooming jasmine across the city.
| Season | Conditions | Hazards | Affected areas | Visitor advice |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Summer (June–September) | Extremely high humidity with temperatures often exceeding 33°C (91°F). Afternoon thunderstorms are a near-daily occurrence. | Dehydration is a serious risk for those walking the French Quarter. Sunstroke on exposed areas like the Riverwalk is common. | All walking routes, especially the unshaded blocks of the French Quarter and the St. Charles streetcar stops. | Wear moisture-wicking clothing and wide-brimmed hats. Plan all outdoor activities for before 11:00 AM and use the early afternoon for indoor museum visits. |
| Winter (December–February) | Mild but damp, with temperatures ranging from 7°C to 18°C (45°F–65°F). Occasional cold snaps can drop temperatures significantly. | Damp cobblestones and brick sidewalks in the French Quarter become slick. Wind off the river can make the terminal area feel 5 degrees colder. | The riverfront promenade and the narrow streets of the Vieux Carré. | Layering is essential. A light, waterproof shell is more useful than a heavy coat. Wear closed-toe shoes with good grip for wet bricks. |
Practical Information
Cultural etiquette
In New Orleans, greeting is an art form. A simple 'Good morning' or 'How are you doing?' to a shopkeeper or waiter is expected before launching into a request; jumping straight to 'I need a table' is considered rude. Locals are famously chatty and will often share their life story in a grocery line. Dining customs involve a slower pace—waiters will not rush you through a meal. It is normal to sit for two hours over lunch. Photography is generally welcomed, but always ask before taking photos of street performers or 'Living Statues' in Jackson Square; they expect a tip of $1.00–$5.00 USD in exchange. Tipping is a vital part of the local economy; 20% is the standard for restaurant service, and $5.00–$10.00 USD per person for a tour guide is expected. A common misunderstanding cruise passengers make is thinking they can carry glass bottles of alcohol on the street; while New Orleans has 'open container' laws, your drink must be in a plastic 'go-cup.' Carrying a glass beer bottle will result in a polite but firm reprimand from local police.
Mistakes to Avoid
| Mistake |
|---|
Spending the first hour at the pier market instead of heading directly to the French Quarter. |
Trying to walk the entire distance from the Erato Street terminal to Jackson Square. |
Waiting in the 45-minute line for Cafe du Monde on Decatur Street. |
Relying on the St. Charles Streetcar for a tight 4-hour port window. |
Practical tips
New Orleans is increasingly a credit-card-friendly city, but 'Cash is King' for street performers, small bars, and independent shops in the French Market. Carry at least $40 in small bills ($1s and $5s) for tipping musicians and tour guides. Tipping for a $15 taxi ride should be $3.00 USD. To earn goodwill, use these local nuances: call the green space in the middle of a boulevard a 'neutral ground,' and use 'Lagniappe' (pronounced lan-yap) to refer to a little something extra. Regarding scams, avoid the 'I bet I can tell you where you got your shoes' men on Bourbon Street; they will say 'You got them on your feet, on Bourbon Street' and then demand $10 for the joke—simply keep walking. Dress code for St. Louis Cathedral requires shoulders covered and no hats for men. To avoid crowds at the WWII Museum, it is worth arriving at 8:45 AM, 15 minutes before opening, to be first in the theater queue.
Cruise Lines Visiting New Orleans
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FAQ — New Orleans
Where is the best place to store my luggage if I want to explore after checking out of the ship?
The efficiency of several options and found 'Advance Check-In' at the terminal are the most reliable. They charge $10.00–$15.00 USD (~$10.00–$15.00 USD) per bag and are located within the secure area of the Julia and Erato terminals. This allows you to walk to the WWII Museum or the French Quarter unencumbered. For those exploring the Garden District, 'The Rink' on Prytania Street occasionally offers lockers, but the terminal is your safest bet for guaranteed availability. Most hotels like the Hilton Riverside will also store bags for a $5.00 tip per bag, even if you aren't a guest. Private transfer options that include luggage shadowing are available.
Is the walk from the cruise terminal to the French Quarter safe for a solo traveler?
The walk along the Riverwalk and through the Warehouse District is highly populated and generally very safe during daylight hours. A high density of security personnel is reported near the malls and hotels. However, you should avoid walking through the deserted industrial streets immediately under the Crescent City Connection bridge alone. Stick to the Riverwalk promenade or Magazine Street. The distance is 2.4 km (1.5 miles), so if you are solo, a $15.00 USD taxi is often worth the peace of mind. For a guaranteed safe and guided experience, book a companion walking tour, which ensures you stay on the most secure and historically significant paths.
How do I pay for the streetcar if I don't have exact change?
This is a common frustration as streetcar drivers do not give change. The fare is exactly $1.25 USD ($1.25 USD) per ride. Downloading the 'Le Pass' app on your smartphone before leaving the ship's wifi is strongly advised by destination partners. You can load $3.00 USD onto the app for a day pass, which you simply scan when boarding. If you must use cash, carry exact quarters and dollar bills. You cannot use credit cards directly on the streetcars. The app saved visitors an average of 15 minutes of frustration at the boarding platform.
Can I visit the famous St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 without a tour guide?
No. Since 2015, the Archdiocese of New Orleans has required all visitors to be accompanied by a licensed tour guide to prevent vandalism. It is worth noting that 'Save Our Cemeteries' offers the most authoritative tours for $25.00 USD (~$25.00 USD). You cannot simply walk up to the gate and buy a ticket for immediate entry; you should book at least 48 hours in advance. The tours last 45–60 minutes. If you arrive without a booking, you will be turned away. A cemetery tour can be bundled with a private French Quarter history walk to align timing with your ship’s departure; arrange it in advance through your cruise line or a licensed local operator.
Is Bourbon Street appropriate for seniors during the day?
During the morning hours (9:00 AM – 11:00 AM), Bourbon Street is actually quite peaceful and safe for seniors, as delivery trucks are the only traffic. However, after 1:00 PM, the atmosphere shifts significantly as bars begin to spill onto the street and the smell of refuse becomes intense in the heat. Visitors should walk Royal Street instead, which is one block over; it is cleaner, quieter, and features world-class art galleries. If you must see Bourbon Street, do a quick cross-walk at St. Ann Street and then return to the more refined blocks. It is a good idea to skip Bourbon Street entirely in favor of a private Garden District tour for a more comfortable experience.
What is the best way to see the Mississippi River from the shore?
The best view is from the 'Moonwalk' promenade in Woldenberg Park, located directly in front of Jackson Square. It is a 10-minute taxi ride from the terminal. The walking distance from the cathedral to the river takes about 4 minutes. You can sit on the tiered concrete steps and watch the massive container ships and paddlewheelers navigate the 90-degree 'Crescent' bend of the river. It is free and offers the most cooling breeze in the city. If you want to be on the water, the Canal Street Ferry costs $2.00 USD (~$2.00 USD) and takes you to Algiers Point and back in 30 minutes, providing the best skyline view of the city.
Are there any 'must-eat' foods that are only available at specific times?
Yes. If your cruise calls between January and March, you must try King Cake, which is a seasonal brioche pastry synonymous with Mardi Gras. A slice typically costs $5.00 USD. If you are here on a Monday, look for 'Red Beans and Rice' on lunch menus—this is a 200-year-old local tradition that persists in almost every neighborhood restaurant. For seafood, soft-shell crab is a seasonal delicacy usually available from May through September. You will notice that many high-end restaurants like Galatoire's have 'Friday Lunch' traditions that last four hours; avoid these if you have a 4:00 PM departure. A list of restaurants offering 'Express Creole' lunches for cruise passengers is available online.
Is the National WWII Museum too far to walk from the ship?
It depends on your terminal. From the Julia Street terminal, it is a very manageable 0.8 km (0.5 mile) walk through the Warehouse District, taking about 12 minutes. From the Erato Street terminal, it is slightly further but still walkable for an active senior. The taxi fare is measured at $8.00–$10.00 USD, which is a good investment if it is raining or particularly humid. The museum is located at 945 Magazine Street. Because the museum is so large, you should take a taxi 'there' to save your energy for the three hours of walking required inside. Pre-purchased 'Timed Entry' tickets to bypass the morning ticket window lines can be arranged in advance.
What should I do if it rains during my New Orleans port call?
New Orleans rain is usually heavy but brief. If it starts to pour, head immediately to the 'The Shops at Canal Place' or the 'National WWII Museum'—both offer hours of indoor, climate-controlled exploration. The 'Sazerac House' is another excellent free indoor option. Avoid the French Market during heavy rain as the open-air stalls provide little protection and the pavement becomes very slick. You will notice that the RTA buses are a drier alternative to the streetcars, as the streetcar windows often leak in heavy downpours. A taxi back to the pier will cost about $15.00 USD. It is best to keep a 'Museum Day' plan as a backup for any summer port call due to afternoon thunderstorms.
How much should I tip the jazz musicians in Jackson Square?
If you stop to listen for more than one song, the cultural norm is to tip $2.00–$5.00 USD per person in your party. These are professional musicians, not beggars, and this is their primary livelihood. If you take a photo or video of them, a $5.00 tip is considered the polite minimum. Most tourists spend 15 minutes listening to the brass bands; a five-dollar bill is the standard 'thank you' for that amount of time. You will find that a small tip often earns you a friendly conversation and local recommendations you won't find in guides. For more on local tipping customs, visit the practical tips section.
Fact-checked and co-written by J. Richard, Founder, Waterways Cruise, with the Waterways Cruise Content Team.
Published May 19, 2026 · Last updated November 2, 2026
This guide is researched and reviewed by our editorial team, but prices, hours, and availability change often. Confirm current details directly with venues, excursion operators, and your cruise line before you travel.