Budget Travel Tips for The Big Easy (New Orleans)

I have been to New Orleans several times and some of the best experiences with my family came at a small cost. Here are some of the must-do, budget friendly things to do in The Big Easy:

1. Take a trip on the trolley/streetcars: The standard one-way fare is $1.25 (bring exact change). The trolley can take you to some of the most historical and beautiful places in N.O. My sisters and I spent a whole day touring the cemeteries and City Park via the streetcars. The cemeteries and park were free. The cemeteries are lined with beautiful monuments and a few notables. City Park is riddled with picturesque opportunities. From the gorgeous trees that make you think of the South to the various sculptures and activities around the park, there is a full day of family fun waiting to be had. You can also stop for beignets at the Morning Call Coffee Shop or stop by the Cafe Du Monde food truck that recently set up shop in the park.
2. Search Groupon for a Ghost Tour. I love ghost tours and have done them in several cities. New Orleans is the best for these tours because of the mystery that surrounds the city and the culture. You should not pay more than $15 per person. Whether you believe in ghosts or not, the history that is told on these tours is SO worth it.
3. Stay away from the Casino. Even though gambling is “illegal” in Louisiana, “gaming” is not. The casino in New Orleans is by far the tightest casino I have been to. Believe me, this is a budget-saving tip.
4. Take a stroll on the Riverwalk. The Riverwalk is full of beautiful and unique sculptures. I don’t typically enjoy the idea of looking at sculptures or art, but this stroll is worth it & won’t cost you a dime!
5. My Uncle Frank is obsessed with WWII & loved the museum. You can typically find a ticket on Groupon for about $29. Not the cheapest option, especially with a family, but well worth it if you are WWII buff.
6. Cafe Du Monde is an obvious suggestion but a must. The service is pretty terrible, but the beignets are amazing and there is usually a sax player within earshot if you are sitting outside. The ambiance and tasty dessert is worth putting up with the service and crammed seating.
7. Here is where to splurg: DEANIE’S Seafood. There is one smack-dab in the middle of the French Quarter. It is amazing!!! I order the BBQ Shrimp (which is much different that what most expect but soooo good), and they have slices of cake that are not on the menu and change daily. Ask if they have the “wedding cake”. It is the most amazing cake that I ever tasted.
8. Winter is the time to go if you are not looking to party. The weather is perfect! If you go in the Summer, it is hot, muggy, and the whole city has a distinctly unpleasant smell. I have been at various times of the year, and December was my favorite N.O. trip.