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Is New Orleans safe? An honest guide for visitors
Short answer
The main tourist areas of New Orleans are busy and generally fine for visitors, but the city has a higher crime rate than many US cities. The realistic risks are robbery and theft at night on quiet streets, pickpocketing in crowds, and heat and storms. Taking taxis or rideshares at night rather than walking long distances goes a long way.
The real risks
Street crime at night
Muggings occur on quiet, dark streets, including on the edges of the French Quarter and in the Marigny and Tremé after dark. Stay on busy, lit streets and use a rideshare for longer distances.
Pickpocketing and scams
In crowds on Bourbon Street and during parades. Ignore the 'I bet I can tell where you got your shoes' hustle.
Heat and humidity
Summer highs of 31–32°C with high humidity; drink water and rest in the shade.
Hurricanes and floods
Hurricane season runs from June to November, and heavy rain can flood streets. Follow local warnings.
Areas and times to take care
The French Quarter, Garden District, Warehouse District and Frenchmen Street are busy and generally fine, with care at night. Bourbon Street is crowded and rowdy late; watch your belongings. Avoid walking alone through empty streets after dark, including around Louis Armstrong Park and the edges of the Quarter. Cemeteries are best visited with a guided tour.
Getting around safely
Uber, Lyft and taxis are easy to find. Streetcars and buses run late on main lines but less frequently at night. Do not walk long distances between neighbourhoods at night.
Solo and women travellers
Solo women visit New Orleans often. Stay in busy areas, use rideshares at night, watch your drink on Bourbon Street and in bars, and stay with friends during Mardi Gras crowds.
Health, water and heat
Tap water is safe. Summer heat and humidity can cause exhaustion. Mosquitoes are common in summer; use repellent, especially on swamp tours. US healthcare is expensive, so carry travel insurance.
Official travel advice
Check your government's advice before you travel — it is updated when things change.
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Common questions
Is New Orleans safe?
The main tourist areas are busy and generally fine. Take care at night: stay on lit, crowded streets and use rideshares for longer distances.
Is Bourbon Street safe?
It is heavily policed but crowded and rowdy at night. Watch your belongings and your drink.
Should I worry about hurricanes?
Hurricane season runs June to November, peaking in August–September. Watch forecasts and follow local instructions.