Lodging question - airbnb safe area?

Question

We are planning a trip in March with our two teens and one small dog. I started looking at airbnb in the area. Wanted to be close to French quarter as this is our first time in New Orleans. Is Mid City a safe area? Any areas I should stay away from? Dont want to end up in a sketchy place .

Thanks!

Answer

It’s great that you’re planning a trip to New Orleans! The city has so much to offer, and with a bit of careful planning, you’ll have a wonderful experience. Here’s a breakdown of areas to consider and some safety tips for staying near the French Quarter:

1. Mid City Safety

Mid City is generally considered a safe and vibrant area, especially near the popular Canal Street and the City Park area. It's a great place to stay if you want a more local experience, and it’s relatively close to the French Quarter (about a 10-minute drive). Mid City has great dining, local bars, and is home to City Park, which is perfect for a walk with your dog. You should be fine in most parts of Mid City, but like any urban area, it’s always important to stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night.

2. French Quarter

If you want to be right near the action, staying in or near the French Quarter is ideal. It’s safe for tourists during the day, but can get crowded and noisy, especially at night. If you're staying in the French Quarter, try to book somewhere a few blocks away from Bourbon Street, as it can be a bit rowdy late at night. The areas around Jackson Square, Royal Street, and Esplanade are much quieter and still very walkable to all the key spots.

3. Areas to Avoid

Some parts of Central City and St. Roch are known for having higher crime rates and may not be the best choice for tourists, especially at night. While these areas are not without their charm, they are better suited for daytime exploration with caution.
Gert Town and parts of New Orleans East also have less tourism and can be riskier for visitors unfamiliar with the area. It's best to avoid staying in these areas, particularly if you're looking for easy access to attractions.
While not typically unsafe, Treme and certain areas near Claiborne Avenue can be a little more mixed in terms of safety and can feel less tourist-friendly, especially after dark. That said, Treme has a rich cultural history and daytime visits can be very rewarding.

4. Additional Tips for Choosing Airbnb Locations

Make sure to check the location on a map and see how far it is from popular attractions, but also check user reviews specifically mentioning safety and location. Airbnb hosts will often provide information about safety in the area.
Look for properties with good security features (like gated entries or good lighting) and consider places that are closer to well-traveled streets. Avoid areas that seem too isolated or too far from main roads.
Since you're traveling with a small dog, check if there are nearby parks or dog-friendly spots. City Park is a great choice, and the French Quarter is also very walkable for dogs, though not always the most quiet environment.

5. Additional Recommendations

In addition to your lodging, it’s important to be cautious about walking in areas at night, especially when traveling with children. Stick to well-lit streets and avoid wandering too far off the beaten path after dark. In general, the French Quarter, Marigny, Bywater, and parts of the Garden District are known to be safe and tourist-friendly.

I hope this helps! New Orleans is a beautiful and unique city with so much to explore. Have a great time and enjoy your visit!