Best things to book ahead of going

Question

We are off to NOLA at the end of March. What sort of things are best to book ahead of time - tours, jazz, restaurants etc?

Answer

New Orleans is a vibrant city with so much to see and do, but it's also a popular destination, especially around March when events and festivals are in full swing. Booking certain things in advance can save you time and ensure you don't miss out on key experiences. Here’s a rundown of what you should consider booking ahead of your trip:

Popular Restaurants

New Orleans is known for its exceptional food scene, and some of the most famous restaurants can get booked up quickly, especially during peak tourist seasons. If you have specific places in mind, like Commander's Palace, Dooky Chase, or Cochon, it's a good idea to make a reservation in advance. This is especially true for dinner reservations, as they tend to fill up fast during prime times.

Jazz Clubs

If you're interested in experiencing live jazz music in New Orleans, booking ahead for certain jazz clubs is highly recommended, particularly if you want to secure a good seat. The famous Preservation Hall, for example, often has long lines or pre-sold tickets for popular time slots. Other great venues include The Spotted Cat, Snug Harbor, and Maison. If you're visiting during a busy time, reserving your spot can guarantee you don’t miss out on the best shows.

Tours

New Orleans offers a range of exciting tours, and some can get booked up quickly, especially if they are more specialized. For example:

Swamp Tours: The swamp tours around the city are incredibly popular and run by a limited number of operators. If you want to get a spot on a particular tour, it's best to book ahead.
Cemetery Tours: New Orleans is known for its historic cemeteries, and many tour companies offer guided visits to the famous St. Louis Cemetery No. 1. These tours can fill up quickly, especially during the high tourist season.
Food Tours: A food tour through New Orleans is a must, but they can fill up, especially during popular times. Consider booking a tour like the "St. Louis Cemetery and French Quarter Food Tour" or a classic "Crescent City Food Tour" ahead of time.
Walking Tours: There are a variety of walking tours available, including ghost tours, architecture tours, and historical tours. These are also popular, and it's a good idea to reserve your spot in advance.

Events and Festivals

If you're visiting during a special event or festival like the French Quarter Festival or the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival (both of which happen around the time of your trip), it's a good idea to look into booking tickets or making reservations for specific activities within the event. Some events may require advance registration, especially for exclusive activities or performances.

Airport Transfers or Shuttle Services

If you're looking for a more convenient or private transfer from the airport to your hotel, it's a good idea to book airport shuttles, taxis, or private car services in advance. This can help you avoid long lines when you arrive and ensure a smoother, more comfortable trip into the city.

Overall, booking ahead for popular activities like restaurant reservations, jazz club shows, and tours can make your trip to New Orleans more enjoyable and stress-free. Many of these activities have limited capacity, and advance bookings help ensure you won’t miss out on the best experiences the city has to offer.