Mardi Gras visit

Question

Help / guidance required please . We are a newly early retired couple doing a bucket list USA month long trip and have incorporated New Orleans over Mardi Gras .

We are flying in from New York on weds 26 Feb , staying on Marais street ( what Is the best way to transfer there ? )

We are leaving on weds 5th ( hiring a car to head to Dallas) Will we get out of the city ok ?

We plan to a river steamboat lunch on Fri 28 Feb .. is this a good idea ? otherwise have nothing else booked and plan to go with the flow and enjoy parades . Which will be the best parades to visit ?

Do we need to pre book restaurants? We want to enjoy the culture and throw ourselves into the fun of it all . We like a drink and good food

Thanks in advance . No idea what to expect / book .

Answer

It sounds like you have an exciting trip planned! New Orleans during Mardi Gras is a unique and vibrant experience. Here's some detailed guidance to help you make the most of your visit:

Getting to Marais Street:

Since you're flying into New Orleans from New York, the best way to transfer to your accommodation on Marais Street is by taking a taxi, rideshare (like Uber or Lyft), or a private shuttle. The Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) is about 20-30 minutes from the Marais area by car. Taxis and rideshares are widely available at the airport, and you'll find designated pickup areas. For convenience, Uber or Lyft will offer a more personalized service, and prices should range from $35–$45 depending on traffic and time of day. Shuttles are available, but you might have to share with others, and they are typically less flexible with time.

Getting out of New Orleans (Post Mardi Gras):

On the Wednesday after Mardi Gras (March 5th), leaving the city should be fine, but expect some traffic as the festivities wrap up. Mardi Gras Day is on February 25th, so the days after are still a bit chaotic, especially with the clean-up and the return of residents and workers. However, by mid-morning or early afternoon, the roads should be clear enough. Just give yourself some extra time to account for potential parade-related street closures or traffic disruptions.

River Steamboat Lunch (Fri 28th Feb):

A river steamboat lunch cruise is definitely a good idea! It's a classic New Orleans experience, offering a unique view of the Mississippi River while enjoying a nice meal. The Naturally New Orleans cruise or the Steamboat Natchez are two popular options. If you love the riverfront and want to experience a bit of history, this is a wonderful way to spend a few hours. Be sure to book in advance, as these cruises can fill up quickly, especially during Mardi Gras season.

Parades to Attend:

There are many fantastic parades during Mardi Gras, each with its own theme and style. Here are some of the best ones to consider:

Krewe of Endymion (Feb 25th): One of the largest and most spectacular parades, with incredible floats and massive crowds. It is a must-see for first-time Mardi Gras visitors.
Krewe of Bacchus (Feb 26th): Known for its celebrity grand marshals and enormous, elaborate floats. It’s one of the top parades and a fan favorite.
Krewe of Orpheus (Feb 26th): Another big parade with a great mix of celebrity participation and dazzling floats.
Krewe of Muses (Feb 28th): A women’s Mardi Gras parade with an exciting and creative vibe, offering some of the best throws (especially the coveted high-heeled shoes!).
Krewe of Zulu (Feb 25th): One of the oldest and most iconic parades, Zulu’s theme and history make it a must-see event.

The best places to catch parades are along St. Charles Avenue (which is near your accommodation) and in the French Quarter. Marais Street is close to the route, so you should have no trouble getting to the parades. For the best experience, arrive early to secure a good spot. Keep in mind that some parades are more crowded than others, so be prepared for a lively and packed environment.

Restaurant Reservations:

It’s a good idea to pre-book some restaurants, especially during Mardi Gras, when places can get extremely busy. Popular spots like Commander’s Palace, Café du Monde, Dooky Chase’s, and Galatoire’s often require reservations. Since you mentioned you like good food and drinks, here are a few suggestions for dining:

Antoine’s Restaurant: A historic and iconic spot serving up classic New Orleans French-Creole dishes. Perfect for a memorable meal.
Coop’s Place: A casual spot in the French Quarter, known for its great jambalaya and fried chicken.
Commander's Palace: A staple of fine dining, but you’ll need a reservation well in advance.
Palace Café: Located on Canal Street, this place offers excellent Creole cuisine in a lovely setting, with some great local specialties.

Overall Recommendations:

Embrace the Culture: Mardi Gras is a celebration of New Orleans’ vibrant culture, so make sure to explore the French Quarter, visit historic landmarks, and enjoy the street music (jazz bands are common throughout the city).
Throw Yourself into the Fun: Don’t hesitate to join the revelry! Wear festive beads, dance in the streets, and enjoy the unique atmosphere of Mardi Gras. You might even get the chance to participate in some impromptu parades or "second line" marches.
Book Early for Popular Events: Many Mardi Gras events, like the riverboat cruise, popular restaurants, and parade viewing spots, book up well in advance. If you know where you want to eat or what you want to do, book as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.

Overall, Mardi Gras is a fantastic time to experience the magic of New Orleans. It's a once-in-a-lifetime experience, so enjoy the parades, the culture, the food, and the people. Have a wonderful trip!

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