Transportation

The journey is part of the adventure.

Getting around New Orleans is easier than you might think. The city is compact, walkable, and full of transportation options, whether you’re hopping on a historic streetcar, catching a ferry across the Mississippi, calling a rideshare, or taking a taxi.

One thing you’ll notice is that locals don’t usually talk about north, south, east and west. Instead, we give directions based on the water. You’ll hear people say riverside, lakeside, upriver and downriver—a nod to the Mississippi River and Lake Pontchartrain, which have shaped life here for centuries.

Don’t worry if it sounds confusing at first. Visitors rarely need to know the local lingo to find their way around. From the French Quarter and Garden District to City Park and beyond, getting where you want to go is simple. Explore the transportation options below and start discovering New Orleans like a local.

Tip: The St. Charles Avenue Streetcar isn’t just transportation—it’s one of the city’s most scenic rides. Grab a window seat and enjoy the oak-lined avenue, historic mansions and Garden District views.