New Orleans in October: Weather, What to Do, and Tips for Visitors in 2024
October in New Orleans is so much fun! The city is full of lively places to enjoy live music, savor amazing meals, and time travel through historic buildings and haunting myths. Though October does fall during hurricane season in New Orleans, travelers willing to take the risk will have a wonderful time in the city during this month.
Though the fall season is in full swing this month, October weather in New Orleans is still somewhat hot. Spring is typically the busiest time for tourism, so visiting New Orleans in October won’t be as busy as the peak season. You’ll be able to enjoy some of the most popular attractions without Mardi Gras or Jazz Festival crowds during October.
Average New Orleans weather in October is definitely warm but not as stifling as New Orleans in July or August. The temperature in New Orleans during this month signifies a definite fall from the summer highs, but be sure to dress for the heat during the day and bring a couple of layers in case things get slightly chilly in the evening.
Overall, given the weather in New Orleans in October and the area’s ongoing festivities, this month really is a great time of year to explore all the wonders of this great city.
New Orleans Weather in October
The weather in October begins to cool off from the summer heat. New Orleans’ monthly weather temperatures in October show the first significant dip in temperatures, the beginning of ushering in crisper fall weather.
Temperature in New Orleans in October
During the month of October, you can expect the average temperature in New Orleans to be nearly 79° Fahrenheit. Overnight, the low average temperature in New Orleans in October drops to around 67° Fahrenheit.
- Average high temperature in New Orleans in October: 79° Fahrenheit
- Average low temperature in New Orleans in October: 67° Fahrenheit
- What are the hottest months in New Orleans? July and August at 89° Fahrenheit
- What are the coldest months in New Orleans? January at 60° Fahrenheit
Things to Do in New Orleans in October
Looking for what to do in New Orleans in October? It’s a bustling Gulf Coast city full of fun and interesting places to explore. There’s so much unique and fascinating history to take in, as well as a beautiful cultural atmosphere full of performative art, spooky mystery, and of course, so much delectable food!
Here’s a quick rundown of some of our favorite ways to enjoy the wonders of The Big Easy!
Explore The French Quarter
The French Quarter is the center of this historic city. It’s the heart of New Orleans. Take a self-guided walking tour of this area and enjoy special sites like Jackson Square.
This is one of the best places to visit to enjoy the musical styles of street performers. It’s a wonderful way to catch the artistic vibe of what New Orleans is all about. During our stroll through the French Quarter, we loved admiring the beautiful artwork on display as well as watching the street performers.
St. Louis Cathedral is another historical highlight not to be missed. It’s the oldest cathedral in North America. The city is full of stunning 18th-century buildings that can carry visitors into a time long passed.
And, of course, Bourbon Street will be on your New Orleans itinerary. Perfect for travelers who are looking to enjoy this city’s nightlife, this area is full of Jazz Clubs brimming with energy to keep you dancing all night long.
The French Quarter is considered one of the safest neighborhoods in New Orleans predominantly due to its massive tourist presence. It can be a fun place to peruse during the day, but we do not recommend visiting this area at night. Petty crimes are very common in this area, especially in the evening hours.
Explore The Garden District
Travelers looking to branch out beyond the French Quarter would likely enjoy a gorgeous stroll throughout the Garden District of New Orleans. Explore the oak tree-lined streets as you take in the lovely gardens and creepy mansions in this part of town. The historic nature of the city really comes to life in the Garden District.
Some of our favorite places to check out in this part of town include Lafayette Cemetery No.1, the historic Brevard-Clapp House, and Robinson House. The House of Broel’s Victorian Mansion and Doll House Museum offers a really unique New Orleans experience. For art lovers, be sure to stop by Zele NOLA and the Speilman Gallery in this neighborhood.
New Orleans Tours
New Orleans Food Tours
Aside from Mardi Gras and voodoo, one of the things New Orleans is most famous for is its food. From PoBoys to beignets, from crawfish and jambalaya, there are so many unique dishes to savor in this city.
New Orleans food tours are one of the best ways to taste all of what this town has to offer. Many of these walking tours provide not only a chance to enjoy delicious food but also experience the highlights of the city with a highly experienced guide. You’ll leave with a full belly and a new appreciation for the wonders of the city.
There are so many amazing tours to choose from, so don’t fret over whether there’s a perfect tour for your needs. You can’t go wrong with a standard food tour in this city, but other tours offer a more specialized experience.
For instance, adults looking for some age-appropriate fun might enjoy a food and bar crawl food tour. It’s a fun way to explore the flavors of the city while also enjoying the nightlife. Families traveling with younger children can’t go wrong with a donut and beignet-inspired tour! It’s like a sugar rush just thinking about it!
New Orleans Cemetery Tours
The mysterious and spooky nature of the city is one of the biggest pulls for tourists to visit New Orleans. There’s no better way to experience the shadowy history of the city than onboard one of the New Orleans cemetery tours.
The best thing about these tours is that they have a wide variety of coverage. Some are budget-friendly and relatively quick, while others are more in-depth. Some are basic and keep things family-friendly, while others dive deeper into the dark underbelly and spooky history of the city.
There are several different variations of cemetery tours to choose from. Some of them are packaged with a walking tour of the French Quarter or other parts of the city, which is a fun way to see multiple sides of the city through one tour.
Other tours offer a more in-depth exploration of specific cemeteries, some of which cannot be explored privately but only with the tour group.
▶️ BOOK New Orleans Cemetery Tour
Creole Queen Riverboat Ride
The raging Mississippi River is a famous feature of the landscape of New Orleans. We’ve found that the most fun and entertaining way to experience the river is onboard a Creole Queen river boat tour.
Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner cruise out on the water or a historically informative guide of the city from a riverboat, definitely consider adding a tour like this to your New Orleans itinerary.
New Orleans Airboat Tours
While many travelers make their way to New Orleans to explore the city scene, there are many mysteries and wonders to be discovered in the swamps and bayous that surround the city. A New Orleans airboat tour through the Louisiana marshes is a thrilling and memorable adventure the whole family will enjoy.
Not only do these tours provide a fun couple of hours out on the water, but the experience of riding on an airboat is also seriously one of the best things you could try on a visit to New Orleans.
Our ride through the swamp was one of our favorite things we did during our last visit to New Orleans.
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Events in New Orleans in October
Here’s a sneak peek at some of the events happening in New Orleans during the month of October 2023. Take a look to see if any fun events coincide with the timeline of your trip to the Gulf Coast.
New Orleans October Festivals
New Orleans Fall Garden Festival
Green thumbs will unite at the New Orleans Fall Garden Festival on October 7, 2023. New Orleans Botanical Garden will play host to the lush festivities featuring plant and garden product exhibits, educational demonstrations, as well as live music and delicious food!
Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival
Lafayette Square Park will be hoping from October 13-15 as the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Foundation presents the Crescent City Blues & BBQ Festival. Every year blues musicians from Louisiana and Mississippi gather here to celebrate art through music and food.
With an impressive food line-up and stellar musical acts on the bill, this is a free event that entire families will love!
Nola Funk Fest
The Lousiana Music & Heritage Experience is set to present the Nola Funk Fest, October 20-22 at the New Orleans Jazz Museum. With the makings of a full-fledged music festival, this celebration will feature live music on two different stages, each featuring some of the most talented artists in the city.
And you can bet there will be food vendors on hand, just waiting to make all your culinary dreams come true! This event is set to be a great testament to the richness of Louisiana’s musical history, both past and present.
Oktoberfest
Travelers searching for a taste of Germany while in New Orleans will be happy to stumble upon the city’s Oktoberfest celebrations. Happening over multiple weekends in October (the 13-14th, 20-21st, and 27-28th), festival attendees can expect to enjoy some fun entertainment while dining on brats, sauerkraut, bavarian-style pretzels, and of course, lots of German beers and wines.
Sporting Events
Who Dat Sundays are a main-stay in this town as the New Orleans Saints make their way through another NFL season in October in New Orleans. Tailgate parties are the place to be this month!
What to Wear in New Orleans in October
New Orleans in October weather will be decently hot during the day, so think summer essentials when packing for a getaway to the Big Easy this month. Lightweight clothing, including shorts, t-shirts, or even sundresses, for ladies who want to glam things up a bit.
Don’t forget to pack some layers for cooler evenings. A rain jacket and umbrella are good items to consider too. Quick rain showers are not uncommon in NOLA in October.
Best Time to Visit New Orleans
The best time to visit New Orleans is at the beginning of the year, save for the influx in February for Mardi Gras. January, March, and April provide enjoyable weather along with fewer crowds.
Because demand for flights and accommodations aren’t as high with fewer travelers, prices decrease, making this a financially optimal time to visit.
Hurricane Season in New Orleans
New Orleans is a lively and entertaining city, but it’s not all fun and games. Being on the Gulf Coast, the city is vulnerable and has been hit several times by the wrath of hurricanes.
Hurricane season runs from the beginning of June through November each year and should not be taken lightly. The height of hurricane activity typically happens within the limited span between late August and early September.
October and November are also boasted as some of the best months to travel to NOLA, but we recommend planning your trip outside hurricane season.
Where to Stay in New Orleans
Drury Plaza Hotel New Orleans – Budget
⭐️ Rating 9.6/10 |📍Location: 820 Poydras St in New Orleans | 🏩 View on Expedia.com
Drury Plaza Hotel New Orleans is both a budget-friendly and family-friendly place to stay when visiting New Orleans. You can’t beat the comfortable accommodations here at a more affordable price.
The cozy rooms include a microwave and refrigerator, cribs are available at no extra cost, and rollaway beds can be added for a surcharge.
Friendly staff. Security measures are well in place. Walking distance to Jackson Square. And you can’t beat the dinner and breakfast provided.
– Daniel (Read More Reviews)
A complimentary breakfast buffet is offered each morning, and there is a convenient restaurant and bar on-site as well. We love the outdoor pool and that the hotel is pet-friendly!
We have stayed at the Drury hotels on multiple occasions and always have a great experience at the hotels.
▶️ Check Rates & Availability at Drury Plaza Hotel New Orleans
The Royal Sonesta New Orleans – Mid-Range
⭐️ Rating 8.4/10 |📍Location: 300 Bourbon St in New Orleans | 🏩 View on Expedia.com
The Royal Sonesta New Orleans is one of the top hotels to consider if you want to stay at a property committed to keeping the New Orleans theme alive and well. This hotel’s decor is strongly influenced by old-time plantation style mixed with some modern touches.
Really central to everything but surprisingly quiet once you’re inside. Slept well and felt very comfortable.
– Rebecca (Read More Reviews)
The rooms and entire property are clean and tastefully designed. It’s a wonderful place to stay if you want to spend a little extra on a special hotel experience but not break the bank at the same time.
▶️ Check Rates & Availability at The Royal Sonesta New Orleans
Audubon Cottages – Luxury
⭐️ Rating 9.6/10 |📍Location: 509 Dauphine St in New Orleans | 🏩 View on Expedia.com
Audubon Cottages is a comfortable and beautifully rustic-inspired place to stay in New Orleans. Beds in the cottages feature premium bedding, and the living areas include flat-screen TVs. Our biggest disappointment with this spot is that it doesn’t provide microwaves or refrigerators in the cottages.
Beautiful private property! The walkway through the front doors is breathtaking! Perfect location, not far from Bourbon St. Staff was amazing too, Brian and Jeffrey’s recommendations were worth the visit. We’ll definitely be returning.
– Amy (Read More Reviews)
We love that the cottages here can be equipped with cribs and rollaway beds without an extra fee. The garden and outdoor pool provide a lovely landscape to enjoy while unwinding from a long day exploring the city.
▶️ Check Rates & Availability at Audubon Cottages
October Travel Tips
Walk or Ride, Don’t Drive
If possible, avoid driving. Some of the most popular places in town have one-way and narrow streets that can be hard to navigate for first-time visitors. Plus, parking can be a nightmare and expensive, and pedestrians are everywhere.
The town is pretty easily navigated on foot, and streetcars, as well as buses, are available for public transportation. Bike rentals are available at your fingertips as well. If you are visiting New Orleans with kids and they are old enough to cruise around on two wheels, it’s a pretty cool way to explore the city.
There are even a couple of ferry options if you are interested in exploring a part of the city on the opposite side of the Mississippi River.
Avoid Staying in the French Quarter
Because the French Quarter is the center of town, hotel rates tend to be more expensive here. If you’re interested in being close to the action but want to save money where you can, consider staying nearby but a few blocks outside of the quarter.
FAQ: New Orleans in October
What is the Weather Like in New Orleans in October?
The weather in New Orleans in October carries some summer heat into fall. The temperatures typically fall somewhere between the mid-60s to the high-70s.
Is October a Good Time to Go to New Orleans?
October is a nice time to visit New Orleans. The Gulf Coast weather is enjoyable, and there are so many fun things to do. Plus, the crowds aren’t as dense during the fall as they are in the peak tourist season in the spring.
Is October Hurricane Season in New Orleans?
Yes, October does fall during hurricane season in New Orleans. Hurricane season runs from June 1st through November 30th, with the height of activity typically falling from late August to early September.
Definitely keep hurricane season in mind when planning a trip to New Orleans.
How is NOLA in October?
New Orleans in October is lively, and though autumn has arrived, it’s still very warm. The temperatures aren’t as stifling as those during the summer, but some heat still lingers during this month as hurricane season rages on. That said, there’s much to see and explore in the city throughout October.
What Month is Best to Go to New Orleans?
New Orleans is a very nice year-round destination. That said, the best month to visit will depend on exactly what type of experience you’re looking to have in the Big Easy. January and March are great months to visit, thanks to cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, which often translates to cheaper flights and accommodations.
Conclusion: New Orleans in October
New Orleans truly is a wonderful place to visit. With such a colorful culture alive and on display through street performers and mouthwatering cuisine, it’s tough not to have a good time here. So, whether you decide to visit New Orleans in October or another month down the road, you hope you have a marvelous time getting to know this unique and enjoyable city.
