New Orleans in December: Weather, What to Do, and Tips for Visitors in 2023
December 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.
December is the first month following hurricane season in New Orleans, so visitors can expect to have a wonderful time in the city with fewer weather-related concerns during this month.
Though the winter season is fast approaching, December weather in New Orleans is still somewhat warm. Spring is typically the busiest time for tourism, so visiting New Orleans in December 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 December. Plus, the city goes all out with its festive holiday decorations and celebrations this month too, which makes for lots of family fun.
Average New Orleans weather in December is somewhat warm but definitely nothing compared to the stifling temperatures of New Orleans in July or August. The temperature in New Orleans during this month continues to cool from the summer highs, but be sure to dress for warm days and bring a couple of layers in case things get slightly chilly in the evening.
Overall, given the weather in New Orleans in December and the area’s holiday festivities, this month really is a great time of year to explore all the wonders of this great city.
New Orleans Weather in December
The weather in December continues to cool off from the summer heat. New Orleans’ monthly weather temperatures in December drop an average of 5 degrees from November’s temperatures, solidifying the cooling trend moving into winter.
Temperature in New Orleans in December
During the month of December, you can expect the average temperature in New Orleans to be around 63° Fahrenheit. Overnight, the low average temperature in New Orleans in December drops to around 52° Fahrenheit.
- Average high temperature in New Orleans in December: 63° Fahrenheit
- Average low temperature in New Orleans in December: 52° 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 December
Looking for what to do in New Orleans in December? 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 fun to peruse during the day, but we do not recommend visiting this area at night. Petty crimes are common in this area, especially in the evening.
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.
▶️ BOOK New Orleans Airboat Tour
Events in New Orleans in December
Here’s a sneak peek at some of the events happening in New Orleans during the month of December 2023. Take a look to see if any fun events coincide with the timeline of your trip to the Gulf Coast.
New Orleans December Festivals
LUNA Fête
LUNA Fête is a special New Orleans festival that aims to connect the community with contemporary art. It stands for Light Up Nola Arts, and that’s just what this celebration does.
The city’s historic architecture is on full display every day, but this festival reimagines these buildings through the use of outdoor light installations and projections.
The festival is free and is a wonderful and unique way to explore the city through a new-age artistic lens. The festivities run for a few nights, December 7-10, at the Ernest N. Morial Convention Center Pedestrian Park in the Central Business District part of town.
Christmas Eve Bonfires on the Levee
The tradition of lighting bonfires along the Mississippi River on Christmas Eve dates back to this area’s earliest Cajun settlers. You can take part in the continued Christmas Eve Bonfire tradition as the bonfires on the river levees are ignited to light the way for Papa Noël’s journey that evening.
This would certainly make for a fun experience for your family if you happen to be spending the holidays in New Orleans.
West End Christmas Boat Parade and Lights on the Lake Celebration
December 9th is shaping up to be quite a holiday celebration near the New Canal Lighthouse in New Orleans, in the West End part of town, just near Lake Pontchartrain. The Lights on the Lake festival will feature lots of holiday activities for the kids, live performances from area choirs, as well as some very tasty food.
The highlight of the evening is the parade of glowing, expertly decorated boats that sail off across the lake. The lighthouse will be an excellent vantage point to enjoy the parade as well as the surrounding area’s cheerful holiday decorations.
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 December in New Orleans. Tailgate parties are the place to be this month!
What to Wear in New Orleans in December
New Orleans in December weather will be comfortably warm during the day, so think of typical lightweight clothing when packing for your trip to the Big Easy.
Don’t forget to pack some layers for cooler evenings, like sweatshirts or sweaters. A rain jacket and umbrella are good items to consider, too. NOLA in December gets bouts of light rain from time to time.
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
December 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 your family is old enough and equipped for it, cruising around on two wheels is 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 December
What is the Weather Like in New Orleans in December?
The weather in New Orleans in December continues to cool off from the summer heat but still feels warm for fall. The temperatures typically fall somewhere between the low 60s to the low 50s.
Is December a Good Time to Go to New Orleans?
December is a nice time to visit New Orleans. The Gulf Coast weather is enjoyable, and there are so many fun things to do. December is a wonderful time to visit New Orleans with kids because the holiday festivities make it all the more fun!
Plus, the crowds aren’t as dense during this month as they are in the peak tourist season in the spring.
Is December Hurricane Season in New Orleans?
December does not fall during hurricane season in New Orleans, so you won’t have to be as concerned about the weather if you travel this month. 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 December?
New Orleans in December is lively, and though winter is approaching, it’s still somewhat warm. The temperatures aren’t as stifling as those during the summer, but the heat that lingers is comfortable. There’s so much to see and enjoy in the city throughout December.
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 December
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 December or another month down the road, you hope you have a marvelous time!
