New Orleans in February: Weather, What to Do, and Tips for Visitors in 2024

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February in New Orleans is so much fun! The city is the liveliest it will be all year, full of hopping places to enjoy live music, savor amazing meals, and time travel through historic buildings and haunting myths.

February does not fall during 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 continues to linger, February weather in New Orleans isn’t cold. Spring is typically the busiest time for tourism, but you can expect some major crowds visiting New Orleans in February for the famed Mardi Gras festival.

Average New Orleans weather in February is somewhat warm for winter standards, but definitely nothing compared to the stifling temperatures of New Orleans in July or August.

The temperature in New Orleans during this month begins the slow ascent to warmer spring temperatures promised in just a few short months. Daytime will likely be comfortable, but things can still get a little chilly in the evening, so keep a sweatshirt in tow.

Overall, given the weather in New Orleans in February, this month really is a great time of year to explore all the wonders of this great city.

New Orleans Weather in February  

The weather in February begins to warm up as winter progresses and spring comes up on the horizon. New Orleans’ monthly weather temperatures in February increased an average of 4 degrees from January’s temperatures. It’s all up from here as temperatures will continue to heat up from this point on throughout September in New Orleans.

Temperature in New Orleans in February

Chart of temperatures, displaying temperatures for New Orleans in February.
Source: Weather Atlas

During the month of February, you can expect the average temperature in New Orleans to be around 64° Fahrenheit. Overnight, the low average temperature in New Orleans in February drops to around 52° Fahrenheit.

  • Average high temperature in New Orleans in February: 64° Fahrenheit
  • Average low temperature in New Orleans in February: 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 February

Carriage ride in New Orleans in February

Looking for what to do in New Orleans in February? 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

A church in the French Quarter in New Orleans

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 

Visiting a cemetery in New Orleans in February

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 

Eating food during a food tour in New Orleans in February

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! 

▶️ BOOK New Orleans Food Tour 

New Orleans Cemetery Tours

A cemetery tour is a fun thing to do in New Orleans in February

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 paddlewheel of a river boat in New Orleans, Louisiana

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.  

▶️ BOOK Creole Queen Tour 

New Orleans Airboat Tours 

An airboat driving through the swamps near New Orleans, Louisiana

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 February

Here’s a sneak peek at some of the events happening in New Orleans during the month of February 2024. Take a look to see if any fun events coincide with the timeline of your trip to the Gulf Coast. 

New Orleans February Festivals 

Mardi Gras

Masks we saw in New Orleans in February.

The quintessential New Orleans festival, Mardi Gras (also known as Carnival) will take place on Tuesday, February 13, 2024. Fat Tuesday and the days leading up to it are filled with countless parades and celebrations throughout the city.

Krewe du Vieux, Muses, and Endymion are some of the not to be missed parties that happen during the most special time of year in New Orleans.

It is important to note that though Mardi Gras celebrations can make for a good time, they are adult-themed and can oftentimes be rowdy. We wouldn’t recommend including children in your Mardi Gras plans.

Family Gras

If you’d like to share a similarly joyful experience like Mardi Gras with your family, consider visiting New Orleans a couple weeks earlier for Family Gras.

Taking place February 2nd-4th, Family Gras is one of the most fun things to do in New Orleans with kids. This celebration brings many of the authentic Mardi Gras traditions to children in a family-friendly format.

You can enjoy parades together, as well as delicious and local New Orleans food. Face painting, games, and concerts are also part of the fun.

Food served in New Orleans

Tet Fest

Some travelers may be surprised to learn that New Orleans is home to a sizable Vietnamese population. Tet Fest is the New Orleans Vietnamese New Year celebration that showcases some of the most lovely aspects of this culture.

Every February, the Queen Mary of Vietnam Church transforms into Party Central as the community celebrates the Vietnamese New Year through music, dance, and, of course, delicious food.

Sporting Events 

New Orleans Pelicans

A visit to Smoothie King Center to watch the Pelicans on the court is a great way to spend a February day in New Orleans for basketball fans! The team will play a handful of home games in New Orleans in February.

What to Wear in New Orleans in February  

New Orleans in February weather will be decently comfortable during the day, so don’t pack anything too heavy 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 February averages around 5″ of rain throughout the month.

Balconies in the French Quarter in NOLA

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 of the demand for flights and accommodations during this festive time in New Orleans, prices tend to increase, making February in New Orleans one of the most expensive and hectic times 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 

Outdoor pool area at Drury Plaza Hotel New Orleans, one of the best places to stay in New Orleans in February.
Outdoor pool area at Drury Plaza Hotel New Orleans (Photo: Expedia)

⭐️ 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 

Pool area and terrace at The Royal Sonesta New Orleans.
The Royal Sonesta New Orleans (Photo: Expedia)

  ⭐️ 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 

Sitting and sleeping areas inside one of Audubon Cottages, one of the best places to stay in New Orleans in February.
Audubon Cottages (Photo: Expedia)

⭐️ 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

February 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. 

Jazz musicians playing music in NOLA

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 February

What is the Weather Like in New Orleans in February? 

The weather in New Orleans in February is one of the coolest months of the year. The temperatures typically fall somewhere between the mid-60s to the low 50s. 

A riverboat in Louisiana

Is February a Good Time to Go to New Orleans? 

February is a nice but busy time to visit New Orleans. The Gulf Coast weather is enjoyable, and there are so many fun things to do. But because festivals are in full swing, crowds will be more dense during this month. The crowds will continue to grow as peak tourist season in the spring approaches.

Is February Hurricane Season in New Orleans? 

February 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 February? 

New Orleans in February is very lively and happening, and though it’s in the heart of the winter season, the temperatures are somewhat warm.

It’s a great time to escape the cold temperatures through most of the country and enjoy the mild weather in New Orleans before it gets stifling again in the summer. There’s so much to see and enjoy in the city throughout February.

Going on a swamp tour to see the alligators is a fun activity to do in NOLA

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 February

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 February or another month down the road, we hope you have a marvelous time!

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