Port of New Orleans Cruise Guide

Massive waterfront hotel connected to Riverwalk — closest full-service hotel to the cruise port

Why we picked it: Literally the closest major hotel to the cruise terminals. Connected to Riverwalk Outlets via skybridge. Outdoor pool with Mississippi River views. Multiple restaurants and bars on-site. Rooms are comfortable and recently updated.

Pro tip: Ask for a river-view room — you can watch cruise ships from your window. The Drago's restaurant inside the hotel has excellent chargrilled oysters. Walking distance to the WWII Museum and Warehouse District dining.

Parking: Self-parking and valet both available, both priced for downtown. No long-term cruise parking packages.

Modern hotel near the Convention Center with a cruise package worth asking about

Why we picked it: Ask about the Port of New Orleans Hotel Deal when booking — it has historically bundled a ride to the port with a food and beverage credit. Walking distance to the WWII Museum and Magazine Street. Modern rooms with reliable Hilton standards.

Pro tip: Ask about the port-ride package when you book — it can save the hassle of parking or rideshare on embarkation day. Short walk to Cochon, Peche, and the rest of the Warehouse District.

Parking: Ask about the Port of New Orleans Hotel Deal when booking. Self-parking available at the usual downtown rate.

Two-room suites, free breakfast, evening cocktails. Room for the whole family to spread out.

Why we picked it: Two-room suites mean the kids get their own space. Free cooked-to-order breakfast feeds everyone without a restaurant bill. Evening reception has free drinks for parents and snacks for the kids. Outdoor pool. Walking distance to French Quarter.

Pro tip: The free breakfast is a legit hot buffet: eggs, pancakes, the works. That's real money saved for a family of four on cruise morning. The pool keeps kids busy the night before. Very close to the port for easy embarkation.

Parking: Valet parking available. No dedicated cruise parking packages.

Award-winning hotel with free hot breakfast, pool, and spacious suites near the port

Why we picked it: TripAdvisor Hall of Fame winner. Free hot breakfast, outdoor pool, and studio suites with mini-kitchens. Set in a converted historic warehouse with modern interiors. Eight blocks from the French Quarter.

Pro tip: Book a studio suite for families — the mini-kitchen is great for snacks and the extra space is worth it. Pool is a hit with kids. The lobby bar has a happy hour for parents. Walking distance to WWII Museum.

Parking: Self-parking available. Some cruise parking packages seasonally.

Warehouse District boutique with the best Stay, Park & Cruise deal for families driving in

Why we picked it: Per the hotel's own site, their Stay, Park & Cruise package includes one night, breakfast, and up to 8 days of secure parking. Perfect for families driving to their cruise. Spacious rooms (among the largest in the city). Walking distance to kid-friendly restaurants.

Pro tip: Book the cruise package directly through the hotel's website — it isn't sold through the room-booking button below.

Parking: Stay, Park & Cruise: up to 8 days parking included, booked directly with the hotel. Additional days available.

Per themercantilehotelneworleans.com, checked 2026-08-09

All-suite hotel with full kitchens, free breakfast, and a pool — feels like a home base

Why we picked it: Full kitchens in every suite mean you can prep snacks for the car or warm up leftovers. Free hot breakfast daily. Complimentary evening social with light dinner items. Outdoor pool and billiards room. Steps from the French Quarter.

Pro tip: The evening social is essentially a free light dinner — huge money saver for families. Full kitchens let you store milk, snacks, and leftovers. The pool is the perfect pre-cruise evening activity. Walk to Bourbon Street in 2 minutes.

Parking: Self-parking available. No dedicated cruise packages.

Modern all-suite hotel with rooftop bar, free breakfast, and walking distance to everything

Why we picked it: All suites with separate living and sleeping areas. Free buffet breakfast. Rooftop bar (Vue) with downtown views for parents. Modern, clean, and well-maintained. Close to streetcar lines and the French Quarter.

Pro tip: The rooftop bar is a nice touch for parents after the kids go to sleep. Breakfast is substantial: waffles, eggs, fruit. Close to the Canal Street streetcar for family exploring. An Uber to the port is a cheap, short hop.

Parking: Self-parking available at downtown rates. No cruise parking packages.

Park & Cruise package in the heart of the Quarter, which is good value for families who want location above all.

Why we picked it: Ask about their Park & Cruise package when booking — it's good value for driving families. Prime French Quarter location at Canal and Royal. Indoor heated pool year-round. On-site restaurant with familiar options for kids.

Pro tip: The Park & Cruise deal makes this one of the best values for driving families. Kids love the indoor pool regardless of weather. Mr. Ed's restaurant in the lobby serves kid-friendly options. Walk to Café du Monde in 10 minutes.

Parking: Ask about their Park & Cruise package when booking.

Upscale seafood restaurant in the Quarter with the freshest fish in the city

What to order: The menu changes daily based on what's freshest. Sizzling crab and lobster is a signature. The scalibut (halibut cooked like a scallop) is creative and delicious.

Pro tip: This is where chefs eat on their night off. Best for a special pre-cruise dinner the night before. Reservations essential. The wine list is excellent if you want to celebrate.

Parking: Bienville St in the French Quarter. Valet available or nearby garage.

Southern brunch spot with creative dishes and a warm, welcoming vibe for families

What to order: BBQ shrimp and grits is the star. Bananas Foster pain perdu (French toast) is incredible. Classic eggs and pancakes for kids. The beignet flight is a fun twist for the table.

Kids: Kid menu with pancakes, eggs, and bacon. Relaxed atmosphere where families are welcome. High chairs available. Generous portions mean sharing works well.

Pro tip: The CBD location is closest to the port and less crowded than the French Quarter spot. Weekend brunch draws a wait, so come early or plan to hang around a while.

Parking: Multiple locations — CBD on S Peters St has easiest parking near the port.

No-frills French Quarter oyster bar — chargrilled oysters that'll ruin you for all others

What to order: Chargrilled oysters — buttery, garlicky, and addictive. Raw oysters on the half shell. The po'boy is solid. Red beans and rice on Mondays.

Pro tip: The line outside looks long but moves quickly. Go right when they open to avoid the worst crowds. Sit at the bar and watch the shuckers work, which is half the experience.

Parking: French Quarter — walk or use a nearby parking garage. No dedicated lot.

Birthplace of the muffuletta sandwich since 1906 — a New Orleans pilgrimage

What to order: The original muffuletta. That's why you're here. It's a massive round sandwich with Italian meats, cheeses, and olive salad on sesame bread. A half feeds most people.

Pro tip: The line can stretch down the block on weekends — go early or on a weekday. A half muffuletta is plenty for one person. Buy a jar of their olive salad to take home. Credit cards now accepted.

Parking: On Decatur St in the French Quarter — no dedicated parking. Walk or use a nearby garage.

James Beard-winning Cajun restaurant in the Warehouse District, doing real-deal Louisiana cooking.

What to order: The wood-fired oysters are incredible. Pork is the star, so try the cochon with turnips and cracklins. The rabbit and dumplings is easy to overlook and shouldn't be. Louisiana craft beers on tap.

Pro tip: Reservations strongly recommended, especially for lunch. This is one of the best restaurants in the city, period. Walk-ins can try their luck at the bar.

Parking: Street parking on Tchoupitoulas or metered spots nearby. Valet sometimes available.

James Beard award winner grilling Gulf seafood over a wood fire.

What to order: Order the whole grilled fish. Catfish with chili glaze is outstanding. The raw bar has excellent Gulf oysters. Save room for the peanut butter pie.

Pro tip: Same owners as Cochon, right next door. If you can only pick one, Peche is the lighter, more seafood-focused option. Lunch is less crowded than dinner and just as good.

Parking: Street parking on Magazine St or nearby metered spots.

The grand dame of New Orleans dining. A Garden District fixture for generations of Creole fine dining.

What to order: The turtle soup is legendary. Pecan-crusted Gulf fish and the bread pudding souffle are must-orders. Their 25-cent martini deal runs with any lunch entree, limit 3 per person, Wed-Fri only — lunch isn't served Mon-Tue.

Pro tip: Lunch runs Wed-Fri (from 11:30am) and is the best value in fine dining anywhere — a 3-course prix fixe plus those 25-cent martinis. Dress code is business attire: jackets preferred for gentlemen, collared shirts and closed-toed shoes required, no shorts, flip-flops or sweats. Reserve well in advance.

Parking: Valet parking available. Street parking in the Garden District is also doable.

Beignets and chicory coffee in an open-air French Quarter landmark, where kids lose their minds over the powdered sugar.

What to order: Beignets, which come three to an order, plus drinks. Kids love the chocolate milk or hot chocolate. Adults get cafe au lait. Simple menu means fast service.

Kids: Stroller-friendly outdoor seating. No kid menu needed — beignets are the universal crowd-pleaser. Bathrooms available.

Pro tip: Use the takeout window to skip the line with antsy kids. Bring wet wipes — powdered sugar gets everywhere. The open-air seating means kids can be a little louder without stress.

Parking: French Quarter — walk or park in a nearby garage on Decatur St.

Southern bakery with biscuits, pastries, and hearty brunch dishes the whole family will enjoy

What to order: Cornbread with honey butter for the table. Biscuits and gravy, pancakes, or the fried chicken biscuit. The cookie selection is perfect for a post-meal treat.

Kids: Kid-friendly comfort food in a bright, spacious setting. High chairs available. The cookie jar by the register is hard for kids to resist.

Pro tip: Opens early enough for cruise morning breakfast. The bakery case doubles as dessert for the kids. Portions are big, so sharing plates with little ones works perfectly.

Parking: O'Keefe Ave in the CBD — street parking or nearby garages.

Old-school counter diner with omelets, waffles, and burgers — stools only, best for small parties who don't mind splitting up

What to order: Pecan waffles are legendary. Omelets are huge and made right in front of you. Burgers and fries for the simple-menu kids. Chocolate freeze shake is a local favorite.

Kids: Counter seating keeps kids entertained watching the cooks. Classic American breakfast and lunch — nothing unfamiliar. Credit cards accepted (3% surcharge).

Pro tip: Counter seating only — kids love watching their food being made, but a group can't sit together and stools don't suit everyone. Lines can be long on weekends. The waiters are characters and part of the fun.

Parking: Street parking on Carrollton Ave. Metered spots available.

Creative gourmet hot dog joint with wild toppings. Kids build their own and love it.

What to order: Choose your protein (beef, crawfish, alligator, or veggie), then pile on toppings. Crawfish etouffee dog is a local favorite. Plain hot dogs and corn dogs for cautious eaters.

Kids: Build-your-own format means even picky eaters find something. Plain dog with ketchup is always available. Casual outdoor seating at most locations.

Pro tip: The Frenchmen Street location is more fun (near the live music district), but the Magazine Street spot has better parking. Alligator sausage is a must-try for adventurous families.

Parking: Frenchmen Street location has limited street parking. Magazine St location is easier.

Legendary po'boy shop, serving since 1938. Comfort food that satisfies adults and kids alike.

What to order: The Ferdi Special po'boy (roast beef debris with baked ham) is iconic. Kids love the grilled cheese or simple roast beef po'boy. Red beans and rice with sausage is a solid choice.

Kids: Familiar comfort food options alongside Louisiana classics. Cafeteria-style means kids see the food before ordering. Casual, no-fuss atmosphere.

Pro tip: Popular with tourists and locals alike. The line can snake out the door at peak lunch, but moves fast. Come before the lunch rush if you can. Cafeteria-style service is efficient.

Parking: Poydras St in the CBD — metered street parking or nearby garages.

Fast-casual fried chicken in the French Quarter — cheap, quick, and universally liked by kids

What to order: Fried chicken tenders, chicken strips with fries, and biscuits. The chicken is crispy and flavorful. Affordable combos make feeding a family easy.

Kids: Simple, familiar fried chicken. Fast service, no wait. Counter ordering is easy with kids in tow.

Pro tip: Multiple locations on Bourbon and Canal. Fast service means you're in and out in 15 minutes. A reliable fallback when the kids won't try anything adventurous.

Parking: French Quarter — walk or use nearby parking garages.

Waterfront mall food court right near the port — everyone picks what they want

What to order: Multiple vendors: pizza, burgers, sandwiches, and local options. Everyone can pick their own meal while parents grab something different.

Kids: Familiar chain options plus local food. Indoor seating with AC. Bathrooms readily available. Walking distance from the port.

Pro tip: The closest food option to the cruise terminals. Not the most authentic NOLA experience, but it solves the problem when you need something fast and everyone wants something different.

Parking: Riverwalk parking garage available. Close to port parking areas.

Immersive war history with real tanks, planes, and a 4D movie narrated by Tom Hanks. Way cooler than it sounds.

Best for: History buffs, gamers who like war history, anyone who appreciates immersive experiences

Pro tip: The Beyond All Boundaries 4D theater experience is mind-blowing. The submarine exhibit lets you walk through a real restored sub. Interactive stations keep teens engaged — it's not just reading plaques. The Beyond All Boundaries 4D experience narrated by Tom Hanks is worth the extra cost. The museum is massive — you can't see it all in one visit. Start with the Road to Berlin or Road to Tokyo. The museum store has genuinely interesting gifts.

Free outdoor entertainment — musicians, jugglers, and artists that kids find mesmerizing

Best for: All ages — quick, free, and always entertaining

Pro tip: Walk around the square to see different artists and performers. The horse-drawn carriages parked nearby fascinate little kids. Combine with Café du Monde across the street. Best in the morning before it gets too hot and crowded. The cathedral is the oldest in continuous use in the United States and free to enter. Street artists and fortune tellers line the iron fence. Great place to grab a beignet from Café du Monde across the street and people-watch. Best in the morning before the heat and crowds.

Louisiana wildlife, a splash park, and a lazy river — kids could spend all day here

Best for: Animal-loving families, anyone who needs to tire out energetic kids

Pro tip: The Cool Zoo splash park is open seasonally and is a blast for kids on hot days. The Louisiana Swamp exhibit has real gators and is uniquely NOLA. Take the Magazine Street bus or drive — the streetcar to the zoo takes a while. Combo tickets with the aquarium save money.

Messy, sweet, unforgettable. Powdered sugar beignets that kids will talk about for the entire cruise.

Best for: Everyone — it's a mandatory New Orleans experience

Pro tip: Use the takeout window to skip the line with little ones. Sit outside so the powdered sugar mess doesn't matter. Chocolate milk for kids, cafe au lait for parents. Bring wet wipes.

Build your own gourmet hot dog with crazy toppings — alligator sausage is the dare

Best for: Foodies, adventurous eaters, anyone who appreciates good street food

Pro tip: Try the crawfish sausage or alligator sausage for the full NOLA experience. The Frenchmen Street location lets you hear live music spilling out of clubs while you eat. Best in the evening when the street comes alive.

Kids gravitate to the touch tanks, the penguins, and the walk-through Caribbean reef tunnel.

Best for: Families with kids of all ages, animal lovers

Pro tip: The touch tank with stingrays is the biggest hit with little ones. The parakeet pointe lets kids feed birds by hand. The insectarium is now inside the aquarium — included in admission. Go early before it gets crowded. The aquarium is right on the riverfront near the French Quarter. The penguin exhibit and the 400,000-gallon Gulf of Mexico tank are highlights. Combo tickets with the zoo or insectarium save money.

Whimsical storybook playground with giant sculptures kids can climb on. Cheap and magical.

Closed Mon

Best for: Toddlers and young kids who love playgrounds and fairy tales

Pro tip: Giant storybook character sculptures are climbable: Jack and the Beanstalk, Pinocchio, and more. The adjacent Carousel Gardens Amusement Park has a vintage carousel and small rides, each priced separately. Bring a picnic blanket for the shaded areas.

In City Park, a brand-new outdoor children's museum that is part playground, part educational wonderland.

Closed Mon

Best for: Families with kids under 10

Pro tip: Opened in 2022 in a new location in City Park. Mostly outdoor exhibits connected by walkways through gardens. The mini grocery store and music room are favorites. Bring sunscreen and hats — most exhibits are outdoors. Combine with Storyland for a full morning.

Walk along the Mississippi and watch the ships go by, which is simple, free, and surprisingly fun for kids.

Best for: Quick outdoor activity, stroller-friendly

Pro tip: The Riverwalk has a riverside path where kids can watch barges and ships on the Mississippi. The mall inside has bathrooms and snack options. Walking distance from the cruise terminal — perfect for killing time right before boarding. Right next to the cruise terminal — you can literally walk here. Good mix of brand-name outlets. The food court has decent options. Views of the Mississippi from the upper level.

Explore 300 years of history through wrought-iron balconies, hidden courtyards, and jazz-soaked streets

Best for: First-time visitors, history buffs, architecture fans

Pro tip: Jackson Square is the heart of it. Walk Royal Street for antique shops and galleries (more interesting than Bourbon during the day). Free live music at almost every corner. Wear comfortable shoes — the sidewalks are uneven. If you'd rather skip the guide, wandering Royal Street and Jackson Square on your own works just as well — it's some of the most photogenic architecture in the city, which is why it shows up in every visitor's photos.

Skip Bourbon Street. This is where locals go for live jazz, brass bands, and blues.

Best for: Music lovers, couples, nightlife seekers

Pro tip: This is the real deal, the local music scene rather than the tourist trap. The Spotted Cat and d.b.a. are the go-to clubs. Cover charges are usually small or nonexistent early in the evening. Walk between venues to hear different styles. Best experienced the night before your cruise.

Grand antebellum mansions, century-old oaks, and the most photographed residential streets in the city. The quiet side of NOLA.

Best for: Architecture fans, couples, anyone wanting a quieter alternative to the Quarter

Pro tip: Take the St. Charles streetcar out and walk back. Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 has been closed to the public for restoration since 2019 — you can see it from the sidewalk, but don't plan your visit around going in. Magazine Street is two blocks over for shopping and cafes, and Commander's Palace is right at the cemetery gates if you want to combine touring with lunch.

Six miles of indie shops, vintage stores, and local boutiques, all of it more interesting than a mall.

Best for: Shoppers, vintage fans, anyone who likes unique finds

Pro tip: The stretch between Jackson Ave and Napoleon Ave has the densest concentration of shops. Vintage clothing stores, record shops, and local art galleries. Great coffee shops and snack spots along the way.

New Orleans after dark is something else, and this tour covers the haunted houses, the voodoo history, and the creepy cemeteries.

Best for: Teens who love spooky stuff, true crime fans, history nerds

Pro tip: Evening tours are way more atmospheric than daytime ones. Many tours include stops at real haunted buildings and above-ground cemeteries. The LaLaurie Mansion is a highlight. Book in advance — popular tours sell out.

Kids think it's a ride at an amusement park. The world's oldest streetcar line is cheap fun.

Best for: Train-loving kids, tired parents who want to sit down

Pro tip: Sit up front for the best views. Ride it one way and Uber back to save time. The bell and wooden seats make it feel like a time machine. Air conditioned in summer. Download the RTA app for a digital Jazzy Pass. Ride from Canal Street through the Garden District — the mansions under the live oaks are stunning. Get off at Audubon Park to explore, then catch the next one back. Board near Canal Street and ride through the Garden District to see the grand mansions and live oaks. Get off at Washington Ave to explore the Garden District on foot, then hop back on. Exact change required, or buy a Jazzy Pass from the RTA app.