If you’re looking for an exciting and fun travel destination in April, look no further than New Orleans, Louisiana. This vibrant city comes to life in springtime, with temperatures averaging in the 70s and plenty of things to do.
New Orleans offers a diverse range of attractions, ranging from world-famous jazz festivals to delightful Cajun cuisine, that cater to people of all interests.
We have all the details that frequent travelers to Crescent City in April need to know. However, there are both advantages and disadvantages to traveling in this month.
Tour Tips for April
Is April a Good Time to Visit New Orleans?
However, there are no tropical storms and the weather is not excessively hot. The average temperatures are pleasant, making it an ideal time to explore the many attractions the city has to offer. April is an excellent time to visit New Orleans, as the temperatures are perfect and the city comes alive with the arrival of spring.
It’s actually the last month before the temperature starts rising into the 80s. This makes April the perfect time of year to take in all the sounds and sights of the city.
Afterwards, we offer you suggestions on how to organize a visit in April. One drawback could be the increased number of people during this period.
Is April Cold in New Orleans?
In April, during a great time of the year, you can enjoy world-class jazz clubs and take a stroll along the Mississippi River, while exploring the French Quarter of the city. The average highs reach 80 degrees Fahrenheit, so you won’t feel cold in New Orleans.
Weather
During the month of April, New Orleans experiences mainly warm weather with high average temperatures ranging from (24-28°C) 82°F and lows averaging (16°C) 61°F. The weather is more predictable outdoors and there is less rain compared to the upcoming months.
Keep in mind that the rising temperature throughout the month can affect what you may want to pack or wear later.
The daytime temperatures are sufficiently warm to dress comfortably without excessive layers. More information regarding clothing will be provided later.
Temperature variation throughout a typical day:
Before you know it, you can be back on your feet, but it won’t endure for a long time, nevertheless, there might be a rain drizzle here and there. The sunshine frequently appears.
April is also a great month for outdoor activities, as the upcoming summer months can often get too humid and hot to enjoy. It’s an excellent time for outdoor restaurants, festivals, steamboat cruises, and jazzy boozy events.
This is a perfect month to enjoy outdoor activities in New Orleans, such as JazzFest, famous worldwide for its festivals and riverboat cruises. The courtyard dining is excellent, and despite the lack of humidity, the temperature is wonderful. There is not much rain, making it a great opportunity to indulge in all the outdoor activities that New Orleans has to offer. In my opinion, this is a delightful time for locals.
Rain
Take pleasure in exploring New Orleans and increase your time spent outdoors to reduce the chances of encountering spring precipitation. It is highly recommended to visit during this month to steer clear of tropical storms and hurricanes, as the hurricane season spans from June 1st to November 30th.
April is typically the month when rain is most likely to interrupt your French Quarter plans, with scattered showers passing by quickly.
What to Wear | Ouftifs | Packing List
When it comes to what to dress in the Crescent City, there are no strict and unchangeable guidelines.
Don’t forget to bring comfortable shoes – you’ll be doing a lot of walking. It is recommended to bring a light sweater or jacket for the evenings, as temperatures can drop into the low 60s (15°C). It is a good idea to layer clothing during the day, as the temperature in New Orleans can vary greatly in April.
If you want to bring a jacket or a light sweater, evenings in New Orleans will be cooler. During the day, you have suitable options such as sundresses, t-shirts, jeans, and shorts to comfortably experience the casual attire in the city. When it comes to dressing appropriately for a visit to New Orleans, the best bet is to dress in breathable and comfortable clothing.
Exploring New Orleans can be made easier if you’re comfortable with the idea that old brick sidewalks in the French Quarter are often easy to stumble or trip on while walking.
While donning flip-flops, we were previously incapable of enjoying a meal at a restaurant due to the importance of verifying the prescribed attire. The choice ultimately hinges on the kind of experience you desire during your stay in the city, ranging from casual denim or shorts paired with a t-shirt to elegant suits and dresses at a prestigious dining establishment. The dress regulations in New Orleans can vary widely.
If you are planning on going to JazzFest later in the month, you may want to pack lighter clothes like capris or shorts and t-shirts, as temperatures in the afternoons can be in the low 80’s or high 70’s, which is typical for late April.
To achieve that, you should aim to be appropriately dressed. Therefore, it is advisable to explore multiple stages that are scattered throughout the park. Make sure to dress in layers and wear comfortable footwear if you intend to go to JazzFest.
Ensure that you visit the vendors at the French Market or festival to purchase one (or maybe two!). It would be a great fit as a t-shirt for your favorite musician, wouldn’t it?
Please note that there is a lot of shade at the park, but there is also a lot of sun. You may want to bring a hat, sunglasses, and definitely sunscreen!
What should you pack to wear for your trip?
How Busy/Crowds/Rates
The French Quarter and its neighboring areas such as Frenchman Street, the Garden District, and the Warehouse District will be bustling during Jazzfest. Mardi Gras is the epitome of indulgence that attracts approximately half a million people. In 2022, Jazzfest is expected to be enjoyed by 475,000 tourists.
The JazzFest (officially known as the Jazz & Heritage Festival) typically occurs from the final week of April to early May.
If you want to check for reservations at more popular and smaller places, you’ll need to wait in line. This is where comfortable clothing and shoes come in handy.
If you decide to visit during Jazzfest, it will be crowded and challenging to navigate through the French Quarter.
Regardless of the season, it is always necessary to anticipate a wait at Cafe’ Du Monde. Discover the specific requirements of the restaurants. Pro tip:
Have a great time, but didn’t consider or have knowledge of. There are other locations that you may find enjoyable, so be sure to consult review websites to determine if your preferred places are already fully booked. It is advisable to make reservations in advance and check if they have websites where you can browse their menus and meals. It is recommended to plan your meals ahead of time. Your friend’s opinion can be valuable in conducting research, especially from locals.
If you come across a link, make sure to save it: Hotel Search – Explore hotel offers here (filter by price and review) – New Orleans through booking.Com.
If you prefer a more serene experience, it might be wise to schedule your visit to New Orleans during the less bustling weekdays, when the local establishments and the French Quarter are not as crowded. The weekends in New Orleans are typically bustling with activity.
Things to Do | Tours and Attractions
There are plenty of activities to enjoy in New Orleans during April. Visitors can avail themselves of steamboat cruises and ghost tours, as well as walking tours. For those looking for a bit more adventure, they can visit some of the local plantations or take a swamp tour.
Steamboat Cruise
April is the perfect time to take a steamboat cruise. You will definitely enjoy sitting or standing by the rails with a beverage in hand, and the weather is warm, but not too hot. The sun shines brightly, making the atmosphere even more delightful.
When you step on board, with jazz music playing and the whistle resounding throughout the French Quarter, you will experience a nostalgic journey through time.
If you’re looking for a relaxing and enjoyable way to experience New Orleans, especially in April when the weather is perfect, taking a steamboat cruise down the Mississippi River is a popular option for enjoying the view.
If you are looking for something more romantic, your evening cruise or dinner may be better suited. The best time to see the sites and enjoy the weather is during the day when the sun is out.
Ghost Tours
For those who want to learn more about the legends and history of the city, there are plenty of ghost tours available to explore the spooky side of New Orleans, which is well-known for its hauntings and ghosts.
The atmosphere is both enjoyable and eerie, yet we have never encountered a spirit at this location. According to legend, the fireplace is believed to be haunted by the pirate Jean Lafitte. Jean Lafitte’s Blacksmith’s Shop in New Orleans, a place we particularly enjoy visiting, is renowned as the oldest bar in town. Make sure to choose one and experience it for yourself. This recommendation is based on the opinion of locals.
Plantation Tours
There are several plantations around New Orleans that are worth visiting. The most popular ones are Oak Alley Plantation, Laura Plantation, and Destrehan Plantation. These plantations offer a glimpse into Louisiana’s culture and history, and they are a great way to learn more about the state’s plantation era.
Additionally, one can observe that a steamship is moored directly opposite the embankment. In the event of fortuitous circumstances, it is an essential attraction to visit while embarking on a plantation excursion. Oak Alley’s picturesque pathway, adorned with trees on both sides, has served as a source of inspiration for numerous cinematic and literary compositions, according to the local consensus.
Events
Jazzfest
This is a great opportunity to experience the unique history and culture of the city, as many popular artists have graced the stages at this popular event. The annual Heritage & Jazz Festival of New Orleans, held every spring, hosts some of the world’s best jazz musicians like Melissa Etheridge, Norah Jones, and Jimmy Buffet.
French Quarter Festival
The Festival Quarter French in New Orleans is one of the largest free festivals in the United States, offering a great way to experience the city’s joy. Held in April each year, it showcases more than just art, food, and music, but also live performances.
Summary
If you’re planning a trip to New Orleans in April, get ready to pack your bags and make it an unforgettable time. The city offers plenty of unique activities and the perfect temperature, so you won’t be disappointed.
Let the good times roll!