New Orleans in November
Great time to visit
November hits the sweet spot of great weather without crushing crowds. It's when New Orleans feels most like the magical place people imagine, before winter tourists arrive.
Weather
November delivers some of the year's most perfect weather - comfortable 77°F days cooling to crisp 55°F nights ideal for wandering the Quarter. Humidity drops to reasonable levels and rain becomes sporadic rather than daily.
25°C high13°C low5 rain days
Crowds & Cost
moderate crowds
~$190/day average
Events & Festivals
- •Thanksgiving weekend
- •Bayou Classic
- •Thanksgiving Day Race
November Tips
- •This is shoulder season pricing with peak season weather - book early
- •Thanksgiving weekend draws locals back downtown for football and food
- •Pack layers - those 20-degree temperature swings between day and night are real
All Months
October through April gives you the sweet spot—mild temperatures, lower humidity, and festival season in full swing. December and January can surprise you with 40-degree mornings, but afternoons warm up nicely.
Mardi Gras season (January through Fat Tuesday) is pure chaos. Hotel rates triple, crowds multiply, and the city basically shuts down for two weeks of parades and parties. Book six months ahead or stay home.
Jazz Fest in late April/early May brings legendary performers to the Fair Grounds. Two weekends of music, food, and crafts under (hopefully) perfect spring skies. Again, book early—the whole city fills up.
Summer means sweat. Temperatures hit 90s with humidity that makes breathing feel like work. But hotel rates drop by half, and you'll have restaurants to yourself. Just plan indoor activities between 11 AM and 4 PM.
Hurricane season runs June through November, peaking in August and September. Most storms miss the city, but when they don't, everything shuts down. Travel insurance becomes your best friend.
New Orleans Scores
Solo
8/10
Couples
9/10
Families
6/10
Adventure
5/10
Budget
6/10
Luxury
7/10
BUILD YOUR NEW ORLEANS PLAN
Insider picks, smart timing, and a plan ready when you are.