Tips for Traveling to New Orleans During Football Season

This article is part of the Hipmunk #CityLove Project

New Orleans is one of America’s leading tourist destinations. People from all over the world flock here to experience centuries-old history, age-old architecture, and culinary delights, though come game day, the culture in New Orleans revolves solely around one thing: football.

Every weekend from August through December, the streets throughout the city are flooded with black and gold: football fanatics sporting the colors of the New Orleans Saints, on a pilgrimage through the city streets to the game. The age-old buildings throughout the French Quarter literally shake, and the energy surrounding the stadium floods out to the city at large.

Street musicians stay out late and the restaurant scene bursts to life; New Orleans truly comes alive during football season, and this is a great time to visit the city.  Travelers should keep in mind, however, that this is peak season, and consider making their travel plans accordingly.

The following are tips for travel to New Orleans during football season.

Game Day is an All-Day Affair

New Orleans is a city that knows how to throw a party (note the Mardi Gras scene), and game day is no exception.

Pre-game parties start as early as 9 a.m., and the restaurants and bars stay open late for post-game celebrations. While New Orleans has a lot more to offer travelers than just football, those in town for the game won’t have time for tourist attractions — game day is an all-day affair.

Book Your Accommodations in Advance

Hotel prices skyrocket over the weekend of a Saints home game, and travelers should book as early as possible to snatch a cheap hotel deal.

It’s definitely possible to find a cheap hotel in New Orleans within walking distance of the Superdome; however, you’ll need to book well in advance if you want to reserve the best rates.

Consider booking a hotel a few streets back from the stadium, where hotel deals are much more affordable.

Save 50% on Accommodations Through Airbnb

Those happy to consider room share will find Airbnb is a fantastic way to save on accommodations in New Orleans.

While many hotels within walking distance of the Superdome charge around $300 per night, there are many Airbnb listings which offer budget travelers the option of a fantastic room under $150 per night.

How to Get to the Game

New Orleans is a very easy city to walk in, and there’s no better way to get to the game than by soaking up the street atmosphere on foot.

The Superdome is the centerpiece of downtown New Orleans and, as such, many budget hotels are within walking distance.

If you’re driving in, park the car at the hotel: There’s no need to battle against horrendous traffic and rack up ridiculous parking fees at the Superdome when the rest of the city will be making their way on foot.

Travel to New Orleans During Football Season

Using the above tips will guarantee you have a fantastic trip to the city of New Orleans during football season. Go Saints!