New Orleans Day Trip: Quick Facts
Pressed for time? Here’s everything you need to know at a glance for your whirlwind adventure from the Mississippi coast to the Crescent City.
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Distance from Biloxi | ~90 miles one-way |
| Drive Time | 1.5 – 2 hours each way, depending on traffic |
| Best Transportation | Personal Vehicle |
| Estimated Day Cost (per person) | $100 – $250 |
| Best Time to Go in 2025 | Spring (March-May) or Fall (October-November) |
How to Get from Biloxi to New Orleans
Figuring out the logistics is the first step to a great day trip. While the cities are close, choosing the right transport can make or break your experience. Here’s a breakdown of your options.
Driving Your Own Car (The Best Option)
For flexibility and convenience, nothing beats driving. The Biloxi to New Orleans drive time is a breezy 90 minutes along I-10 West, making it an incredibly accessible getaway. This allows you to set your own schedule, leaving as early as you like and staying until you’ve had your fill of jazz and jambalaya.
A word on parking: This is the most crucial part of driving. Parking in the French Quarter is notoriously difficult and expensive. Street parking is scarce and has strict time limits. Your best bet is to choose a paid parking garage or lot on the edge of the Quarter, such as the one at The Shops at Canal Place. Expect to pay anywhere from $20 to $50+ for a full day. Park once and explore on foot—the city is made for walking!
Bus & Shuttle Services
Many travelers wonder, is there a shuttle from Biloxi to New Orleans? While dedicated casino-to-city shuttles are not a common, regular service anymore, you can still travel via public bus. Greyhound is the main operator, with trips taking around 2 hours. While affordable (typically $20-$40 one-way), the schedules can be restrictive for a day trip, often with late morning arrivals and early evening departures that cut your exploration time short.
Rideshare and Taxis (Not Recommended)
While technically possible, using Uber or Lyft for the 90-mile journey is not a practical option. A one-way trip can easily cost between $150 and $250, making it far too expensive for a day trip budget.
Transportation Comparison
| Method | Cost (Round Trip) | Time (Round Trip) | Convenience |
|---|---|---|---|
| Driving | $15-$25 (Gas) + Parking | ~3 hours | Excellent |
| Bus | $40-$80 per person | ~4-5 hours | Fair (Restrictive Schedule) |
| Rideshare | $300-$500+ | ~3 hours | Poor (Cost Prohibitive) |
Top 5 Things to Do on a New Orleans Day Trip
With only one day, you’ll want to focus on the most iconic and geographically close attractions. This curated list keeps you in the heart of the action without feeling rushed.
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Wander the Historic French Quarter & Jackson Square
This is the New Orleans of your imagination. Spend time simply getting lost among the cast-iron balconies, vibrant Creole townhouses, and hidden courtyards. The heart of the Quarter is Jackson Square, a beautiful park lorded over by the magnificent St. Louis Cathedral. It’s free to walk around and soak in the atmosphere, often filled with street performers, artists, and musicians.
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Indulge in Beignets at Café du Monde
Your day trip is not complete without this quintessential New Orleans experience. Head to the iconic green-and-white-striped awning of Café du Monde for an order of beignets—pillowy, hot doughnuts buried under a mountain of powdered sugar—and a café au lait. It’s open 24/7, making it an easy stop any time of day. Pro-tip: It’s often cash-only, so come prepared!
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Explore the French Market
Stretching for six blocks along the Mississippi River, the French Market is one of America’s oldest public markets. It’s a fantastic place to experience local culture, browse for unique souvenirs, and grab a bite. You’ll find everything from alligator on a stick at the food stalls to handmade crafts and a sprawling flea market section at the far end.
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Take a Scenic Ride on the St. Charles Streetcar
Want to see beyond the Quarter without exhausting yourself? Hop on the historic St. Charles Streetcar. For just $1.25 (exact change needed, or use the Le Pass app), you can enjoy a scenic ride through the stunning Garden District, famous for its grand mansions and oak-lined streets. You can catch it at the corner of St. Charles Avenue and Canal Street, a short walk from the French Quarter.
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Choose Your Adventure: Cemetery Tour or Live Jazz
Tailor the afternoon to your interests with one of these unique NOLA experiences.
Option A: St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 Tour
Step into the city’s oldest and most famous “City of the Dead.” Due to its historical significance (and to prevent vandalism), entry is only permitted with a licensed tour guide. Tours last about an hour, cost around $25-$30, and offer fascinating stories about the city’s unique above-ground burial traditions and famed residents like Voodoo Queen Marie Laveau.
Option B: Catch some Daytime Jazz
You don’t have to wait until dark to hear great music. Royal Street is famous for its incredible street performers and bands that set up shop during the day. For a more formal experience, check the schedule at Preservation Hall, which sometimes offers earlier matinee performances.
Sample Itinerary: A Perfect Day in New Orleans from Biloxi
Take the guesswork out of your day with this step-by-step plan designed to maximize your time in the Big Easy.
| Time | Activity |
|---|---|
| 8:00 AM | Leave Biloxi, grab a coffee, and hit I-10 West. |
| 9:30 AM | Arrive in New Orleans. Park in a garage near Canal Street or the riverfront. |
| 10:00 AM | Head straight to Café du Monde for beignets and café au lait before the lines get too long. |
| 11:00 AM | Explore Jackson Square, take photos of St. Louis Cathedral, and browse the local art. |
| 12:30 PM | Grab a classic New Orleans lunch. A muffuletta from Central Grocery or a po-boy from Johnny’s is perfect. |
| 2:00 PM | Wander through the French Market for souvenirs or join your pre-booked St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 tour. |
| 4:00 PM | Hop on the St. Charles Streetcar for a relaxing, scenic ride through the Garden District. |
| 5:30 PM | Enjoy a final stroll down Royal Street to admire the art galleries and listen to street musicians. |
| 6:30 PM | Walk back to your car, ready to head home. |
| 8:00 PM | Arrive back in Biloxi, full of memories (and beignets!). |
Where to Eat: A Taste of New Orleans
In New Orleans, food isn’t just fuel—it’s an experience. Here are some top picks perfect for a day trip budget and schedule.
Quick & Classic Bites ($)
- Central Grocery & Deli: Home of the original muffuletta, a massive sandwich of cured meats, cheese, and olive salad on a round loaf. One sandwich can easily feed two!
- Johnny’s Po-Boys: A no-frills institution serving up some of the best po-boys in the city. Try the fried shrimp or roast beef.
- Killer PoBoys: Offers a modern, gourmet twist on the classic sandwich with fillings like glazed pork belly and seared gulf shrimp.
Casual Sit-Down Lunch ($$)
- Gumbo Shop: A reliable spot for classic Creole dishes. Their gumbo is award-winning and a must-try.
- Acme Oyster House: Famous for its boisterous atmosphere and charbroiled oysters. Be prepared for a line, but it moves quickly.
- Felix’s Restaurant & Oyster Bar: Right across the street from Acme, it’s a classic rival for the best oysters in town.
Drinks & Ambiance ($$$)
- Napoleon House: Steeped in history, this is the perfect spot to try a Pimm’s Cup and soak in the centuries-old atmosphere.
- The Carousel Bar & Lounge: Located in the Hotel Monteleone, this famous bar slowly revolves like a carousel. A great spot for a fancy cocktail and a truly unique experience.
Planning Your Perfect New Orleans Day Trip
A little preparation goes a long way. Follow these tips and pack the right gear to ensure a smooth, enjoyable adventure.
Insider Tips for Your Trip
- Wear Comfortable Shoes: This cannot be overstated. You will be walking for miles on historic, often uneven sidewalks. Your feet will thank you.
- Park Once and Walk: The French Quarter is compact and best explored on foot. Resist the urge to drive between attractions—it’s more hassle than it’s worth.
- Book Tours in Advance: If you plan to visit St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, booking your tour online ahead of time is essential. Spots fill up, especially on weekends.
- Stay Hydrated: The Southern heat and humidity can be intense, even in the milder seasons. Carry a water bottle and refill it often.
- Bring Cash: While most places accept cards, many iconic spots (like Café du Monde) and small vendors at the French Market may be cash-only.
- Be Street Smart: Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas. If someone says, “I bet I can tell you where you got your shoes,” just smile and keep walking—it’s a classic street hustle.
What to Pack for a Day in New Orleans
- ✅ Comfortable walking shoes
- ✅ Portable phone charger/power bank
- ✅ Sunscreen, sunglasses, and a hat
- ✅ Refillable water bottle
- ✅ Light jacket or umbrella (the weather can change in an instant)
- ✅ Cash and credit/debit cards
- ✅ An appetite for adventure!
Estimated Budget Breakdown (Per Person)
Here’s a look at what you can expect to spend on your day trip, from a budget-conscious outing to a more comfortable experience.
| Item | Budget Estimate | Mid-Range Estimate |
|---|---|---|
| Transportation (Gas) | $20 | $20 |
| Parking | $25 | $40 |
| Food & Drinks | $40 | $80 |
| Activities/Tours | $0 (Free exploring) | $30 (Cemetery tour) |
| Total Estimated Cost | ~$85 | ~$170 |
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is there a shuttle from Biloxi to New Orleans?
No, there are no regularly scheduled public shuttles that operate like a consistent service between the two cities. The best public transportation option is the Greyhound bus, but driving your own car is far more convenient and flexible for a day trip.
How do I get from New Orleans to Biloxi, MS?
All the transportation methods mentioned work in reverse. The drive from New Orleans to Biloxi is the most popular option, taking approximately 90 minutes on I-10 East. Greyhound also offers return trips.
How much is an Uber from New Orleans to Biloxi?
An Uber or Lyft is very expensive for this route. You can expect a one-way fare to cost between $150 and $250+, making it an impractical choice for most travelers.
Is one day enough to see New Orleans?
While you can’t see everything New Orleans has to offer in one day, it is absolutely enough time to get a fantastic taste of the city’s unique culture, food, and history. By focusing on the French Quarter and its immediate surroundings, you can have a full and memorable experience that will leave you eager to return.
TLDR: Your New Orleans Day Trip Cheat Sheet
In a rush? Here’s the absolute must-know info:
- Getting There: Drive your own car. It’s the fastest, most flexible option (90-minute drive).
- Parking: Don’t even try to park in the French Quarter. Use a paid garage near Canal Street and walk everywhere.
- Must-Do: Get beignets and café au lait from Café du Monde. It’s non-negotiable.
- Top Tip: Wear your most comfortable walking shoes. The historic streets are charming but unforgiving.
- Smart Move: If you want to see St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, you MUST book a licensed tour in advance.
- Best Vibe: Spend most of your time wandering the French Quarter, Jackson Square, and Royal Street.
