Gays and straights share Bourbon Street, although gays gravitate toward the northern end, past St Peter Street. Another gay hangout, just outside the French Quarter, is the Marigny, a laid-back neighborhood with a bohemian vibe. Most travelers fly into Louis Armstrong International Airport, 11 miles from the French Quarter. If your hotel doesn't offer a courtesy shuttle, there are plenty of taxis waiting. Other ground transportation options include Jefferson Transit (E2) Express buses for $2, and Airport Shuttle service for $24. Destinations include all key downtown zones, including the French Quarter. Service desks for nine car rental agencies are located on the lower level of the terminal building. Some people come to the city by Amtrak train, which arrives in the Central Business District. From there it's a short taxi ride to the French Quarter. What's the best way to see the city? Your own two feet, of course. Especially since this is a city made for walking. The French Quarter, just 14 blocks from end to end, is easily walkable. You can also stroll over to the Marigny without breaking a sweat. But if you want to venture a bit farther, we recommend public transit. The streetcars are both fun and useful.įares are $1.50 for streetcars and buses (fareboxes accept bills or coins), with another 50 cent charge for a transfer (pay the driver).
Black gay bar new orleans rampart free#
Black gay bar new orleans rampart free#Ī rental car is probably not worth the bother as navigating the streets and finding parking can be a hassle - and meter maids are extremely vigilant here!īe sure to treat yourself to a free ride on the Canal Street ferry, which takes you across the Mississippi River from the foot of Canal. Known simply as "The Quarter" to locals, the French Quarter is the heart and soul of New Orleans.
If you're a first-time visitor, it's likely that you'll spend most of your time in the streets bordered by the Rampart, Esplanade, Canal and the Mississippi River.
The architecture is a mix of Spanish, French and Creole styles. The ubiquitous cast-iron balconies were added to many buildings after 1850, when a baroness included them on her row house near Jackson Square. The French Quarter is where you'll find most of the city's gay businesses. Just northeast of the French Quarter, the Marigny is known for its quaint Creole cottages, most of which date to the 19th century. Although it has its share of bars, it lacks the spring-break atmosphere of Bourbon Street. There are plenty of gay businesses, especially along Frenchman Street and Elysian Fields.