Passing through Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport? A layover in New Orleans is more doable than you might think. The city is only about 90 minutes from the airport, and with a bit of planning you can stretch your legs, grab a real meal, and see something new before your next flight.
Quick Checks Before Leaving the Airport
Before heading into New Orleans, take a moment to confirm the basics:
- Visa status: Entry rules for United States vary by nationality. If you’re unsure, check with your airline or the immigration desk before leaving the secure area.
- Getting there: New Orleans is roughly 90 minutes from MSY via Jefferson Transit E2 / Airport Express. Plan to be back at the airport at least 2 hours before your next departure.
- Money: You’ll be spending in USD. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
The Best Way Into New Orleans from MSY
From MSY, the Jefferson Transit E2 / Airport Express gets you to New Orleans in around 90 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 110 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the Jefferson Transit E2 / Airport Express offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
What to See and Do in New Orleans
For a layover visit to New Orleans, we’d suggest French Quarter Walkabout and Café Du Monde. Neither requires a full day, and both give you a real taste of the area.
Just walking around here gives you a feel for the local vibe. Worth checking out if your schedule allows.
If you’d rather stay inside MSY — maybe your layover is shorter than expected, or you just prefer to stay close to your gate — there are still ways to pass the time:
- The Club MSY
- MSY Live Music Stage
Eating Well on a New Orleans Layover
- In the city: Central Grocery Co. & Deli and Acme Oyster House are both worth a visit if you’re exploring New Orleans.
- At the airport: Emeril’s Table and Mambo’s Louisiana Kitchen will get the job done without leaving the terminal.
Money & Budget Tips
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into New Orleans might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$10 USD
- A meal: ~$20 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$40 USD
Cards are increasingly accepted in New Orleans, but cash is still useful for smaller purchases.
What to Do With Your Bags
Traveling light makes a layover outing much easier. At MSY, you’ll find bag storage at Not available due to security regulations at most US airports..
Tip: store your bags as soon as you clear arrivals to maximize your free time. If the airport options don’t work for you, check online luggage storage platforms for alternatives near the city center.
Staying Connected
You’ll find free WiFi at MSY for basic browsing. If you plan to navigate New Orleans or use ride-hailing apps, having mobile data is much more convenient. Consider setting up an eSIM through a provider like Airalo or Holafly before your trip — it takes a few minutes and saves you from hunting for SIM card kiosks.
Sleep & Lounge Options at MSY
If your layover is an overnight one or you just need to recharge, look for quiet seating areas near less-busy gates. Some travelers report finding usable rest spots near the international departures area at MSY.
For something more comfortable, check if there’s a lounge you can access — many offer day passes regardless of your airline or class of travel. Apps like LoungeBuddy can help you find options.
Final Thoughts
Not every layover leads somewhere interesting, but a layover in New Orleans genuinely does. There’s enough to fill a few hours with good food, interesting sights, and the kind of experience that makes a journey feel like more than just getting from A to B.
Make the most of it. You’ve got this.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.