TRAVEL TIPS
Based on past experience at Jazz Fest, I’ve compiled a list of travel tips and packing essentials. Take a minute to review. If you have any suggestions, email me and I will add to the list.
New Orleans Weather
According to the Accuweather website, the average temperature for April 27 through May 1, the average temperature during the day will be in the low to mid 80’s, with night temperatures dropping to the high 60’s. Dress for comfort and high humidity heat. I’m hoping for no rain, but inevitably there will be some showers. If it rains a lot, the Fairgrounds can be quite muddy. In the event that it is muddy, packing some rubber boots would be a good idea.
Transportation
Airport Transportation – There are two excellent options for transportation to and from the Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY). First, and the cheapest, is the Airport Shuttle. The Airport Shuttle runs from 7:00AM until the last flight arrives. Once you get off of the plane, go to the lower level. Airport Shuttle ticket desks are located across from baggage claim areas 1, 5,9,11 and 12. These desks are staffed for sales by cash or credit card daily if you have not purchased your tickets ahead of time. To purchase your Airport Shuttle ahead of time, go to the Airport Shuttle website here. The Airport Shuttle bus drops off at the Hotel St. Marie in the French Quarter. They make frequent stops for other hotels throughout New Orleans. A one way ticket on the Airport Shuttle is $24.00. The Airport Shuttle buses are white with yellow lettering that says “Airport Shuttle” on its side. An excellent marker on the side of every vehicle is the Airport Shuttle phone number, 522-3500.
Uber also picks up at the Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY). The flat rate from the airport to the French Quarter is $33 for an UberX. I recommend taking an Uber versus a taxi for cost savings and cleanliness. Once you land at the airport, simply use your Uber app to select your vehicle and request a ride. Your Uber driver will meet you at the Transportation Center which is located on the first floor of the Short Term Parking Garage across from Baggage Claim #6.
To and From Jazz Fest – The Jazz Fest Express shuttle bus takes guests directly in the Fairgrounds, the site of the Festival. Shuttle tickets will be available at the Shuttle Departure Locations. Shuttles will begin running at 10:30 am. The closest Shuttle Departure Location to our hotel is at the Steamboat Natchez Dock (Toulouse St. at the Mississippi River). Roundtrip shuttle bus tickets are $15.
Getting Around Town – Since our hotel is conveniently located in the French Quarter, we will be doing a lot of walking. Comfortable sandals, flip flops or athletic shoes would be good choices for foot wear. We can also take the Streetcar to visit areas outside of the French Quarter (i.e. the Garden District). The Streetcar costs $1.25 and only takes exact change so plan to have a supply of $1’s and quarters. For locations outside the French Quarter, but not on the Streetcar line, Uber is a good transportation choice.
Packing Essentials
-Soft 6 Pack Cooler – The Festival allows you to bring a soft sided 6 pack cooler. When you purchase water or beer, you can buy more than one and they will give you ice for your cooler.
-Outdoor Folding Chair – We usually don’t bring the chair with us on the plane and instead purchase it from the Walgreen’s in the French Quarter. If you are not bringing a chair, we can purchase one for you at the Walgreen’s when we arrive. Just text or email me if you would like us to purchase a chair for you on Thursday afternoon.
-Comfortable clothes for high humidity heat
-Comfortable sandals, flip flops or athletic shoes
-Swim Suit – The hotel has a pool and may be open for a dip.
-Rain Poncho
-Rubber Boots – Optional
-Small Purse – Travel light at the Festival and for long walks.
-Sunscreen
-Hat – I don’t have a hat head, but if you do, then pack your favorite sun chapeau.
-Ear plugs – They say I snore, so you might want to pack some ear plugs.