Are you planning to travel in March to New Orleans? We have visited the city many times in March and it’s definitely worth considering.
The weather is typically mild, and there are lots of fun things to do. The city has festivals and many attractions to enjoy during the spring. Plus, you avoid the cloying heat and humidity of the summer.
However, there are a few tiny downsides and some other essential things you should know before you go.
Keep reading for information from frequent visitors to Crescent City on what to wear, where to go, and other helpful advice.
Tour Tips for March
Is March a Good Time?
March is a very good time to visit New Orleans, as the temperatures are warm enough during the day to dress comfortably without a lot of bulk. The sun is often out. However, there may be a rain shower here and there, but it won’t last long, and you can be out and about again in no time.
It’s also a great time for outdoor activities, as it can often get too hot and humid in the summer months to enjoy. It’s an excellent time for jazzy and boozy steamboat cruises, festivals, and outdoor restaurants.
Weather
During March, the average temperature in New Orleans is 65.5°F (18.61°C), with averages as low as 59 F (15 C) and up to 72 F (22.78 C). The average rainfall is 5 inches, mostly scattered rain showers that pass quickly.
New Orleans average high temps throughout the month:
- Early March: 70°F (21°C)
- Mid-March: 73°F (23°C)
- Late March: 76°F (24°C)
Is March Cold in New Orleans?
It’s not cold in New Orleans in March. However, the mornings and evenings can be chilly, so you may want to dress in layers like a t-shirt combined with a long-sleeve shirt, or bring a light jacket. But as most mornings may start at 61°F, you won’t be too cold.
Temperature progression on a typical day:
- Morning (7 AM): 61°F
- Afternoon (3 PM): 72°F
- Evening (10 PM): 65 °F
Local opinion: March is a pleasant month and not cold. However, a couple of years ago, we had a freeze during the first days of the month. While rare, it’s possible.
The weather can also be wacky. Sometimes we have days during this month when it’s warm around noon and gets a lot colder a couple of hours later. Definitely check the weather forecast up to the day before leaving.
Rain
On average, New Orleans sees 5 inches of rain in March. The rain usually falls in scattered showers during the month. The rain never lasts very long, just enough time to check out a museum or have a leisurely lunch or brunch.
💡 While we always enjoy our visits during this month, the weather can be iffy at this time of the year. Usually, around mid-March, the weather is becoming more pleasant and predictable. However, there is the typical chance of rain of course.
As hurricane season runs from June through November, you’re unlikely to be affected by a major storm, another great reason to visit in March!
What to Wear/Packing List
For March in New Orleans, pack light layers. Wear a light sweatshirt, jeans, and comfortable shoes. It can get cooler at night, so bring a light jacket as well. A waterproof jacket or umbrella is also a good idea since rain showers are common in March.
While it’s getting even warmer towards the end of the month, even in late March on most nights a light jacket or long sleeve top is recommended.
If you’re visiting for the festivals, you may want to pack some colorful outfits to dress up for the Mardi Gras parades or even something green for St. Patrick’s Day.
Comfortable shoes are also a necessity as walking is the most common way to navigate the French Quarter, and the old brick sidewalks can often be uneven, making it easy to trip or stumble.
Local opinion: During March, especially later in the month, I wear shorts during the day, and pants/jeans in the evening. Layers are key and a lightweight jacket in the evening is a good idea.
The dress code in New Orleans can be anywhere from jeans or shorts and a t-shirt to suits and dresses at a five-star restaurant. It all depends on the experience you want to have while you’re in town. It pays to check the dress code, and we were once unable to dine in a restaurant because we were wearing flip-flops.
Most attractions are casual, but if you’re taking the steamboat, be sure to bring a jacket as the wind on the water can be quite chilly, even on a sunny day in March.
What should you pack for your trip?
- Light layers. Jeans, t-shirts, sweatshirts or sweaters.
- Hooded jackets are great because you can take it on and off easily, and you can put your keys and other important items in the front pockets.
- Comfortable shoes
- Jacket
- Umbrella. The easier to carry, the better.
- If you’re planning on dining out at a nicer restaurant, you’ll need the appropriate clothes for that.
- Backpack. This is useful for carrying any items you may purchase throughout the day or anything you need to carry. DO NOT carry any valuables in here, as pickpocketing is common in the French Quarter.
How Busy | Crowds and Rates
The crowds in New Orleans in March will vary depending on when Mardi Gras falls. Most of the time, Mardi Gras is in February. However, every 2-3 years, it will be in March.
Since there are typically no major events in March like Mardi Gras or Jazzfest, the crowds should be rather light but still busier on the weekends than during the week. No matter the day or date, Bourbon Street always has people meandering about.
St. Patricks Day: It can get busier and can also be pricy, depending on what else is going on in New Orleans. Sometimes there are conventions at the same time. The parades take place the weekend before Saint Patrick’s Day, which is always on March 17.
💡 There will be more people in town than usual on the parade weekend, but not an overwhelming amount. The parades are interesting to see and there will be other fun things to do.
Mardi Gras: If you do go and it’s Mardi Gras in March, it will be crowded and hard to move around the French Quarter, even walking. Also, keep in mind that some streets will close to allow the parades to pass.
- Current Date/This Year: When is Mardi Gras – New Orleans
Hotel room rates will be high and hard to book if you wait too long. Restaurants will be crowded too, especially the more popular ones. Some may take reservations, but some may not.
Hotel Search: Check hotel deals here (sort by price and review): New Orleans via booking.com and save the link if you found one.
Do your research here, and find out what the restaurants require. Always expect to wait at the Cafe’ Du Monde, no matter what time of year it is.
3 March Travel Quick Tips
- While the weather is usually pleasant, it’s also unpredictable, especially in the first half of the month. Pack rain gear! We recommend a waterproof coat or an umbrella.
- Book your airplane tickets and accommodations well in advance and be prepared for crowds if Mardi Gras takes place in March. Restaurants may also have long lines.
- New Orleans is a fabulous city for exploring its beautiful areas on foot. However, you can also take buses, ferries, streetcars, take an Uber, or use ridesharing like KreweCAR. Be prepared for ridesharing services to have higher prices during events like Mardi Gras.
Things to Do | Tours and Attractions
There are plenty of activities to enjoy in New Orleans during March. There are also walking tours, ghost tours, and steamboat cruises available for visitors. For those looking for something a bit more adventurous, you can take a swamp tour or visit some of the local plantations.
Steamboat Cruise
A steamboat cruise is a great way to see New Orleans from the Mississippi River. You can enjoy a scenic view of the city while relaxing on board the boat with a beverage (if you like).
You will feel like you stepped back into time when you board the boat as jazz music plays and the whistle sounds out across the area. Take in the spectacular views and sights from the water. It’s such a fantastic experience!
When we took the cruise in December, the air coming off the water was chilly enough to need a coat, but the sun was warm. In March, it is comfortable without a coat during the day. However, We recommend layers or a light jacket for the evening cruise.
Having taken several tours throughout the years through the French Quarter and Garden District, seeing the town and area from this unique perspective was definitely a treat. A steamboat cruise is essential to a complete New Orleans experience!
Ghost Tours
New Orleans is well-known for its ghosts and hauntings, and there are plenty of ghost tours available to explore the city’s spooky side. These tours are great for those who want to learn more about the city’s history and legends. If you dare!
Be sure to pack comfortable shoes for these tours. They are walking tours and can last up to two hours.
Plantation Tours
There are several plantations around New Orleans that are worth visiting. Some of the most popular ones are the Oak Alley Plantation, the Laura Plantation, and the Destrehan Plantation.
These plantations offer a glimpse into Louisiana’s history and culture, and they’re a great way to learn more about the state’s plantation era.
Events
Irish Channel Parade
This popular St. Patrick’s Day event celebrates its Irish heritage. The parade features music, dancers, and floats. Parade-goers line up to catch the coveted throw for this parade…cabbage!
Tennessee Williams and New Orleans Literary Festival
The New Orleans Literary Festival celebrates the city’s rich literary history and the work of Tennessee Williams. The festival features readings, panels, and workshops from some of the best writers in the country. One popular event during this festival is the Stella shouting contest held near Jackson Square.
Freret Street Festival
This festival, held near Napolean Avenue and Valmont Street, features music, food, and art from some of the best artists in the city. It’s an excellent way to experience the joi de vivre that is New Orleans.
New Orleans is a great place to visit in March. The city is home to plenty of fun festivals and activities, and the weather is mild and pleasant. If you’re looking for a fun and festive getaway, be sure to add New Orleans to your list!
Laissez les bons temps rouler!–Let the good times roll!