How to Time Your Trip to New Orleans

New Orleans has long been typified as America's city with soul. Everything about the place oozes history, character, passion and decadence. Wander past Bourbon Street and the French Quarter and you'll find the magical, Carnavalesque source of New Orleans' charm.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

General Considerations

1. Decide when you want to visit. Generally the climate here is mild and pleasant, though humid. Only in July and August does the heat become uncomfortable. Winter lows average 42 degrees F; summer highs, 91 degrees F.
2. Consider visiting during the low season. If big crowds and giant parties aren't your thing, you'll agree with many locals that January, February and November are the best times to explore New Orleans.
3. Check out what festivals, expositions and live performances are happening (see "Attractions and Seasonal Events" below).
4. Take care of your flight, transportation and accommodations (see Related eHows).
5. Check the weather forecast for New Orleans shortly before leaving, and pack accordingly.

Attractions and Seasonal Events

6. Put on a costume and party with the entire city on Mardi Gras, New Orleans' biggest and wildest celebration. This culmination of the long carnival season happens in mid-February, the day before Ash Wednesday.
7. Listen to the masters of jazz and sample Cajun specialties at the internationally acclaimed New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival. Second only to Mardi Gras, this 10-day event books up hotels a year in advance. It's usually held at the end of April and beginning of May.
8. Experience Halloween like nowhere else in the world. The costumes are extravagant and will excite everyone in your family. Kids will enjoy the haunted houses, museums and the zoo, while the nighttime activities center on the French Quarter.
9. Acquaint yourself with the latest dance, music, theater and visual art at the Contemporary Arts Center, 900 Camp St.
10. Hear some of America's best voices at the New Orleans Opera Association, featuring several operas each season.
11. Plan New Year's in New Orleans around college football; the city hosts the raucous Sugar Bowl every New Year's Day.

Tips & Warnings

• If crowds bother you, avoid New Orleans during Mardi Gras, Jazz Fest and the Sugar Bowl.