A Guide to New Orleans, Louisiana for Black Women Traveling Solo
New Orleans was the first place I ever traveled solo, and looking back, I understand why. I once saw someone from the city say that if you love New Orleans, she’ll love you right back, but if you disrespect her then beware.
This is a city built on Black culture, Black sound, Black food, and Black history, and you feel that immediately. If you’re a Black woman thinking about traveling solo for the first time, New Orleans is one of the easiest “yes” decisions you can make.
Why New Orleans Was My First Solo Trip
When I decided that travel was going to be my biggest goal of life as a single woman, New Orleans topped my list of places in the United States. The thought that I could be caught by the surprise of live music on any street at any time or the idea that I could possibly have the best food dish I will ever have were good enough reasons to make a trip to NOLA happen.
Most of what you’ll experience is sensory—things to see, taste, hear. For me, New Orleans is about feeling the pulse of the city. Walk with me through this guide to get an idea for what you can do in The Big Easy.
When to Go
Every version of New Orleans may not be for you. Spring, or March through May, is probably the best time to be there in terms of weather but also for festivals and lots of energy. Fall is also a strong choice because it’s cooler and bit slower paced. Many people go in February for Mardi Gras season, but if you’re traveling solo for the first time, that may overwhelm you. I’ve personally been in June and July and while summer is cheaper, it is hot and very humid. It’s not impossible to be there during that time, but I don’t think you would get the best impression of the city at that time.
Where to Stay
I’ve stayed in both The French Quarter and the business district. To me, the French Quarter is the most convenient option because it’s walkable and puts you in the middle of everything. You could have an amazing trip even if you just stayed in this area the entire time.
The Garden District is quieter and more residential, but the streets are beautiful and there are shops and restaurants in this area as well. In general, you can find some place affordable to stay in New Orleans, but you may not want to go too cheap or hidden. Book somewhere reputable and well-located.
I stayed at the Chateau Hotel, which I loved. It’s conveniently located and has historic charm.
Getting Around
Walking during the day works well in New Orleans, especially in the French Quarter and surrounding neighborhoods. At night, I would recommend Uber or Lyft for a solo woman traveling.
What It Feels Like to Be There as a Black Woman
I’ve heard New Orleans described as the northernmost part of the Caribbean, and that is the perfect description. The air is sticky and time moves slow. You know when the people love you and I guess you’d probably feel it if they don’t. The city feels very storied, and when you visit, you become a part of that story. where you’re part of the story. The music you hear sounds like it’s from a faraway place or time, and that’s because it is. You’ll eat food that connects you to years of ancestry and tradition. You’ll see Black people existing fully, creatively and loudly. There’s a heavy history in the city, but that’s what makes the joy so real and immense.
Where to Eat
I don’t know anyone that doesn’t go to New Orleans to eat. That is inarguably the most important thing to do. You’re getting cajun. You’re getting creole. You’re getting soulful southern. And all of it is delicious and incomparable. Check out my full list of places to eat here.
What to Do
Walk the French Quarter, of course. Spend an evening on Frenchmen Street instead of Bourbon Street for better music and less chaos. Take a walk through the Garden District. Do a swamp tour to catch a breeze and escape the heat for a while. Sit by the Mississippi River at sunset. All the things.
Safety Tips
Be aware and, even if someone asks, avoid sharing where you’re staying or what you have planned. Keep your phone charged, and definitely be mindful of how much you’re drinking and where you’re drinking, especially if you’re alone. Don’t walk alone late at night in quiet or unfamiliar areas. New Orleans is a vibrant city, but it’s still a city in which you should use common sense.
How to Experience New Orleans
Leave some room for spontaneity in New Orleans. Talk to people when it feels right. Follow the sound of music down a street you didn’t intend to walk down. Support local artists. Because it’s such a sensory city, respond to that energy with curiosity.
My Final Thoughts
For now, I’m on a mission to visit so many other places on my list, but New Orleans is a city that I would never mind coming back to. It’s a must-visit city in the U.S. because it’s so rich in culture. My guide doesn’t cover all there is to do here, but hopefully it gives you some idea of what to expect from The Big Easy.
New Orleans gave me my first experience traveling alone, and almost ten years later, it still stands out as one of the most important trips I’ve taken. It’s not necessarily because of what I did but because of how I felt while I was there. The energy gave me courage to be an explorer. If you’ve been thinking about taking your first solo trip and aren’t sure where to go, maybe you start here.
