Plan Your Cycling Trip
From levee-top views of ocean-going ships to shaded trails beneath centuries-old oaks, the New Orleans region blends heritage, nature, and easy access. Use this logistics guide to make your cycling visit seamless and rewarding.
Getting Here
- By Air: Louis Armstrong International (MSY) is just 20–30 minutes from the French Quarter and levee-path trailheads.
- By Rail: Amtrak Union Passenger Terminal offers bicycle check-in and is minutes from ferry and Greenway access.
- By Road: Major interstates (I-10, I-55, I-12) connect the Gulf Coast and Northshore. The Causeway Bridge offers the fastest link to the Tammany Trace.
- By Ferry: The Algiers Ferry is an iconic way to reach the West Bank levee trail directly from downtown.
When to Visit
Spring and fall are ideal — warm but not humid, with festivals nearly every weekend. Winter brings cooler rides with quiet paths. Summer offers early sunrises for levee spins but demands hydration and midday breaks. Hurricane season extends June–November; always check forecasts if weather develops in the Gulf.
Local Tours & Experiences
- BuZz NOLA Guided E-Bike Tours start daily from the French Quarter. Explore local history, architecture, and waterfront views without the need for route planning including guided ebike tours, guided bike tours of the French Quarter, Marigny, Treme, Bayou St. John, Esplanade and City Park as well as guided bike tours of the French Quarter, CBD, Lower Garden, and Garden District, with (seasonal) ebike/swamp tours and French Quarter walking tours too.
- Swamp Tours: The ultimate in guided, relaxing and shaded slow pontoon-boat swamp tours, fast large airboat swamp tours, and nimble small airboat swamp tours.
- Voodoo Tours: Take a Guided Voodoo walking tour focusing on Voodoo's roots and how local hysteria based on fear and superstition gripped the French Quarter for over a century.
Practical Tips
- Carry water — many levee stretches have limited shade or services.
- Expect pedestrians and maintenance vehicles; keep right and signal passes.
- Pack light rain gear — short showers are common, especially in summer.
- Secure bikes at well-lit racks; most hotels downtown are bike-friendly.
Looking for ride inspiration? Explore our companion New Orleans Region Cycling Trails guide.
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