Bourbon Street

The basics

Spending a little time on Bourbon Street is a must-do for most visitors to New Orleans, but the experience can be vastly different by day and night. For a spot of culture, walking tours of the French Quarter typically stop along the famous street, as do voodoo, literary, music, and heritage tours. Meanwhile, those who’d like to see the street at its debaucherous best can opt for an evening pub crawl to some of the city’s most legendary party venues.

Things to know before you go

• Bourbon Street is a must-see for first-time visitors and partiers.

• Daytime walking tours show off a much different vibe than nighttime pub crawls.

• It’s legal to consume alcohol while walking on Bourbon Street.

• Visit by day and by night to get the full experience.

• Even by day, Bourbon Street can be R-rated, so it may not be appropriate for children.

How to get there

It’s easy to walk to Bourbon Street from just about any place in the historic French Quarter. Visitors coming from Uptown can ride the historic St. Charles streetcar to Canal Street and walk a few blocks to reach Rue Bourbon.

When to get there

While it’s possible to catch beads from Bourbon Street’s famous balconies throughout the year, peak season lasts from February to May, when mild weather and festivals like Mardi Gras and the New Orleans Jazz and Heritage Festival pull in visitors from far and wide. Another popular time to visit is over Labor Day Weekend, when the street hosts the Southern Decadence festival, the biggest LGBTQ+ event in the city.

Boozing on Bourbon Street 101

Many visitors come to Bourbon Street to drink, and there are certainly plenty of options. Well-known watering holes include Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop (one of the oldest buildings in the French Quarter), the Old Absinthe House (don't miss the Absinthe House frappe), Café Lafitte In Exile (the oldest gay bar in the country), and Pat O’Brien’s, home of the Hurricane cocktail.

What is Bourbon Street famous for?

Bourbon Street is New Orleans’ most famous street. Located in the heart of the French Quarter, it features historic architecture, bars, restaurants, and is a major destination during Mardi Gras. For many visitors, Bourbon Street epitomizes Nola’s Laissez les bons temps rouler (Let the good times roll) attitude, and is the place to go for late-night revelry.

What is the history of Bourbon Street in New Orleans?

Bourbon Street is thought to be one of the oldest streets in the country, dating back to 1718 when New Orleans was founded by Jean-Baptiste Le Moyne de Bienville. The French Quarter was designed by engineer Adrien de Pauger, and Bourbon Street was named in honor of France’s Bourbon royal family.

What is the best time to visit Bourbon Street?

That depends on what you’re after. Plan to visit in the daytime if you want to see the street’s historic architecture without crowds, or if you’re traveling with children. Swing by in the evening, or visit during Mardi Gras, if you want a taste of Bourbon Street’s notorious party-hard ambiance.

Are there any family-friendly activities on Bourbon Street?

While you’re safe to walk down Bourbon Street with kids during the day, the street has limited activities specifically for children. However, much of the French Quarter is great for families: Kids can try sugar-dusted beignets, visit the Louisiana State Museum, or go on a carriage ride.

Can you drink alcohol in public on Bourbon Street?

Yes, you can drink alcohol in public on Bourbon Street and in the French Quarter. In fact, it’s common to walk down the street with a drink in hand. Be aware that you must be at least 21 years old to drink, and open glass containers are not permitted.

Is there live music on Bourbon Street every night?

Yes, you’re pretty much guaranteed to encounter live music on Bourbon Street and elsewhere across the French Quarter. Dropping into venues to catch live acts is a way of life in New Orleans, and one of Bourbon Street’s top musical destinations is the Jazz Playhouse.

Ways to explore

Spending a little time on Bourbon Street is a must-do when you travel to New Orleans. The experience varies greatly depending on whether you come during the day or at night. For a spot of culture, walking tours of the French Quarter typically stop along the famous street, as do literary, music, and heritage tours.

Meanwhile, if you’d like to see the street at its debaucherous best, you can opt for an evening pub crawl to some of the city’s most legendary party venues. Alternatively, discover its spooky side on a late-night ghost tour.

Accessibility

Much of the French Quarter, including Bourbon Street, is relatively level. However, crowds and narrow sidewalks may inhibit wheelchair access.

Age limits

Bourbon Street’s offerings are best for adults 21 and up, particularly at night.

What to pack

Sun protection, bug spray, bottle of water, camera

What to wear

Wear light, loose clothing and comfortable walking shoes; the heat and humidity in New Orleans can be fierce.

Not allowed

While the rules vary by tour, most don’t allow smoking, pets, or alcohol (although to-go cups for street drinking are allowed in New Orleans).

Amenities

Shops, restaurants, access to public transit

Address

Bourbon Street is situated in the French Quarter, in the heart of New Orleans. There are a number of ways to get there, including by taxi or rideshare service, by bus or streetcar, and by tour with included transit. The street itself is best explored on foot.

Driving

Although you can drive to Bourbon Street, navigating the French Quarter by vehicle is challenging, and there is limited public parking. Use taxis or rideshare services instead.

Public transportation

Bourbon Street is served by several streetcar lines, including the Riverfront, Loyola, and both Canal streetcars. It’s also accessible by local bus routes.

Best times to visit

Nighttime is when Bourbon Street comes into its own—visit after dark to sample its hedonistic side.

Best days to visit

Bourbon Street is busiest on weekends and holidays, and that's part of its charm. Aim for a weekday to avoid some of the crowds.

Best months to visit

Time your visit for winter or spring, when temperatures are lower, festivals are in full swing, and hurricane season has yet to arrive.

Special events

Mardi Gras, held in February or March depending on the year, is undoubtedly the most festive time to visit Bourbon Street.