See the City Aboard New Orleans' Streetcars
New Orleans’ historic streetcars are one of the most scenic ways to experience the city.
From stately mansions and oak-canopied neighborhoods to riverfront views and cultural attractions, riding the streetcar offers an easy and affordable way to explore New Orleans. Below is a complete guide to the city’s streetcar lines, including things to see and do along each route and tips for planning your ride.
St. Charles Line
Sitting on the mahogany seats of a St. Charles Avenue streetcar, the oldest continuously operated streetcar line in the world, is like taking a ride in a history museum on wheels. Start your trip at the Canal Street station, but before boarding the streetcar, take a gander at Canal itself. It's named for a manmade waterway that was never built; instead, the streetcar line and six traffic lanes make this one of the widest main streets in the nation.
On your ride through downtown, you’ll pass a number of New Orleans’ favorite dining spots, such as Luke and Herbsaint. Other stops include The National WWII Museum and the Ogden Museum of Southern Art.
The Garden District stretch of St. Charles is a feast for the senses, with stops at more restaurants, including Cajun-Creole spot Jack Rose, some of New Orleans’ most historic homes and nearby shopping on Magazine Street. Uptown, find gifts at St. James Cheese Company, go for a walk in Audubon Park, dine on traditional Southern cuisine at Camellia Grill and walk the shopping and dining district of Oak Street and Maple Street.
Highlights: Garden District, Uptown, Audubon Park
Canal Street Lines (City Park and Cemeteries)
The Canal Street Line has two routes—one to City Park and the other to the above-ground tombs at Metairie and Greenwood cemeteries. Both lines start where Canal Street meets the Mississippi River, also the location of Caesars New Orleans Casino, Audubon Aquarium, Canal Place and the Riverwalk Outlets.
The Canal Street Line passes by the French Quarter, one of America’s most famous neighborhoods. From your streetcar, you’ll see performance venues such as the Saenger and Joy theaters.
If you’re interested in seeing the city’s largest above-ground cemeteries, take the Cemeteries route. Take the City Park/Museum line to New Orleans City Park, a 1,300-acre green space that's the sixth largest in the U.S. There you’ll also find the city’s premier art museum, the New Orleans Museum of Art.
Highlights: City Park, New Orleans Museum of Art, above-ground cemeteries
Riverfront Line
The Riverfront Line, as its name suggests, follows the Mississippi River from the Warehouse District downtown to the edge of the French Quarter. It’s the only line that goes through the Quarter, passing by Jackson Square, the French Market and the New Orleans Jazz Museum at the Old U.S. Mint.
Highlights: French Quarter, French Market, views from the riverfront
Loyola/UPT Line
This line follows the Canal Street route before veering towards New Orleans’ Central Business District. The main attraction here is the South Market district, home to award-winning restaurants, local boutiques and entertainment.
Highlights: Warehouse District
Streetcar Fares, Passes & Tips
Streetcar rides are affordable and a convenient way to get around New Orleans. Single-ride fares are $1.25 per ride anywhere in the city, and you must have exact fare when paying on board.
Or you can purchase a Jazzy Pass, which gives you unlimited rides on any line in the city. The Jazzy Pass is $3 for 1 day, $8 for 3 days or $15 for 7 days.
Download the Le Pass app to buy passes and show them when boarding. You can also use the app to live-track streetcars.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are New Orleans streetcars?
New Orleans streetcars connect neighborhoods, attractions and commercial districts while preserving a piece of the city's history. The streetcars have been in operation since the 1800s, and the dark green or bright red cars — depending on the line — draw electricity from overhead lines.
How much does it cost to ride a streetcar in New Orleans?
Streetcar fares are affordable, with single rides costing just over a dollar. Unlimited-ride passes are also available for one or more days.
Which New Orleans streetcar line is the most historic?
The St. Charles Avenue Line is the most historic. It's the oldest continuously operating streetcar line in the world.
Are New Orleans streetcars accessible?
Many streetcars and stops are accessible, though accessibility can vary by line. Visitors with mobility needs should check current accessibility information before riding.
Can I use one pass on all streetcar lines?
Yes! Unlimited-ride passes can be used on all New Orleans streetcar lines.
What’s the best time of day to ride the streetcar?
Early mornings and late afternoons are ideal for avoiding crowds and enjoying scenic views.
