Best time to visit New Orleans — month‑by‑month guide
For the best combination of weather and events, plan New Orleans visits for March–May (spring festival season) or October–November (the city’s driest, most comfortable weather). Winters are mild and quieter; summers are hot, humid and storm-prone — expect afternoon thunderstorms and hurricane season from June through November.
In this guide
Why timing matters in New Orleans
New Orleans’ calendar is shaped by weather and events: mild, busy springs for festivals; hot, humid summers with frequent storms; a pleasant, drier fall; and mild, quieter winters.
At Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans you’ll be close to the French Quarter, Riverwalk and streetcar lines, and hotel services like the fifth-floor heated saltwater infinity pool and on-site restaurants are available year-round, but seasonal crowds and pool hours can affect your experience.
- Festival crowds and hotel demand rise in spring (Mardi Gras through Jazz Fest) — reserve early.
- Hurricane season runs June 1–November 30; storm risk peaks mid‑August to mid‑October.
- Pool is climate-controlled and open year-round, but confirm hours with hotel for your dates.
Spring (March–May): festival season — lively and busy
Spring is one of the most popular times to visit. Temperatures typically range from roughly 50–85°F and major events — including Mardi Gras in late winter/early spring depending on the year and Jazz Fest in late April/early May — draw large crowds.
If you want to be in the thick of it, book early and consider a room close to hotel services like Chemin à la Mer or Miss River for convenient meals after long days of parades and performances.
- Best for: festival-goers and warm, comfortable weather.
- Tip: Reserve a room type that fits your group — options include Deluxe Room, River View and Suite, 1 Bedroom, River View for extra space.
- Expect higher rates and limited availability around major festival dates.
Summer (June–August): hot, humid and storm-aware
Summer sees high heat and humidity with frequent afternoon thunderstorms; August averages near the low 90s. This is also within the Gulf’s hurricane season, so be aware of weather forecasts and flexible travel plans.
If you travel in summer, take advantage of the hotel’s climate-controlled Pool Deck, 24-hour Fitness Centre, and indoor dining options such as Trattoria Varco and Chandelier Bar to escape the midday heat.
- Best for: lower hotel demand (outside major events) and deals if you can handle heat.
- Pack: light clothing, rain gear and an adaptable itinerary in case of storms.
- Tip: Poolside dining is offered daily from 10:00 am–5:30 pm; check pool hours with the front desk.
Fall (September–November): best-weather months
October and November are widely considered the best months for weather in New Orleans: lower humidity, pleasant daytime temperatures (often in the 70s–80s°F), and lower rainfall in many years.
Fall also tracks the latter part of hurricane season, so while weather is often excellent, keep an eye on forecasts for late‑season tropical activity.
- October: often the single best weather month — mild days and lower rainfall.
- November: mild, quieter city and good dining and museum visits.
- Tip: Book a Deluxe Room, City View or Deluxe Room, River View if you want skyline or river vistas during cooler evenings.
Winter (December–February): mild and quieter
Winters are mild compared with many U.S. destinations; average temperatures typically sit in the 60s°F. This is a good time to visit if you prefer smaller crowds and lower weekday hotel demand.
The hotel remains active with indoor amenities — dining at Chemin à la Mer, Miss River and Chandelier Bar; spa treatments at The Spa at Four Seasons Hotel New Orleans; and the 24-hour Fitness Centre.
- Best for: quieter sightseeing, museum visits and holiday season events without extreme cold.
- Consider: Premier Room, City View or Executive Suite, City View for extra space when travel itineraries include shopping or group stays.
- Note: Check restaurant and event hours around holidays, which can vary.
Month-by-month highlights
Below are concise highlights to help plan specific months. Use this with event calendars and weather forecasts for the year you plan to travel.
Because event dates (Mardi Gras, Jazz Fest) shift year to year, verify exact festival dates before booking.
| Month | What to expect |
|---|---|
| January | Mild weather; quieter tourism after New Year’s — good for museums and restaurants. |
| February | Mardi Gras can fall in February or March — very busy if Mardi Gras is that month. |
| March | Festival season ramps up; pleasant temperatures but book early for events. |
| April | Warm, popular month with Jazz Fest in late April some years — high demand. |
| May | Spring festivals continue; warm weather before summer heat. |
| June | Hot and humid; start of hurricane season — fewer tourists outside events. |
| July | Peak summer heat; afternoon storms common; indoor hotel amenities useful. |
| August | Very hot, humid and in peak hurricane-season window — be cautious with bookings. |
Practical tips for booking your stay
Reserve early for spring and fall; consider flexible rates if traveling during hurricane season. The hotel’s front desk can confirm pool and spa hours for your dates and the Concierge can arrange excursions such as swamp tours and plantation trips.
If you need space for family or small groups, the hotel’s room types include Deluxe Room, River View; Deluxe Room, City View; Premier Room, City View; Suite, 1 Bedroom, River View; Executive Suite, City View; and Suite, 2 Bedrooms, City View.
- Check-in begins at 3:00 pm and check-out is 12:00 pm (noon).
- Valet-only parking is available (fees vary) and the hotel has direct streetcar access.
- Pets: the hotel can accommodate cats and dogs in-room under its pet policy; pets are not allowed in restaurants, the Spa, Fitness Centre or pool areas.
