New Orleans, Louisiana Weather in March

Mild days, passing rain

March feels like spring in New Orleans, with comfortable afternoons and cooler evenings. The weather suits walking the French Quarter, taking a streetcar along St. Charles Avenue, or exploring City Park. Rain falls on several days, so showers can interrupt a long walk. Keep indoor stops like the National WWII Museum in mind.

It's not yet the sticky heat of summer, but the air can feel damp. After rain, take a covered streetcar ride or linger over lunch in the Garden District instead of planning a full day outdoors.

Parades and spring breaks

St. Patrick's Day brings parades, especially in the Irish Channel, where riders toss cabbages and beads. Mardi Gras sometimes falls in March, too; when it does, expect a much busier city around parade routes. Spring break also brings more families and visitors, so popular sights and restaurants can feel crowded.

Families who enjoy a street party may like the Irish Channel parade, but it can be loud and packed along the route.

Crowds and local tips

March is busier than the quieter summer months, when heat and heavy rain put some visitors off. It can also cost more than low-season months, especially during Mardi Gras or spring break. Compared with April, March is cooler and a little less rainy, though both months bring plenty of visitors.

For the Irish Channel parade, head to Magazine Street to watch, then duck into a nearby café when the crowd gets thick. If you're riding the St. Charles streetcar, allow extra time on parade days; detours and street closures can slow the route.