There’s nothing quite like coasting alongside the Mississippi River on a breezy summer day, and the famous streetcars in New Orleans offer the perfect opportunity to feel the wind in your hair on a scenic ride to all our fair city has to offer.
Take a leisurely stroll down Esplanade Avenue from the front steps of the Lanaux Mansion to the French Market Station where the Riverfront Streetcar will take you to various historic parts of the city.
The streetcar runs every 20-30 minutes, so we encourage you to meander through the French Market as you make your way to the station!
Mississippi Riverfront
The Riverfront streetcar makes seven stops along the Mississippi River after it leaves the French Market Station.
The Dumaine Station stop is near Cafe du Monde, the beloved home to a traditional New Orleans dessert: the beignet. The Dumaine stop is also where you’ll find historic Jackson Square and the St. Louis Cathedral.
Next, you’ll arrive at the Toulouse Station, just near the Steamboat Natchez, a favorite for enjoying live music and viewing the city’s skyline while afloat the mighty Mississippi River.
Audubon Aquarium and Insectarium
Just before the tracks turn down Canal Street, the Riverfront streetcar will stop near the newly renovated Audubon Aquarium and Audubon Insectarium.
Rated as one of the top 10 best aquariums in the nation, Audubon Aquarium is home to thousands of live animals, including more than those found underwater. With live penguin encounters, a touchpool with stingrays and sharks, and an entire exhibit with free-flying birds from the Amazon, you’ll find an abundance to learn and explore throughout the aquarium.
Inside the same building that overlooks the Mississippi River is the Audubon Insectarium. Since reopening in June of 2023, the insectarium provides educational experiences centered around different insects and features a butterfly garden filled with hundreds of live butterflies.
Canal Street
After the stop at the aquarium, hop on the streetcar to continue down Canal Street, a main thoroughfare that borders both the historic French Quarter and the New Orleans Central Business District.
With stops near prized New Orleans restaurants including GW Fins, Mr. B’s Bistro, Bayona, and Palace Cafe, you’ll find classic New Orleans dishes for breakfast, lunch, or dinner.
Along Canal Street, you can also visit the Saenger Theatre and the Orpheum Theater. Both theaters bring lively music and entertainment to the city, from Broadway Across America shows to well-known musicians and classic ballet performances.
Loyola Avenue
The last leg of the Riverfront streetcar’s route will take you to stops near Champions Square where many parties and festivals are hosted, especially those relating to the sports teams hosted in New Orleans.
If you’re interested in New Orleans sports, take a walk through Champions Square for an up-close view of the Caesars Superdome and the Smoothie King Center, home to the New Orleans Saints and New Orleans Pelicans, respectively.
These famous arenas also host large concerts throughout the year, making the Lanaux Mansion a fantastic place to rest your head after a night of live music.
Your Home Away from Home
When you’re ready to head back to home base, the same streetcar will bring you right back to the Lanaux Mansion so you can relax and refresh for whatever is next on your list.
And no matter how many guests are traveling with you, we have plenty of room at the Mansion!
Families will rest easy in our Lanaux Two-Bedroom Balcony Suite. With a luxurious king bed and a daybed in each room, your friends and family will find rest and comfort.
Every suite is also equipped with air conditioning, wireless internet, and smart TVs, so you can keep the good times rolling when you’re back from a busy day.
Ready to book one of our suites? Visit https://www.thelanauxmansion.com/ or call us at (504) 948-6119. We’ll ensure your stay is as lovely and leisurely as a ride on our famous streetcars!
