Algiers Point Ferry Itinerary: One Itinerary, Two Ways
Ride the Algiers Point ferry and discover one of New Orleans’ most charming historic neighborhoods
New Orleans is known for neighborhoods that feel simultaneously present-day and rooted in history, from the streets of the French Quarter to the iconic mansions of the Garden District. But just across the river from the French Quarter and foot of Canal Street, you’ll find Algiers Point, a neighborhood that’s second only to the Quarter in age.
This village-like enclave features charming homes, cozy restaurants and bars, and one of the best views of the city. And best of all, you don’t need a car to get there–it’s entirely accessible by ferry.
Families with children will appreciate the neighborhood’s family-friendly feel, while adults and those without kids will appreciate its laid-back atmosphere full of hidden-gem restaurants and off-the-beaten-path bars. We’ve laid out plans for both, so no matter who you’re rolling with, you’re sure to have the perfect Algiers Point day.
Jump To: Algiers Point and Ferry Itinerary with Kids | Algiers Point and Ferry Itinerary for Adults
Ferry Facts
Single Ride Fare: $2 for Adults, $1 for Youth, Seniors, and Disabled Riders
Jazzy Pass: Unlimited Rides Aboard the Ferry, Streetcar, and Bus
Single Day Jazzy Pass: $3 for Adults, $0.80 for Youth, Seniors, and Disabled Riders
Ferry Schedule: Every 30 Minutes, leaving Algiers on the hour and half-hour and Canal Street at ¼ ‘til and after the hour.
(1) Vue Orleans, (2) Beignets at Cafe du Monde, (3) Woldenberg Park, (4) Riding the Ferry to Algiers Point, (5) Louie Armstrong Statue - Algiers Point Levee
Algiers Point with Kids
Think colorful streets, riverfront views, playgrounds, local coffee, and kid-approved dining in one of New Orleans' most walkable and welcoming neighborhoods.
Breakfast and Pre-Ferry Sightseeing
Back to Top of ListStart your morning with beignets at Café du Monde and a stroll along Woldenberg Park–the riverfront park on the French Quarter side of the Mississippi. From here, you can spend a couple of hours enjoying riverfront attractions, like Audubon Aquarium and Insectarium, or by taking in the view from the top of Vue Orleans, an interactive museum dedicated to the history and culture of New Orleans (and also the only 360-degree rooftop observation deck in the city). The Museum of Illusions is another fun stop nearby for adults and kids of all ages.
Hop Aboard – Taking the Ferry to Algiers
Back to Top of ListWhen you’re ready to head across the river, head to the Canal Street Ferry Terminal. The easiest way to manage fares is through the RTA’s official app Le Pass App, where you can buy single fares or all-day (or multi-day) Jazzy Passes. Youth riders are discounted, making it an affordable (and exciting) mode of transportation throughout the city. Head up the stairs for open-air rides, although seating is limited and can fill up quickly on nice days. On the main level, you’ll find standard seating, as well as tables along the windows. No matter where you sit, you’ll find great views of the water for your 5-to-10-minute drive across the river.
Exploring Algiers Point with Kids
Back to Top of ListFilled with colorful homes, charming architecture, and very walkable streets, stretch your legs and burn off some energy by exploring the neighborhood on foot. Take a walk along the levee and take in the views across the way–they make a perfect backdrop for a family picture. Pay attention to the markers for the Jazz Walk of Fame along the levee–if you’re looking for an educational moment, you can queue up this guided audio tour that provides historical insights into some of the most legendary Jazz musicians in New Orleans.
If you’re traveling with bookworms, you’ll want to walk over to the Hubbell Branch of the Public Library. This cozy, historic building is the perfect spot to take a nice, quiet reading break. Check the library’s calendar for special programming like storytime, playtime, or kids’ chess.
And if you’re in need of a coffee or a sweet treat, swing by the original location of Congregation Coffee. We love their specialty drinks, like the honey tahini or pistachio latte.
Kid-Friendly Dining in Algiers Point
Back to Top of ListWhen it comes time for an early dinner, you’ve got plenty of options within walking distance of the ferry. If you have younger children who enjoy a playground, we recommend heading to Confetti Park, which is conveniently located between two great restaurants. On one side, you have the Drift Inn Diner, a retro-inspired eatery with modern takes on diner classics. Be sure to try their homemade sodas (which also serve as the base for a great selection of cocktails), as well as their soft-serve ice cream.
Across the street on the other side of the playground, you’ll find Barracuda. Known for their fresh Mexican fare served in lush outdoor settings (taco gardens), the Algiers outpost is situated in a refurbished Gulf gas station that has been outfitted with covered picnic tables, string lights, and plenty of bright accents. After your meal, parents can grab a margarita to-go and head over to let your kids play in the playground while you sip in the shade.
In the mood for pizza? Walk back towards the ferry to check out Nighthawk Napoletana, which features woodfired pizzas and other Italian fare in a casual-but-cute setting–red-checkered tablecloths and all.
Or if you’re just looking for a snack, perhaps a glass of wine for the parents and (typically) some live music in a kid-friendly setting, walk over to The Little House. This backyard-style hangout is a favorite for neighborhood families looking to relax outdoors (and enjoy a truly stellar smoked fish dip and wine list while they’re at it).
Finish the Day with Sunset Over the River
Back to Top of ListIf you’re heading back at sunset, you’ll definitely want to take some extra time to get city views as the sun goes down over the river. Heading back at dusk also gives you the perfect opportunity to see the color lights on the bridge as you make your way back across the Mississippi.
(1) The Ferry Crossing the Mississippi River from Algiers, (2) Aboard the Algiers Ferry, (3) Congregation Coffee Algiers Point, (4) Biking in Algiers Point, (5) The Historic Algiers Courthouse, (6) Delacroix Restaurant
Algiers Point for Adults
Antique shops, a sake bar, hidden-gem restaurants, and some of the best golden-hour views in the city — all in a locals-only neighborhood that many visitors make the mistake of missing (but not you!).
Pre-Ferry: Views and a Cocktail
Back to Top of ListStart your morning (or afternoon) with a visit to Vue Orleans, the only 360-degree rooftop observation deck in New Orleans. It's an ideal way to orient yourself before heading across the river, and the views are genuinely spectacular. On your way to the Canal Street Ferry Terminal, make a pit stop at Delacroix, the sleek restaurant and bar with riverfront views located directly next to the ferry terminal. Pull up a seat at the bar for a well-crafted pre-ferry cocktail before heading across the Mississippi.
Hop Aboard - Riding the Ferry to Algiers Point
Back to Top of ListWhen you're ready to cross, head to the Canal Street Ferry Terminal and grab your ticket through the RTA's Le Pass App, which is the easiest way to load fares or snag an all-day Jazzy Pass. One thing people may not realize: you can bring your bike aboard the ferry. If you've rented one or picked up a Blue Bike, wheel it on, and you'll have a great way to explore the neighborhood on two wheels. For the crossing itself, head upstairs for the open-air deck (seating fills up fast on nice days), or settle in on the main level where you'll find standard seating and window tables. Either way, it's a quick 5-to-10-minute ride with great views of the water.
Exploring Algiers Point
Back to Top of ListAlgiers Point is genuinely one of those neighborhoods that rewards slow, aimless wandering. The streets are lined with colorful Creole cottages and Victorian-era homes, and architecture enthusiasts will want to keep their camera handy. Make your way to the levee for sweeping views of Downtown New Orleans and the French Quarter across the river. It's one of the most underrated vantage points in the city and a natural stopping point to take it all in. Keep an eye out for the Jazz Walk of Fame markers along the levee, each one honoring a legend of New Orleans jazz and making for a surprisingly absorbing self-guided history lesson.
When you're ready to duck inside somewhere, head over to Bargeboard, a beautifully curated shop specializing in antiques, one-of-a-kind home décor, and goods from local makers. Whether you're hunting for a truly unique souvenir or just browsing, it's the kind of place you wander into for five minutes and leave an hour later. If you have a soft spot for historic preservation and craftsmanship, ask about a peek at their millshop, where the real magic happens.
Fuel Up with a Coffee — or a "WalkTail"
Back to Top of ListCongregation Coffee is a neighborhood gem worth seeking out. It's small, charming, and open Thursday through Monday until 3 p.m. Order the honey tahini latte. If a cocktail sounds better than a cappuccino (no judgment), swing by Barracuda instead. Order a margarita or a ranch water, grab some guac and chips or a snacking taco if you're peckish, and take your drink to-go. Sipping a cocktail while you stroll a sun-dappled neighborhood street is a quintessentially New Orleans move. Lean into it.
Dinner and Drinks in Algiers Point
Back to Top of ListAlgiers Point punches well above its size when it comes to eating and drinking. Here's how to make the most of it:
For something truly unique, pop into Rice Vice, a bite-sized sake bar with a serious vinyl collection and a genuinely vibey atmosphere. Sake flights are the move. It's small and popular, so either reserve ahead or arrive early, because the wait can sneak up on you.
For a pre- or post-dinner pint, Crown and Anchor delivers a proper British pub experience, right down to the iconic blue police box booth at the entrance. It's divey in the best possible way: neighborhoody, unpretentious, and stocked with pints, a fun selection of British crisps, and a dart board to keep things interesting.
When hunger hits, you've got excellent options. The aforementioned Barracuda serves fresh, flavorful Mexican in a refurbished Gulf station strung with lights and covered picnic tables, ideal for lingering over another round. Drift Inn Diner puts a modern spin on diner classics, and their house-made sodas are worth ordering whether or not you're drinking. That said, their gin and tonic made with house celery soda is a personal favorite and not to be missed. For pizza, Nighthawk Napoletana shares an entrance with Rice Vice and turns out excellent wood-fired pies alongside an Italian menu and a Negroni that earns its reputation.
After Dinner Entertainment
Back to Top of ListCircle back to any of the bars above, or check the calendar at The Old Point Bar, a classic neighborhood bar that hosts live music most weekend nights. It's the kind of place that feels like it's been there forever. Because it has.
Pro Tip:
The view of the river, the Downtown skyline, and the French Quarter from the Algiers Point levee is genuinely unmatched. If your timing works out, make a point to be on that levee at golden hour. The light is stunning and it makes for some of the best photos you'll take in New Orleans. Stick around after dark, and you'll be treated to a gorgeous view of the city and bridge lights reflected across the water. It's worth planning your whole day around.