Headed to a game? Here’s everything you need to know.
Fall in New Orleans means a few things to locals. First, it’s finally cooling down, so it’s time to dine outdoors, drink outdoors, and take advantage of parks and local gardens. Next, it’s officially Saints and Pelicans season. On Sundays, black and gold fill the streets, and the chant of “Who Dat!” is never far away. For basketball fans, navy and red signal it’s time to flock up with the Pelicans.
This guide is built to be your go-to resource for game day in New Orleans. From tailgating outside Caesars Superdome to postgame celebrations across the city, you’ll find where to eat, drink, park, and stay to make the most of game day.
Tailgating in New Orleans has come a long way from the days of lowering a station wagon’s back gate, setting up a small TV on the bumper, and reaching into an ice chest for cold drinks and game-day snacks. Today, tailgating is an art perfected by those who take their fandom seriously.
Pickup trucks and tents still line the lots, but you’ll also see camper-style setups with flat-screen TVs, elaborate grills, and fans dressed head to toe in black and gold. The atmosphere is lively, with music pumping from speakers, barbecue on the grills, and fans trading “Who Dat!” chants as they gear up for kickoff. It’s a mix of energy and camaraderie that makes the pregame just as memorable as the game itself.
If there’s one place that captures the spirit of a New Orleans game day, it’s Champions Square. The massive outdoor plaza outside the Caesars Superdome draws thousands of fans with live music, food from local vendors, big-screen TVs, and plenty of drinks. For a more laid-back vibe, the attached Club XLIV offers air conditioning, cushioned seating, and premium cocktails without leaving the action behind.
Finding a spot on game day can feel like its own competition, but with a little planning, it’s manageable. Parking at the Caesars Superdome is available in several official garages and surface lots, but spaces are limited and usually sell out fast. Pre-purchasing a pass is highly recommended, especially for big matchups. These spots put you right next to the Dome, but if you’re chasing the full tailgate experience, nearby lots along Loyola Avenue, South Rampart Street, and the surrounding CBD side streets are where fans set up tents, grills, and speakers.
If you don’t mind walking a few extra blocks, the Central Business District has plenty of garages and pay-to-park lots within a 10- to 15-minute walk. Rideshare is also a reliable option, with drop-off zones near Champions Square that let you skip the parking hunt altogether. Most parking lots do not take reservations for standard-size vehicles, though advance arrangements may be required for buses, campers, or RVs.
If you're not tailgating, several garages are available for Saints and Pelicans game days. Pre-purchasing a pass is highly recommended, especially for big matchups. Find more information below.
Caesars Superdome Directions and Parking
The address for Caesars Superdome is 1500 Sugar Bowl Dr. It is recommend to book parking in one of Caesars Superdome's garages or surface lots through JustPark EventPass. To reserve your spot, visit the Caesars Superdome EventPass Parking Page.
Smoothie King Center Directions and Parking
The address for the Smoothie King Center is 1501 Dave Dixon Dr. The ASM Global managed complex has a total of seven (7) parking garages for public parking and two (2) surface lots, which can accommodate approximately 7,000 vehicles. The parking garages and surface lots are adjacent to the Superdome and the Smoothie King Center. The public parking garages are designated #1, #1A, #2, #2A, #5, #6 and Champions Garage. The surface lots are designated as Lot 3 and Lot 4. Pre-purchase event parking here.
Accessibility in New Orleans | Attractions & Things To Do | Episode 3
If you’re coming specifically for a game or a concert – or if you’re looking for a place to hang out before or after, there are lots of nearby hotels that are just as unique as New Orleans sports fans.
This new luxury hotel, located just steps away from the Dome, has just 11 rooms. That and bespoke design gives it an intimate feel, with the delicious Copper Vine Wine Bar & Restaurant located just downstairs.
Even without tickets or a proper tailgate set-up, you can join in the NOLA gameday festivities at one of the city’s many sports bars. Whether you’re looking for a place to spend the game with fellow fans or a fun spot for pre- or post-game drinks, there’s a lively spot in nearly every neighborhood in the city, including these bars near the Smoothie King Center and Superdome.
Lucy’s is a favorite hangout among the locals, especially for a post-win celebration. Watch the action from a giant projection on the building across the street.
Open until midnight on the weekends, Pluck is your go-to place for wine, beer, and snacky things. Plus, they have a full-service menu. Charcuterie, anyone?
Although most of the action is downtown near the Superdome, you don’t have to be in the Central Business District to feel like you’re part of gameday. Across the city, neighborhood bars and hangouts give fans plenty of ways to cheer on the Saints without stepping foot in the Dome. Find watch parties at the bars below and more on where to watch Saints games here.
Located just a short ride away from the arena, Central City BBQ is great for ribs, wings, potato salad, and other barbecue favorites in a laid-back atmosphere.
Enjoy traditional Mexican dishes just steps away from the Dome at Tacos del Cartel. If you're in the know, Sushi By Us is a boutique sushi spot hidden in the CBD behind Tacos del Cartel.
What's the bag policy at the Caesars Superdome and Smoothie King Center?
Both venues require clear bags — no exceptions for style or brand. The Superdome allows clear bags up to 12" x 12" x 6" or a one-gallon clear plastic bag, plus a small clutch no larger than 4.5" x 6.5", while the Smoothie King Center allows a slightly larger clear bag, up to 14" x 14" x 6", along with the same small-clutch exception. Backpacks aren't permitted at either venue, and neither offers on-site bag check, so plan to leave anything oversized at home or in the car.
What time should I arrive to tailgate before a Saints game?
Most tailgating in the lots around the Superdome kicks off three to four hours before kickoff, and spots fill up fast on marquee matchups. Arriving early also means an easier walk to Champions Square and shorter security lines once gates open.
Is there public transportation to the Superdome and Smoothie King Center?
Yes — both venues share a public transit stop on Poydras Street at Gate A, making it easy to skip parking altogether for either a Saints or a Pelicans game. Streetcar and RTA bus routes connect from the French Quarter and CBD, both an easy walk from the stop. Hop off the streetcar at the Poydras Street stop on Loyola Avenue, served by the Rampart-Loyola Line (Line 46).
Where can I watch the game if I don't have tickets?
New Orleans has no shortage of sports bars near the Superdome and Smoothie King Center built for game-day energy, from classic dive bars to rooftop patios with a view of the stadium. See the "Where to Watch the Game if You Don't Have Tickets" section above for specific picks.
Is parking different for a Saints game versus a Pelicans game?
Saints games draw tailgaters who claim lot space hours in advance, while Pelicans games at the Smoothie King Center tend to have a quicker, more straightforward walk-in-and-park routine since tipoff crowds arrive closer to game time. Both venues share the same parking garages and lots, so the same general area works for either sport — just budget more time for a Saints Sunday. Find more information on game day parking here.
Is the Smoothie King Center connected to the Superdome, or is it a separate building?
They're separate buildings on the same campus in the Central Business District, close enough to share parking garages, the Poydras Street transit stop, and most of the nearby hotels, bars and restaurants in this guide.
