Are New Orleans streetcars accessible for wheelchair users?
The Canal Street, Riverfront, and Rampart streetcars lines are accessible to wheelchair users. These red streetcars have motorized lifts that elevate riders and a designated seating area where a wheelchair can be secured. The green streetcars on the St. Charles Avenue line are not fully accessible. However, buses running along this route are 100% accessible.
The RTA asks wheelchair users to please arrive five minutes earlier than the streetcar is scheduled to arrive. The door to the lift is located in the middle of the streetcar. Wheel your chair onto the platform and tell the operator you need to use it. The streetcar operator will tie down your wheelchair to prevent it from moving while the streetcar rumbles down the track. Be sure to tell the streetcar operator your destination. As the streetcar approaches your stop, tug on the pull cord.
The Regional Transit Authority—RTA—system map can be viewed online. The free Le Pass app allows travelers to track buses and streetcars in real time, purchase tickets, and plan a route. For a list of all RTA Paratransit Services and FAQs, see their Transit Accessibility page here.
Streetcar Etiquette and Safety
Riding the New Orleans streetcar is a memorable way to explore the city. A few simple guidelines can help ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for everyone on board. Stand clear of the tracks while waiting and allow passengers to exit before boarding. Follow instructions from the operator and only cross tracks at designated crossings when it is safe to do so. Whether you're using exact change, a Jazzy Pass, or the Le Pass app, having your fare ready before boarding helps keep service moving smoothly. Priority seating is reserved for seniors and riders with disabilities. If these seats are needed, please be prepared to offer yours. Keep aisles and exits clear.
Streetcar Photo Tips
Few images are more iconic than a New Orleans streetcar rolling beneath a canopy of live oaks or along the Mississippi River. Early morning and late afternoon offer softer light, fewer crowds, and beautiful shadows. Golden hour is especially striking along St. Charles Avenue, where sunlight filters through the oak trees. Each route offers a distinct backdrop. Never stand in the tracks or step into traffic for a photo. Use sidewalks, neutral grounds, and designated crossings, and always be aware of approaching streetcars, vehicles, cyclists, and pedestrians.
