The Ultimate Guide to New Orleans Public Transportation

Bus, bike, trolly, train, ferry or streetcar, public transportation makes navigating new cities a breeze, but figuring out how new systems work can be understandably intimidating. In New Orleans, public transportation is not only cost-efficient option but it’s also a great way to explore the diverse and unique neighborhoods that make up the city. This comprehensive guide to New Orleans Regional Transit Authority (RTA) will help you navigate the Crescent City like a native, and join the tens of thousands of riders who choose RTA on a daily basis.

RTA Bus in front of Jackson Square
RTA Bus in front of Jackson Square

RTA Buses

With nearly 40 different routes connecting Uptown to Downtown, Mid-City to Central City and just about everywhere in between, RTA buses are a great way to get around New Orleans.

Tickets

For $3 you can purchase an all-day Jazzy Pass that will give you access to unlimited bus rides for 24 hours, or upgrade to a three-day Jazzy Pass for $9 and explore the weekend away. Jazzy Passes or single ride tickets can be purchased on any RTA bus or streetcar, through the RTA GoMobile App or any RTA Ticket Vending Machines. Jazzy Passes can also be purchased online ahead of time and mailed to your doorstep prior to your vacation or at any official RTA Retail Vendor Locations. For more information on bus fares or purchase options, visit here.

Features

RTA Buses are equipped with a number of helpful and comforting features that allow riders to travel with ease. All busses include audio and visual messaging to give riders stop-by-stop updates of locations, time and date. All busses are wheelchair accessible with ramps used to bridge the gap between the curb and bus for differently-abled riders, as well as space to lock and secure wheelchairs. Priority seating is available for senior citizens, pregnant women and persons with disabilities. Service dogs are allowed on all RTA transportation services. To learn more about the accessibility and features of RTA busses, visit here.

Bussing in New Orleans can truly be a breeze. With most lines operating just about every 15 minutes during peak hours, you can spend less time and money coordinating transportation and spend more of it soaking up the Crescent City. Plan an entire day exploring stops along the Jackson/Esplanade Bus which feature highlights such as:

And much more! For a full list of bus lines, maps and schedules, visit here

St. Charles Avenue Streetcar
St. Charles Avenue Streetcar

RTA Streetcars

A symbol of New Orleans, the New Orleans Streetcar is the oldest form of public transportation in the sitting. Dating all the way back to 1835, not much has changed on these historic monuments that double as public transports. Explore New Orleans most sought after attractions and neighborhoods on the streetcar. Visit here, for more information on this must-try mode of transportation.

Algiers Ferry
Algiers Ferry

RTA Ferries

In a city known for its swamps, bayous and massive bodies of water that surround it, it only makes sense to include a ferry as a form of public transportation. Sometimes referred to as a “water taxi” or “water bus,” the Algiers Point Ferry is one of the oldest operating ferries in North America. Perfect for a family friendly-outing or a romantic daycation, this ferry transports riders to the city of Algiers.

For less than $10, you can make your way to and from Algiers Point and explore the rich culture of this historic neighborhood. Single ferry passes are $2 each and integrated day passes, which include ferry, bus and streetcar are $7.

With less frequent departures and arrivals, make sure to check out the official schedule for detailed information.

NOLA Blue Bikes
NOLA Blue Bikes

New Orleans Blue Bikes

Enjoy the freedom of self-navigation, the cost efficiency of public transportation and guilt-free pleasure of a good workout with NOLA Blue Bikes. This partnership between the City of New Orleans and Social Bicycles with the Sponsorship of Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Louisiana has created the newest, greenest and debatably the most entertaining form of public transportation in the Crescent City.

How it Works

Blue Bike is a bike share program unique to New Orleans. With racks throughout the city, find the Blue Bike closest to you, hop on and go! With just four easy steps you can cruise the city in style.

Register - Choose the plan that’s a perfect fit for you. Blue Bikes offer the convenience of paying as you go for a rate of $0.13/minute or a monthly plan for $15. Once you’ve selected the right plan for you, you can sign-up for a Blue Bike membership online or through the mobile app.

Release - Using the information provided with your registration unlock the Blue Bike of your choosing.

Ride - Once your bike is selected, place the U-lock in the holster and explore! For quick stops, press the “HOLD” button and lock your Blue Bike on a rack.

Return - When your ride is complete, remember to lock it back up at the nearest designated Blue Bike rack or at any public bike rack for an additional small fee.

Don’t forget to download the Social Bicycles mobile app and unlock all the potential of Blue Bikes. This app allows access to locate and reserve bikes, track your trip history and miles ridden and purchase your ride on the go.

For information on the Blue Bike program, visit here.