Everything You Need to Know About Visiting New Orleans in August
It’s always a great time to visit NOLA, but if your travel plans bring you to New Orleans in August, there are a few things you need to know. Pack excellent walking shoes, wear clothes that keep you cool, and prepare to snag some of the best deals of the year.
Is August a Good Time to Visit New Orleans?
You might hear people say that you shouldn’t head to New Orleans in August because it’s too hot. But while it’s true that August is one of the hottest months in the Big Easy, don’t let that stop you. It’s still a fabulous time to visit, and you’ll also find some of the cheapest flights, hotel deals, and more during this time of year.
What’s the Weather Like in New Orleans in August?
The average lows during August are in the upper 70s and the average highs in the mid 90s. But don’t let those numbers fool you. New Orleans loves her humidity. What you need to look at are the “Reaf Feel” numbers, which often reach into the 100s. You’ll also likely experience a few days of rain.
However, NOLA offers more than enough entertainment, food, and fun indoors to give you ample opportunities to beat the heat and wait out rain delays. August also begins the peak of hurricane season, so it’s worth staying weather-aware before and during your vacation.
August Is Still a Great Time to Go to New Orleans!
If you’re wondering, with weather like that, why should I go to New Orleans during August? It’s because the trade-off is it’s one of the most affordable times to visit the Crescent City. There are also tons of events and festivals going on in August that you won’t want to miss.
Special August Deals in NOLA
- Experience the world-renowned food of New Orleans at top restaurants throughout the city during COOLinary. Indulge in special menus created by top chefs at irresistible prices.
- August is Museum Month in New Orleans. If you happen to be a member of any of the participating New Orleans museums, you get to attend all of them for free all through August. Some stand-outs are the New Orleans Museum of Art, Louisiana Children’s Museum, National World WWII Museum, and the New Orleans Jazz Museum.
- Check out boutique hotel deals in New Orleans for special packages and summer rates.
- Score some of the cheapest airfare to New Orleans during August, with many airlines offering sales during this time.
Things to Do in New Orleans in August
Of course, you won’t want to miss the classics, like eating beignets, taking a river cruise on the Steamboat Natchez, or strolling the French Quarter to visit various shops and cafes. You also will most certainly need to experience a snoball or two.
But there are a few select things you’ll want to pencil in and take note of when you’re in the city during August.
- Attend Satchmo Summerfest during the first weekend of August. The festival honors the legendary Louis Armstrong and features music, food, and lectures that teach about the legend’s meaningful impact on the city and music world.
- Visit the new Insectarium at the famous Audubon Aquarium of the Americas and get up close and personal with critters and creatures of all kinds. Plus, it’s indoors, so you get a couple of hours in blissful AC.
- Witness a one-of-a-kind New Orleans tradition when you participate in The Red Dress Run. Everyone, and we do mean everyone, puts on their favorite red dress, grabs a beer (or five), and runs (or stumbles) to support charity.
- The Saints preseason kick-off is in August, so check out times and dates for tickets and catch the game at the team’s home in the dome. (Also an excellent way to relax in the air condition).
Don’t Sweat It: Visit New Orleans in August
Bring a neck fan, dress in cool cotton and comfortable shorts, and keep the water and hydration drinks flowing. Also, don’t forget the sunscreen and wear a wide-brimmed hat. Pack accordingly for your New Orleans trip in August. And don’t let the heat stop you from enjoying a stay in NOLA during its most budget-friendly time.
