Staying Safe in New Orleans: The Basics

New Orleans is a vibrant, heavily visited city that has seen dramatic crime reductions since 2022. Tourist areas like the French Quarter and Garden District are well-patrolled, but visitors should practice standard big-city awareness: stick to lit streets, secure valuables, travel in groups after dark, and know key emergency contacts before arriving.

Key facts

Frequently asked questions

Is New Orleans safe for tourists right now?

Yes — New Orleans is significantly safer than its recent reputation suggests. Violent crime dropped dramatically through 2024 and into 2025, including a 35% decrease in homicides and a 44% drop in non-fatal shootings. Tourist-area neighborhoods like the French Quarter, Garden District, and Warehouse District are well-patrolled and welcoming, though basic urban precautions remain important.

What is the NOPD non-emergency number and when should I use it?

Call 911 for any emergency. For non-urgent police matters — such as reporting a theft after the fact — call the NOPD non-emergency line at (504) 821-2222. You can also report non-emergency incidents online at nola.gov/nopdonline.

What are the most important safety rules for visitors in New Orleans?

Stick to well-lit, busy streets at night and avoid walking alone in quieter areas. Keep your phone, wallet, and valuables secured — especially in crowded places like the French Quarter. Travel in groups after dark, particularly if exploring beyond the immediate French Quarter core, and use Uber or Lyft for rides after midnight.

What scams should tourists watch out for in New Orleans?

The most common is the 'shoe shine' or 'I bet I can tell you where you got your shoes' scam — the answer is 'on your feet, on this street,' and the person then demands payment. Simply smile and walk past. Also be alert to overcharging by unlicensed taxis and never leave your drink unattended or accept drinks from strangers.

What is the French Quarter Enhanced Security Zone (FQESZ)?

The FQESZ is a secured perimeter — generally Canal Street to St. Ann Street between Royal and Dauphine Streets — activated during major events like Mardi Gras, the Sugar Bowl, and New Year's Eve. Within the zone, large bags are subject to search, vehicles are prohibited except for emergencies, and hotel guests on Bourbon Street must use Royal or Dauphine Street entrances with proof of reservation.

Is New Orleans safe to visit during hurricane season?

Hurricane season officially runs June 1 through November 30, with the highest risk in August and September. It is generally safe to visit during this period, but monitor the National Hurricane Center (nhc.noaa.gov) and local forecasts closely, consider travel insurance that covers weather disruptions, and download a weather radar app before your trip.

Are there free safety escort services for visitors downtown?

Yes. The Downtown Development District's SafeWalk program provides free escorts to any downtown destination. Call or text (504) 415-1730 to check availability. DDD Public Safety Rangers — a non-commissioned force patrolling on foot and bicycle — are also on duty seven days a week from 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Which New Orleans neighborhoods are safest for tourists?

The French Quarter is the most heavily patrolled neighborhood in the city. The Garden District, Uptown, Lakeview, and the Warehouse District also consistently report lower crime rates relative to the city average. Visitors sticking to well-trafficked corridors like the French Quarter and Magazine Street during daylight and early evening generally report fewer safety concerns.

Nearby in Ask New Orleans

• Streetcar CafeCafé0.14 km · 2 min walk
• Fourth WallCafé0.21 km · 3 min walk
• Drip Affogato Bar NOLACafé0.26 km · 3 min walk
• The Sazerac HouseBar0.39 km · 5 min walk
• The Carousel Bar & LoungeBar0.48 km · 6 min walk