Layover in New Orleans (MSY)
Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY). Here's how much of a layover you can really use, and what fits in it.
About New Orleans
Way down yonder in New Orleans, you'll find the roots of jazz and a blossoming culture that is unlike anything else on Earth. Here, the laid-back atmosphere of the riverfront South has mixed with French sophistication, Spanish style, and African-American energy to create something greater than the sum of its parts. "NOLA" is the largest city in Louisiana and one of the top tourist destinations in the United States.
From Wikivoyage, CC BY-SA.
How much time can you use?
After getting off the plane, immigration for international arrivals, the trip into town and back, and security.
| Layover | Domestic arrival | International arrival |
|---|---|---|
| 4 hours | Stay at the airport | Head straight to your gate |
| 6 hours | About 3h 19m in the city | About 1h 44m in the city |
| 8 hours | About 5h 19m in the city | About 3h 44m in the city |
| 12 hours | About 9h 19m in the city | About 7h 44m in the city |
Getting into New Orleans
About 33m each way by train, bus or taxi to the center, roughly 20 km (12 mi). This is an estimate based on distance; the planner checks real transit times for your exact flight.
Questions
Can I leave the airport on a layover in New Orleans?
On a domestic connection, you need roughly 5 hours or more to get into New Orleans and back with time to enjoy it. If you're arriving internationally and must clear immigration, plan on about 6 hours or more.
How do I get from MSY to central New Orleans?
Allow about 33m each way by train, bus or taxi to the center; the center is about 20 km (12 mi) from the airport.
How early should I head back to MSY?
Be back through security about 1h 20m before a domestic departure and 2h 10m before an international one, plus the ride back.
Build a plan for your exact flight
Guide data from OurAirports, © OpenStreetMap contributors and Wikivoyage (CC BY-SA). Times are estimates for planning; check transit schedules and airline rules before you leave the airport.