St. Charles Streetcar
Ride the world's oldest streetcar line through New Orleans' historic mansions and oak-draped avenues. A scenic, affordable journey.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful ride
St. Charles Streetcar
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful ride

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Ride the world's oldest streetcar line through New Orleans' historic mansions and oak-draped avenues. A scenic, affordable journey.
"Hop on the St. Charles streetcar and make your staycation even better with a stop at Tito’s Ceviche & Pisco."
🎯 Fare is Just $1.25!
Super affordable! Pay with exact change or use the RTA Go mobile app. Runs 24/7!
🚊 Hop On & Off Easily
Great for exploring beyond the French Quarter. Perfect for a scenic tour of the Garden District.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Historic Mansions of the Garden District
St. Charles Avenue
Marvel at opulent antebellum mansions and lush gardens lining the avenue. A true feast for the eyes!

The Oldest Continuously Operating Streetcar Line
St. Charles Avenue
Experience a piece of history on the world's oldest continuously operating streetcar line, dating back to 1835.

Scenic Oak-Lined Avenues
St. Charles Avenue
Enjoy the breathtaking beauty of ancient live oaks draped with Spanish moss, creating a magical canopy.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Charm: Ride Like a Local
Timing is Everything for the Best Views
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Fare is Just $1.25!
Super affordable! Pay with exact change or use the RTA Go mobile app. Runs 24/7!
🚊 Hop On & Off Easily
Great for exploring beyond the French Quarter. Perfect for a scenic tour of the Garden District.
💺 Sit Up Front for Views
Grab a seat in the front car for the best panoramic views of the avenue and mansions.
🚶♀️ Explore Garden District
Hop off to wander through stunning historic homes and beautiful gardens.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Fare is Just $1.25!
Super affordable! Pay with exact change or use the RTA Go mobile app. Runs 24/7!
🚊 Hop On & Off Easily
Great for exploring beyond the French Quarter. Perfect for a scenic tour of the Garden District.
💺 Sit Up Front for Views
Grab a seat in the front car for the best panoramic views of the avenue and mansions.
🚶♀️ Explore Garden District
Hop off to wander through stunning historic homes and beautiful gardens.
📸 Capture the Charm
Perfect for photographers! The vintage streetcars and historic architecture are incredibly photogenic.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Travelers overwhelmingly praise the St. Charles Streetcar for its historic charm, scenic beauty, and affordability. It's considered a must-do for experiencing New Orleans like a local and exploring the stunning Garden District. Some note that the ride can be slow and the cars can get crowded during peak times.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The St. Charles Streetcar line runs along St. Charles Avenue, a major thoroughfare in New Orleans. You can catch it from various points downtown or in the Garden District. It's easily accessible from many hotels and attractions.
While many of the streetcars are historic, the New Orleans RTA is working on improving accessibility. Some newer models may be more accessible, but it's best to check with the RTA for specific car availability if accessibility is a concern.
Absolutely! It's a fantastic and affordable way to explore neighborhoods beyond the French Quarter, like the Garden District, and enjoy scenic views.
Streetcar stops are generally marked with signs along St. Charles Avenue. You can also use transit apps or the RTA website for route information and stop locations.
The St. Charles Streetcar line does not directly enter the French Quarter, but it runs parallel to it and is a short walk or transfer away. The Canal Street streetcar line is a better option for direct French Quarter access.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
A single ride on the St. Charles Streetcar costs $1.25. You can pay with exact change or purchase a Jazzy Pass for unlimited rides on all RTA services.
Yes, you can pay with exact change directly to the driver when boarding. For convenience, consider using the RTA Go mobile app to purchase fares and passes.
The St. Charles Streetcar operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, offering flexibility for your travel plans.
No advance booking is required. You can simply pay your fare as you board or use the RTA Go app.
Yes, besides the single ride fare, you can purchase 1-day, 3-day, or 31-day Jazzy Passes for unlimited rides on streetcars and buses.
📸 📸 Photography
The entire St. Charles Avenue route is picturesque! Focus on the grand mansions, the oak-lined streets, and the vintage streetcars themselves. Early morning or late afternoon light is ideal.
Yes, you can take photos inside the streetcar, but be mindful of other passengers. The vintage wooden seats and interior details are great for capturing the historic atmosphere.
Look for the iconic Perley Thomas streetcars, especially the older models. The intersections with grand live oaks create stunning backdrops.
The 'golden hour' before sunset and the early morning light offer beautiful, soft lighting that enhances the historic charm and architectural details.
While not specifically for the streetcar, many New Orleans architecture and photography tours incorporate the St. Charles Avenue route. You can also create your own self-guided photo tour.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes! Many stops, especially in the Garden District and along St. Charles Avenue, are near excellent restaurants and cafes. Tito's Ceviche & Pisco is right on the route.
Generally, light snacks and non-alcoholic beverages are permitted, but it's best to avoid messy foods or strong odors to be considerate of other passengers.
You'll find a range from casual cafes and happy hour spots like The Chloe to more upscale dining options, offering a taste of New Orleans' diverse culinary scene.
Tito's Ceviche & Pisco is conveniently located at a streetcar stop. Many other eateries are a short walk away in the Garden District and Uptown areas.
Definitely! The St. Charles Streetcar is perfect for a culinary exploration, allowing you to hop off at different stops to sample various restaurants and bars.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💰 Budget Travelers
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Journey Through History: The St. Charles Streetcar Line
This historic route stretches for miles, showcasing the architectural grandeur of New Orleans. As the streetcar glides along St. Charles Avenue, passengers are treated to views of magnificent antebellum mansions, sprawling historic homes, and lush, oak-lined streets draped with Spanish moss. It's a journey that highlights the city's distinct Creole and Victorian influences, offering a visual narrative of its affluent past. Many travelers find this scenic route to be a highlight of their New Orleans visit, appreciating its relaxed pace and picturesque scenery.
Beyond its aesthetic appeal, the St. Charles Streetcar serves as a vital artery for locals and a charming adventure for tourists. It connects various neighborhoods, from the Central Business District to the Garden District and Uptown, providing an affordable and accessible way to navigate the city. The $1.25 fare makes it an incredibly budget-friendly option, allowing visitors to experience the city like a local. The fact that it runs 24 hours a day further enhances its utility and appeal.
Navigating the St. Charles Streetcar: Practical Tips for Travelers
When boarding, especially during peak times, be prepared for potential crowds. Many travelers suggest sitting in the front car for the best panoramic views of the stunning mansions and oak trees lining St. Charles Avenue. The streetcar makes frequent stops, allowing you to hop on and off to explore points of interest. Popular stops include those in the Garden District, where you can disembark to admire the historic architecture and manicured gardens. Remember that while the streetcar is a fantastic way to see the sights, it moves at a leisurely pace, so factor this into your travel time.
For those interested in photography, the St. Charles Streetcar route offers endless opportunities. The vintage streetcars themselves, the grand architecture, and the lush greenery provide a picturesque backdrop. Early mornings and late afternoons, during the 'golden hours,' offer the most flattering light for capturing the beauty of the avenue. Consider bringing a camera or ensuring your phone is charged to document this iconic New Orleans journey.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit