The best traffic-free bike rides around New Orleans

Komoot offers 21 no-traffic touring cycling routes in New Orleans. The majority of these, 18 routes, are rated as easy, making them accessible for various skill levels.

Yes, New Orleans is an excellent destination for beginner and family-friendly touring cycling. The city's predominantly flat terrain makes rides less strenuous. Out of the 21 available routes, 18 are rated as easy. For example, the Bayou Metairie – New Orleans City Park loop from West End is an easy, family-friendly option that explores urban green spaces.

You'll experience a diverse range of landscapes. Many routes follow the majestic Mississippi River along dedicated levee trails or offer picturesque views along the southern shore of Lake Pontchartrain. Urban greenways like the Lafitte Greenway and expansive parks such as Audubon Park and City Park provide serene, vehicle-free paths. Some routes also venture near Bayou St. John, offering peaceful waterfront views.

The komoot community highly rates touring cycling in New Orleans, with an average score of 4.46 out of 5 stars. Reviewers often praise the city's flat terrain, the unique blend of natural beauty and historical attractions, and the ability to explore iconic neighborhoods without traffic.

Yes, several circular routes are available for a convenient touring experience. For instance, you can enjoy the Big Lake City Park – Bayou St. John loop from New Orleans, which covers over 35 km and offers a scenic tour of these popular areas. Another option is the 17th Street Canal – Metairie Outfall Canal loop from Delgado Community College, a moderate 42 km ride.

Many routes pass by or provide easy access to New Orleans' iconic attractions. You can cycle through the historic French Quarter, admire the architecture in the Garden District, or explore vibrant neighborhoods like Tremé. Notable landmarks include Lafayette Cemetery No. 1, St. Louis Cathedral, and Jackson Square. The Royal Street, New Orleans – Louis Armstrong Park Arch loop from New Orleans is a shorter route that takes you through the heart of the city's cultural sites.

The best time for touring cycling in New Orleans is typically during the cooler, drier months from late fall to early spring (November to April). During this period, the weather is more comfortable, making long rides more enjoyable. Summers can be hot and humid, so if cycling then, it's best to go early in the morning or late in the afternoon.

While many urban routes offer glimpses of local birdlife, for more dedicated wildlife spotting, consider venturing slightly outside the city. The Bayou Sauvage National Wildlife Refuge, though not directly covered by the provided routes, is a 24,000-acre preserve offering scenic bike routes through wetlands and marshlands, showcasing New Orleans' natural beauty and local wildlife.

New Orleans has a public transportation system, including streetcars and buses, which can help you get closer to various starting points for cycling routes. While specific bike-carrying policies vary, many routes, especially those within City Park or along the Lafitte Greenway, are easily accessible from central city locations, making public transport a viable option for reaching the starting points.

For a relaxed and easy ride, consider routes that stick to the city's parks and greenways. The Bayou Metairie – New Orleans City Park loop from West End is an easy 20 km route that allows you to explore the tranquil areas of City Park. Audubon Park also features a 1.8-mile loop road closed to vehicular traffic, perfect for a leisurely spin.