Lower 9th Ward Travel Guide

Discover the hidden gems of New Orleans' Lower 9th Ward with our comprehensive travel guide. From outdoor adventures to culturally significant attractions, we have your itinerary covered.


Introduction to Lower 9th Ward

Located in Greater New Orleans, Louisiana, the Lower 9th Ward is a vibrant and resilient community that has overcome incredible challenges. The neighborhood is particularly significant because it was one of the hardest hit areas during Hurricane Katrina in 2005. Yet despite the devastation, Lower 9th Ward has managed to create a unique cultural identity that is reflective of its rich history.

In this travel guide, we’ll introduce you to the top places to visit, things to do, and cultural experiences available in Lower 9th Ward.

List of Places to Visit in Lower 9th Ward

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

Backstreet Cultural Museum

Step inside the Backstreet Cultural Museum, and you’ll be transported to the heart of New Orleans’ Mardi Gras traditions. Here, you’ll find an extensive collection of Mardi Gras Indian suits, photographs, and artifacts that represent the rich and vibrant culture of the city’s African American communities.

Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Charter School

This impressive facility was built in 2011 as part of the recovery efforts following Hurricane Katrina. It’s home to the Lower 9th Ward Village, a community center that provides a range of services and resources for residents. The school itself is named after the iconic Civil Rights leader, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.

Natural Attractions of Lower 9th Ward: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

Bayou Bienvenue Wetland Triangle

The Bayou Bienvenue Wetland Triangle is a great place to experience the Louisiana wetlands. Once a thriving cypress swamp, the area has fallen victim to man-made environmental changes. However, with the help of conservation efforts, the region is slowly recovering. Visitors can hike along the trails, spot a variety of bird species or encounter the occasional alligator.

Caffin Avenue Boat Launch

The Caffin Avenue Boat Launch provides a great view of the Mississippi River Bridge and the industrial landscape of the New Orleans port. It’s a popular spot to watch the barges and tugboats that ply the river or have a picnic by the water.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Lower 9th Ward

Mississippi River Trail

Cycle or walk along the Mississippi River Trail, and you’ll be treated to fantastic views of the river while exploring the history of the Lower 9th. The trail runs from the Bywater neighborhood of New Orleans all the way down River Road, providing a great opportunity to see the city on two wheels.

Best Things to Do in Lower 9th Ward: Activities and Tours

The Lower 9th Ward Living Museum

The Lower 9th Ward Living Museum was founded by grassroots activists who wanted to tell the story of the neighborhood and its people. The museum hosts a variety of cultural events, exhibits, and workshops focused on the city’s African American heritage.

Treme Neighborhood Walking Tour

Take a walking tour of the Treme neighborhood and discover the rich cultural history that feeds into the many elements of New Orleanian culture. Visitors will see the sites of jazz funerals, historic homes and more in what is considered the oldest African American neighborhood in the United States.

Week-Long Itinerary for Lower 9th Ward

Day Activity
Day 1-2 Explore the cultural institutions in Lower 9th Ward
Day 3-4 Hike or bike along the Mississippi River Trail
Day 5-6 Tour the Treme neighborhood and visit significant historical sites
Day 7 Relax and enjoy the scenery at Bayou Bienvenue Wetland Triangle

Food and Drink Scene of Lower 9th Ward

Must-Try Dishes

Willie Mae’s Scotch House

Make a stop at Willie Mae’s Scotch House and try the signature fried chicken that has been featured on the Food Network and Travel Channel. Don’t skip out on the classic sides of mac & cheese and green beans.

The Pupusa Lady

Get your hands on a homemade pupusa from The Pupusa Lady. Her stand is located near the intersection of St. Claude Avenue and Caffin Street and is open on weekdays from 10:30 am to 2:00 pm.

Local Beverages

Dirty Coast Press

Enjoy a cold beer at Dirty Coast Press, an independent New Orleans t-shirt shop that has expanded to a micro-brewery. Try one of their locally brewed beers and take home a t-shirt or other souvenir from their store.

Where to Stay in Lower 9th Ward: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

The Mazant

The Mazant is a beautifully restored mansion located in the heart of the Lower 9th Ward. It offers a variety of boutique rooms and suites that are decorated with a combination of antique and modern decor.

What to Buy in Lower 9th Ward: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

Pick up a custom-made piece of art or embroidery that shows off the Lower 9th’s unique cultural identity. Visit the community-led organizations like the Lower 9th Ward Market or RAMPart (Revolutionizing Art, Making Politics and Reclaiming Time) that work to provide employment and a platform for creatives in the local area.

Local Culture and Customs of Lower 9th Ward

The Lower 9th Ward is a community where music, art, and street culture are highly valued. During your stay, immerse yourself in the local history of the area by attending local events and visiting community-owned businesses.

Best Time to Visit Lower 9th Ward

The best time to visit Lower 9th Ward is between February and May when the climate is pleasant and the city is alive with cultural activity ahead of Mardi Gras.

Do’s and Don’ts of Lower 9th Ward

Do:

  • Show respect to the local community residents.
  • Check out the community-led organizations as your money goes back into the local community.
  • Participate in the unique cultural events that the area celebrates.

Don’t:

  • Worry about sticking out in the crowd as the area is welcoming to outsiders.
  • Take pictures of locals without asking first.
  • Litter in public spaces.

Safety and Health

Safety in Lower 9th Ward

Like most neighborhoods in New Orleans, lower 9th ward can have their share of crime, so it is recommended that visitors remain cautious especially after dark. But also like most New Orleans neighborhoods residents will usually offer a friendly chat and smile to visitors.

Health in Lower 9th Ward

There is a community clinic located in the neighborhood that offers primary care, mental health services, and more. All visitors should have adequate health insurance when traveling in the area.

Getting to Lower 9th Ward: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Lower 9th Ward

The Louis Armstrong International Airport is located in Kenner, Louisiana, 15 miles west of the neighborhood. The most common method of transport from the airport is taxi, shuttle services and car hire available at the lower level baggage claims area.

Bus Stations Near Lower 9th Ward

The Greyhound station is located at 1001 Loyola Ave, New Orleans, about 6 miles from the neighborhood.

Other Options

The best way to get around the Lower 9th Ward is by taking the bus or the streetcar. There are also several bike rental services in the area.

Where to Go Next from Lower 9th Ward: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

Bywater

The Bywater neighborhood is located on the other side of the Mississippi River and is known for its art galleries, hip bars, and restaurants.

French Quarter

The area’s most popular tourist destination, the French Quarter is only a short distance from Lower 9th Ward via taxi or ferry services.

Conclusion

Lower 9th Ward is imbued with rich history, culture, and breathtaking natural landscapes. Its resilient community has bounced back from one of the greatest natural disasters in US history, inviting all visitors to experience their unique spirit and strength. With this travel guide, you can take your first steps into one of America’s most vibrant neighborhoods.

"Steamboat Houses" in the Lower 9th Ward Fats Domino's House after the floodwaters were drained, late 2005 Fats Domino's House after the floodwaters were drained, late 2005 Post-Katrina new house construction Post-Katrina new house construction Nature reclaiming the Lower 9th Nature reclaiming the Lower 9th