Why I Love Travel Nursing in Louisiana

My Guide to Louisiana: Tips & Local Spots for Travel Nurses

Hey, fellow travel nurses! If you’re heading to Louisiana for your next assignment, you’re in for a treat. From the bustling streets of New Orleans to the bayous of Baton Rouge, Louisiana has so much to offer—great food, fun local spots, and plenty of things to do when you’re not working. Let’s dive into what you need to know for a smooth arrival and an awesome stay!

Flying In: Airports and Getting Around

Flying into Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport or Baton Rouge Metropolitan Airport? Here's everything you’ll need to know:

• Lounges & Snacks: If you’re flying into New Orleans, you’re going to have plenty of options for places to grab snacks and drinks before heading to get your luggage. In Baton Rouge, you have two new spots to grab a protein bar and water. There is a coffee shop and a small bar, but depending on when you land, they may not be open.

• Rental Cars: Renting a car is probably your best bet, especially if you’re heading to places outside of New Orleans. Both airports have rental agencies on-site for easy pickup. If you’re planning to explore, make sure to snag your car right at the airport.

• Rideshare: Uber and Lyft are your best friends in Louisiana’s cities. You can grab a ride pretty easily, especially in New Orleans. It’s super convenient if you’re just heading to your assignment or a local spot for dinner.

• Public Transportation: In New Orleans, the streetcars are iconic! They’re a fun way to get around, and they’ll take you to spots like the French Quarter and beyond. Baton Rouge has a bus system that serves the medical facilities, but a car is usually the way to go in smaller cities.

Settling In: Housing and Grocery Tips

Now that you’ve made it to your assignment and found your place to stay, you’ll want to figure out how to stock up on essentials.

• Instacart or DoorDash? If I’m feeling lazy or tired after a long shift, I’ll use Instacart to get my groceries delivered. Louisiana has some great local grocery stores like Rouses, so I’ll have fresh produce delivered right to my door. If you're craving a quick meal, DoorDash has tons of local options—from po'boys to gumbo! 225 Best Places to Eat has a great list of restaurants to try - definitely check them out while you’re here.

• Grocery Shopping on Your Own: If you want to get out and explore a bit, the local markets are a must! The Crescent City Farmers Market in New Orleans has some of the freshest produce, and you can’t beat the vibe. In Baton Rouge, head to the Red Stick Farmers Market downtown for local finds.

Coffee, Shopping, and Dining Out: My Favorite Local Spots

• Coffee Shops: New Orleans is filled with iconic coffee spots. Cafe du Monde is a must for the beignets and café au lait. If you're craving something a little different, try the French Truck Coffee for great local brews. Baton Rouge has its share of great spots too, like French Press for a laid-back vibe and excellent coffee. French Truck Coffee recently opened a Baton Rouge Location as well.

• Boutiques & Shopping: In New Orleans, check out Magazine Street for a mix of boutiques, art galleries, and vintage shops. In Baton Rouge, Perkins Rowe is a shopping hotspot with unique stores and local finds.

• Food & Drinks: You can’t come to Louisiana without trying some local cuisine! In New Orleans, head to the famous Acme Oyster House for fresh seafood or the Commander's Palace for fine dining. In Baton Rouge, The Chimes is a great spot for casual dining with Southern favorites like jambalaya and crawfish.

• Museums & Culture: Louisiana is rich in culture and history. If you’re in New Orleans, don’t miss the National WWII Museum—it’s one of the best in the country. Baton Rouge has the Louisiana State Museum, which is a great place to learn more about the state’s history and culture.

Things to Do When You’re Off Shift

Louisiana isn’t just about food and coffee—it’s also got plenty of adventures waiting for you when you’re off the clock.

• Outdoor Fun: Take a stroll through City Park in New Orleans or explore the swamps and bayous with a swamp tour in Baton Rouge. Louisiana’s natural beauty is something you’ll want to experience firsthand!

• Cultural Festivals: If your assignment happens to fall during Mardi Gras, get ready for the time of your life. New Orleans is the heart of Mardi Gras, with parades, beads, and parties everywhere. But don’t forget the jazz music and festivals year-round. Baton Rouge also has its share of fun events, like the Baton Rouge Blues Festival.

Football Season: Catch a Game When You're in Louisiana

If you’re on assignment during football season, you’re in luck! Louisiana is crazy about football, and whether you’re in New Orleans or Baton Rouge, there are plenty of opportunities to catch a game and soak in the local culture:

• New Orleans Saints: You can’t come to New Orleans without catching a Saints game at the Mercedes-Benz Superdome. The atmosphere is electric, and it’s one of the best places to experience Louisiana sports culture. Get your black and gold gear ready!

• LSU Tigers: Baton Rouge is the heart of LSU football. If you’re lucky enough to be there during the football season, make sure to grab tickets for a game at Tiger Stadium—known as “Death Valley” for a reason! The energy is unmatched, and the tailgating scene is an experience you won’t want to miss.

• Southern University Jaguars: Baton Rouge is also home to Southern University, and their football games are a blast too! Catching a game at A.W. Mumford Stadium is a great way to get a taste of college football and you get to see the famous Southern University Human Jukebox in the heart of Louisiana.

Mardi Gras: What to Do if You're on Assignment During Carnival Season

If you’re lucky enough to be on assignment during Mardi Gras, you’re about to experience the biggest party of the year! Here’s how to make the most of it:

• Parades: Mardi Gras parades are the heart and soul of New Orleans during Carnival season. The Krewe of Iris, Krewe of Bacchus, and Krewe of Endymion are some of the most popular parades, offering tons of fun, beads, and unforgettable moments. Be sure to grab a spot on St. Charles Avenue or along the Uptown route for prime viewing.

• French Quarter: No Mardi Gras experience is complete without a visit to the French Quarter. It’s full of lively crowds, street performers, and a party atmosphere that you’ll never forget. Just be prepared for crowds, and if you're looking for a more relaxed spot, head to the quieter side streets for some local flavor and hidden gems.

• Food & Drink: While you’re celebrating, make sure to indulge in some of New Orleans' famous treats! King cake, crawfish étouffée, and a Sazerac cocktail are must-tries during the Mardi Gras season. Be sure to check out the French Market for some food vendors serving up delicious local favorites.

• Krewe Balls and Events: Mardi Gras also has lots of exclusive balls and events. If you can get tickets, attending one of these formal events will give you an inside look at the social side of New Orleans during Carnival. Think glittering gowns, masks, and lots of dancing!

Whether you’re in New Orleans or Baton Rouge, Mardi Gras is a celebration like no other. If you’re there during the season, embrace the festivities, catch a parade, and enjoy the once-in-a-lifetime experience!

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