Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) serves a wonderful city. Named after the famed jazz vocalist and trumpeter, the airport reopened recently after renovations and it’s now a sophisticated airport in the US with an ease of use apparent whenever I travel there.
The airport captures the city’s spirit in its single terminal with three concourses (A, B, and C). It’s more than just a travel hub, it’s a place that celebrates the Crescent City. The design, inspired by the curves of the Mississippi River, creates a bright, modern space that’s packed with incredible art.
How to get to the airport
The easiest way to get to the city is to take a rideshare car or a taxi, both right outside the terminal at the ground transportation center outside of Level 1. Taxis pick up at door 7, while ride app services like Uber and Lyft pick up at the middle curb outside doors 7-11. The airport is about 15 miles from the French Quarter, which typically takes about 20 minutes in a car, though it can vary with traffic.
It’s easy to find with clear signage pointing the way. Hotel shuttles offer pickups at the Ground Transportation Center outside Level 1 Baggage Claim, Doors 1-5.
There are also 2 bus options: Jefferson Transit Authority (JET) and Regional Transportation Authority (RTA), both available on Level 1 outside door 2 of baggage claim at zones B4 and B5. Both have a robust schedule throughout the day and are very inexpensive. The RTA 202 Airport Express serves Elk Place at Canal Street and Union Passenger Terminal (the downtown bus station), while JET E1 connects to City Park Avenue.
Facilities at the airport
One of the best things about MSY? They have live jazz performers at the Jazz Garden Stage on Level 1 near baggage claim. It’s the perfect way to get into the New Orleans spirit right away.
The airport has been recently renovated and they have paid great attention to having charging stations for devices all over. There is also free Wi-Fi (#MSY-FI) and ATMs available, but not a full-service bank.
The airport currently has 3 lounges: The Club MSY (adjacent to concourse B), Delta Sky Club (adjacent to concourse C) and a United Lounge at Gate C5 in Concourse C. I frequent the United lounge whenever I fly through MSY and it’s sparkling with friendly bartenders.
My favorite thing at MSY is the K-9 KREWE program. Therapy dogs roam the terminal to help travelers de-stress.
I’ve stopped for a cuddle more than once, and I highly recommend it. If you’re traveling with your own four-legged friend, there are pet relief areas post-security.
And for peace of mind, there’s a police station located pre-security on Level 2 near Leah’s Kitchen.
Eating and shopping at MSY
I love that this airport has a really big selection when it comes to feasting and shopping. You will find that the party association of this wonderful Southern city continues at the airport – it feels like Mardi Gras everywhere, all the time.
You’ll find Fleurty Girl to buy French New Orleans inspired homeware, Vietnamese cuisine at MoPho and contemporary cuisine from celebrity chef Emeril Lagasse at Emeril’s Table. You’ll also find plenty of chains including Starbucks and Chick-fil-A.
This airport has a great layout offering views of the airfield and the gates while you’re grabbing food or doing your shopping.
Need something quick? Look for the QR code kiosks scattered around the terminal. You can grab a snack or a drink and pay with your phone, no waiting in line required.
My recommendation for last local bites is to have a muffuletta sandwich at Moisant Market, a beignet and a café au lait at Cafe Du Monde (yes, the same legendary shop from Jackson Square in town) or cannoli at Angelo Brocato.
For a cold drink paired with some live jazz, check out the Heritage School of Music Stage & Bar near Gate B2. It’s a perfect NOLA send-off.
For shopping, The Advocate store is your spot for local goods. Think Saints gear, HongryHawgs sauces, Community Coffee and some snarky t-shirts from Dirty Coast Press.
Renting a car and parking at the airport
I’ve road tripped with friends around the greater Louisiana area, into Mississippi and along the Gulf Coast. It’s great, so renting a car can be a good idea for a visit to this area.
If you choose to rent one, you need to take the MSY Rental Car Lot Shuttle to the Rental Car Center at 600 Rental Blvd. Exit the terminal after baggage claim on Level 1 and walk towards the Long-Term Parking Garage for shuttle pickup.
The shuttle service operates 24/7, though rental company hours vary by company—check with your provider. The shuttle runs typically about every five minutes and the ride is approximately 15-20 minutes, so you’ll be on your way in no time.
If you’re driving yourself, you’ve got options: Economy, Long Term, Short Term, Surface Lot, and Valet parking. All lots are on the north side of the terminal and are an easy walk from the entrance.
Pro tip: book your parking spot on the airport’s website ahead of time. You can pick your lot and pay in advance to guarantee a space, and use your QR code to enter and exit. If your trip runs long, you may need to pay the difference before exit.
Special programs at MSY
Unusual for an airport, MSY offers an Indulge MSY Guest Pass program that allows approved non-ticketed visitors to come enjoy restaurants and shops post-security, kind of like going to the mall. If you have a long layover, you can easily have local friends visit you with access permitted daily from 3:30 a.m. until 8 p.m. (visitors must exit by 8 p.m.). This is also great for younger passengers flying alone, they can be joined right up until departure.
If you’re looking for the VIP treatment, check out Perq Soleil. It’s a paid meet & greet service that offers everything from departure curb assistance to expedited security and lounge escort services. You can book and customize the service online through a request form on perqsoleil.com to fit your needs.
Hotels close to the airport
If you need an airport hotel, there are several that are very close. The DoubleTree by Hilton is 10 minutes from MSY, where there’s an outdoor pool and a 24-hour complimentary airport shuttle.
Nearby are also a Holiday Inn Express & Suites with a seasonal outdoor pool and complimentary airport shuttle service from 4:00 a.m. to 11:00 p.m. daily, and La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham with an outdoor pool and free airport shuttle, too. It’s hot in New Orleans so these pools will be well appreciated.
Honestly though, the city is so close I’d recommend heading straight into town for a real New Orleans hotel experience. My personal favorite is the Pontchartrain in the Garden District. The rooms are chic with a homey feel and you can meet plenty of locals at the hotel bar to learn about true NOLA culture.
Special features for people with disabilities
MSY was designed to be accessible for everyone, with barrier-free routes, braille buttons and clear signage throughout. You can find a detailed map and more info on the airport’s website to help you plan ahead.
The airport also supports travelers with hidden disabilities through the Sunflower Lanyard program. You can pick up a lanyard at customer service to discreetly signal to staff that you might need a little extra help or patience. It’s thoughtful programs like this that make MSY stand out.
This KAYAK-commissioned article is presented as-is, for general informational purposes only, and may not be up-to-date. The opinions contained in the article are original to the author and reflect their authentic experience, which may vary significantly from the experience of others.
