Flat paved bike and walking path through the Treme and Mid-City neighbourhoods linking Armstrong Park to Bayou St. John and City Park.
The Lafitte Greenway bike ride follows a flat, paved multi-use path across New Orleans, Louisiana, running about 2.6 miles (4.2 km) from the edge of the French Quarter at Basin Street to Bayou St. John near North Carrollton Avenue. The greenway occupies a former canal and rail corridor and passes through the Treme and Mid-City neighbourhoods, linking Armstrong Park, community gardens, playgrounds, murals and local cafes with the bayou and City Park. It is a popular route for commuters, joggers and casual cyclists, and it offers a way to see residential New Orleans away from the tourist core.
The ride is easy. The surface is level and mostly separated from car traffic, with only a few street crossings, so there are no fitness barriers and it suits first-time and family cyclists. The full out-and-back distance is around 5 miles (8 km) and typically takes one to two hours with stops. Age limits depend on the rental provider, and children should ride with an adult. Visitors can bring their own bikes or use rentals; Blue Bikes New Orleans, the city's bike-share system, offers stations in the area, with day passes roughly US$10-15, though current rates should be confirmed. Helmets are recommended, and water and sun protection are useful on the shadeless stretches.
The greenway is a public path rather than an operator-run attraction, so there is no formal safety briefing. Cyclists follow standard road rules at crossings, keep to the right and give way to pedestrians. Lighting and visibility are better by day, and riders should avoid lonely stretches after dark. In an emergency, the path is accessible from nearby streets, and visitors can call 911.
The path itself is free to use. October to May provides the most comfortable weather, while summer rides are best before 10 AM, when heat and humidity build and afternoon storms are common. A good plan is to ride to Bayou St. John, continue into City Park, and then return along the same route or stop for a meal in Mid-City.
| Price | Greenway is free; Blue Bikes day passes roughly $10-15 (US$10-15); confirm current rates |
|---|---|
| Duration | 1-2 hours |
| Difficulty | easy |
| Season | October-May; summer rides are best before 10 AM |
| Address | Lafitte Greenway, Basin St to N Carrollton Ave, New Orleans, LA 70119 |
Activity facts
- Where
- Mid-City and Treme
Equipment
- Bike or rental bike
- Helmet
- Water
Location
Lafitte Greenway, Basin St to N Carrollton Ave, New Orleans, LA 70119
29.9710, -90.0850 View on map
Highlights
- Ride a flat, paved path from the edge of the French Quarter to Bayou St. John
- Pass Armstrong Park, Treme and Mid-City neighbourhoods and local murals
- Link up with City Park and Bayou St. John for a longer outing
- Use Blue Bikes rentals for a low-cost, no-guide option
Tips for visiting
- Rent a Blue Bikes day pass at a nearby station, and confirm current prices.
- Wear a helmet and carry water; shade is limited in places.
- In summer, ride before 10 AM to avoid heat and afternoon storms.
- Slow down and look carefully at street crossings.
- Avoid isolated stretches after dark.
- Combine the ride with a stop at Bayou St. John or City Park.
When to visit
October to May is the most comfortable. In summer, ride early in the morning before heat and thunderstorms.
Accessibility
The path is paved and generally level, making it suitable for wheelchairs and mobility devices along most of its length. Street crossings and surface wear in places may require care.
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Frequently asked questions
How long is the Lafitte Greenway?
The greenway is about 2.6 miles (4.2 km) long, from Basin Street near the French Quarter to Bayou St. John. An out-and-back ride is around 5 miles (8 km).
Is the ride suitable for beginners?
Yes, the path is flat and paved and mostly separated from traffic. It suits beginners and families.
Where can visitors rent bikes?
Blue Bikes New Orleans operates bike-share stations near the route. Day passes are roughly US$10-15, but current rates should be confirmed.
Does the greenway cost anything?
The greenway itself is free to use. Costs arise only from bike rentals or purchases along the way.