Is Bywater a good place to stay in New Orleans?

The Bywater is a good base if you want an artsy, local neighbourhood and don't mind a short ride to the French Quarter. Crescent Park follows the river back towards the French Market, the Rampart–St. Claude streetcar ends at its edge, and Frenchmen Street in the Marigny is a short taxi away.

The area is full of colourful shotgun houses, murals and small, independent places: dive bars, pizza and po'boy joints, coffee shops and music venues along St. Claude Avenue. Crescent Park has river views and a path along the old wharves, and the neighbourhood feels creative and relaxed.

The downside is that there are very few hotels, so most stays are in small inns or holiday homes. The sights are a ride away, streets can feel empty and uneasy late at night, and walking back from the Quarter after dark isn't a good idea.

What makes the Bywater worth considering is its character. It's one of the most distinctive neighbourhoods in New Orleans, with local bars and music you'd never find on Bourbon Street, and the riverfront park is a lovely way to start the day.