Safety in the Quarter

[NoPoYo]

So I was chatting with someone who used to live In New Orleans, and was talking about the places we want to go and such and she told me to only stay in the "touristy" areas of the quarter even during the day. I understand if we were talking about walking around at night or in a neighborhood outside of the FQ but, this really amazed me. So, I'm asking all of you long time festers: Do we really need to stay in the heavily populated areas all the time? I don't really have a plan, just wanted to meander around the quarter for a day, and kind of go where we want to. We are no dummies, we are all experienced in big city touristism. What do y'all think?

[chicago_bones]

Just be aware of your surroundings and you should be OK, especially if you're in a group.

[revjimk]

I've been going for 32 years & have never had a serious problem. Minor problems, yes, but not in French Quarter... you can never tell when or where.
Just use common sense

[Marc Stone]

Just be aware of your surroundings wherever you are. Being in a "touristy" part of the 1/4 doesn't guarantee your safety anymore than being in an off-the-path neighborhood guarantees you problems. Use your common sense and street smarts, and don't limit your enjoyment of a great city. I can't imagine visiting NO and not going to some of the awesome places that aren't right in the heart of the tourist district. I've lived here for almost 20 years, worked, lived and hung out in all kinds of 'hoods, and the only time I ever had a problem I got mugged in front of my own front door b/c I was drunk and not paying attention. that doesn't mean a lot of nasty things don't happen here, but you don't need to live in fear. Just always be aware of the potential for trouble, even (or especially) if you think you are in a "safe zone" of some kind just because there is a lot of tourist traffic.

[bobatude]

this will be my 14th jazz fest and i have walked all over the city of new orleans without any problems. as suggested use comon sense. i must ad most eveings if i am off the beaten path i am never alone.

[JazzFestn GMA]

have to agree, common sense and awareness of your surroundings, no matter how many Hand Grenades or Hurricane's later, just might save your wallet/purse... a couple of years ago late one evening, my husband and I were walking home on Decatur toward Esplande and witnessed some poor dumb dude, who was REALLY drunk, get rolled right in front of us and it happened so fast, I wasn't even 100% aware of what was happening until it was done! the guys that beat him up took his wallet, and they were young and fast. and last year on Esplanade at Decatur we witnessed a guy grab a woman's purse off her shoulder and haul ass down Elisian Fields... the poor couple, like us in their 50's tried chasing the guy down. It only made us acutely more aware of our surroundings, or maybe even consider a taxi when we would have walked in the past...

[Leni]

Don't walk around anywhere that's not heavily populated if you're drunk and oblivious. The Quarter can be quite dangerous so you have to be on high alert at all times unless you're in a crowded area. There are certain areas more dangerous than others -- Burgundy, St. Philip, not to mention Rampart. So just be very careful.

[marignygreg]

Funny, the few problems I have had since my first visit in 1986 have mostly been in the tourist zone/upper Quarter.
At night stick to the main routes ( Royal, Bourbon, Chartres and Decatur ). By day wander the quarter at will and bring a dose of common sense. The area close to the Iberville project ( the old Tango Belt ) can be spotty. That would be Canal to St.Louis and Dauphine to Rampart.

Please, get out of the tourist zone. You must, to find the soul of the city !!

[stlbarb]

many years ago i read these words of wisdom in the AAA city guide for New Orleans, i always thought they could apply to anywhere. i paraphrase:
"if you are the only people on the street, you shouldnt be on that street"

there has been occassions when i/we walked down the middle of the street rather than the sidewalks - bad folks could be lurking in doorways or gangways. and other times when we (needlessly) crossed the street.
be cautious and borderline paranoid. :o

[NoPoYo]

Thanks for all the advice. I'm glad to hear that a regular dose of common sense and a keen eye is your best defense. I've been there before and have my own "crazy semi scary stuff happened" story but it was a long time ago
and I knew everything back then.

I understand that the best places are probably not in the french quarter but we probably won't make it out of that area much (besides fest that is) because we have a good sized group (6 or 8)and no car. So getting all of us anywhere that isn't walking distance isn't going to be easy. We will probably take a cab to a dinner spot or two. I do have a friend who lives down there and I'm already making him take me to Willie Mae's Scotch House. It just won't be easy to really explore. But, I'm not worried in the least. :)

[stlbarb]

Thanks for all the advice. I'm glad to hear that a regular dose of common sense and a keen eye is your best defense. I've been there before and have my own "crazy semi scary stuff happened" story but it was a long time ago
and I knew everything back then.

I understand that the best places are probably not in the french quarter but we probably won't make it out of that area much (besides fest that is) because we have a good sized group (6 or 8)and no car. So getting all of us anywhere that isn't walking distance isn't going to be easy. We will probably take a cab to a dinner spot or two. I do have a friend who lives down there and I'm already making him take me to Willie Mae's Scotch House. It just won't be easy to really explore. But, I'm not worried in the least. :)

adjacent to the FQ, are several musical hot spots in the Marigny, particularly on Frenchmen. i found them to be a little crowded during fest last year. but definitely worth the short walk over, even if its only to hang on the street and catch the vibe.

[LBIFESTER]

I understand that the best places are probably not in the french quarter but we probably won't make it out of that area much (besides fest that is) because we have a good sized group (6 or 8)and no car. So getting all of us anywhere that isn't walking distance isn't going to be easy. We will probably take a cab to a dinner spot or two. I do have a friend who lives down there and I'm already making him take me to Willie Mae's Scotch House. It just won't be easy to really explore. But, I'm not worried in the least. :)

You can get out of the Quarter real easy and close by. Just cross Esplande at Royal and enter into the wonderful world of Frenchmen St. and the whole Maringy. Frenchmen's clubs will going into the wee hours and there is an abundance of cabs.

[Staxsun]

My rule of thumb at night is that it's worth the peace of mind to go a few blocks out of the way to be on Decatur, Bourbon, or St. Peter when crossing through the quarter.

[butland]

On a related note - what would be the common wisdom on travelling between the Mahalia Jackson Theater and the corner of Canal & Bourbon, before and after the Meters/Galactic show, for instance? Cab it? Or would a walk be safe?

[McGregor]

On a related note - what would be the common wisdom on travelling between the Mahalia Jackson Theater and the corner of Canal & Bourbon, before and after the Meters/Galactic show, for instance? Cab it? Or would a walk be safe?

I stood out there a pretty long time after the Govt Mule show last year waiting on a cab fwiw. We left a little early and didn't feel real safe standing out there with nobody else around but just keep your eyes open and you'll be fine. Not sure I'd walk it.

[freebo]

If you take a cab TO the show, and if you like the driver, ask for their phone number, so you can call when the show gets out...

[LBIFESTER]

On a related note - what would be the common wisdom on travelling between the Mahalia Jackson Theater and the corner of Canal & Bourbon, before and after the Meters/Galactic show, for instance? Cab it? Or would a walk be safe?

Cab it. Call United Cab 504-522-9771 Still the best in NOLA w/ drivers that know the city as opposed to some other companies. For an event like this give them your name and they will probably give you a cab # to look for, so nobody else snags it on you.

[NoPoYo]

Oh we will definitely be going to Frenchman Street. I guess I thought that was still in the quarter. </newb>

[Jacquesimomo]

One other note is to leave your finest, most treasured jewelry behind...or if you wear it, don't be flashy with it; if I'm wearing my heirloom diamond ring to an upscale dinner, I turn the diamond into the cup of my hand when I'm walking... just an idea.

[revjimk]

Now that myself & others have told you everything was OK, I'll point out that a cajun dancer guy, who probably knew the area pretty well, was murdered a few blocks outside JF right after the show, a few years ago... ya never know...
Enjoy your life while ya have it, just be careful!

[NOLA]

Now that myself & others have told you everything was OK, I'll point out that a cajun dancer guy, who probably knew the area pretty well, was murdered a few blocks outside JF right after the show, a few years ago... ya never know...
Enjoy your life while ya have it, just be careful!

Moral of THAT story - if they want your stuff, just give it to them. Whatever they take is not worth as much as your life.

[BigDag]

Now that myself & others have told you everything was OK, I'll point out that a cajun dancer guy, who probably knew the area pretty well, was murdered a few blocks outside JF right after the show, a few years ago... ya never know...
Enjoy your life while ya have it, just be careful!

Daniel Breaux. I miss seeing him around. He was always dancing, and had some funky shoes.

[kevinbryon]

I'm a relative newb, compared to most on here. But I've gone down three straight years and haven't run into any problems. As most have already pointed out, a good bit of common sense is generally all that's needed. I stick to the hot areas at night and do my venturing during the day.

[Carolina Beadhead]

...we probably won't make it out of that area much (besides fest that is) because we have a good sized group (6 or 8)and no car. So getting all of us anywhere that isn't walking distance isn't going to be easy. .. :)

Sure it is. Call for 2 cabs or ask for a minivan. You're definitely going to want to check out some of the clubs outside of the Quarter/Frenchmen area... like Rock 'n Bowl, Tipitina's, Maple Leaf..

[Stella Blue]

My rule of thumb at night is that it's worth the peace of mind to go a few blocks out of the way to be on Decatur, Bourbon, or St. Peter when crossing through the quarter.

I always recommend people take Decatur through the French Quarter if they are going to Frenchmen Street for the first time at night. It just seems a party continuation rather than taking a quieter neighborhood route that is not as well lit and generally has fewer people.

[denbear]

3 or more won't be bothered. Cross the street whenever it seems appropriate. Take advantage of go cups! Always carry a drink in your hand, it's a helluva deterrent to toss in a face ;^)

[JazzFestn GMA]

I always recommend people take Decatur through the French Quarter if they are going to Frenchmen Street for the first time at night. It just seems a party continuation rather than taking a quieter neighborhood route that is not as well lit and generally has fewer people.

Agree about taking Decatur, but note both times I've eyewitnessed assaults recently were on Decatur. Don't be lured into a false sense of security ... we bought our timeshare at the Hotel de la Monnaie located at the corner of Esplanade and Elysian Fields in 1987 and of course, that is considered the end of the French Quarter, but now Frenchman is the destination. Thugs know where to go..

[goodabouthood]

I'll fourth or fifth taking decatur down. Also, I don't carry anything more than the cash I need and my ID with me. The comment about having a to go cup to throw in someone face though I'd say is a bit questionable. Last thing you want to do is piss off someone trying to mug you, that'd probably lead to an assualt on top of getting your stuff stolen.

All that said, I've never had an incident happen.

::knocks on wood::

[jtkelley3]

I feel like I should weigh in here. As a resident of downtown Baltimore city, a pretty gosh darn dangerous place, I've learned some tricks that have kept me safe for 17 years.

First off, if you ever begin to feel unsafe, get loud, but don't scream like you're in trouble, just draw attention to yourself. For example, I've done things like scream Go Ravens (during football season, which usually gets other people screaming along with me) and Go Orioles (during baseball season, and since the O's are god awful people wonder what the heck is wrong with me). It is a little thing that makes the person looking to jump me think twice because I've already called attention to myself.

Second, do not hesitate to walk in the middle of the street. Even if there is traffic. In the quarter (other than say Decatur St.) traffic doesn't move at 55 mph, so a car honking that you're in the middle of the road again brings attention to you and unwanted attention on to someone who might want to make a play for you.

Finally, and I can't stress this enough. Don't talk or text on your cell phone when you're walking around. Your distraction makes you a target and gives people a sense that your guard is down.

In my 7+ years of going to jazzfest and several other trips to New Orleans, the only time I've ever felt unsafe was in March of 2008 when I was walking from Canal down Charters street when that area had been blacked out because of an underground fire. I saw someone that looked a little shady and thought that he might be signaling to a person hiding up the street, so the moment, I started to feel unsafe, I belted out "Fire on the Bayou" and someone popped out of Evelyn's Place and started singing along with me. Not sure if there was any reason to be afraid, but nothing happened.

Be vigilant and have fun!

[Leni]

I agree about walking in the middle of the street. And rather than strolling, you should walk with purpose, like you're on a mission, looking to the right and left, and appearing to be extremely aware and able to take care of yourself. It might not be a bad idea either to carry pepper spray, as long as it's not a windy night :-)

And if you're the only one on the street and a car or bicycle appears from afar, duck behind a parked car until the moving car passes. Lots of time muggers are driving in cars and jump out, or are on bicycles.

[stlbarb]

3 or more won't be bothered. Cross the street whenever it seems appropriate. Take advantage of go cups! Always carry a drink in your hand, it's a helluva deterrent to toss in a face ;^)

i know a group of 3 that were mugged on a parking lot in the CBD during jazzfest. 2 big guys and a gal. and i believe it was early in the evening.
guns usually have 6 or more bullets - they were outnumbered.

when confronted with a weapon, your safety is all that matters. place your valuables on the ground. turn around and walk away. its not a time for heroics. its just stuff.

[buffalogal]

I recieved these same warnings when I first went to NOLA in 1992. As previous posters mention, just be aware of your surroundings especially at noght and you'll be fine. I'm a runner and just stay on the main drags. Never an issue....

[Doubledown]

we were in a Club on Bourbon last week And I felt the back of my shirt lift up a few times guess someone wanted to see where I had my wallet.

They added a few big portable flood light to Bourbon Street for Mardi Gras not sure if they will be there for JF.


Be Safe All.

[MzJoey]

You are being watched at all times while on the street. The time to think about your surroundings is BEFORE you park the car and open your door. You really really and to think ahead and don't get your self "caught" alone somewhere.
In 2009 I got "caught" alone in the ferry loading area, so I went back to where people were sitting in a waiting room. Except something was funny about the way they were seated and they were all men. I momentarily put my backpack down off my back and onto a bench...within seconds a man was at the end of the bench staring me down and reaching into his jacket (jacket? it was hot day!)... i lept down a flight of stairs and ran to a vendor that was selling food.
Ok, those that know me should be laughing at the very idea that I could leap or run. But I did. Moral of the story....it can and does happen anywhere...you won't be able to outrun the bullets.
Please I love NOLA as much as anyone, i'm not trying to be chicken little, but this girlfriend ain't no pollyanna either!

[marignygreg]

Just got back from 2 weeks in the Quarter/Marigny. Walked everywhere at all hours, no problems. The Gutter Punks and Trustafarians were a bit much, but not much else. Cops seem to be everywhere these days around the Quarter or maybe they were casing me and my nefarious activities. ;)

[oooow-eeeee-babee]

Just got back from 2 weeks in the Quarter/Marigny. Walked everywhere at all hours, no problems. The Gutter Punks and Trustafarians were a bit much, but not much else. Cops seem to be everywhere these days around the Quarter or maybe they were casing me and my nefarious activities. ;)

I get an email from someone who lives in the quarter and tracks street crime in that area for fellow residents. Seems as if it has tapered off somewhat since the new mayer & police chief but not certain. However, the newest target seems to be expensive smart phones which are being snatched out of peoples hands even while they are using them. I do not own one but if I did, I would prolly keep it in my sock or out-of-sight anytime I was on the street and plan to call my cabs before I leave a club. And bicycles do seem to be the getta-way vehicle of choice for some of the thugs nowdays.

Also agree with the "walking with purpose and confidence" suggestion if you are still physically capable of doing that which I am not. I can recall times when I am reasonably certain that has saved me. Still uncertain if carrying a dummy handbag and/or throwdown wallet wouldn't be better than having your person assulted while they look for the "goodies" but I'm planning on doing that, I think. Also have a very loud and shrill personal alarm I'm planning to take but that may not be of any help in the quiet part of the qtr and could possibly spook someone into shooting me.

Two years ago during Jazzfest there were all kinds of police and para-police in white shirts with New Orleans Tourism in the upper qtr. Not sure how much help they would have been in a situation since they were not carrying guns and didn't look too energetic to start with, but they were there, fwiw.

[goodabouthood]

we were in a Club on Bourbon last week And I felt the back of my shirt lift up a few times guess someone wanted to see where I had my wallet.

They added a few big portable flood light to Bourbon Street for Mardi Gras not sure if they will be there for JF.


Be Safe All.

Oh yeah, I always carry my wallet in a front pocket when on vacation...

[francesca78]

hi I'm going with a group of my girlfriends(we are all 16) to the fest and was wondering how safe it is for us to be around the fairgrounds and if there are certain places we should definetly avoid during the day or night. 2 sets of parents will be coming with us but if anyone has any advice that'd be great.thanks!

[Staxsun]

I'm sure someone with more advice will chime in, but here's a couple of thoughts. The Fairgrounds is safe. There will be lots of people everywhere you go and it's daytime. There are some dicey neighborhoods nearby, so I would seek advice on where to park if you're driving, if it's not in the immediate area and you're late leaving the fest. Cabbing is not a problem. The city bus is not a problem (assuming you are on the right one). Just like any city, you need to be careful and aware of your surroundings. The major streets in the French Quarter are relatively safe at night, but I'd stay with the crowds as far as going from place to place. There's lots of info earlier in this thread.

[lillybelle]

I have adopted my father's rule of thumb (which may be on the conservative side since he is, after all, my father) which is to drive or take a cab if it is after dark and outside the quarter. He lives near NO and had Saints season tickets for many years, and so I think has some experience to draw on.

[bobatude]

I'm sure someone with more advice will chime in, but here's a couple of thoughts. The Fairgrounds is safe. There will be lots of people everywhere you go and it's daytime. There are some dicey neighborhoods nearby, so I would seek advice on where to park if you're driving, if it's not in the immediate area and you're late leaving the fest. Cabbing is not a problem. The city bus is not a problem (assuming you are on the right one). Just like any city, you need to be careful and aware of your surroundings. The major streets in the French Quarter are relatively safe at night, but I'd stay with the crowds as far as going from place to place. There's lots of info earlier in this thread.

CAN I GET A AMEN!!!!!!

[Rossvegas]

I'll add this...

The last time I was in NOLA, I took the ferry to Algiers and I walked along the Riverwalk from Cafe Du Monde to the ferry - bad plan. I spotted two (relatively tough) guys who were covered in blood because they had been jumped by some street roaches who hang out down there. A lot of the roaches are transients who are trying to impress their new buddies, and they don't have a lot of respect for authority. There also doesn't appear to be any security down there, and there isn't really any escape route like there is in the Quarter. If you ARE going to stroll the Riverwalk, walk with purpose, arm yourself with a smile, don't strike up conversations with roaches and just keep moving!

My second piece of advice - and this may be touchy for some people to hear - is "don't fear colour". Just because you see a couple of black kids walking toward you doesn't mean that they're going to attack or rob you; that's just stupid and biased. I've met some amazingly helpful and friendly black kids, and I've met some nasty-ass white punks...leave your preconceived notions behind. Your best weapon is a smile and a "whatsup?" and you should be fine!

My last piece of advice can be best summed up in a Kentwood Smith quote: "don't be a dumbass". Years ago, when i first went to Jazzfest in '96, I got loaded and was walking across Jackson Square at around 10 pm. Some huge black guy took me aside and said "what are you doing, man? Let me show you something: see that guy over there? And that one in the doorway, and that one on the corner? They're just waiting for a dumbass like you to come along and rob you. You're an easy target. Smarten up!"

Best piece of advice I think I've ever received.... :>)

[NoPoYo]

Awesome Ross.

I've had the same experience with young black kids when I was there oh so many years ago. Thanks for reminding me.

[charlotte]

hi I'm going with a group of my girlfriends(we are all 16) to the fest and was wondering how safe it is for us to be around the fairgrounds and if there are certain places we should definetly avoid during the day or night. 2 sets of parents will be coming with us but if anyone has any advice that'd be great.thanks!

Just be careful with leaving valuables out on your blanket/tarp or chairs at Fest, too. Because people are watching music, dancing, drinking, etc., it can make you a possible target. One Fest we were at, my Sweetpea (Significant other), Jerry, spotted a person who was carrying a large newspaper and picking up valuables and putting them inside the paper. He reported it to the police working the Fest, and they already had the guy's description and were on it. But it just shows the need to remain vigilant and aware. He grew up in L.A. (whereas I grew up in a very small town), so he always has his radar up for just this kind of thing. Just don't leave yourself vulnerable, which can sometimes happen when you are partying and in altered states of consciousness.

[postjack]

the biggest thing to fear in the quarter are the huge piles of glowing sewer snakes blasting the star wars theme song and feeding on evil energy emanating from the Marriott on Canal.

true story.

[charlotte]

the biggest thing to fear in the quarter are the huge piles of glowing sewer snakes blasting the star wars theme song and feeding on evil energy emanating from the Marriott on Canal.

true story.
Funny! not to mention the rats in the Quarters! not sure what theme song they blast, but eeeeew, they're some ugly mf's.

[eat_mo_crawfish]

Over St. Paddy's Day we saw tons of gutter punks along the Riverwalk, the main "group" took up almost all of the stairs right there by the Moonwalk. There were three NOPD officers on segways cruising up and down the walk, obviously keeping an eye on the situation, which made it feel quite safe. Now, if they could only do something about the smell . . . . .

[Leni]

I'll add this...

The last time I was in NOLA, I took the ferry to Algiers and I walked along the Riverwalk from Cafe Du Monde to the ferry - bad plan. I spotted two (relatively tough) guys who were covered in blood because they had been jumped by some street roaches who hang out down there. A lot of the roaches are transients who are trying to impress their new buddies, and they don't have a lot of respect for authority. There also doesn't appear to be any security down there, and there isn't really any escape route like there is in the Quarter. If you ARE going to stroll the Riverwalk, walk with purpose, arm yourself with a smile, don't strike up conversations with roaches and just keep moving! >)

Was this during the day ?

[Rossvegas]

Was this during the day ?

Yes, It was sometime between 5:30 and 6:30...it was still light outside.

Regardless, it should be said that the two guys who were beaten up were real trailer trash. They obviously had a drink or two in them, and I got the impression that when the gutter punks asked them for money, they responded with some smartass / hostile comment and that precipitated the fight. (They were on the ferry with me to Algiers.) I'm not suggesting that they 'deserved' the beating (and according to them, the gutter punks ended up much worse that they did), but the moral of the story is...
Don't pick fights.
Don't start conversations with people in unprotected areas.
Arm yourself with a smile.It's a lot easier for me being a male, but I usually have this look on my face that says "I'm really friendly...but trust me, you do NOT want to mess with me."

[DamrtIgotdablues]

Will be staying at the Royal St. Courtyard in Marigny with my daughter. What's the verdict on Royal St. east of Frenchmen in the wee hours??

[funkkjunkie]

in most wee hours situations, it's just best to pay for a cab or drive to wherever you need to go.

[Leni]

Will be staying at the Royal St. Courtyard in Marigny with my daughter. What's the verdict on Royal St. east of Frenchmen in the wee hours??

The Marigny is less safe than the French Quarter (which also can be rather sketchy) and it wouldn't be advisable to walk around at night unless there are lots of people on the street.

[DamrtIgotdablues]

Thanks Leni and funk.

[20-20]

Every year when this conversation comes up I think of ..and defer to..the wisdom of the inimitable "BreamBob".....Louisiana is a Concealed Carry state and recognizes permits from all other "right to carry" states.

[eat_mo_crawfish]

Choose well-traveled paths (eg, walk Decatur/St. Peters if you're going from FQ to Frenchmen), keep your eyes open and your wits about you. If you are too tanked to do so, take a cab, even if it's a short distance. It's really no different than any other big city except for the fact that so many entertainment venues and eateries are within walking distance.

[linza22]

'keep your head on a swivel'

[John Redcorn]

I have waked between the quarter and frenchmen more times than I can count. At all hours. Never had any problems.

As others have said. Stick to the main routes...Decatur mainly. Bad guys don't like an audience. If a street is dark and nobody is on it, you shouldn't be on it either.

Keep your wits about you and if you are not comfortable or if you think that your buzz is keeping you from making good choices (it happens), then make ONE good choice and grab a cab.

[that one guy from Kansas]

I think it should be added here that the current Nicolas Cage threat assessment level is ORANGE. Festgo'ers are advised to avoid Cage, particularly in areas where alcohol is served, and young women are especially cautioned not to approach him alone.

http://www.gq.com/magazine/toc/201105/jim-nelson-may-2011