Where to find the current streetcar schedule

The Regional Transit Authority (RTA) publishes the streetcar schedule on its website at nola.gov/RTA. You can view schedules for all three lines — the St. Charles line, the Rampart-St. Claude line, and the Canal Street line — by selecting your line and direction of travel. The schedule shows arrival times at each stop, though actual arrivals vary based on traffic and passenger volume.

You can also read the RTA's mobile app, which displays real-time car locations and estimated arrival times at your nearest stop. The app updates as conditions change, which is more useful than a printed schedule if you are checking from your phone. Paper schedules are available at major hotels, the RTA transit hub at 2 Canal Street, and some neighborhood shops, though they may not reflect the most recent changes.

Key Takeaways

  • The RTA website at nola.gov/RTA shows the full schedule for all three streetcar lines, organized by direction and stop.
  • The RTA mobile app displays real-time locations and estimated arrival times, which is more accurate than scheduled times during busy periods.
  • Streetcars run different hours depending on the line — some run 24 hours, while others stop at midnight or 1 a.m.
  • Fares are $1.25 per ride if you pay cash, or less per ride if you buy a multi-ride pass or a Jazzy card.
  • Service changes happen several times a year, so check the website before a trip if you have not ridden recently.

Understanding the three streetcar lines and their routes

New Orleans operates three separate streetcar lines, each with its own route and schedule. The St. Charles line runs from Canal Street through the Central Business District, past Tulane and Loyola universities, and ends at Riverbend near Carrollton Avenue. This is the oldest continuously operating streetcar line in the country and runs 24 hours a day. The route is about 13 miles long, and a full trip from end to end takes roughly 45 minutes to an hour depending on traffic.

The Rampart-St. Claude line connects the French Quarter to the Marigny and Bywater neighborhoods. It runs from the Rampart Street station near the French Quarter, down Rampart, then turns onto St. Claude Avenue and ends at Elysian Fields. This line typically runs from around 5 a.m. to 1 a.m., though hours vary by season. The Canal Street line runs along Canal Street from the Mississippi River wharves to the City Park area. It is the shortest line and serves the downtown shopping district and the entrance to City Park.

How to read arrival times and frequency

The RTA schedule lists specific times when a streetcar arrives at each stop. These are scheduled times, not may provide times — actual arrivals depend on traffic, passenger boarding, and maintenance issues. During rush hours (roughly 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. to 6 p.m.), streetcars may run every 10 to 15 minutes. During off-peak hours, the wait can be 20 to 30 minutes or longer.

If you are checking the printed schedule, find your stop name in the left column, then read across to find the times listed for your direction of travel. The schedule repeats throughout the day, so if you see a pattern of times (for example, 8:15, 8:35, 8:55), that pattern typically continues all day. The RTA app is more practical for real-time travel because it shows you exactly where the nearest car is and how many minutes until it arrives at your stop.

Fares and payment methods

A single streetcar ride costs $1.25 if you pay cash on board. You can pay the driver when you board — have exact change or small bills ready, as drivers do not carry large amounts of change. If you plan to ride more than once, buying a pass is cheaper per ride. The RTA sells a 3-day visitor pass, a weekly pass, and a 31-day pass at various prices; check nola.gov/RTA for current rates.

The Jazzy card is a reloadable card you can use on streetcars, buses, and the ferry. You buy the card itself (usually $2 to $3) and then load money onto it. Each ride costs $1.25 when you tap the card, the same as cash. The Jazzy card is convenient if you plan to use multiple types of transit during your stay. You can buy Jazzy cards and passes at the RTA transit hub, at some hotels, and online through the RTA website.

Service changes and holiday schedules

The RTA changes streetcar schedules several times per year — typically in spring and fall when ridership patterns shift. Major holidays like Mardi Gras, Christmas, and New Year's Day run on modified schedules, often with reduced frequency or extended hours. The RTA announces these changes on its website and social media accounts weeks in advance.

If you are planning a trip around a holiday or festival, check the RTA website before you go. During Mardi Gras, for example, some streetcar lines may be rerouted or suspended entirely on parade days. The website lists which lines are affected and what the temporary routes are. Signing up for RTA email alerts ensures you receive notifications about service changes that might affect your travel plans.

What to expect when you board

When the streetcar arrives at your stop, board through the front or middle doors. Tell the driver your destination or show your pass or Jazzy card. If you are paying cash, drop $1.25 into the fare box next to the driver. The driver will not hand you a receipt or ticket — payment is final once you board. Find a seat or hold onto a pole or strap if the car is crowded.

Streetcars can get very crowded during peak hours and tourist season, especially on the St. Charles line. If you have luggage or a large backpack, try to board during off-peak hours or be prepared to hold it rather than take up a seat. The car will announce stops, though announcements are not always clear due to noise and traffic. Watch for your stop or use the RTA app to track your location.

Troubleshooting common schedule issues

If a streetcar does not arrive at the scheduled time, it may be delayed by traffic, a mechanical issue, or high passenger volume. The RTA app will show you if a car is running late or if service is suspended. If you see no cars arriving after 15 to 20 minutes past the scheduled time, check the app or the website to see if there is a service alert. During heavy rain or flooding, streetcars sometimes stop running temporarily.

If you miss your streetcar, the next one is usually within 20 to 30 minutes during the day. If you are on a tight schedule, plan for a longer wait than the schedule suggests, especially during tourist season or bad weather. If a line is completely suspended, the RTA website will post an alert and may offer bus service as an alternative route. You can also call the RTA customer service line or check their social media for real-time updates.

Frequently Asked Questions

Do streetcars run all night?

The St. Charles line runs 24 hours a day, every day. The Rampart-St. Claude and Canal Street lines typically stop running between midnight and 1 a.m., though exact hours vary by season. Check the RTA website for your specific line's hours before planning a late-night trip.

Can I bring a bike or large luggage on the streetcar?

Bikes are allowed on streetcars, but you must hold them — they cannot block aisles or doors. Large luggage is also permitted as long as you can hold or store it without blocking other passengers. During crowded times, this can be difficult, so consider traveling during off-peak hours if you have large items.

What happens if I board without paying?

Fare inspectors occasionally board streetcars to check that passengers have paid. If you board without paying, you can face a fine. Always pay your fare when you board, even if the driver does not ask you to.

How do I know which direction to board?

Streetcar stops are marked with signs showing the line name and direction. For example, a St. Charles line stop might say "St. Charles Inbound" or "St. Charles Outbound." Inbound typically means toward downtown or the city center, while outbound means away from downtown. The RTA website and app both show which direction you need for your destination.

Are streetcars accessible for people with mobility issues?

Streetcars have steps and can be difficult to board for people with mobility challenges. The RTA operates accessible bus routes as an alternative. Contact RTA customer service or visit nola.gov/RTA to learn about paratransit services or accessible bus routes that serve your destination.