Arriving in Style: Your Guide to MSY Airport
Welcome to MSY Airport, the official gateway to New Orleans and the first taste of the city’s rhythm. Whether you’re arriving for a weekend of cocktails and Creole flavor or departing after an unforgettable stay, Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) sets the tone for your entire journey.
From the art-filled terminal to the scent of chicory coffee drifting through the air, MSY Airport offers travelers a uniquely Southern welcome — polished, soulful, and unmistakably NOLA.
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The Vibe at MSY Airport
MSY Airport isn’t just an airport — it’s a mood. Designed to mirror New Orleans’ warmth and rhythm, the terminal features jazz-inspired artwork, natural light, and modern architecture that feels refined yet relaxed. Whether you’re gliding through security or people-watching by baggage claim, MSY Airport captures the city’s spirit — welcoming, artful, and full of character.
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Where to Eat & Sip Before You Hit the City
Start your New Orleans adventure the right way — with a taste of what’s to come. MSY Airport highlights some of the city’s most iconic flavors right inside the terminal:
• Café du Monde: Your first (or final) beignet — powdered sugar perfection with a side of nostalgia.
• Emeril’s Table: Elevated Louisiana fare from the chef who defined modern Creole cuisine.
• Mondo: Local comfort food with a gourmet twist by beloved chef Susan Spicer.
Even in transit, MSY Airport makes it clear: food is part of the experience.
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Seamless Travel Through MSY Airport
Everything about MSY Airport is designed for ease and flow. Its single, modern terminal houses check-in, security, gates, and baggage claim — so you’ll never have to sprint across multiple concourses.
• Rideshare Pickup: Located on the lower level outside Baggage Claim 7 — skip the taxi line.
• Parking: Choose between short-term, long-term, and Express Drop-Off options.
• Lounges: Unwind at the Delta Sky Club, United Club, or The Club MSY — each offering quiet luxury and a touch of local charm.
If you appreciate both comfort and convenience, MSY Airport delivers a smooth start (or finish) to your New Orleans escape.
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Shop Local Before Takeoff
Before you board, explore boutiques throughout MSY Airport featuring Louisiana-made pralines, artisan sauces, and NOLA-inspired artwork. Skip the generic souvenirs and go for authentic local finds that feel meaningful.
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NOI Insider Tips for MSY Airport
Make your arrival and departure as effortless as a jazz riff. These insider tips help you glide through MSY Airport like a local who knows the rhythm of New Orleans.
Arrive Early — and Enjoy It
MSY is actually worth arriving early for. The architecture, art, and food make it part of the experience. Aim to arrive 90 minutes early for domestic flights and treat yourself to a café au lait before boarding.Skip the Taxi Queue
Rideshare pickup at Baggage Claim 7 is faster and often cheaper than taxis. Expect a 20–25 minute drive to the French Quarter or Garden District.Use TSA PreCheck or CLEAR
MSY Airport is known for efficiency, but CLEAR and PreCheck make it seamless. Lanes are located near Concourse B, and locals swear by them during festival season.Lounge Like You Mean It
The Club MSY is a hidden gem — open to anyone with a day pass. Think craft cocktails, local dishes like shrimp étouffée, and a calm, design-forward space.Catch a Live Music Moment
On select weekends and holidays, you’ll find live jazz in the main atrium near baggage claim. It’s spontaneous, soulful, and signature New Orleans.Start the Celebration Early
Grab a Sazerac or French 75 at Bar Sazerac or MSY Bar before boarding — both are surprisingly chic for an airport lounge.Shop Local — Skip the Logo Merch
Stop by Creole Kitchen Market or Flamingo A-Go-Go inside the terminal for local-made gifts, pralines, candles, and art prints.Download the MSY Airport App
It’s the easiest way to check real-time security lines, flight updates, and parking availability — locals use it all the time.Hidden Photo Spots
For content creators or travelers who love an aesthetic moment, head to Gates B5–B9 at sunset. The floor-to-ceiling windows and soft wetland light are golden-hour magic.Book a Private Transfer
If you want your arrival handled with style, NOI can arrange private SUV transfers or black-car service that meets you right inside baggage claim.
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Flying Into New Orleans for a Cruise? Read This First.
If your New Orleans trip includes a cruise embarking from the Port of New Orleans, your MSY arrival strategy matters even more.
Flight timing, transfers, and luggage logistics can make or break embarkation day. Many cruise travelers underestimate how valuable it is to arrive at least one day early, allowing time to adjust, explore, and avoid same-day travel stress.
NOI often designs pre-cruise stays that include:
Seamless airport-to-hotel transfers
Boutique hotel selections near the river or French Quarter
Light exploration, dining reservations, and relaxed pacing before embarkation
When planned well, the cruise feels like a continuation of your New Orleans experience — not a rushed departure from it.
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Before You Land: NOI’s Quick Checklist
✔️ Save your MSY Airport arrival info to your phone wallet
✔️ Screenshot your hotel confirmation and transfer details
✔️ Download the MSY Airport app for real-time updates
✔️ If you’re arriving late, ask NOI to pre-book dinner or room service so it’s waiting when you arrive
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MSY Airport FAQ
(Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport)
What shops are in MSY Airport?
MSY Airport has a mix of New Orleans–themed boutiques, travel-essential stores, and luxury beauty brands. Popular shops include Fleurty Girl, Dirty Coast, Hudson News, InMotion, Brighton Collectibles, and the new M·A·C / Jo Malone / Tom Ford Beauty store in Concourse B.
What terminal is the shopping area in at MSY?
MSY operates as a single, modern terminal, and most shopping options are located past security in Concourse B. A few essential shops, like Hudson News, are also available pre-security.
Does MSY Airport have local New Orleans shops?
Yes. MSY features beloved New Orleans brands like Fleurty Girl and Dirty Coast, offering authentic NOLA-themed apparel, gifts, souvenirs, and locally inspired items.
Where can I buy souvenirs at MSY Airport?
For souvenirs, head to Fleurty Girl, Dirty Coast, or Westwin News & Gifts. These shops offer NOLA-themed mugs, shirts, ornaments, artwork, books, and fun take-home keepsakes.
Is there a MAC Cosmetics store in MSY Airport?
Yes — MSY now has a luxury beauty store featuring M·A·C Cosmetics, Jo Malone London, and Tom Ford Beauty. It’s located at the entrance of Concourse B, perfect for high-end gifts or last-minute beauty needs.
Does MSY Airport have a duty-free store?
MSY has offered duty-free shopping in the past, but availability changes seasonally and by airline. Visitors should check MSY’s Shop, Dine & Relax directory or ask airport staff for the most current information.
Are there pop-up or seasonal shops at MSY?
Yes — MSY occasionally hosts Seasonal Pop-Up Shops, especially around holidays or major events like Mardi Gras and Jazz Fest. These are often located near Gate C7 in Concourse C and feature rotating local goods and seasonal gifts.
Where can I buy electronics or chargers at MSY Airport?
Visit InMotion, MSY’s dedicated electronics and travel-tech shop. Here you’ll find chargers, headphones, travel adapters, and last-minute tech essentials.
What Concourse has the most shops at MSY?
Concourse B offers the most shopping options, including New Orleans boutiques and the airport’s new luxury beauty store. It’s the best concourse for browsing before your flight.
Does MSY Airport have bookstores?
Yes — Hudson Booksellers (inside several Hudson News locations) carries books, magazines, and reading material throughout the airport.
Where can I get last-minute travel essentials at MSY?
Stop by Hudson News or Westwin News & Gifts for travel basics — snacks, water, toiletries, chargers, reading material, and more.
Is MSY Airport good for shopping?
Yes — MSY blends local culture with convenience and even a touch of luxury. From New Orleans souvenirs to travel tech and upscale beauty, it’s a surprisingly well-rounded airport for shopping.
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NOI Concierge Tip
Want your arrival and departure handled seamlessly?
New Orleans Itineraries offers complimentary itinerary design, coordinating everything from airport transfers and boutique hotels to pre-cruise planning and curated experiences.
