New Orleans is a famous city, but where is New Orleans on a map? If you look at a map of the United States, you will find New Orleans in the southeastern part of Louisiana. It sits near the Mississippi River and is close to the Gulf of Mexico, making it an important location for trade, culture, and tourism.
When you zoom in on a map, New Orleans is in Orleans Parish, which is one of the many parishes (like counties) in Louisiana. The city is known for its unique geography, with water all around it. The mighty Mississippi River curves around the city, and Lake Pontchartrain borders it to the north. Because of its low elevation, New Orleans has a complex system of levees and canals to prevent flooding.
Where Is New Orleans on a Map? A Complete Guide
New Orleans is a famous city known for jazz music, Mardi Gras, and delicious food. But where is New Orleans on a map? If you look at the southeastern part of the United States, you will find New Orleans in Louisiana. The city is near the Mississippi River and close to the Gulf of Mexico.
New Orleans is part of Orleans Parish, Louisiana. The city is surrounded by water, including Lake Pontchartrain to the north and swamps to the south. Because of its low land, New Orleans has levees and canals to protect it from floods. Now, let’s explore more about where New Orleans is on a map and why its location is special.

Where Is New Orleans on a Map? A Quick Overview
New Orleans is in the southeastern part of Louisiana, United States. It is one of the largest cities in the state and is important for culture, business, and tourism.
If you look at a U.S. map, you will find Louisiana in the southern part of the country. New Orleans is located near the bottom of the state, next to the Mississippi River. The city is also close to the Gulf of Mexico, making it a major port city.
New Orleans’ location has helped it grow into a unique and vibrant city. It is known for its mix of cultures, beautiful buildings, and exciting festivals. Because of its position, New Orleans is a popular destination for visitors from around the world.
How to Locate New Orleans on Different Types of Maps
There are many ways to find New Orleans on a map. Each type of map shows different details about the city’s location and surroundings.
- Political Map – Shows New Orleans as part of Orleans Parish in Louisiana.
- Physical Map – Highlights natural features like rivers, lakes, and landforms.
- Satellite Map – Gives a real-world view of the city from space.
- Street Map – Displays roads, neighborhoods, and important landmarks.
Using Google Maps, you can search for New Orleans and zoom in to see the city in detail. You can also use GPS or travel maps to navigate to New Orleans from different locations.
New Orleans on a U.S. Map: State and Regional View
On a United States map, you will find New Orleans in the southern region. It is located in Louisiana, which borders Texas, Arkansas, and Mississippi.
New Orleans is in the southeastern part of Louisiana, near the Gulf of Mexico. It is the largest city in the state and an important transportation hub. The city connects to major highways, waterways, and train routes.
Because of its location, New Orleans has been a key center for trade, history, and culture. It is close to the coast, which makes it a gateway for shipping and tourism.
New Orleans’ Exact Coordinates and Global Position
The exact latitude and longitude of New Orleans are:
- Latitude: 29.9511° N
- Longitude: 90.0715° W
These coordinates place New Orleans in the Northern Hemisphere, close to the equator. The city’s location near the water makes it an important port for trade and travel.
If you look at a world map, you will see New Orleans in North America. It is part of the United States and is located near the center of the Gulf Coast.
How the Mississippi River Shapes the Location of New Orleans
The Mississippi River is one of the longest rivers in the world, and it plays a big role in New Orleans’ location. The river runs through the city, making it an important spot for trade and travel.
The river has shaped the geography of New Orleans by creating wetlands and low-lying areas. It also makes the city vulnerable to flooding, which is why levees and canals are built.
Because of its location near the river, New Orleans became a major shipping port. Goods from all over the world pass through the city, making it an important center for business.
Surrounding Areas: What’s Near New Orleans on a Map?
New Orleans is surrounded by many cities, towns, and natural features. Some of the closest places include:
- Metairie – A suburban area just west of New Orleans.
- Kenner – A city near the airport and Mississippi River.
- Baton Rouge – The capital of Louisiana, about 80 miles away.
- Lake Pontchartrain – A large lake to the north of the city.
These areas help make New Orleans an important cultural and economic center in Louisiana.
Maps of New Orleans: From Street Maps to Satellite Views
There are different ways to view New Orleans on a map. Some of the most popular types include:
Types of Maps
- Street Maps – Show roads, highways, and local landmarks.
- Satellite Maps – Provide real-world images of the land.
- Topographic Maps – Display elevation and terrain features.
Using a map helps visitors and residents navigate New Orleans and explore its attractions.
How to Get to New Orleans Using a Map or GPS
If you are traveling to New Orleans, maps and GPS can help you find the best route.
Ways to Navigate to New Orleans
- By Car: Use major highways like I-10 and I-55.
- By Plane: Fly into Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport.
- By Train: Take an Amtrak train to New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal.
No matter how you travel, a map or GPS can help you find your way to this exciting city.

Conclusion
New Orleans is a city full of history, culture, and beauty. If you look at where is New Orleans on a map, you will find it in Louisiana, near the Mississippi River and Gulf of Mexico. Its unique location has shaped its development, making it a major port and tourist destination.
Whether you use a paper map, GPS, or Google Maps, finding New Orleans is easy. The city’s position in the southeastern U.S. makes it an important place for trade, music, and festivals. Next time you check a map, take a moment to explore this incredible city!
FAQs
Q: Where is New Orleans on a U.S. map?
A: New Orleans is in southeastern Louisiana, near the Gulf of Mexico and Mississippi River.
Q: What is the latitude and longitude of New Orleans?
A: The coordinates are 29.9511° N latitude and 90.0715° W longitude.
Q: What major water bodies are near New Orleans?
A: The city is near the Mississippi River, Lake Pontchartrain, and the Gulf of Mexico.