Ultimate Mardi Gras Travel Guide: Best Places to Celebrate in 2025

Mardi Gras is more than just a day—it’s a season of parades, costumes, music, and celebration! Whether you want to experience the legendary parties in New Orleans, enjoy family-friendly fun at Universal Orlando, or discover an exciting Gulf Coast celebration in Galveston, Texas, we’ve got you covered in this Mardi Gras travel guide. And if you can’t travel this year, don’t worry—you can bring the Mardi Gras magic home with festive decorations, delicious recipes, and party supplies!

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1. New Orleans, Louisiana – The Heart of Mardi Gras

New Orleans is the birthplace of Mardi Gras in the U.S., and no city does it bigger or better! The streets come alive with krewes, extravagant floats, jazz music, and King Cake, making it the ultimate destination for Mardi Gras lovers.

Must-Do Experiences in NOLA:

• Watch Iconic Parades – See famous krewes like Endymion, Bacchus, and Zulu roll through the streets with dazzling floats and beads flying everywhere.
• Explore the French Quarter – While Bourbon Street is known for its party scene, don’t miss the historic charm of Royal Street, Jackson Square, and St. Louis Cathedral.
• Savor Classic Mardi Gras Foods – Grab a slice of King Cake from Randazzo’s or Gambino’s, then enjoy authentic gumbo, jambalaya, or beignets from a local eatery.
• Pro Tip: For a more family-friendly Mardi Gras, watch the parades along St. Charles Avenue, where the crowd is more relaxed, and kids can collect plenty of throws!
• Check out a parade Pre or Post Cruise – Several cruise lines sail from NOLA.  Coming in early or staying later, after your cruise, is a great way to get the best of both worlds via land and sea vacation.

2. Universal Orlando – Family-Friendly Fun

For a Mardi Gras celebration that’s fun for all ages, head to Universal Orlando Resort! Their annual Mardi Gras event runs from early February through April, bringing New Orleans vibes to Florida.

Why You’ll Love Universal’s Mardi Gras:

• Spectacular Parades – Universal’s nightly parades feature colorful floats, stilt walkers, and dancers, with beads flying through the air! You can even book a special package with me to be IN the parade.
• Authentic New Orleans Eats – Indulge in beignets, po’boys, jambalaya, and crawfish etouffée at pop-up food booths.
• Live Music & Concerts – Enjoy live bands playing New Orleans jazz, zydeco, and even major headliner concerts (included with park admission).
• Kid-Friendly Atmosphere – No wild partying here—just a fun, family-friendly Mardi Gras experience with exciting entertainment!

Pro Tip: Get the best view of the parade by finding a spot near the New York section of Universal Studios Florida at least 45 minutes before showtime.

3. Galveston, Texas – The Largest Mardi Gras Celebration in Texas

If you’re looking for a Gulf Coast alternative to New Orleans, Mardi Gras Galveston is the third-largest Mardi Gras celebration in the U.S., with over 20 parades, balcony parties, and festive events.

Top Mardi Gras Experiences in Galveston:

• The Grand Parade – Watch elaborate floats roll through The Strand, the heart of the festivities.
• Balcony Parties – Get an exclusive view of the parades with VIP balcony tickets, which often include food and drinks.
• Family Gras – A daytime event with kid-friendly parades, activities, and live entertainment.
• Beachfront Mardi Gras – Enjoy a unique twist with parades rolling along the Seawall, offering stunning Gulf views.

Pro Tip: Check out the Seawall Parade for a beachside Mardi Gras experience you won’t find anywhere else!

4. Celebrate at Home!

Can’t travel this year? Bring the Mardi Gras spirit to your home with a festive party! Decorate, cook classic Cajun dishes, and throw a celebration with family and friends.

Photo Credit: Emily Bassham

Mardi Gras Party Essentials:

• 🎭 Decorations & Beads – Hang purple, green, and gold streamers, and hand out Mardi Gras beads and masks to your guests.
• 🍰 King Cake & Cajun Food – Order a traditional King Cake or make one at home! Pair it with gumbo, jambalaya, and beignets for an authentic touch. Check out our quick gumbo soup recipe here.
• 🎷 Jazz & Zydeco Music – Set the mood with classic New Orleans jazz or a lively zydeco playlist.
• 🎉 DIY Parade & Games – Host your own mini-parade for kids, play a Mardi Gras trivia game, or set up a mask-decorating station.

Shop Mardi Gras Essentials:

King Cake Mix | Mardi Gras Beads & Masks | New Orleans Cookbook | Festive Party Décor

Plan Your Perfect Mardi Gras Celebration!

Whether you’re experiencing the legendary parades in New Orleans, enjoying family-friendly fun at Universal Orlando, celebrating Gulf Coast-style in Galveston, or throwing a Mardi Gras party at home, this holiday is all about fun, food, and festivity!

Planning a Mardi Gras trip? Let me help you book the perfect getaway with expert travel tips, exclusive deals, and personalized recommendations! Contact me today to start planning, and as always…

Remember… Life’s Short… Take the Trip!