2025 NFL Football Season: New Orleans Saints Schedule & Ultimate Big Easy Gameday Guide.
There's something magical about experiencing NFL football in New Orleans. Whether you're a lifelong Saints supporter or a passionate fan traveling to see your team take on the Black and Gold, the Caesars Superdome offers one of the most electric atmospheres in professional football. The combination of passionate crowds, unique local culture, and pre-game festivities creates an experience that transforms a simple football game into an unforgettable event.
The 2025 NFL season brings eight exciting opportunities to witness professional football at its finest in the Big Easy. From September's season opener through December's final home contest, each game offers visiting fans a chance to experience why New Orleans consistently ranks among the NFL's most memorable destinations and why the Super Bowl was played here as recently as February 2025.
The city's legendary hospitality extends to football Sundays, where fans from every team often discover that New Orleans treats visitors with the same warmth and enthusiasm it shows its own. For traveling fans, attending an NFL game in New Orleans means more than just three hours in a stadium – it's a full cultural immersion that begins the moment you arrive in the Crescent City. The compact downtown area, centered around the historic French Quarter, allows football fans to seamlessly blend sightseeing, dining, and entertainment with their gameday experience, creating weekend trips that satisfy both sports enthusiasts and cultural explorers.
New Orleans Saints Home Schedule at the Caesars Superdome:
Home Games at the Caesars Superdome:
Week 1: Sunday, September 7 vs. Arizona Cardinals (12:00 PM CT) - Season opener featuring new head coach Kellen Moore's debut against Kyler Murray and the Cardinals' explosive offense
Week 2: Sunday, September 14 vs. San Francisco 49ers (12:00 PM CT) - NFC West powerhouse visits the Big Easy with Brock Purdy leading one of the NFL's most balanced attacks
Week 5: Sunday, October 5 vs. New York Giants (12:00 PM CT) - East Coast team travels south featuring Daniel Jones and rookie sensation Malik Nabers in October football
Week 6: Sunday, October 12 vs. New England Patriots (3:25 PM CT) - Historic franchise brings championship pedigree to New Orleans with Drake Maye leading the Patriots' new era
Week 8: Sunday, October 26 vs. Tampa Bay Buccaneers (3:05 PM CT) - Heated NFC South division rivalry featuring Baker Mayfield and star receivers Mike Evans and Chris Godwin
Week 12: Sunday, November 23 vs. Atlanta Falcons (3:25 PM CT) - Division showdown with playoff implications as Kirk Cousins and explosive runner Bijan Robinson visit the Dome
Week 15: Sunday, December 14 vs. Carolina Panthers (3:25 PM CT) - December divisional matchup featuring Bryce Young and the Panthers' developing young core
Week 16: Sunday, December 21 vs. New York Jets (12:00 PM CT) - AFC East squad closes out home schedule with Aaron Rodgers and Garrett Wilson leading the Green and White
New Orleans Saints Away Schedule:
Week 3: Sunday, September 21 at Seattle Seahawks (3:05 PM CT) - Cross-country journey to face Geno Smith and the Seahawks' high-powered passing attack in the Pacific Northwest
Week 4: Sunday, September 28 at Buffalo Bills (12:00 PM CT) - Saints visit Josh Allen and the defending AFC East champions in hostile Orchard Park
Week 7: Sunday, October 19 at Chicago Bears (12:00 PM CT) - Historic Soldier Field matchup against Caleb Williams and the Bears' promising young offense
Week 9: Sunday, November 2 at Los Angeles Rams (3:05 PM CT) - Fourth consecutive year facing Matthew Stafford and Cooper Kupp in Los Angeles
Week 10: Sunday, November 9 at Carolina Panthers (12:00 PM CT) - Division rivalry in Charlotte against Bryce Young and the Panthers' developing roster
Week 11: BYE WEEK
Week 13: Sunday, November 30 at Miami Dolphins (12:00 PM CT) - Sunshine State showdown featuring Tua Tagovailoa and speedster Tyreek Hill
Week 14: Sunday, December 7 at Tampa Bay Buccaneers (12:00 PM CT) - Second meeting with division rival Baker Mayfield and the championship-tested Bucs
Week 17: Sunday, December 28 at Tennessee Titans (12:00 PM CT) - Late-season AFC South matchup against Will Levis and the Titans in Nashville
Week 18: Saturday, January 4 at Atlanta Falcons (Time TBA) - Season finale facing Kirk Cousins and Bijan Robinson
Why New Orleans NFL Games Are Different
NFL football in New Orleans offers a distinctly different experience compared to other league destinations. The city's compact geography means that pre-game activities, the stadium experience, and post-game celebrations all flow together naturally within a few square miles of downtown. This creates an immersive football weekend that extends far beyond the stadium walls.
The Caesars Superdome itself holds a special place in NFL history, having hosted multiple Super Bowls and serving as a symbol of the city's resilience. The facility's unique design and acoustics create an intimidating atmosphere for visiting teams while providing an electric environment for all fans in attendance. The stadium's location in the central business district means it's surrounded by restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues that cater to football fans before and after games.
What sets New Orleans apart from other NFL cities is how seamlessly football culture integrates with the city's broader entertainment offerings. Visitors can experience world-class dining, live music, historic tours, and vibrant nightlife all within walking distance of the stadium, making it possible to create comprehensive weekend experiences that appeal to football fans and their travel companions alike.
Planning Your NFL Weekend in New Orleans
Each of the eight home games on the 2025 schedule offers unique advantages for visiting fans. Early season games in September and October typically feature pleasant weather perfect for exploring the French Quarter before and after games. The variety of kickoff times throughout the season accommodates different travel preferences, with noon games allowing for full afternoon celebrations and later kickoffs providing extended pre-game festivities.
September Games (Cardinals, 49ers): Pleasant fall weather, outdoor dining opportunities, and the excitement of a new NFL season make these early contests particularly appealing for visitors.
October Games (Giants, Patriots, Buccaneers): Three home games provide multiple options within a single month, with comfortable temperatures ideal for walking between French Quarter attractions and stadium activities.
November Game (Falcons): The post-Thanksgiving weekend timing often coincides with holiday travel, making it convenient for families and groups planning extended New Orleans visits.
December Games (Panthers, Jets): Late-season matchups often carry playoff implications, creating heightened excitement and atmosphere that traveling fans find particularly memorable.
The NFL schedule's structure allows visiting fans to plan trips around specific opponents or times of year that align with their preferences. Many visitors find that combining Saints games with New Orleans' other attractions creates vacation experiences that satisfy diverse interests within travel groups.
Gameday Atmosphere and Traditions
NFL gamedays in New Orleans begin hours before kickoff as fans gather throughout the French Quarter and surrounding areas. The city's famous Champions Square, located adjacent to the Superdome, serves as the official pre-game entertainment venue featuring live music, local food vendors, interactive activities, and massive video screens showing NFL coverage from around the league.
The atmosphere builds throughout the day as fans from both teams parade through the historic streets, creating a colorful tapestry of team colors against the backdrop of centuries-old French Quarter architecture. Local bars and restaurants embrace gameday energy with special menus, viewing parties, and themed decorations that welcome fans from all teams.
Street performers, spontaneous musical parades, and the infectious energy of New Orleans culture transform game days into festival-like celebrations that extend well beyond the three-hour game window. Visiting fans often comment that the pre-game experience in New Orleans rivals the actual game in terms of entertainment value and memorable moments.
The city's famous hospitality means that opposing team fans typically receive warm welcomes, with locals eager to share recommendations for restaurants, attractions, and hidden gems that make New Orleans visits special. This inclusive atmosphere creates positive experiences for visitors regardless of their team allegiance.
Exploring New Orleans Beyond Football
One of the advantages of attending NFL games in New Orleans is the wealth of non-football activities available within walking distance of the stadium. The French Quarter, located less than a mile from the Superdome, offers world-renowned dining, historic architecture, live music venues, and cultural attractions that can easily fill entire weekends.
Visiting fans often discover that New Orleans provides the perfect balance between football excitement and cultural exploration. Morning activities might include historic walking tours, museum visits, or café au lait and beignets at legendary establishments, while afternoon pre-game activities flow naturally into the stadium experience, followed by post-game celebrations that showcase the city's renowned nightlife.
The compact nature of downtown New Orleans means that visitors can experience multiple aspects of the city's culture without extensive travel or complex logistics. This accessibility makes New Orleans particularly appealing for groups with diverse interests, allowing football fans to satisfy their game experience while providing entertainment options for travel companions who might be less focused on the sporting event.
The New Orleans skyline and the Caesars Superdome, the site of the NFL Super Bowl LIX, shot from a Jefferson Parish Sheriff's Office helicopter by Caitlyn Reisgen, Thursday Feb. 6, 2025.
Transportation and Logistics for Visiting Fans
New Orleans' compact downtown geography creates significant advantages for visiting NFL fans compared to many other league cities. The Superdome's central location means that most downtown hotels, restaurants, and attractions are within easy walking distance, eliminating many of the transportation and parking challenges that complicate gameday experiences in other cities.
Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport provides convenient access for flying visitors, with downtown transportation options including taxis, rideshares, and public transit. Many visitors find that once they arrive in the French Quarter area, walking becomes the preferred method of transportation for most activities, including travel to and from the stadium.
The city's flat terrain and grid-like street layout in the downtown area make navigation simple for first-time visitors. Clear signage and helpful locals ensure that finding the stadium, restaurants, and attractions remains straightforward even for those unfamiliar with the city.
For visitors driving to New Orleans, numerous parking options exist throughout the downtown area, though many find that staying within walking distance of both the French Quarter and stadium eliminates parking concerns entirely while maximizing their time for sightseeing and entertainment.
Ceasars Superdome Stadium & Venue Guide for Visiting Fans
The iconic Caesars Superdome stands as one of the NFL's most recognizable venues, with a seating capacity of 73,208 that creates an intimidating atmosphere for visiting teams while providing an electric experience for all fans in attendance. Originally opened in 1975 and extensively renovated following Hurricane Katrina, the facility combines historic significance with modern amenities that enhance the gameday experience.
Best Seating Sections for Visiting Fans:
Plaza Level (200s): Offer excellent sightlines without the steep climb of upper levels, particularly sections 201-230 which provide midfield views
Terrace Level (300s): Budget-friendly options with good overall stadium views, especially sections 310-340 for optimal field perspective
Club Level: Premium seating with access to climate-controlled concourses and upscale concessions
Visiting Team Sections: Typically located in sections 634-650 (upper level) where opposing fans often congregate
Concession Highlights:
Local Favorites: Po-boys, jambalaya, gumbo, and beignets available throughout the stadium
Craft Beer Selection: Local breweries including Abita, NOLA Brewing, and Covington Brewhouse
Premium Dining: Club level features upscale options with New Orleans cuisine
Quick Service: Traditional stadium fare alongside regional specialties
Dietary Accommodations: Vegetarian, gluten-free, and allergy-friendly options available at designated stands
Champions Square Pre-Game Entertainment
Location & Hours: Champions Square opens 3 hours before kickoff for all home games, located directly adjacent to the Superdome with multiple entry points from downtown streets. The outdoor entertainment venue remains open until 30 minutes after kickoff, allowing late arrivals to catch pre-game energy before entering the stadium.
Entertainment Schedule:
3 hours before kickoff: Gates open, vendors begin service
2.5 hours before: Live music performances begin on main stage
2 hours before: Interactive games and activities start
1 hour before: Final musical acts and crowd warm-up activities
30 minutes before: Last call for food vendors, transition to stadium entry
Food Vendors & Local Options:
Cochon Butcher: Famous for their signature sandwiches and local meats
Blue Oak BBQ: Authentic New Orleans-style barbecue
Dat Dog: Gourmet hot dogs with creative local toppings
Kettle Corn & Funnel Cakes: Traditional fair food favorites
Local Seafood: Fresh Gulf oysters, crawfish, and shrimp options
Beverage Stations: Local beers, craft cocktails, and non-alcoholic options
Activities & Attractions:
Interactive Football Games: Throwing contests, agility challenges
Photo Opportunities: Giant helmet displays, team mascot appearances
Merchandise Booths: Official Saints gear and NFL licensed products
Kids Zone: Family-friendly activities and games
Live DJ: Music and crowd engagement between live performances
Big Screen Entertainment: NFL highlights, game previews, and fan cam
Dress Codes and Attire Guidelines
Caesars Superdome Policies:
Prohibited Items: No outside food/drinks, large bags, noisemakers, weapons
Bag Policy: Clear bags only (12" x 6" x 12"), small clutches (4.5" x 6.5")
Clothing Restrictions: No offensive language, inappropriate imagery
Security: Metal detectors at all entrances, arrive early for screening
Re-entry: Not permitted once you leave the stadium
Parking Information for Visiting Fans
Official Stadium Parking:
Superdome Garage: $40-60 per game, closest to stadium with covered parking
Champions Square Lot: $35-45, adjacent to pre-game activities
Premium Parking: $75-100, reserved spots with early entry privileges
Alternative Parking Options:
Smoothie King Center Garage: $25-35, 0.3 miles walk to stadium
Harrah's Casino: $20-30 with validation from casino, 0.4 miles to stadium
French Quarter Lots: $20-40, 0.5-1.0 mile walk through historic district
Street Parking: Limited availability, $5-15 but requires early arrival
Private Lots: $15-30, various downtown locations within walking distance
Parking Tips for Visiting Fans:
Reserve in advance: Popular lots sell out for high-demand games
Arrive early: Traffic increases significantly 2-3 hours before kickoff
Consider walking: Many downtown hotels are within 0.5-1.0 miles
Exit strategies: Plan departure routes to avoid post-game congestion
Payment methods: Most lots accept cash and credit, some require exact change
Transportation Alternatives:
Rideshare Services: Uber/Lyft with designated pickup zones post-game
Streetcar: $1.25 per ride, stops near stadium and French Quarter
Walking: Most downtown accommodations are within comfortable walking distance
Taxi Services: Available but may have longer wait times after games
Hotel Shuttles: Some properties offer game day transportation (check with your hotel)
Seasonal Considerations for NFL Visits
New Orleans' climate creates different experiences depending on when visiting fans attend games throughout the NFL season. September and October typically offer the most comfortable weather for outdoor pre-game activities, with moderate temperatures and lower humidity that make walking between attractions particularly pleasant.
November games often coincide with New Orleans' peak tourist season, providing ideal weather conditions while offering access to the full range of city attractions and entertainment options. December games add unique charm with holiday decorations throughout the French Quarter and special seasonal events that complement the football experience.
Each season brings distinct advantages: early season games feature the excitement of new NFL campaigns and pleasant outdoor dining weather, while late season contests often carry playoff implications that create particularly intense stadium atmospheres.
Weather considerations rarely prevent outdoor activities in New Orleans, as the city's covered walkways, indoor attractions, and climate-controlled venues ensure that visitors can maintain active itineraries regardless of conditions. The abundance of bars, restaurants, and entertainment venues with both indoor and outdoor options provides flexibility for any weather scenario.
Where to Stay for the Ultimate NFL Experience
While New Orleans offers numerous accommodation options, the French Quarter provides unique advantages for NFL visitors seeking to maximize their gameday experience. The historic neighborhood's proximity to the Superdome, combined with its concentration of restaurants, bars, and entertainment venues, creates an ideal base for football weekends.
Hotels in the French Quarter area, particularly those within easy walking distance of the stadium, allow visitors to fully immerse themselves in gameday culture without the transportation and timing constraints that affect other areas. This proximity means you can participate in pre-game festivities, return to your room for rest or preparation, and easily navigate between the stadium and French Quarter attractions.
The walkable distance between quality French Quarter accommodations and the Caesars Superdome – often less than a mile – represents one of the shortest stadium-to-lodging distances in the NFL. This convenience allows visiting fans to experience the building excitement as game time approaches while maintaining easy access to comfortable accommodations and the full range of New Orleans entertainment options.
Hotel Maison Pierre Lafitte: Your French Quarter Gameday Base
For visiting NFL fans seeking the perfect balance of historic charm and gameday convenience, Hotel Maison Pierre Lafitte offers an ideal French Quarter location just 0.7 miles from the Caesars Superdome. This boutique property places you at the heart of New Orleans' cultural attractions while providing easy walking access to all gameday festivities.
The hotel's strategic location allows you to experience the best of both worlds: intimate boutique accommodations that showcase New Orleans' unique character, and convenient access to one of the NFL's most exciting gameday environments. You can start your day exploring the historic French Quarter, join the growing crowds of fans as they make their way toward the Superdome, and return to comfortable accommodations after post-game celebrations.
Gameday Advantages of Hotel Maison Pierre Lafitte
The walk from Hotel Maison Pierre Lafitte to the Superdome takes you through the heart of New Orleans' gameday energy, allowing you to experience the building excitement as kickoff approaches. Along the way, you'll encounter street performers, musical parades, and the infectious enthusiasm that makes NFL games in New Orleans special. Our proximity to Champions Square provides easy access to official pre-game entertainment, while the surrounding French Quarter offers countless alternatives for dining, drinking, and socializing before and after games. This flexibility allows you to customize your gameday experience based on your preferences and energy level.
After games, the short walk back to Hotel Maison Pierre Lafitte allows you to quickly return to comfortable accommodations while remaining close enough to rejoin celebrations or explore the French Quarter's renowned nightlife. For visitors attending games throughout the season, our location eliminates the repetitive stress of navigating parking and transportation for each contest.
Planning Your NFL Weekend Stay
Whether you're a Falcons fan making the trip, a Patriots supporter planning an October visit, or a Jets fan looking to close out the season in style, Hotel Maison Pierre Lafitte provides the perfect headquarters for your New Orleans NFL experience.
Our concierge team understands the unique needs of visiting football fans and can provide recommendations for pre-game dining, transportation options, local attractions, and post-game entertainment that complement your team's visit to New Orleans. We can also assist with local resources that enhance your overall experience.
Reserve your NFL weekend accommodations and discover why visiting fans choose Hotel Maison Pierre Lafitte:
Prime French Quarter location - Heart of New Orleans culture and entertainment
Walkable to Superdome - Just 0.7 miles from kickoff
Gameday atmosphere - Experience the energy from street to stadium
Historic charm - Boutique accommodations with New Orleans character
Local expertise - Concierge assistance for the complete New Orleans experience
Contact Hotel Maison Pierre Lafitte:
Phone: (504) 527-5800
Ceasars Superdome
1500 Sugar Bowl Drive
New Orleans, LA 70112
Capacity: 83,000
Construction started: August 11, 1971
