via I-35
The drive from Little Rock to New Orleans takes approximately 5h 45min, covering 400 miles via I-35. Under normal conditions, expect to spend around $46 on gas.
Travel time can vary — during peak hours, weekends, or holidays, the journey may take 7–8+ hours. For the fastest trip, leave early morning (before 7 AM) or travel on weekday evenings.
Traffic is usually worst during weekday rush hours (7–9 AM, 4–7 PM) and holiday weekends.
Plan rest stops every 2-3 hours on longer drives. Check traffic conditions before departure and keep your tank above quarter-full.
This trip can typically be done on a single tank of gas.
The best time to drive from Little Rock to New Orleans is late evening (8-10 pm). Weekday mornings before 7 AM or evenings after 7 PM typically have the lightest traffic. Avoid Friday afternoons and Sunday evenings when possible.
✈️ Flying is faster when you factor in airport time. Flight time is ~48 min but add ~2.5 hours for check-in, security, and boarding.
Estimated times and prices. Bus/train availability varies by route. Driving gives the most flexibility for stops and schedules.
Popular cities along the route for rest, food, or fuel:
The journey from Little Rock to New Orleans stretches 400 miles along I-35 and typically takes 5h 45min to complete. At today's fuel prices, expect to spend around $46 on gas. Departing during late evening (8-10 pm) gives you the best chance of avoiding congestion along the way.
This 400-mile trek is a true American road trip. Stock up on audiobooks or podcasts, rotate drivers if possible, and build in time for roadside attractions. The journey itself is part of the adventure. Popular stopping points include Jackson, Shreveport — great options for grabbing a meal, fueling up, or stretching your legs.