Abortion Travel Guide: New Orleans to Boulder, CO
If you are traveling from the New Orleans area for abortion care, Boulder Valley Health Center (BVHC) is here to support you every step of the way.
Because Louisiana laws currently restrict local abortion access, many patients from the Greater New Orleans region travel out of state for abortion care.
BVHC provides a safe, single-visit option in Boulder, Colorado, designed specifically for patients traveling long distances.
For detailed information about Louisiana abortion laws and Colorado’s legal protection, visit our Louisiana Abortion Care resources page.
Planning Your Travel from New Orleans to Boulder, CO
While this guide focuses on New Orleans, we regularly support patients from across Southeast Louisiana, including Metairie, Kenner, Gretna, Harvey, Chalmette, Slidell, and the Northshore.
Flying to Denver
Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport (MSY) offers multiple daily flights to Denver International Airport (DEN), making air travel the most efficient option for many patients.
- Airlines: Airlines: Southwest, United, Frontier, American Airlines, and Delta all offer direct or one-stop flights from MSY to DEN.
- Flight Time:
- Non-stop flights average about 3.5 hours.
- One-stop flights typically take 5–7 hours, depending on the connection.
- Ground Transit: Once you land at DEN, Boulder is a 45-minute trip and you have several options for transportation including:
- RTD SkyRide Bus (AB Route): This direct bus service runs frequently between DEN and Boulder, offering an affordable and convenient option.
- Ride-sharing Services/Taxis: Services like Uber and Lyft are readily available at the airport.
- Rental Car: Several car rental agencies operate at DEN if you prefer personal transportation.
Driving to Boulder
Some patients prefer to drive, particularly if traveling with a support person.
- Distance: Approx. 1,250 miles
- Driving Time: Roughly 19-21 hours of active driving
- Common Route: I-10 W through Texas, then I-25 N from New Mexico into Colorado.
- Overnight Stop: We strongly recommend planning at least one overnight stay to ensure you arrive rested and prepared for your appointment.
- Parking at BVHC: If you are driving your own vehicle from New Orleans or the surrounding communities, our clinic offers private, accessible parking specifically reserved for out-of-state patients.
Packing for Your Trip
- Comfortable, loose-fitting clothing
- Phone, earbuds, and charger
- A book or quiet activity
- Pads and extra underwear
- Personal comfort items for rest or travel
Patient Support: Our patient navigator team can help you plan arrival and departure times that align with your appointment, often minimizing the need for overnight lodging.
Single-Visit Appointment Model: Whenever medically appropriate, we prioritize out-of-state travelers for single-day appointments so consultation and procedure can be completed in one visit.
Local Support for New Orleans Residents
Leaving the state for abortion care can feel isolating, but you don’t have to navigate it alone. We work closely with regional partners who understand the specific challenges faced by Louisianans.
Reputable Louisiana Support Organizations:
- Louisiana Abortion Fund: This local organization provides critical “practical support,” which can include assistance with gas money, flights from BTR, or hotel stays.
- National Abortion Federation (NAF) – Our financial navigators can help coordinate national funding assistance when you schedule your appointment.
BVHC Financial Navigators
When you call to schedule, mention you are traveling from out-of-state. We can help you explore financial assistance options and discuss payment options to reduce stress.
Why Choose Boulder Valley Health Center?
While there are other out-of-state options, Boulder is a preferred destination for Louisiana residents for the following reasons:
Faster Access: We often have appointments available within 7 days, compared to longer wait times in neighboring states with limited clinic availability.
Single-Visit Care: Our care model is specifically structured for long-distance travelers, minimizing repeat trips and time away from home.
Legal Protection: Abortion is legal and constitutionally protected in Colorado under state Shield Laws, providing strong protections for out-of-state patients.
Trusted Experience: Founded in 1973, BVHC is Colorado’s first abortion clinic, with more than 50 years of experience serving patients from across the Southeast.
Privacy & Confidentiality: Your medical information is kept strictly confidential and never shared without your consent.
Contact Boulder Valley Health Center
If you’re considering traveling to Boulder for abortion services, please call us to discuss and schedule an appointment. Unfortunately, we can NOT schedule abortion appointments online.
We’re here to answer your questions and provide high-quality, affordable, supportive, and respectful healthcare to all our patients.
Hours: Monday-Friday 8:00 am – 5:00 pm | Saturdays 8:30 am – 1:00 pm MT
Location: 2855 Valmont Road, Boulder, CO 80301
Additional Questions?
We understand that traveling for healthcare is a big decision. For detailed answers regarding medical safety, what to expect during your procedure, and aftercare, please visit our full guide for Out-of-State Patients.