Steeped in culture, music, cuisine, and history, New Orleans exudes an inimitable allure that draws visitors from far and wide. Beyond its infamous jazz scene and mouthwatering Creole and Cajun delicacies, the city offers a plethora of experiences that cater to diverse interests. For those with a taste for the unknown, spooky ghost walks offer a chilling encounter with the city’s haunted past. Meanwhile, jazz enthusiasts can indulge in scenic river cruises that showcase the genre’s soulful rhythms. Foodies, too, will find solace in tours that delve into the city’s rich culinary heritage. Whether you’re fascinated by the macabre, enamored with jazz, or simply eager to explore the unique flavors of Creole and Cajun cuisine, there’s a tour designed specifically for your interests. Here, we’ve curated a selection of the best tours in New Orleans, carefully crafted to ensure that your time in this captivating city is nothing short of unforgettable.
The 18 Best New Orleans Tours You Have to Book
Immersive experiences await in the vibrant city of New Orleans, where the thrill of adventure lingers around every corner. From guided tours to unique excursions, there’s an abundance of opportunities to explore this captivating metropolis. Let’s embark on a journey and uncover the best tours that showcase the city’s hidden gems, rich history, and infectious energy.
Take a New Orleans Steamboat Natchez Harbor Cruise
The Steamboat Natchez offers a unique way to experience the city of New Orleans – aboard its authentic sternwheeler for a 2-hour journey that will leave you with unforgettable memories. As you glide along the Mississippi River, you’ll take in the charm of the French Quarter and the sparkling city skyline, getting a glimpse into the city’s rich history on the water. The cruise is more than just a scenic ride – it’s an immersive experience that blends local culture and tradition, complete with stories and music. One of the highlights is the live jazz concert onboard, which will transport you to the heart of New Orleans’ vibrant music scene. To make the experience even more special, consider adding on a Creole meal option for a true taste of the city’s cuisine. And for the ultimate enthusiast, opt for the VIP ticket to explore the engine room and get an inside look at the boat itself. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a repeat traveler, a river cruise is an experience not to be missed in New Orleans.
New Orleans Ghost, True Crime, Voodoo, And Vampire Walking Tour
Step into the eerie atmosphere of New Orleans, widely regarded as one of the most haunted cities in the United States. Your journey will be filled with heart-pounding moments as you delve into the city’s chilling true-crime stories, mystical worlds of voodoo and vampires, and experience the paranormal activity that is a part of daily life for its residents.
Guided by an expert, you’ll embark on two unique routes, allowing you to explore the haunted locations twice. Your itinerary will include iconic stops in the French Quarter and beyond, such as Congo Square, Bourbon Street, and the infamous Lalaurie Mansion – often referred to as the most haunted home in New Orleans.
As we weave together history, folklore, and mystery, you’ll gain an unflinching glimpse into the city’s dark and foreboding past. This adults-only walking tour is the perfect way to experience the city’s spine-tingling atmosphere, making it a truly unforgettable adventure.
Swamp Boat Ride And Oak Alley Plantation Tour From New Orleans
Embark on a journey through time in New Orleans as you explore a historic plantation that’s been frozen in antebellum era charm since 1839. The National Historic Landmark mansion and sprawling grounds, complete with ancient oak trees draped in moss, offer a glimpse into life before the Civil War. As you stroll along the path beneath these 300-year-old sentinels, you’ll gain insight into the daily lives of those who lived on this property during that tumultuous era. You may even recognize familiar settings from movies and TV shows like Primary Colors and Days of Our Lives, which have filmed scenes here.However, no plantation tour would be complete without acknowledging its darker history – the enslavement of countless individuals whose stories are still being told today. This somber experience serves as a poignant reminder to respect and honor their memories.After navigating the plantation’s complex past, you’ll shift gears for an adrenaline-fueled swamp boat adventure through Louisiana’s wild bayou. Your expert guide will lead the way, pointing out native wildlife like turtles, snakes, raccoons, and birds, as well as the majestic American alligator – the king of the swamp. Don’t forget to keep those hands and feet inside at all times! As you glide through the waters, your guide will regale you with tales of the swamp’s natural and supernatural inhabitants, weaving a narrative that’s equal parts fascinating and chilling.
City Sightseeing New Orleans Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour
Experience the vibrant city of New Orleans like never before with a City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour. This unique open-top double-decker bus tour allows you to chart your own course through the city, hopping off at any of the dozens of stops to explore attractions that catch your eye, and then boarding the next bus when you’re ready to move on. Whether you prefer to plan out your itinerary in advance or play it by ear, this tour offers the ultimate flexibility and freedom to create your own New Orleans adventure.
With stops at iconic locations such as the French Market, Bourbon Street, Canal Street, the New Orleans Jazz Museum, and Mardi Gras World, you’ll gain a deeper appreciation for the city’s rich culture and history. And don’t forget to indulge in fresh beignets at each stop – a must-do experience when exploring the Big Easy.
Airboat Adventures – New Orleans Airboat Bayou Tour
Immerse yourself in the swashbuckling spirit of 19th-century New Orleans with this action-packed tour. As you cruise through the Jean Lafitte National Park and Preserve, your knowledgeable guide will regale you with tales of French pirate Jean Lafitte’s exploits, transporting you to a bygone era. Along the way, keep an eye out for the region’s iconic alligators, as well as herons, ibis, and other fascinating swamp-dwelling creatures. With the wind in your hair and the thrill of adventure coursing through your veins, this tour is an unmissable experience that will leave you grinning from ear to ear.
A Garden District Walking Tour with Two Chicks Walking Tour
Immerse yourself in the majestic charm of New Orleans’ Garden District, renowned for its breathtaking 19th-century mansions and picturesque streets lined with towering live oaks. As we stroll through this historic neighborhood, you’ll be struck by the grandeur that surrounds you. The district’s rich history and architectural splendor are sure to ignite your imagination.As a popular setting for novels and films, as well as a coveted haven for wealthy homebuyers, the Garden District is also one of New Orleans’ safest neighborhoods. See if you can spot any celebrity homes before our expert guide points them out – it’s all part of the fun!Our knowledgeable guides are passionate about sharing the local culture, fascinating history, and imposing architecture that define this enchanting neighborhood. You’ll receive a comprehensive introduction to the Garden District, leaving no stone unturned.There’s no better way to experience this architecturally rich community than on foot. With its tranquil atmosphere and intimate setting, walking is the perfect way to explore the Garden District and uncover its secrets.
Destination Kitchen – New Orleans Food Walking Tour of the French Quarter
Indulge in the culinary wonders of New Orleans on a 3-hour gastronomic journey through the city’s most iconic eateries. This guided walking tour is the perfect way to experience the unique blend of seafood, Creole, and Cajun flavors that define the local palate. As you stroll through the French Quarter, you’ll have the opportunity to sample six or seven mouthwatering dishes from notable establishments, including classic favorites like gumbo and jambalaya, as well as innovative creations like alligator bites. Along the way, you’ll gain insight into the city’s rich cultural heritage and history, with visits to top-recommended eateries featured in celebrated cookbooks. Please note that this tour is not suitable for guests with gluten-free or vegetarian dietary requirements.
St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 Official Walking Tour
Step into the mystical world of New Orleans by exploring its oldest burial ground, Louis Cemetery No. 1. This historic site holds secrets and stories that will transport you to a different era. The original graveyard lies beneath the French Quarter’s streets, making way for the present-day cemetery. As you stroll through the grounds, you’ll encounter the city’s most infamous residents, including a voodoo priestess, a female serial killer, and a pirate-turned-architect. Your licensed tour guide will regale you with tales of folklore and legend surrounding these interred individuals. Did you know that access to this cemetery is only granted with a licensed guide? It’s the perfect way to experience the mystique of New Orleans. And for film enthusiasts, Louis Cemetery No. 1 may look familiar as it was featured in the iconic 1968 movie Easy Rider starring James Dean.
Take a Scenic Cruise Along the Mississippi River
Embark on a 2.5-hour adventure along the iconic Mississippi River aboard a historic paddlewheel steamboat. As you cruise past the charming French Quarter, a licensed historian will regale you with fascinating facts about New Orleans’ rich history that can’t be found in books alone.
Step ashore at the Chalmette Battlefield and Malus-Beauregard House, sites of the pivotal 1815 Battle of New Orleans. Witness where history was made, and gain a deeper understanding of this turning point in American history.
Don’t worry about packing provisions – enjoy the cash bar and available food for purchase onboard. And if the Louisiana heat becomes too much, you can retreat to the air-conditioned comfort of the paddlewheel steamboat.
New Orleans Jazz Tour With Live Music And A Drink
Step into the vibrant nightlife of New Orleans with an evening jazz tour that’s led by a local guide who knows all the best spots in town. The flexible route changes each night, taking you to where the action is, but always begins at Louis Armstrong Park, built to honor the legendary jazz musician. This marks the start of your journey through the historic Tremé neighborhood, one of the oldest in the country, located just outside the famous French Quarter. As you explore unforgettable landmarks and locales like Marigny and Frenchman Street, where you’ll find the city’s largest concentration of live music, you’ll learn about jazz’s rich origins and evolution over the years. By the end of the tour, you might even be itching to pick up a trumpet yourself! To top it off, the tour operators are committed to environmental sustainability, making this carbon-neutral experience another reason to join in on the fun.
Whitney Plantation Tour
Embark on a six-and-a-half-hour journey with a small group tour to Whitney Plantation, where you’ll uncover hidden stories and gain a fresh perspective on American history. The comprehensive tour begins with mini van transportation along an elevated expressway, offering breathtaking views of the Louisiana swamp and marshes surrounding Lake Pontchartrain. As you travel, your expert guide will regale you with fascinating anecdotes about local plantations, including Evergreen, which served as the filming location for Queen Sugar.The pièce de résistance is the guided tour of Whitney Plantation itself, where the focus shifts from traditional plantation narratives to the compelling stories of enslaved individuals who lived and worked on these grounds. Your guide’s poignant commentary will provide a deeply authentic and moving insight into their lives, offering an unforgettable experience that will leave you with a newfound appreciation for this pivotal period in American history.Throughout the visit, you’ll have the freedom to explore both the house and the plantation’s expansive grounds, gaining a deeper understanding of the region’s complex past. This unique tour is one of the most impactful New Orleans excursions, offering a unique window into the city’s rich cultural heritage.
Take a New Orleans Cemetery Tour to See Historic Tombs
Embarking on a journey through New Orleans’ historic cemeteries is an essential part of any trip to this vibrant city. More than just a somber experience, these sacred spaces hold secrets and stories that bring the city’s rich history to life. On this exclusive cemetery tour, you’ll gain access to areas not typically open to the public, accompanied by a knowledgeable guide well-versed in local lore and burial traditions. As you stroll along winding pathways through some of New Orleans’ most iconic cemeteries, you’ll be struck by the elaborate tombs that seem to defy gravity, reflecting the city’s unique blend of grandeur and tragedy. You’ll discover how the city’s above-ground burial practices, born out of necessity in this swampy terrain, have given rise to structures that are as fascinating as they are eerie. The tour also includes a poignant visit to the Hurricane Katrina Memorial, a powerful reminder of the storm’s devastating impact and the city’s ongoing resilience.
Kayak-iti-Yat Original Kayaking Tours of New Orleans – Big Easy Bayou Tour
Experience the unique perspective offered by a kayak as you paddle through the Bayou St. John’s waters. This guided tour will transport you from one historic neighborhood to another, showcasing the West Indies-inspired architecture of the 18th century and homes influenced by Frank Lloyd Wright. As you glide along the marshy river outlet, you’ll be immersed in the rich architectural history of New Orleans, making for a truly unforgettable journey.
New Orleans Small-Group Haunted History Carriage Tour
Imagine stepping into a horse-drawn carriage in 18th-century New Orleans and experiencing the city’s mystique firsthand. That’s exactly what this evening tour of Vieux Carré, the French Quarter, offers – a chance to delve into America’s most haunted district. As you make your way through the labyrinthine streets, you’ll encounter sites steeped in supernatural history, where mysterious events and natural disasters have left their eerie mark.
The French Quarter is renowned for its spine-tingling tales and haunted lore. On this 60-minute journey, a knowledgeable guide will regale you with the most unsettling stories and share haunting details that will leave you shivering. As the night falls, the atmospheric darkness of the alleys and old Southern homes with their foreboding wrought-iron balconies only adds to the sense of unease.
With each step, you’ll be drawn into a world where the lines between reality and the unknown blur. It’s an experience that will leave you questioning what lies beyond the veil.
Cajun Encounters – Daily Swamp Tour
Embark on a unique adventure in the heart of New Orleans by taking a swamp tour. Step aboard a 22-passenger flat-bottomed boat and glide through the serene Honey Island Swamp, surrounded by towering ancient cypress trees adorned with lush Spanish moss. The tranquility of this natural oasis is only punctuated by the sounds of wildlife, a symphony that might include the calls of bald eagles and osprey, or the rustling of feral hogs and beavers in their habitats. As you navigate through this untouched paradise, keep an eye out for the majestic alligators that call the swamp home. This immersive experience promises to transport you away from the city’s fast-paced energy and into a world where nature reigns supreme.
Take a City Highlights Tour & See See New Orleans’ Most Famous Landmarks
Venture beyond the French Quarter to discover the vibrant tapestry that defines New Orleans’ unique character. This comprehensive bus tour is the perfect way to explore the city’s diverse neighborhoods, landmarks, and attractions over a span of 2.5 hours.
Doctor Gumbo Tours – Food History Tour in New Orleans
Indulge in the eclectic culinary landscape of New Orleans, where European, African, Native American, French, Italian, Spanish, and Caribbean influences converge to create a truly unique gastronomic experience. The city’s rich cultural heritage is reflected in its mouthwatering dishes, such as chicken and andouille sausage gumbo, muffulettas, and the quintessential red beans and rice. And then there are the hot sauces – a variety that will leave you questioning what you thought was possible. On this 3-hour walking tour, you’ll embark on a journey through the French Quarter, Bourbon Street, and Jackson Square, covering approximately 1.5 miles of culinary delights.
Go Kayaking in Manchac Swamp
Immerse yourself in the enchanting world of Louisiana’s Bayou by joining a guided kayaking tour through the Manchac Swamp. This unique adventure is perfect for any level of paddler, with tandem kayaks and expert guides to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. A pre-tour lesson puts even the most novice kayakers at ease, allowing you to fully appreciate the tranquil atmosphere and unique wildlife that call the swamp home. As you glide through the waterways, keep an eye out for alligators, frogs, herons, and marsh rabbits, and take a moment to appreciate the natural beauty of New Orleans’ surroundings. This is an experience not to be missed – and if you’ve had a similarly unforgettable tour experience in the city, we’d love to hear about it!