The drinking tours of New Orleans cut straight to the heart of what makes this city special: its blend of history, spirits, and culture. The local operators do a fine job packaging these elements into manageable outings.
We’re especially fond of the Steamboat Natchez VIP Jazz Dinner Cruise – it pairs classic river views with unlimited drinks and authentic jazz. The Frenchmen Street Live Music Pub Crawl stands out for its excellent mix of local music venues and insider access. For something uniquely New Orleans, the Lewd Spirits Haunted Tour combines spine-tingling stories with strategic drink stops.
Two others worth your time: the VIP Bar & Club Crawl (perfect for skipping long lines) and the Craft Beer and French Quarter Bike Tour (a leisurely way to sample local brews while seeing the sights).
Let’s explore our favorite drinking tours in detail…
Good To Know
- The Steamboat Natchez VIP Jazz Dinner Cruise offers a unique 2-hour paddle-wheel boat experience with live jazz, gourmet Louisiana-style dinner, and VIP amenities.
- The Frenchmen Street Live Music Pub Crawl is a 3-hour guided tour showcasing the vibrant live music scene on Frenchmen Street, offering a New Orleans-style cocktail and access to the Frenchmen Street Art Market.
- The Mardi Gras Mambo Tours: Mambo Nights package includes drinks, dinner, a burlesque show, and mask-making activities, providing access to private areas like Mardi Gras World.
- The New Orleans Party Bike Bar Tour is a unique 12-person bike experience that includes alcoholic beverages while showcasing local murals and history.
- The Ghosts Boos and Booze Tour is a 2.5-hour experience focusing on haunted history in the French Quarter, featuring ghost stories and an optional EMF detector rental for paranormal exploration.
Steamboat Natchez VIP Jazz Dinner Cruise With Private Tour and Open Bar Option
The Steamboat Natchez VIP Jazz Dinner Cruise offers a delightful paddle-wheel boat experience with live jazz entertainment and a gourmet Louisiana-style dinner.
This 2-hour cruise boasts an impressive 93% recommendation rate from travelers and a Badge of Excellence.
The VIP package includes early boarding, reserved seating, a private tour, and complimentary champagne and shrimp cocktail. Guests can also enjoy an open bar option and a VIP gift bag.
The cruise is wheelchair accessible and near public transportation, with a maximum of 20 travelers per tour.
While some guests have noted occasional issues with food quality and check-in, the overall experience is highly praised for its VIP service, personal attention, and quality of entertainment.
Read our full review: Steamboat Natchez VIP Jazz Dinner Cruise With Private Tour and Open Bar Option Review
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Frenchmen Street Live Music Pub Crawl in New Orleans
Exploring Frenchmen Street’s vibrant live music scene, the Frenchmen Street Live Music Pub Crawl in New Orleans offers a captivating 3-hour tour for visitors.
Boasting a 93% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this guided tour takes groups to top nightlife spots with VIP access. Guests enjoy a New Orleans-style cocktail, explore the Frenchmen Street Art Market, and receive personalized attention from knowledgeable tour guides.
With a maximum group size of 28, the tour provides a safe and efficient way to experience the city’s renowned musical talent. Highly recommended for first-time visitors seeking an immersive and social night out, the Frenchmen Street Live Music Pub Crawl delivers an unforgettable taste of New Orleans’ lively entertainment.
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Lewd Spirits Haunted Tour & Bar Stops
Shifting gears from the lively Frenchmen Street pub crawl, the New Orleans Lewd Spirits Haunted Tour with Bar Stops promises a captivating exploration of the city’s scandalous past.
Rated highly with 93% of 480 reviews recommending the tour, this 21+ experience delves into the local haunts and lewd histories brought to life by enthusiastic guides.
Priced from $37, the tour includes a professional guide, all taxes, and the opportunity to purchase alcoholic beverages.
While some guests felt the focus leaned more toward drinking, the majority praised the engaging storytelling and personal connections made with the guides.
Read our full review: Lewd Spirits Haunted Tour & Bar Stops Review
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New Orleans VIP Bar & Club Crawl
Set out on a VIP bar and club crawl through the vibrant nightlife of New Orleans. This highly-rated experience offers skip-the-line access to the city’s hottest venues and a professional party planner to organize drinks, games, and introductions.
With over 120 glowing reviews, this crawl is recommended by 91% of travelers and has earned a Badge of Excellence. Expect an energetic atmosphere, karaoke, dancing, and the opportunity to meet new people.
While some participants found the bars mediocre and the drinks watered down, the majority praise the fun experience and friendly hosts. At $62.94, this crawl provides exclusive access and a lively party atmosphere, making it a popular choice for solo travelers, bachelorette parties, and those seeking a social night out.
Read our full review: New Orleans VIP Bar & Club Crawl Review
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New Orleans Haunted Pub Crawl
For a different take on New Orleans nightlife, the Haunted Pub Crawl offers a spooky and social experience.
Exploring the French Quarter’s haunted spots while sipping adult beverages, guests can hear live commentary on the city’s notorious characters and legendary crimes. The 2-hour tour ventures off the beaten path to lesser-known bars, with guides like Tiny, Drew, and Toast earning praise for their engaging storytelling and local insights.
Costing $30 per person, the crawl has a 4.5-star rating from 170 reviews, and can accommodate up to 28 travelers aged 21 and older.
While food and drinks aren’t included, the tour provides a unique blend of drinking and haunting that many reviewers found entertaining.
Read our full review: New Orleans Haunted Pub Crawl Review
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New Orleans Small-Group History Tour Pub Crawl of The Irish Channel
Although the city is renowned for its vibrant nightlife, the New Orleans Small-Group History Tour Pub Crawl of The Irish Channel offers travelers a unique opportunity to explore the neighborhood’s rich cultural heritage while enjoying local brews.
With a knowledgeable local guide and beer expert leading the way, the 4-hour tour provides historical insights into the Irish Channel and includes up to 4 beers at different bars.
Participants can choose between a “Happy Hour Ticket” with prepaid drinks or a “Dry Run Ticket” to purchase drinks directly.
The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but service animals are allowed, and it’s conveniently located near public transportation.
Read our full review: New Orleans Small-Group History Tour Pub Crawl of The Irish Channel Review
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New Orleans Original Drunk Spirits Bar Crawl With Free Shot
Travelers visiting New Orleans can experience the city’s supernatural history through the Original Drunk Spirits Bar Crawl. This small-group tour, limited to 15 participants, takes guests on a combination pub crawl and ghost tour of the French Quarter.
Awarded a Badge of Excellence, the tour has a 92% traveler recommendation based on 37 reviews. Guests will explore atmospheric bars while learning about vampires, pirates, and gangsters from a licensed local tour guide.
While alcoholic beverages are at one’s own expense, the tour includes a free shot. However, the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible and isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers or those with serious medical conditions due to the moderate physical fitness level required.
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Ghost Tour and Haunted Pub Crawl Party
The Ghost Tour and Haunted Pub Crawl Party in New Orleans combines the city’s supernatural history with its vibrant drinking culture.
Rated 5 stars and 97% recommended, this 2-hour adventure takes visitors on a journey through the French Quarter’s most haunted bars, including the infamous Lafittes Blacksmith Shop Bar.
Along the way, guests can sip on cocktails and sample a complimentary Louisiana beer or wine while learning about the area’s grisly past.
With a maximum of 28 travelers, the tour offers personalized experiences led by knowledgeable and engaging local guides.
Although some reviewers noted limited bar stops and a desire for more in-depth storytelling, most praised the blend of history and entertainment.
Read our full review: Ghost Tour and Haunted Pub Crawl Party Review
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True Crime Pub Crawl in New Orleans
The True Crime Pub Crawl in New Orleans offers visitors a chilling exploration of the city’s dark underbelly.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour visits bars linked to notorious murder cases, where guests can hear stories of killers and their victims.
Highlights include learning about the Ax Man’s reign of terror and discussing the alleged French Quarter involvement in the JFK assassination.
Travelers can save $7.40 on the $37 experience and enjoy a free first cocktail.
Though not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most visitors.
With a 5.0 average rating and 96% recommendation, the True Crime Pub Crawl promises an engaging and spooky look at New Orleans’ grisly past.
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Private Frenchmen Street Live Music Pub Crawl in New Orleans
Immersive live music experiences await on the Private Frenchmen Street Live Music Pub Crawl in New Orleans.
This 3-hour tour takes guests to the city’s renowned Frenchmen Street, known for its vibrant music scene. Travelers will enjoy admission to several live music venues, sample Louisiana cocktails, and receive one complimentary New Orleans cocktail.
The tour is wheelchair accessible and can accommodate most participants. With a 4.5-star rating from 7 reviews, this private tour offers a unique way to experience the city’s lively musical culture.
Priced from $247.50 per person, the tour provides a flexible and personalized outing in the heart of New Orleans.
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New Orleans: Open Bar Tour, Dinner, Burlesque, and Mask-Making
This enticing Mardi Gras Mambo Tours: Mambo Nights experience in New Orleans offers an open bar tour, dinner, burlesque show, and mask-making activity all in one exhilarating package.
Priced from $175 per person, the tour includes alcoholic beverages, an air-conditioned vehicle, and access to private areas like Mardi Gras World. Guests will enjoy Hurricanes and King Cake, a tour and open bar at Seven Three Distilling Company, and a mask-making activity.
The tour is wheelchair accessible, with a maximum of 26 travelers. Flexibility is provided through free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.
Read our full review: New Orleans: Open Bar Tour, Dinner, Burlesque, and Mask-Making Review
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New Orleans Original True Crime Pub Crawl
Mad Cat Tours New Orleans offers the New Orleans Original True Crime Pub Crawl, a captivating experience that takes visitors on a journey through the city’s dark history.
For $29.99 per person, small groups of up to 20 travelers will be guided through the French Quarter, visiting local bars while learning about true crime stories from a knowledgeable local expert.
The tour starts at 8 PM and ends at Bar Tonique, and it’s wheelchair accessible.
With 5-star reviews highlighting the guide’s engaging nature, this pub crawl is a must-do activity for first-time visitors looking to explore New Orleans’ seedy underbelly.
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French Quarter Bar Pit Stop and NOLA Legends Tour
For a captivating exploration of New Orleans’ legendary haunts, the French Quarter Bar Pit Stop and NOLA Legends Tour provides a unique opportunity to uncover the city’s storied past.
This 1-2 hour walking tour takes guests on a moderate-paced journey through the French Quarter, where they’ll learn about local history, culture, and legends. Knowledgeable guides lead the way, while visitors have the chance to check out paranormal equipment along the route.
The tour includes admission, but gratuities and drinks are extra. While paranormal activity isn’t guaranteed, the tour’s exceptional reviews highlight the guide’s expertise in delivering an engaging experience.
Wheelchair-accessible and pet-friendly, this tour offers an immersive glimpse into NOLA’s vibrant spirit.
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Uncensored VIP Wicked Spirits Pub Crawl PRIVATE TOUR
Venturing beyond the captivating French Quarter, the Uncensored VIP Wicked Spirits Pub Crawl PRIVATE TOUR offers an unparalleled glimpse into New Orleans’ most notorious haunts.
Operated by Wicked History Tours, this 5-star rated experience takes guests on a private journey through the city’s legendary watering holes. Participants can indulge in alcoholic beverages at each bar, with cash as the recommended payment method.
The tour starts at MRB bar and ends at Jackson Square, covering a wheelchair-accessible route. While most travelers can participate, the tour isn’t recommended for pregnant individuals or those with heart conditions.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, this immersive pub crawl promises an unforgettable exploration of New Orleans’ wicked spirits.
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New Orleans Party Bike Bar Tour: Murals, History and Bar Hop
The New Orleans Party Bike Bar Tour: Murals, History, and Bar Hop offers an exhilarating way to explore the city’s vibrant nightlife.
This 12-person bike bar experience takes you on a journey through New Orleans, showcasing its iconic murals, rich history, and popular watering holes.
With alcohol included, you’ll hop from one bar to the next, enjoying the local culture.
While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, most travelers can participate.
Conveniently located near public transportation, the tour departs and returns to the Port Orleans Brewery.
With a perfect 5-star rating based on 2 reviews, this tour promises an unforgettable experience for those seeking to discover the best of New Orleans’ drinking scene.
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Jingle Bells New Orleans History and Beer Walking Tour
Frequently, the Jingle Bells New Orleans History and Drinks Walking Tour explores the city’s voodoo, ghosts, and vampires during the holiday season.
The tour includes visits to French Quarter landmarks like the St. Louis Cathedral and the Louisiana Purchase signing site. Participants can enjoy drinks at local bars while ghost-hunting with a paranormal detector.
The moderate-paced walking tour lasts 1-2 hours and concludes in the French Quarter. While alcoholic beverages are allowed, service may be refused to extremely intoxicated guests.
The tour is wheelchair accessible, and service animals are welcome. Guests must respect private property and adhere to tour guidelines for safety, as tour guides aren’t responsible for personal belongings or injuries.
Read our full review: Jingle Bells New Orleans History and Beer Walking Tour Review
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New Orleans Pub Crawl by Bus
For those seeking a lively and immersive way to explore New Orleans’ vibrant bar scene, the New Orleans Pub Crawl by Bus offers an exciting opportunity.
Operated by Tour Orleans, this 4:00 PM tour transports up to 20 travelers via air-conditioned vehicle to multiple bars, providing alcoholic beverages, snacks, and gratuities.
The tour starts and ends at Bons New Orleans Street Food, with participants checking in at the desk.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is recommended for most travelers, with one glowing 5-star review praising the excellent guide, drinks, and overall experience.
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New Orleans Happy Hour Ghost Walking Tour Pub Crawl
Nightly Spirits’ New Orleans Happy Hour Ghost Walking Tour Pub Crawl offers an eerie and immersive exploration of the city’s haunted bar scene.
This 21+ experience takes guests to at least three haunted bars, starting at Cafe Lafitte in Exile and ending at the Chart Room. Along the way, a local guide shares stories of the city’s paranormal history.
The tour includes a take-home commemorative item, and alcoholic drinks are available for purchase. With a maximum of 16 travelers, the tour is wheelchair-accessible and operates rain or shine.
Guests must have a valid photo ID and meet the moderate fitness requirement. With a 5.0 rating from 4 reviews, this tour provides a unique and engaging way to explore New Orleans’ haunted nightlife.
Read our full review: New Orleans Happy Hour Ghost Walking Tour Pub Crawl Review
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Beer By The Bywater: Food With History Tour In New Orleans
The Beer By The Bywater: Food and History Tour in New Orleans takes participants on a culinary adventure through the Bywater neighborhood.
Offered by eatwithNew Orleans, the 2-hour tour starts at 2 PM and accommodates up to 10 travelers for $154.39 per person.
Guests can enjoy unique local food samples, drinks, and the opportunity to purchase specialty items while learning about the area’s cultural and culinary history.
Though the tour has received mixed reviews, the provider acknowledges feedback and plans to investigate.
With convenient public transportation access, the tour is open to most travelers, though it’s not wheelchair-friendly, and guests must communicate any dietary restrictions.
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Spooky Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl – Ghost Tour in New Orleans
Spooky Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl – Ghost Tour in New Orleans takes participants on a thrilling journey through the city’s haunted history.
Offered by Mad Cat Tours, the tour allows a maximum of 20 travelers to explore the city’s most eerie locations.
Starting at the Golden Lantern Bar and ending at The Upper Quarter Bar, the 8 PM tour provides a comprehensive experience, with a local New Orleans expert guide leading the way.
Priced at $29.99 per person, the tour is wheelchair accessible and allows service animals.
Travelers can take advantage of the free cancellation policy and the Reserve Now and Pay Later option.
Read our full review: Spooky Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl – Ghost Tour in New Orleans Review
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Craft Beer and French Quarter Bike Tour in New Orleans
Frequently, visitors to New Orleans embark on the Craft Beer and French Quarter Bike Tour, operated by Paved Paradise Bike Tours.
The tour starts at 3027 Chartres St, where participants receive a helmet, poncho, and access to a bicycle. Over the course of the afternoon, the guide leads the group of up to 10 travelers to three local craft breweries, providing a beer at each stop.
The tour concludes back at the meeting point. Moderate fitness is required, and participants must be at least 21 years old to consume alcohol.
With a perfect 5-star rating from previous guests, this bike tour offers an enjoyable way to explore the culture and flavors of New Orleans.
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Craft Beer and Garden District Bike Tour in New Orleans
Why not explore the vibrant culture and flavors of New Orleans on the Craft Beer and Garden District Bike Tour?
This 2-hour adventure allows you to experience the city’s renowned craft beer scene and historic Garden District. You’ll visit 3 local breweries, sampling a beer at each, while your knowledgeable guide shares insights into the city’s rich history.
Pedaling through the Garden District, you’ll admire the stunning antebellum mansions and lush greenery. With a maximum group size of 10, this tour offers an intimate and personalized experience.
At $89 per person, it includes 3 beers, bottled water, and bicycle use. Moderate fitness is required, and the tour operates rain or shine.
Based on 6 reviews, this tour is a 5.0 out of 5.
Read our full review: Craft Beer and Garden District Bike Tour in New Orleans Review
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New Orleans Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl
The New Orleans Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl offers a captivating blend of chilling ghost stories, rich history, and the city’s vibrant nightlife.
This 2.5-hour tour takes participants through the French Quarter, where a knowledgeable guide shares tales of the city’s haunted past. Along the way, guests can rent an EMF detector to explore paranormal activity.
The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and most travelers can participate. While drinks aren’t included, the tour allows guests to select their preferred beverages.
With a maximum of 50 travelers and a 5-star rating, this is an engaging and popular way to experience the spooky side of New Orleans.
Read our full review: New Orleans Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl Review
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The Sum Up
New Orleans is renowned for its vibrant nightlife, and these drinking tours offer a unique way to experience the city’s lively bars and pubs. From haunted tours to jazz cruises, there’s something for all. Whether you’re a history buff, a music lover, or just looking to have a good time, these tours provide an exciting and immersive way to explore the best of New Orleans’ nightlife.