If you’re looking for a way to indulge your sweet tooth while uncovering the hidden stories of New Orleans, Big Easy’s Sweet Secrets promises just that. This 2-hour adventure offers more than just sugary snacks — it combines delicious desserts with intriguing tales of unsolved mysteries, notorious figures, and chilling crimes that have shaped the city’s character.
What makes this tour stand out are three key aspects: the variety of decadent tastings, the walk through iconic French Quarter streets, and the unique crime and history storytelling. It’s a perfect pick for those who love food and stories equally. On the flip side, the tour isn’t designed for those with severe allergies or dietary restrictions, particularly vegan or gluten-free needs.
This tour is ideal for curious travelers eager to explore New Orleans through its flavors and secrets. If you’re after a relaxed, engaging experience that combines history, culture, and dessert, this will suit you well.
Good To Know
- Sweet and dark: Combines dessert tastings with stories of crime and mystery.
- Authentic locations: Highlights historic streets and landmarks in the French Quarter.
- Inclusive tastings: Includes a variety of desserts, drinks, and snacks.
- Small groups: Max of 10 travelers for a more intimate experience.
- Weather-proof: Held rain or shine, so come prepared.
- Limited dietary options: Cannot accommodate severe allergies or major dietary restrictions.
What Makes the Tour Special?
The Big Easy’s Sweet Secrets tour offers a thoughtful balance between indulgent treats and captivating storytelling. For those with a sweet tooth, the individual stops provide a chance to savor classic New Orleans desserts—think beignets, frozen confections, and more—while hearing stories about the city’s shadowy past. It’s an experience that’s as much about taste as it is about uncovering the city’s hidden, sometimes darker, side.
The tour is priced at $140 per person, which might sound steep for just two hours, but when you consider the variety of included tastings, the transportation of stories, and the small group size, it offers quite good value. It’s a curated experience that’s perfect for those who want a relaxed, social, and educational outing.
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Starting Point & Logistics
You’ll meet at 827 Toulouse St in the heart of the French Quarter, a location close to many attractions. The tour begins at 1:00 pm and concludes near the lively French Market. The walking route covers key streets such as Toulouse, Dauphine, Decatur, and Bourbon, giving you a good dose of the city’s essence in just a couple of hours.
The tour is held rain or shine, so be sure to dress appropriately for the weather and comfortable walking shoes. The group size is limited to 10 travelers, which helps keep things intimate and allows the guide to engage personally with each guest.
In-Depth Look at the Itinerary
Stop 1: Toulouse Street & Dauphine Street
Our journey begins in the heart of the French Quarter, where these venerable streets offer a glimpse of early New Orleans life. Visitors can expect to hear stories about the city’s colonial roots and how these streets shaped the city’s development. Since admission is free, it’s a great starting point to set the stage for the stories ahead.
Stop 2: Decatur Street
Running along the Mississippi River, Decatur Street is a bustling hub of commerce and culture. It’s been central to New Orleans’ social life for centuries. Here, you’ll get a taste of the lively atmosphere and hear tales of the city’s trading history, with the guide sharing insights about how the street became a focal point for both locals and travelers alike.
Stop 3: Bourbon Street
Arguably the most famous street in New Orleans, Bourbon is a kaleidoscope of history, nightlife, and culture. The tour offers a chance to stroll through and soak up the vibrant ambiance while hearing stories about the street’s evolution—from colonial times to its modern reputation as a party haven.
Stop 4: French Market
Finally, the group visits the French Market, one of the oldest and most iconic markets in the U.S. With over 200 years of history, it has been a center of trade, food, and culture. Here, you’ll sample a variety of desserts and drinks, making it a perfect way to end the tour on a sweet note.
Tasting Experience & Food Highlights
Food is the heart of this tour, and the included tastings are carefully curated. You can expect dessert and drink pairings at each stop, with options like coffee, tea, and even alcoholic beverages. While specifics are not listed, reviews highlight delicious desserts and tapas, which suggest a balance of sweet and savory, crafted to suit the vibrant local flavors.
Guests consistently mention how the tastings are well-paced, offering enough to satisfy without overdoing it. The pairing of stories with bites adds an entertaining layer, making each stop memorable beyond just the food. However, note that the tour cannot accommodate vegan, gluten-free, or severe allergy restrictions, so check ahead if you have dietary needs.
Authenticity and Guide Experience
While the specific guide’s name isn’t provided, reviews note that guides are knowledgeable and engaging. They blend history and storytelling seamlessly, keeping the group entertained while providing context that makes the stories meaningful. The small group size helps facilitate conversations and questions, creating a friendly atmosphere.
Guests mention that the guide’s storytelling is captivating, with some insights into local crime stories that add a mysterious twist to the sweet journey. The personalized attention makes the experience feel more like a shared discovery rather than a typical tour.
Practical Tips for Participants
- Dress for the weather — rain or shine — and wear comfortable walking shoes.
- Come hungry but not overly full, as tastings are generous and spread throughout the tour.
- Bring a small water bottle, especially if it’s hot or humid.
- Confirm any allergies or dietary restrictions before booking, as accommodations are limited.
- The tour ends near the French Market, making it easy to explore further or grab a meal afterward.
- Remember that gratuities for the guide are not included, so consider tipping if you enjoyed the experience.
Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?
This tour offers a delightful blend of culinary indulgence and local storytelling, making it a fantastic way to spend a couple of hours in New Orleans. The focus on desserts and the dark, mysterious tales gives it a unique twist compared to traditional food tours. The small group size and knowledgeable guide create an intimate atmosphere that enhances the experience.
For travelers who love sweet treats, history, and local lore, this experience delivers plenty of value. It’s especially perfect for those looking to relax and enjoy some of the city’s most iconic streets with a fun, flavorful twist.
If you’re after an authentic, engaging, and tasty tour that stands out from typical sightseeing, Big Easy’s Sweet Secrets could be just what you need.
FAQ
How long is the tour?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, covering several key streets in the French Quarter.
What is included in the price?
All prearranged food and drink tastings, including desserts, coffee/tea, and alcoholic beverages, along with taxes and server gratuities.
Are there any dietary restrictions accommodated?
Vegan, gluten-free, dairy/lactose, nut, and soy restrictions cannot be adequately accommodated. Guests with multiple or severe allergies should contact Revelry Tours before booking.
Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 827 Toulouse St and ends near the French Market at the Shops of the Colonnade, 1008 N Peters St.
Is the tour suitable in bad weather?
Yes, it is held rain or shine. Come prepared for walking in the day’s weather.
What is the group size?
A maximum of 10 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.
Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, to secure your spot, especially since the group is limited.
Is gratuity included?
No, gratuities for the guide are not included but are appreciated if you enjoyed the tour.
Can I bring service animals?
Yes, service animals are allowed during the tour.
Final Words
Big Easy’s Sweet Secrets offers a distinctive way to explore New Orleans’ streets, flavors, and stories. Combining desserts with tales of crime and mystery, it is suited for those who want a relaxed, engaging experience with a splash of local history. Whether you’re a foodie, a story lover, or simply curious about the city’s darker side, this tour adds a sweet twist to your NOLA visit.
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