23 Best Drinking Tours In New Orleans

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New Orleans drinking tours blend history, culture, and local spirits into memorable experiences. The standout Frenchmen Street Live Music Pub Crawl gets you inside the authentic jazz clubs while hopping between local watering holes. We especially love the Craft Beer and Garden District Bike Tour, which smartly combines architecture viewing with stops at local breweries – it’s a perfect afternoon activity.

For evening entertainment, two excellent ghost tours stand out: the Lewd Spirits tour and the Haunted Pub Crawl. Both feature well-researched historical stories and stops at atmospheric French Quarter bars. The guides know their history and keep things entertaining without being overly theatrical.

Let’s explore the top-rated drinking tours that showcase the best of the Big Easy.

Good To Know

  1. The Frenchmen Street Live Music Pub Crawl offers a 3-hour tour showcasing New Orleans’ vibrant nightlife and music scene, including a complimentary cocktail.

  2. The True Crime Pub Crawl provides a chilling historical exploration of the city’s dark past, visiting bars linked to notorious murder cases and local legends.

  3. The Steamboat Natchez VIP Jazz Dinner Cruise combines a historic paddle-wheel steamboat cruise along the Mississippi River with a gourmet Louisiana-style dinner and live jazz entertainment.

  4. The Craft Beer and Garden District Bike Tour offers a scenic experience in the picturesque Garden District, with stops at three different breweries for 1-beer tastings.

  5. The Party Bike Bar Tour combines cycling with a social drinking experience, visiting local breweries over a 3-hour tour for a maximum of 12 travelers.

Steamboat Natchez VIP Jazz Dinner Cruise With Private Tour and Open Bar Option

Steamboat Natchez VIP Jazz Dinner Cruise With Private Tour and Open Bar Option

The Steamboat Natchez VIP Jazz Dinner Cruise offers guests a chance to step aboard a historic paddle-wheel steamboat and indulge in a 2-hour cruise along the Mississippi River.

The cruise features live jazz entertainment by the Grammy-nominated Dukes of Dixieland, a gourmet Louisiana-style dinner, and an open bar option.

VIP guests enjoy early boarding, reserved seating, and a private tour of the boat. They also receive a complimentary champagne cocktail and shrimp cocktail upon boarding, as well as a VIP gift bag.

With an overall rating of 4.5 stars from 732 reviews, the cruise is highly recommended by travelers for its exceptional service and quality of entertainment and dining.

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

Frenchmen Street Live Music Pub Crawl in New Orleans

Frenchmen Street, New Orleans’ vibrant hub of live music and local culture, serves as the backdrop for the captivating Frenchmen Street Live Music Pub Crawl.

This 3-hour tour immerses visitors in the city’s lively nightlife, featuring a curated selection of top live music venues and the chance to explore the Frenchmen Street Art Market.

Guests enjoy a complimentary New Orleans-style cocktail and VIP access to the hottest spots, all while learning about the street’s rich history from knowledgeable guides.

With a maximum group size of 28, the tour provides a personalized experience and the opportunity to mingle with fellow music enthusiasts.

No wonder it boasts a 93% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence.

Read our full review: Frenchmen Street Live Music Pub Crawl in New Orleans Review
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Lewd Spirits Haunted Tour & Bar Stops

Lewd Spirits Haunted Tour & Bar Stops

Visitors to New Orleans can partake in the Lewd Spirits Haunted Tour with Bar Stops, an immersive experience that delves into the city’s notorious past.

This 93% recommended tour, with a Badge of Excellence, offers engaging storytelling about the city’s history, local haunts, and lewd women. Guests can purchase alcoholic drinks along the way, making it a unique combination of sightseeing and nightlife.

The tour, which starts at the Unique NOLA Tours shop, receives high praise for its knowledgeable and enthusiastic guides, though some feedback notes concerns about the tour’s focus on drinking over ghostly encounters.

Read our full review: Lewd Spirits Haunted Tour & Bar Stops Review
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New Orleans VIP Bar & Club Crawl

New Orleans VIP Bar & Club Crawl

Alongside the Lewd Spirits Haunted Tour, New Orleans offers the VIP Bar and Club Crawl, an immersive nightlife experience that allows travelers to skip the lines and gain exclusive access to the city’s hottest venues.

Recommended by 91% of travelers, this guided tour includes alcoholic beverages, party games, and introductions to new people.

With a maximum of 60 participants, the crawl boasts a badge of excellence and positive reviews highlighting its fun atmosphere and energetic hosts.

While some found the bars mediocre and the drinks watered down, most praised the crawl for its ability to facilitate socializing, especially for solo travelers and bachelorette parties.

The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible but is near public transportation.

Read our full review: New Orleans VIP Bar & Club Crawl Review
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New Orleans Haunted Pub Crawl

New Orleans Haunted Pub Crawl

The New Orleans Haunted Pub Crawl takes travelers on a captivating journey through the French Quarter‘s most haunted spots while indulging in adult beverages.

This 2-hour tour runs twice daily, allowing groups of up to 28 guests aged 21 and over to explore the city’s notorious past.

With 170 reviews and a 4.5-star rating, the experience is lauded for its knowledgeable and entertaining guides, who share tales of legendary crimes and characters.

While the tour itself is free of charge, participants must cover the cost of food and drinks.

Flexible booking options, including free cancellation and pay later, make it easy to secure a spot on this unique blend of history, hauntings, and happy hour.

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

New Orleans Small-Group History Tour Pub Crawl of The Irish Channel

Traversing through the historic Irish Channel, this small-group tour offers a captivating exploration of New Orleans’ rich cultural heritage.

Led by a knowledgeable local guide and beer expert, the tour provides historical insights into the neighborhood’s Irish roots.

Participants can choose from two ticket options – the Happy Hour Ticket with four included beers or the Dry Run Ticket for direct bar purchases.

Regardless of the option, gratuity is recommended, and eating beforehand is advised.

Though not wheelchair-accessible, the tour is near public transportation and can accommodate most travelers, with a maximum group size of 14.

According to overwhelmingly positive reviews, guests appreciate the knowledgeable guides and the enjoyable, fun-filled atmosphere of the pub crawl.

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

New Orleans Original Drunk Spirits Bar Crawl With Free Shot

Though the French Quarter of New Orleans is renowned for its vibrant nightlife, the city’s supernatural history adds an eerie allure to the experience.

The “New Orleans Original Drunk Spirits Bar Crawl With Free Shot” offers a unique way to explore this haunting side of the city. With a small group of no more than 15 participants, the tour takes guests on a journey through atmospheric bars, where they can learn about the area’s vampires, pirates, and gangsters while enjoying alcoholic beverages.

The licensed local guide leads the way, sharing their expertise and providing a personal experience. With a 92% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this tour is a must-try for those seeking a spooky and spirited adventure in New Orleans.

Read our full review: New Orleans Original Drunk Spirits Bar Crawl With Free Shot Review
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Ghost Tour and Haunted Pub Crawl Party

Ghost Tour and Haunted Pub Crawl Party

As the sun dips below the horizon, visitors to New Orleans are invited to embark on a captivating Ghost Tour and Haunted Pub Crawl Party that blends the city’s grisly history with its vibrant nightlife.

With over 97% traveler recommendation, this 120-review tour takes guests to haunted bars like Lafittes Blacksmith Shop Bar, where they can experience the city’s dark past while enjoying alcoholic beverages and a complimentary Mardi Gras beads.

Led by professional local guides praised for their knowledge and storytelling, the tour showcases over 300 years of French Quarter history.

While some guests noted limited bar stops and shallow storytelling, the overall 5-star rating highlights the tour’s informative and entertaining blend of history and nightlife.

Read our full review: Ghost Tour and Haunted Pub Crawl Party Review
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True Crime Pub Crawl in New Orleans

True Crime Pub Crawl in New Orleans

For those seeking a chilling exploration of New Orleans’ dark past, the True Crime Pub Crawl offers an unsettling dive into the city’s grisly history.

Rated 5.0 with 96% traveler recommendation, this tour takes guests to bars linked to notorious murder cases.

Led by knowledgeable guides, participants learn about the Ax Man’s reign of terror and hear stories of murderers and their victims.

The tour also discusses the alleged involvement of French Quarter residents in the JFK assassination and visits an iconic Storyville brothel.

With a complimentary first cocktail included, this unique experience promises an engaging yet sobering look at New Orleans’ seedy underside.

Read our full review: True Crime Pub Crawl in New Orleans Review
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Private Frenchmen Street Live Music Pub Crawl in New Orleans

Private Frenchmen Street Live Music Pub Crawl in New Orleans

Guests embark on a captivating 3-hour journey through the vibrant Frenchmen Street neighborhood, exploring its lively live music scene.

This private pub crawl offers a personalized experience, with admission tickets, alcoholic beverages, and a demonstration of classic Louisiana cocktails. One cocktail is included, allowing guests to savor the flavors of New Orleans.

The tour conveniently starts and ends at the meeting point, with accessibility features such as service animal allowance, public transportation access, and wheelchair-friendly accommodations.

With 7 reviews and a 4.5 overall rating, this tour provides an immersive musical adventure in the heart of the city.

Read our full review: Private Frenchmen Street Live Music Pub Crawl in New Orleans Review
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New Orleans: Open Bar Tour, Dinner, Burlesque, and Mask-Making

New Orleans: Open Bar Tour, Dinner, Burlesque, and Mask-Making

This exciting Mardi Gras Mambo Tours: Mambo Nights experience immerses guests in the vibrant culture and nightlife of New Orleans.

For $175 per person, the tour includes an open bar, a private room, hurricanes, and King Cake at Mardi Gras World, as well as a tour and open bar at the Seven Three Distilling Company.

Guests can also participate in a mask-making activity and enjoy a dinner.

The tour starts and ends at 535 Tchoupitoulas St, with a 30-minute arrival window.

Accessibility is available, but the tour isn’t recommended for pregnant travelers.

Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience, and COVID-19 guidelines are followed.

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

New Orleans Original True Crime Pub Crawl

Hosted by the renowned Mad Cat Tours New Orleans, the New Orleans Original True Crime Pub Crawl takes guests on a captivating journey through the city’s dark and intriguing past.

For just $29.99 per person, groups of up to 20 travelers can explore the French Quarter and visit a series of bars while a local expert guide shares true crime stories.

The tour kicks off at 8 PM at the Golden Lantern and concludes at Bar Tonique.

Wheelchair accessible and near public transportation, the tour has received rave reviews for its engaging and informative atmosphere, with travelers praising the guide’s deep knowledge and storytelling abilities.

Read our full review: New Orleans Original True Crime Pub Crawl Review
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French Quarter Bar Pit Stop and NOLA Legends Tour

French Quarter Bar Pit Stop and NOLA Legends Tour

On the French Quarter Bar Pit Stop and NOLA Legends Tour, travelers can experience the rich history and captivating legends of New Orleans.

This 1-2 hour walking tour takes guests through the iconic French Quarter, stopping at local bars and highlighting the city’s fascinating past.

With an experienced guide, you will learn about NOLA’s culture, legends, and paranormal activity.

The tour includes admission, though gratuities and drinks are extra.

While there’s no guarantee of paranormal experiences, the knowledgeable guides receive excellent reviews.

The tour operates rain or shine, and guests should be prepared for the weather.

With a maximum of 999 travelers, this is an immersive way to discover the wonders of New Orleans.

Read our full review: French Quarter Bar Pit Stop and NOLA Legends Tour Review
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Uncensored VIP Wicked Spirits Pub Crawl PRIVATE TOUR

Uncensored VIP Wicked Spirits Pub Crawl PRIVATE TOUR

For those seeking an exclusive and uncensored exploration of New Orleans’ haunted history, the Uncensored VIP Wicked Spirits Pub Crawl PRIVATE TOUR provides an immersive and thrilling experience.

Operated by Wicked History Tours, this private tour takes participants on a journey through the city’s most notorious watering holes. With a maximum of 15 people, the tour ensures an intimate and personalized experience.

Guests can enjoy alcoholic beverages at the various bar locations, though cash is recommended as some don’t accept credit cards. The tour is wheelchair accessible, and most travelers can participate, though it’s not recommended for pregnant individuals or those with heart problems.

Booking is flexible, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.

Read our full review: Uncensored VIP Wicked Spirits Pub Crawl PRIVATE TOUR Review
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New Orleans Party Bike Bar Tour: Murals, History and Bar Hop

New Orleans Party Bike Bar Tour: Murals, History and Bar Hop

Embarking on a unique adventure, the New Orleans Party Bike Bar Tour: Murals, History, and Bar Hop allows visitors to explore the city’s vibrant culture and nightlife.

This 3-hour tour takes travelers on a bike bar experience, visiting local breweries and bars. With a maximum of 12 travelers, the tour provides an inclusive and intimate atmosphere.

Alcohol is included, and you will discover the city’s stunning murals and historic landmarks.

While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is open to most travelers, excluding those with certain medical conditions.

With a perfect 5-star rating based on verified reviews, this tour is an excellent way to take in New Orleans’ lively party scene.

Read our full review: New Orleans Party Bike Bar Tour: Murals, History and Bar Hop Review
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Jingle Bells New Orleans History and Beer Walking Tour

Jingle Bells New Orleans History and Beer Walking Tour

The Jingle Bells New Orleans History and Drinks Walking Tour allows visitors to explore the city’s haunted past and festive spirit during the holiday season.

The tour includes visits to iconic French Quarter landmarks, including St. Louis Cathedral and the Louisiana Purchase signing site. Participants can enjoy drinks at local bars while ghost-hunting with a paranormal detector.

The tour lasts 1-2 hours with moderate walking. Tours start at Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar courtyard and conclude in the French Quarter.

While alcoholic beverages are permitted, service may be refused to extremely intoxicated guests. The tour is wheelchair accessible, and photos are encouraged, but audio/video recording isn’t allowed.

Read our full review: Jingle Bells New Orleans History and Beer Walking Tour Review
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New Orleans Pub Crawl by Bus

New Orleans Pub Crawl by Bus

Travelers aboard the New Orleans Pub Crawl by Bus can expect an immersive experience exploring the city’s lively pub scene.

The 4-hour tour, operated by Tour Orleans, takes up to 20 guests on an air-conditioned journey to multiple watering holes. Along the way, you will enjoy complimentary alcoholic beverages and snacks.

The tour departs from Bons New Orleans Street Food at 4:00 PM and returns to the same location. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s suitable for most travelers.

With a perfect 5-star rating from a single review, the pub crawl promises an excellent time filled with drinks, information, and camaraderie.

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New Orleans Happy Hour Ghost Walking Tour Pub Crawl

New Orleans Happy Hour Ghost Walking Tour Pub Crawl

For those interested in exploring New Orleans’ haunted past while enjoying happy hour drinks, the New Orleans Happy Hour Ghost Walking Tour Pub Crawl offers an immersive experience.

Operated by Nightly Spirits, this 3-hour tour takes participants to at least three haunted bars, starting at Café Lafitte in Exile and ending at the Chart Room.

Along the way, a local guide shares stories of the city’s spooky history. The tour accommodates up to 16 travelers aged 21 and over, and includes a commemorative souvenir.

Guests can purchase alcoholic beverages, and gratuities are included in the price, starting from $32.50 per person.

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

Beer By The Bywater: Food With History Tour In New Orleans

Beer By The Bywater: Food With History Tour In New Orleans offers an immersive culinary and cultural experience in the heart of the city’s historic Bywater neighborhood.

Lasting around 2 hours, the tour takes visitors to local eateries, where they’ll sample unique foods and beverages. The experience costs $154.39 per person and is limited to a maximum of 10 participants.

While reviews have been mixed, the host acknowledges the feedback and plans to address any issues. The tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, but most travelers can participate.

Guests must communicate any dietary restrictions in advance.

Read our full review: Beer By The Bywater: Food With History Tour In New Orleans Review
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Spooky Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl – Ghost Tour in New Orleans

Spooky Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl - Ghost Tour in New Orleans

Navigating the haunted pubs of New Orleans, the Spooky Spirits Haunted Pub Crawl – Ghost Tour takes guests on a spellbinding journey through the city’s supernatural past.

Offered by Mad Cat Tours, this 20-traveler maximum tour departs from the Golden Lantern Bar at 8:00 PM, concluding at The Upper Quarter Bar. Priced at $29.99 per person, the tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, with service animals allowed.

Confirmation is provided upon booking, and free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience. Led by a local New Orleans expert guide, this ghost tour promises an unforgettable exploration of the city’s most haunted watering holes.

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

Craft Beer and French Quarter Bike Tour in New Orleans

This Craft Beer and French Quarter Bike Tour in New Orleans, offered by Paved Paradise Bike Tours, provides an engaging way for visitors to explore the city’s vibrant neighborhoods and sample local craft beers.

The tour departs from 3027 Chartres St and lasts approximately two hours, with stops at three different breweries where participants can enjoy a beer at each location.

Led by a knowledgeable local guide, the tour includes the use of a bicycle, a helmet, and a poncho, as well as bottled water.

Guests must be at least 21 years old and have a moderate fitness level to participate.

The tour operates rain or shine, with rescheduling or refunds available in dangerous weather.

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Craft Beer and Garden District Bike Tour in New Orleans

Craft Beer and Garden District Bike Tour in New Orleans

The Craft Beer and Garden District Bike Tour in New Orleans provides visitors a delightful way to explore the city’s picturesque Garden District while indulging in local craft brews.

This 2-hour tour takes a maximum of 10 travelers through the charming neighborhood, with stops at three breweries for a 1-beer tasting at each. The tour includes use of a bicycle, bottled water, and a knowledgeable guide who shares insights into the area.

Though not wheelchair accessible, the tour requires only moderate fitness. Reviewers praise the scenic views, friendly guides, and enjoyable beer tastings.

With a 5.0 rating based on 6 reviews, this tour offers a unique and highly-rated way to experience New Orleans.

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

New Orleans Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl

A riveting haunted pub crawl, the New Orleans Ghosts Boos and Booze Haunted Pub Crawl takes visitors on an immersive journey through the city’s dark and captivating history.

Led by knowledgeable guides, guests will learn chilling ghost stories and thoroughly researched historical tales that bring the city’s past to life.

Equipped with an optional EMF detector, participants can explore some of New Orleans’ most haunted hotspots while enjoying adult beverages at their own pace.

Accessible to all, this tour offers an unforgettable experience for those seeking to explore the supernatural side of the Big Easy.

Priced from $29 per person, it’s a must-try for anyone visiting 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 a vibrant city with a rich history and a thriving drinking culture. Whether it’s a VIP jazz dinner cruise, a haunted pub crawl, or a craft beer bike tour, there’s something for all to enjoy. These drinking tours offer a unique way to experience the city’s lively nightlife and uncover its supernatural secrets. With so many options, visitors are sure to find the perfect tour to suit their interests.