The best historical tours in New Orleans cut straight to the heart of America’s most European city. Walking tours through the French Quarter offer the smartest introduction, where expert guides share stories of Creole culture and antebellum architecture. I especially love the Garden District tours for their perfect mix of history and celebrity homes, while evening ghost tours bring the city’s spooky past to life. First-time visitors shouldn’t miss exploring the nearby swamps, where naturalist guides showcase Louisiana’s unique ecosystem. For food lovers, culinary walking tours – particularly in the French Quarter – deliver the authentic flavors and history of Cajun and Creole cooking. The Mississippi River plantation tours, though sobering, provide essential context about the region’s complex past. Check our recommended tours below to start planning your historical New Orleans adventure.
Good To Know
- New Orleans offers a range of historical walking tours focusing on the city’s French Quarter, architecture, and cultural heritage, with engaging storytelling and accessibility features.
- Bike tours provide an active way to explore New Orleans’ historical landmarks, offering insider knowledge in a small group setting.
- Haunted history tours explore the city’s eerie past, visiting notorious haunted sites and providing unique perspectives on local legends.
- Boat tours through the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park enable exploring the region’s natural ecosystems and wildlife in an educational and entertaining manner.
- River cruises along the Mississippi River highlight significant historical sites and battlefields, with knowledgeable guides and accessibility considerations.
New Orleans Food and History Walking Tour
For a delectable journey through the culinary and historical heart of New Orleans, the New Orleans Food and History Walking Tour offers an immersive experience.
Covering approximately 3 hours, this highly-rated tour takes guests through the iconic French Quarter, with stops at renowned eateries to sample local specialties like gumbo, poboys, and pralines.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour provides insight into the city’s rich history and the evolution of its distinctive cuisine.
With a maximum group size of 16, the experience caters to a range of dietary needs, though some restrictions apply.
Praised for its engaging content and abundant tastings, this tour is a must for anyone seeking to savor the flavors and stories of New Orleans.
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French Quarter Historical Sights and Stories Walking Tour
The French Quarter Historical Sights and Stories Walking Tour offers an immersive journey through the heart of New Orleans’ most iconic neighborhood.
Over the course of two hours, guests explore famous landmarks like Jackson Square and St. Louis Cathedral, while learning about the area’s rich architecture, heritage, and local culture.
Knowledgeable guides, praised for their expertise and engaging storytelling, provide insights and recommendations that enhance the experience.
With a maximum group size of 12, the tour offers a personalized touch.
Wheelchair and stroller accessible, the tour operates rain or shine, encouraging guests to bring water and wear comfortable shoes.
Based on overwhelmingly positive reviews, this tour is a must for visitors seeking an authentic historical exploration of the French Quarter.
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New Orleans Cocktail History Walking Tour in the French Quarter
Set out on a captivating journey through New Orleans’ illustrious cocktail history with the New Orleans Cocktail History Walking Tour in the French Quarter.
Rated 5.0 out of 5 and highly recommended by travelers, this 1-mile walking tour takes you through the legendary French Quarter, stopping at four bars to savor four unique cocktails.
Learn about the fascinating histories of these drinks, from the Sazerac to the Roffignac, while enjoying the city’s drinking culture.
With knowledgeable and entertaining guides, this tour promises an informative and enjoyable experience, complete with vegan-friendly cocktails and a dress code that discourages tank tops for men.
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New Orleans Jean Lafitte National Historical Park Boat Ride
Though the New Orleans Jean Lafitte National Historical Park Boat Ride may not be as well-known as the city’s French Quarter cocktail tours, it offers a unique opportunity to explore the region’s rich natural and cultural heritage.
Visitors can expect a guided journey through the cypress swamps, where they’ll spot alligators, snakes, and turtles, as well as various bird species. The tour’s knowledgeable guides provide live commentary, sharing fun facts about the local wildlife.
While some reviews note concerns about the treatment of animals and noise levels, the overall experience is praised for its safe and entertaining exploration aboard a flat-bottomed pontoon boat.
With accessible transportation options and on-site amenities, this tour appeals to families and nature enthusiasts seeking an immersive bayou adventure.
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New Orleans Cocktail and Food History Tour
For those seeking an immersive culinary and cultural experience in New Orleans, the New Orleans Cocktail and Food History Tour offers an unparalleled opportunity.
Boasting an impressive 98% recommendation rate from travelers, this tour combines the flavors of the city’s iconic dishes and cocktails with engaging historical insights. Guests can expect to sample at least eight dishes and four full-sized drinks while exploring the rich gastronomic heritage of New Orleans.
Led by knowledgeable guides, the small-group format ensures a personalized experience. With convenient meeting and end points, this tour showcases the very best of the city’s vibrant food and beverage scene.
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New Orleans Haunted History Ghost Tour
The New Orleans Haunted History Ghost Tour offers visitors a chilling and immersive exploration of the French Quarter’s eerie past.
With over 1,600 glowing reviews and a Badge of Excellence, this 2-hour tour takes guests on a captivating journey through the city’s most infamous haunted sites.
Led by knowledgeable guides, travelers will visit the LaLaurie Mansion, hear stories featured on TV, and have the opportunity to indulge in drinks at a haunted bar.
Praised for their engaging storytelling and historical expertise, the tour’s guides provide an unforgettable experience that highlights why New Orleans is known as the most haunted city in America.
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New Orleans Small-Group Haunted History Carriage Tour
Offering a more intimate and immersive alternative to the traditional haunted tour, the New Orleans Small-Group Haunted History Carriage Tour invites visitors on a captivating 1-hour journey through the city’s eerie past.
Limited to just eight people, the mule-drawn carriage ride explores notorious haunts in the French Quarter, including the haunted Saint Louis Cathedral and the infamous Lalaurie Mansion.
Guided by licensed experts, the tour delves into the dark deeds, natural disasters, and supernatural sightings that have shaped New Orleans’ 18th-century history.
With an average rating of 4.5/5 stars, the tour’s knowledgeable and entertaining guides provide a unique perspective on the city’s ghostly encounters, though some guests note inconsistencies in storytelling quality.
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New Orleans History and Sights Small-Group Bike Tour
Exploring New Orleans’ rich history and picturesque sights on a small-group bike tour provides an exhilarating and informative way to experience the city.
This highly-rated 3-hour tour takes travelers through the heart of the city, providing a unique perspective and insider knowledge from local guides.
Travelers will bike past must-see landmarks, including the Mississippi River and Congo Square, while learning little-known facts and anecdotes.
The tour offers a comfortable and active exploration, featuring bottled water, baskets for personal items, and a maximum of 12 participants for personalized service.
With morning and afternoon departure options, this bike tour is an excellent choice for those seeking an engaging and authentic New Orleans experience.
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New Orleans French Quarter Walking and History Tour
What better way to take in the rich history and captivating culture of New Orleans than by embarking on the French Quarter Walking and History Tour?
This 2.5-hour walking expedition provides a comprehensive introduction to the city’s iconic landmarks, architectural styles, and literary heritage. Led by knowledgeable local guides, the tour explores the Mississippi River, the French Market, Jackson Square, and the Ursuline Convent, among other historic sites.
Travelers will gain valuable insights into the Spanish and French influences that have shaped New Orleans’ unique identity. With a maximum group size of 9, this highly-rated tour offers an engaging and personalized experience for history enthusiasts.
The tour’s accessibility and flexible cancellation policy make it an excellent choice for visitors seeking to uncover the heart of the Crescent City.
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New Orleans Music Heritage Tour
The New Orleans Music Heritage Tour offers travelers an immersive exploration into the city’s rich musical legacy.
Led by the knowledgeable Keith Abel, the 2-hour tour takes visitors to significant locations like the legendary Lafitte bar, sharing stories of jazz and blues legends along the way.
With 94% traveler recommendation based on 227 reviews, the tour is praised for its engaging storytelling, depth of knowledge, and personal interaction.
Accessible to all, the tour includes musical selections, personal photos, and a visit to the Louisiana Music Factory.
At €28.88 per person, it’s an affordable and highly-rated way to explore New Orleans’ iconic music culture.
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French Quarter Historic Segway Tour
Travelers exploring the historic heart of New Orleans can embark on the captivating French Quarter Historic Segway Tour.
This 2-hour excursion covers the major landmarks of the French Quarter, including Canal Street, Bourbon Street, and the iconic St. Louis Cathedral. Guided by knowledgeable locals, the tour provides live commentary on the city’s rich history and hidden gems.
Riders will glide effortlessly on Segways, suitable for all ages and skill levels. With a 5.0 overall rating from 156 reviews, this tour is highly recommended by 96% of travelers and has earned a Badge of Excellence.
The tour includes all necessary equipment and gratuities, making it a convenient and enjoyable way to explore the heart of New Orleans.
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Paddlewheeler Creole Queen Historic Mississippi River Cruise
Embarking on the Paddlewheeler Creole Queen Historic Mississippi River Cruise offers travelers a captivating glimpse into New Orleans’ vibrant river culture.
This highly-rated 1-hour tour (4.5 stars) provides an engaging historical narrative from knowledgeable guides as passengers sail along the iconic Mississippi. The itinerary includes stops at the Chalmette Battlefield and Jean Lafitte National Historical Park, allowing visitors to enjoy the region’s rich heritage.
While the paddlewheeler itself is wheelchair accessible, the Chalmette Battlefield currently lacks full mobility accommodations. Onboard amenities, including a cash bar and lunch options, enhance the experience.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours prior, the Creole Queen cruise is a must for anyone seeking an authentic taste of New Orleans’ storied past.
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Dark History Tour In New Orleans
For those seeking a deeper exploration of New Orleans’ haunting past, the Dark History Tour offers an immersive glimpse into the city’s shadowy corners.
With a maximum of 28 travelers per tour, this 4.5-star rated experience leads guests on a walking journey through the city’s storied landmarks. Guided by knowledgeable and enthusiastic locals, the tour delves into New Orleans’ dark history, regaling participants with unique and captivating tales.
While some past travelers have noted the occasional long-winded or off-topic guide, the tour’s overall educational value and engaging storytelling have earned it a Badge of Excellence.
At €26.95 per person with free cancellation, this wheelchair-accessible tour provides an unforgettable look into the shadowy past of the Big Easy.
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New Orleans Small-Group History Tour Pub Crawl of The Irish Channel
A remarkable New Orleans Small-Group History Tour Pub Crawl of The Irish Channel provides visitors with an immersive and engaging exploration of the city’s storied Irish heritage.
Led by a knowledgeable local guide and beer expert, this highly-rated tour offers a unique mix of history and happy hour, allowing participants to sample four local brews while learning about the Irish influence on New Orleans culture.
With a 5.0 rating from 40 reviews and a 98% recommendation, this tour is an excellent choice for travelers seeking an authentic, enjoyable, and informative experience in the heart of the Irish Channel neighborhood.
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New Orleans Voodoo History Walking Tour
Although the mysticism and dark allure of voodoo have long captivated the public imagination, the New Orleans Voodoo History Walking Tour offers participants a chance to delve deeper into the historical realities of this complex spiritual tradition.
Led by knowledgeable local guides, the 1.5-hour tour takes visitors to significant voodoo sites and altars, including the Rev. Zombies Voodoo Shop, Bourbon Street, and the Bourbon Orleans Hotel.
The tour aims to debunk Hollywood myths, providing a more nuanced understanding of voodoo’s role in New Orleans’ cultural heritage.
With moderate physical fitness required and a maximum of 28 travelers, the tour promises an intimate and informative experience suitable for wheelchair users and service animal owners alike.
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New Orleans True History Walking Tour
The New Orleans True History Walking Tour offers visitors an immersive exploration of the city’s captivating past, shedding light on the lesser-known narratives that have shaped its cultural tapestry.
Led by knowledgeable guides, this highly-rated tour takes travelers on a journey through time, starting at the Witches Brew Gallery & Haunted Sanctuary and culminating at the iconic Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar.
Covering a range of historical eras, the tour provides an educational and engaging experience, with the opportunity to sample local alcoholic beverages along the way.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers, though those with certain medical conditions may need to exercise caution.
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New Orleans to Historic Plantation Tour With Transport, Guide
For those seeking a deeper understanding of the region’s rich history, the New Orleans to Historic Plantation Tour With Transport, Guide offers an immersive experience exploring the captivating legacy of Louisiana’s sugar plantations.
Guests can choose from a selection of renowned sites, including Whitney Plantation, Laura Plantation, or Oak Alley Antebellum Plantation, on a hassle-free, half-day tour.
With a maximum of 14 participants, the focused experience delves into the lives of those who lived and worked on these historic sugar estates, visiting buildings, slave quarters, and museums.
Knowledgeable drivers provide insightful anecdotes, enhancing the journey, while ensuring a smooth transportation experience from New Orleans hotels.
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French Quarter History Walking Tour by a Local
Frequently led by Melanie, a local history teacher with nearly 30 years of experience, the French Quarter History Walking Tour offers travelers an insightful and immersive exploration of New Orleans’ rich cultural heritage.
With a 100% recommendation rate from past participants, the 2-hour walking tour delves into the stories behind the French Quarter’s historic sites and landmarks, providing a personalized experience for a maximum of 20 travelers.
Melanie’s Cajun Louisiana upbringing and teaching background contribute to a passionate and engaging presentation, showcasing her deep knowledge of the area.
Praised for its educational value and enjoyable nature, the tour allows visitors to discover parts of the French Quarter that many miss, leaving them with a newfound appreciation for the city’s history.
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New Orleans French Quarter and Voodoo History Walking Tour
Immersing visitors in the captivating intersection of New Orleans’ French Quarter heritage and the city’s rich voodoo traditions, the New Orleans French Quarter and Voodoo History Walking Tour takes participants on a 105-minute exploration of the area’s storied past.
Led by acclaimed Master Storytellers, the tour delves into the vibrant history and intriguing lore of this iconic neighborhood, from its French and Spanish colonial roots to the enduring influence of voodoo culture.
With top-rated guides recognized for their enthusiasm and depth of knowledge, the experience balances education and entertainment, captivating travelers with engaging narratives and vivid historical context.
Accessible and wheelchair-friendly, the tour invites guests to discover the unique character of New Orleans’ French Quarter and its enduring mystique.
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French Quarter History and Landmark Waking Tour
The French Quarter History and Landmark Walking Tour takes visitors on a captivating journey through the heart of New Orleans’ storied past.
With a 95% traveler recommendation and a Badge of Excellence, this 2-hour tour explores the city’s iconic locales, including Jackson Square, the French Market, and the historic Cabildo.
Led by knowledgeable and entertaining guides, guests will explore the city’s founding as a French colony, uncover the stories of Creole aristocrats and voodoo priestesses, and learn about the ghostly legends that haunt the streets.
At just $30 per person, this tour offers an engaging and informative experience that’s perfect for first-time visitors and history enthusiasts alike.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What Are the Restroom Facilities on the Tours?
The tour companies generally provide clean, well-maintained restroom facilities for their guests. Some tours may have on-board restrooms, while others utilize public restrooms at various stops along the route. Accessibility and cleanliness are typically prioritized for a comfortable experience.
Can I Bring My Pet on the Tours?
Most historical tour companies don’t allow pets on their tours for safety and comfort reasons. Customers are typically advised to make alternative arrangements for their pets while they enjoy the tour experience.
Is There an Age Limit for the Tour Participants?
Most tour companies don’t have strict age limits, but they may recommend certain tours for different age groups. Some activities might not be suitable for young children, so it’s best to check with the tour provider about their policies.
Are the Tours Wheelchair/Mobility Accessible?
Most historical tours are designed to be wheelchair and mobility-accessible, allowing visitors with disabilities to fully participate. Tour operators generally make accommodations to ensure everyone can enjoy the experience comfortably and safely.
Can I Take Photographs During the Tours?
Participants can typically take photographs during historical tours, but it’s best to check with the tour operator in advance as some may have restrictions to protect the historical sites. Many tours accommodate photography, allowing visitors to capture memorable moments from their journey through history.
The Sum Up
New Orleans offers a diverse array of historical tours, from walking tours exploring the city’s rich cultural heritage and legendary cocktail history to boat rides through the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park. With options catering to various interests, visitors can enjoy the unique stories and traditions that have shaped this vibrant Southern metropolis. Whether you’re a history buff or seeking a deeper understanding of New Orleans’ past, these tours provide an engaging and insightful experience.