City Sightseeing New Orleans HOHO Bus Tour & Bookable Extras

Exploring New Orleans can be a whirlwind of sights, sounds, and flavors, and doing it on a hop-on hop-off bus is an easy way to get your bearings. This City Sightseeing New Orleans HOHO Bus Tour offers a flexible, entertaining way to see the city’s highlights, with live guides providing insights that beat canned audio guides hands down. Whether you’re in town for a day or want to stretch it over several, this tour adapts to your pace.

What we love about this experience? First, the knowledgeable guides make all the difference—adding personality, stories, and local tips. Second, the stunning views from the open-top deck give you a real sense of the city’s charm. Third, the inclusion of guided walking tours in the 2- and 3-day options offers a deeper dive into iconic neighborhoods like the Garden District and French Quarter.

A potential consideration is that attraction tickets, food, and drinks aren’t included, so you’ll want to budget for extras if you plan to visit specific sights or dine. Also, the buses run every 30 minutes and close by 4:00 pm, so planning your day around their schedule is wise.

This tour is ideal for first-time visitors wanting a broad overview, travelers who enjoy guided commentary, or anyone looking for a convenient way to cover a lot of ground without the hassle of individual tickets or navigation. It’s also great for those who appreciate the flexibility of hopping on and off as they explore.

• Flexible Ticket Options: Valid for 1, 2, or 3 days, allowing you to tailor your sightseeing experience.
• Live Guided Tours: Guides like Mary, Linda, and Chris are praised for their engaging, informative style.
• Comprehensive Route: Stops include French Quarter, Garden District, WWII Museum, and more.
• Guided Walking Tours Included: In 2- and 3-day tickets, explore neighborhoods with expert guides.
• Great Value: The price of $51 per person covers extensive sightseeing, especially with the added walking tours.
• Accessible & Convenient: Buses are wheelchair accessible, run every 30 minutes, and accept mobile and paper vouchers.

Starting Point and Schedule

The tour kicks off with the first departures around 9:30-9:40 am from various stops, with the last runs at 4 pm. Each bus ride lasts approximately 1.5 hours, which makes for a comfortable, not-too-long journey. Buses are scheduled every 30 minutes, so you can plan your day around these times — no long waits or missed connections.

The tour operates with live guides in English, adding a personal touch that many reviews highlight as a major perk. Guides like Linda have been appreciated for their humor and local knowledge, while others like Chris and Mary have been singled out for their entertaining storytelling and fun facts.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Route Breakdown and Highlights

The route is thoughtfully designed to cover all major sights and neighborhoods. Starting at Jackson Square, you’ll hear about the St. Louis Cathedral, the oldest continuously active cathedral in the US. The French Market is a must-see for fresh produce and souvenirs, while Royal Street features antique shops, art galleries, and street musicians—perfect for those who love wandering through charming neighborhoods.

From there, the bus takes you to the Mercedes Benz Superdome, home to the New Orleans Saints, and the largest fixed dome structure in the world. This is a great photo stop and a glimpse into the city’s vibrant sports culture.

The route also includes stops at Bourbon Street and the French Quarter, where the lively atmosphere is contagious. The Garden District is another highlight, especially when you join the included guided walking tour. Here, you’ll see historic mansions, lush gardens, and Lafayette Cemetery, which many reviews mention as a favorite.

For those interested in history and culture, stops at Treme, the WWII Museum, and the Arts District offer rich experiences. The National WWII Museum is renowned, and many travelers appreciate the proximity to the French Market and nearby attractions.

Notable Stops and What to Expect

Jackson Square & St. Louis Cathedral: Expect to see a hub of activity with artists and performers, plus a stunning historic church. Guides often share stories about the square’s significance and its role in New Orleans’ cultural life.

French Market & Flea Market: Here, vendors sell everything from local food to handmade crafts. Reviewers often mention enjoying the chance to browse and pick up souvenirs, with some noting the market’s lively atmosphere.

Garden District & Lafayette Cemetery: The included walking tour here reveals some of the city’s most beautiful architecture and historical cemeteries. Guides like Linda get kudos for their storytelling, making the history come alive.

French Quarter & Royal Street: Known for its lively bars, jazz clubs, and street performers, this area is quintessential New Orleans. Many reviewers mention that hopping off here is a highlight, with the freedom to explore at leisure.

The WWII Museum: Described as “an excellent stop,” this world-class museum is conveniently accessible from the route, perfect for history buffs.

Magazine Street & Arts District: For shopping, art galleries, and cafes, this area is a favorite for a relaxed, local vibe away from the tourist crowds.

The Walking Tours: Depth and Detail

In the 2- and 3-day tickets, you’ll get guided walks through the Garden District and the French Quarter. These tours are praised for their informative and engaging guides, offering insights you wouldn’t get from a bus narration. You can join these tours on any valid day, making them flexible.

The Garden District walk at 11 am or noon is a perfect way to see the historic mansions and lush gardens. The French Quarter tour, included in the 3-day pass, departs near the Jackson Square ticket office, making it easy to join.

Guides and Commentary

Reviewers consistently praise the guides, describing them as personable, funny, and knowledgeable. Linda, for example, is lauded as “no line Linda,” appreciated for her friendly approach and tips that enhance the experience. Guides like Chris and Mary often share stories and facts that make the stops more meaningful. Many mention that live guides make the tour more engaging than pre-recorded audio options.

Some reviewers have pointed out that audibility can vary, especially when the bus is crowded or noisy, but overall, guides are well-received for their energy and storytelling.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Comfort, Accessibility, and Convenience

The buses are described as comfortable and wheelchair accessible, which is important for travelers with mobility needs. Buses run every 30 minutes, making it easy to hop off and explore or stay on for the full loop. The tour ends around 5:30 pm, giving plenty of time for daytime sightseeing.

Both mobile and printed vouchers are accepted, simplifying the booking process. The tour is particularly practical for those who want a snapshot of the city without committing to multiple attraction tickets or navigating public transport.

Pricing and Value

At $51 per person, the price is competitive, considering it includes live guides and optional guided walks. Many reviews highlight the tour’s excellent value, especially given how much ground you cover and the insider tips provided. The inclusion of guided walks in the longer ticket options adds significant value for those who want to explore neighborhoods in depth.

Though food and attraction tickets are extra, this tour provides a solid foundation for planning your trip, pinpointing the spots you want to revisit later.

This hop-on hop-off bus tour is perfect for first-time visitors eager for a broad overview of New Orleans. The live guides, scenic routes, and included walking tours give it an edge over standard audio guides. It’s also a fantastic way for those with limited time to see multiple districts without stress.

Travelers who appreciate a mix of transportation and storytelling will find this tour especially engaging. If you’re traveling with family, friends, or solo, the flexibility and ease make it a top choice. Those planning to explore specific attractions in detail may want to supplement with additional tickets, but overall, this tour offers a comprehensive snapshot of the Crescent City.

How long does each loop last?
The bus tour lasts about 1.5 hours for the full loop. Buses depart every 30 minutes, so you can plan your day accordingly.

Can I hop on and off at any stop?
Yes, the ticket allows unlimited hopping on and off at stops along the route during your valid days.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the buses are wheelchair accessible, ensuring travelers with mobility needs can enjoy the tour.

Are guides available in other languages?
No, the live guides are in English only, but the route is designed to be informative and engaging.

What does the tour include?
It includes a hop-on hop-off bus ride, live commentary in English, stops near major sights, and guided walking tours in the 2- and 3-day options.

Are food and attraction tickets included?
No, these are not included. You’ll need to budget separately if you wish to visit attractions or dine at stops.

What are the start and end times?
First departures are around 9:30-9:40 am, with the last at 4 pm. The tour ends by 5:30 pm.

Do I need to print my voucher?
No, mobile or printed paper vouchers are accepted, making check-in straightforward.

Is there a recommended time to take the tour?
Morning to early afternoon is best, as buses run until late afternoon, and the stops are most active earlier in the day.

For anyone visiting New Orleans, this City Sightseeing HOHO Bus Tour offers a practical, enjoyable way to see the city’s highlights. The guides’ enthusiasm and local insights transform a simple bus ride into a memorable introduction to the Big Easy. Whether you’re after a quick overview or a more leisurely exploration with guided walks, this experience balances value, comfort, and authenticity.

It’s especially suited for first-timers wanting to get their bearings, but returning visitors will appreciate the convenience and deeper neighborhood insights. The open-top buses and friendly guides ensure you’ll get a real feel for the city’s vibrant culture, architecture, and history—all from the comfort of a well-organized tour.

If you want a flexible, informative, and fun way to experience New Orleans, this tour deserves a spot on your itinerary.

You can check if your dates are available here: