Crescent City Chronicles New Orleans Pub Crawl

Travelers looking to soak in the atmosphere of New Orleans without the hefty price tag might consider the Crescent City Chronicles Pub Crawl. While it’s a short and affordable experience—priced at just $33 for around two hours—it offers a quick taste of the city’s storied bar scene. This tour combines history, local flavor, and a few hidden gems, making it appealing for those with limited time or budget-conscious travelers eager for a lively introduction to NOLA’s spirited side.

What we like about this tour: it’s a compact way to explore some of the city’s most iconic watering holes, learn snippets of local lore, and enjoy a variety of Creole and specialty cocktails. The inclusion of stops like Tujague’s and the Old Absinthe House adds a touch of historic charm, and the small-group format promises a more personalized experience.

However, a notable consideration is that alcohol is not included, which can be a downside for those hoping for an all-inclusive experience. Also, based on reviews, the tour’s guide knowledge can be hit or miss, impacting the overall vibe and storytelling.

This pub crawl is best suited for travelers who want a quick, budget-friendly intro to New Orleans’ bar culture, especially those interested in historic venues and unique cocktails. If you’re more focused on in-depth history or premium drinks, you might want to look elsewhere. Still, for a casual night out, it offers a decent snapshot of the city’s lively spirit.

Good To Know

• Affordable Price Point: At $33, the tour offers a budget-friendly way to explore NOLA’s bar scene.
• Historic Venues: Stops include legendary spots like Tujague’s and the Old Absinthe House.
• Cultural Highlights: The tour touches on New Orleans’ unique characters and stories, adding flavor to the experience.
• Limited Inclusions: Alcohol is not included, so expect to pay for drinks separately.
• Guide Quality Varies: Some reviews mention guides with limited local knowledge, which might affect storytelling.
• Time-Efficient: Ideal for travelers with a tight schedule wanting a quick tour of the French Quarter’s nightlife.

What to Expect from the Tour

Starting Point at Tujague’s

The tour kicks off at Tujague’s, a venerable restaurant founded in 1856. Known as one of the oldest in the city, it’s a perfect starting point for a taste of Creole culinary tradition and classic cocktails. The ambiance here is cozy and historic, with a vibe that transports you back in time. You won’t be paying admission, but it sets the tone for a journey into NOLA’s storied past.

The Pharmacy Museum

Next, a brief stop at the New Orleans Pharmacy Museum offers a glimpse into medical practices from the 19th century. Though it’s a quick visit—around 10 minutes—you can view antique gadgets, medicines, and tinctures. It’s a neat contrast to the lively bars, providing a bit of local history in a quiet, museum setting.

The Old Absinthe House

This spot is the highlight for fans of spirits. The Old Absinthe House is a historic bar in the French Quarter, famed for its absinthe-based cocktails. The venue’s vintage charm and the chance to try something different make it a memorable stop. It’s a place that appeals to cocktail enthusiasts and those curious about absinthe’s bohemian past.

The Court of Two Sisters

Known for its stunning courtyard, The Court of Two Sisters is a favorite for its atmosphere and mystical features like the “Devil’s Wishing Well” and the Charm Gates. It’s a larger restaurant but offers a more relaxed, scenic environment to enjoy drinks and local stories. The tour spends about 25 minutes here, giving enough time to soak in the ambiance and snap some photos.

Pirate’s Alley Cafe

This pirate-themed bar in Pirate’s Alley adds a whimsical touch. With its themed decor and a broad selection of cocktails, it’s a fun break from more traditional venues. While small plates aren’t specifically highlighted, the lively atmosphere makes it a great spot for conversation and a few drinks.

Lafitte Hotel and Bar

The final stop at the Lafitte Hotel & Bar ties the tour together. Housed in a building dating back to 1849, the bar offers expertly crafted cocktails and a glimpse into the city’s boutique hotel charm. It’s a fitting end, leaving guests with a sense of history and a well-made drink in hand.

The Experience and Group Dynamics

The tour is designed for small groups—up to 20 travelers—which helps create a more intimate setting. The presence of an “educational and entertaining” guide enriches the journey, although reviews suggest that guide knowledge can vary. One reviewer mentioned that their guide was friendly but lacked depth in New Orleans’ culture and history, which may make the storytelling feel a bit superficial at times.

Timing is straightforward: starting at 8:30 pm, the tour runs for roughly two hours, making it ideal for a quick nightcap or a casual evening stroll through the French Quarter. Since alcoholic beverages are not included, you’ll want to budget separately for drinks at each stop.

Pricing and Value

At $33, this tour offers an economical way to get a taste of New Orleans’ bar scene. It’s particularly appealing for travelers on a budget or those wanting an overview without spending hours or a lot of money. However, because drinks are not included, the overall value depends on how many cocktails you purchase during the tour.

Given the historic venues and unique cocktail options like absinthe-based drinks, you may find the experience worthwhile even if you pay for a few drinks separately. But if you’re seeking a more immersive or inclusive experience, you might find this tour somewhat limited.

Authenticity and Hidden Details

From reviews, it’s clear that some guests felt the guide’s knowledge was lacking, which can affect the depth of the storytelling. However, the venues themselves are genuinely historic and atmospheric, adding authenticity to your visit. The tour’s stops are carefully selected to showcase some of the oldest and most iconic bars in the city, with interesting features like the “Devil’s Wishing Well” at The Court of Two Sisters enhancing the experience.

The fact that the tour emphasizes local characters, stories, and unique drinks makes it a good introduction to the city’s spirited side, even if it doesn’t delve deeply into history or culture.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Arrive promptly at 8:30 pm at the starting point on Royal Street.
• Be prepared to pay for your drinks separately, as they’re not included.
• Dress comfortably and consider bringing a small wallet or cash for extra drinks or tips.
• If you’re interested in deeper history, ask your guide specific questions, but don’t expect in-depth storytelling from every guide.
• Since the tour ends at the Old Absinthe House, plan your next steps accordingly—whether you want to stay longer or head back to your hotel.
• Check the weather forecast, as the tour is outdoors and at night, so dress appropriately.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This pub crawl is best suited for budget-conscious travelers or those short on time who want a quick, fun introduction to New Orleans’ bar scene. It’s a good choice if you’re interested in historic venues and classic cocktails but don’t need a comprehensive, in-depth experience. Families, couples, or groups of friends looking for a casual, social night out will find this tour a decent option.

However, those expecting premium drinks, detailed history, or guided storytelling might want to explore other options or combine this with a more in-depth experience.

Final Thoughts

The Crescent City Chronicles New Orleans Pub Crawl offers a straightforward, affordable way to experience some of the city’s most iconic pubs and learn a few stories along the way. While the guide’s knowledge can sometimes be hit or miss, the venues themselves are authentic and full of character. It’s an easy, lighthearted tour that suits newcomers or those on a tight schedule.

If your goal is a quick taste of NOLA’s vibrant bar scene, this tour can be a fun and inexpensive option. Just be prepared to pay for your drinks separately and approach it as a casual introduction rather than an immersive cultural deep dive.

FAQ

Are alcoholic beverages included in the tour?
No, drinks are not included. You will need to purchase your own cocktails at each venue.

What is the tour duration?
It lasts approximately 2 hours, starting at 8:30 pm.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 809 Royal St and finishes at the Old Absinthe House at 240 Bourbon St.

Is the tour suitable for all travelers?
Most travelers can participate, but check if you’re comfortable walking and staying out late. The group size is limited to 20.

How much should I budget for drinks?
Since drinks are not included, budget extra for cocktails at each stop—expect to pay per drink.

Can I cancel the tour if I change my mind?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour.

Is the guide knowledgeable about New Orleans history?
Based on some reviews, guide knowledge can be limited, with some guests feeling the storytelling was superficial.

Overall, the Crescent City Chronicles Pub Crawl offers a casual, budget-friendly slice of New Orleans nightlife and history, perfect for those who want a quick, social introduction to the city’s iconic bars. If you’re after a fun night out without breaking the bank, this tour might just hit the spot.