New Orleans: Dew Drop Inn Guided Tour with Live Blues Show

If you’re headed to New Orleans and want an experience that combines history, authentic music, and delicious food, the Dew Drop Inn Guided Tour with Live Blues Show might just be your perfect pick. This 1.5-hour journey offers more than just a glimpse into the past; it brings you face-to-face with a venue that helped shape American music.

What makes this tour particularly appealing? First, you’ll get insider access to the legendary Dew Drop Inn, a place that hosted icons like Little Richard and Ray Charles. Second, the live blues performance captures the spirit of NOLA’s soulful sound. Third, the included buffet of classic New Orleans cuisine adds a tasty, comforting touch to the experience.

However, one thing to keep in mind is that transportation to the venue isn’t included, so you’ll need to plan how to get there. This tour is ideal for music enthusiasts, history buffs, or anyone craving an authentic, immersive slice of New Orleans culture without spending a whole day on the activity.

Good To Know

• Historical Significance: Visit a landmark that played a vital role in the development of R&B, Rock & Roll, and jazz.
• Authentic Artifacts: Enjoy guided access to original memorabilia and rare photographs that tell the story of this iconic venue.
• Cultural Legacy: Learn how the Dew Drop Inn fought segregation and became a welcoming space for diverse communities.
• Live Music: Experience a vibrant blues show that highlights the roots of American music genres.
• Local Cuisine: Indulge in an all-you-can-eat buffet featuring classic New Orleans dishes.
• Flexible Booking: Reserve now and pay later—cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Dew Drop Inn tour is designed to give you a full-bodied picture of one of New Orleans’ most influential music venues. Starting with a guided history tour, you’ll explore the venue’s storied past, uncovering its role in shaping the careers of legendary artists and its fight against segregation.

The tour’s insider access means you’ll see original artifacts and rare photographs that aren’t usually on display to the public. These items help paint a vivid picture of the venue’s vibrant, sometimes turbulent history. Reviewers mentioned that the guides, including knowledgeable staff, go above and beyond—one said, “The history was amazing,” highlighting the detailed storytelling that makes the experience so engaging.

One notable aspect is the oral histories collected in partnership with Tulane University. These recordings feature musicians like Ray Charles and Little Richard recalling their time at the Dew Drop Inn, adding depth and authenticity to the tour. It’s a chance to hear the voice of those who truly experienced the venue’s heyday, which many found moving.

The Historic Significance of the Dew Drop Inn

This venue isn’t just a nightclub; it’s a symbol of resilience and cultural expression. It was listed on the Negro Motorist “Green Book”, a guide for Black travelers during segregation, highlighting its role as a safe haven. This recognition underscores the importance of the Dew Drop Inn as a community hub where race, sexuality, and music intersected.

Throughout the 50s and 60s, the venue hosted a who’s who of iconic musicians—Etta James, James Brown, Tina Turner, Sam Cooke, and many more. For visitors, standing in this space feels like stepping into the very heartbeat of American musical evolution.

The Performance and Atmosphere

After the tour, the experience continues with a live blues show that captures the essence of the venue’s legendary stage. The performance features Mikhala Iversen and the Gerald French Band, whose energy and talent keep the history alive in song. Reviewers praised the band as “extraordinary,” and noted that the music connected deeply with the roots of jazz, blues, and rock & roll.

The show isn’t just a concert; it’s a celebration of the artists who performed here and the genres they helped shape. The ambiance is lively but intimate—perfect for those who want to enjoy a spirited musical experience that feels both authentic and engaging.

The Culinary Component

No trip to New Orleans is complete without savoring its local flavors, and this tour delivers with a buffet lunch of classic cuisine. Expect dishes that showcase the city’s culinary heritage—think gumbo, jambalaya, or po’boys—served in a relaxed setting that lets you chat about what you’ve just learned.

Participants consistently described the food as “excellent” and “filling”, making it a nice reward after the history walk and a perfect way to fuel up for the rest of your day.

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Practical Details: What You Need to Know

The tour lasts about 1.5 hours, often scheduled in the afternoon, which makes it flexible for fitting into a full day of sightseeing. While the cost is $78 per person, the value is clear when considering access to historic artifacts, the performance, and a hearty meal.

Note that transportation to the Dew Drop Inn isn’t included, so plan accordingly—whether you choose to walk, Uber, or rent a bike. The venue is wheelchair accessible, so it’s manageable for many travelers.

The tour is conducted in English, and flash photography is not allowed inside—a sensible rule to protect the artifacts and preserve the ambiance. It’s also not suitable for guests under 21, mainly due to the musical vibe and age restrictions.

Reviews and Feedback

Reviewers consistently rated this experience a perfect 5/5. One traveler from the U.S. said, “The band was extraordinary, and the history was amazing,” capturing the essence of what makes this tour special. Another mentioned, “The staff was friendly and went above and beyond,” highlighting the attentive service that adds to the overall value.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for music lovers who want to see a place that’s been instrumental in shaping American sound. It’s also great for history buffs interested in civil rights, segregation, and community stories. Foodies looking for a delicious meal paired with cultural insights will find it satisfying as well.

If you’re seeking a short, meaningful activity that blends storytelling, live music, and local flavor, this tour hits all those marks. It’s not a full-day affair, making it a perfect addition to a busy itinerary.

Final Thoughts

The Dew Drop Inn guided tour with a live blues show offers a rare chance to step into a pivotal site in American music history. The combination of expert-guided storytelling, authentic artifacts, vibrant performances, and hearty New Orleans cuisine creates a memorable, multi-sensory experience.

While it lacks included transportation, the tour’s depth and quality justify the cost, especially considering the access to exclusive memorabilia and the chance to hear directly from artists’ oral histories. This experience will resonate with those eager to understand New Orleans’ musical roots, connect with civil rights stories, or simply enjoy a lively, authentic blues performance.

Overall, it’s a well-rounded activity that balances education and entertainment, perfect for anyone wanting a taste of NOLA’s soulful heritage in a compact, engaging format.

FAQ

Is transportation to the Dew Drop Inn included?
No, transportation is not included. You will need to arrange your own way to get there, whether by Uber, bike, or walking.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 1.5 hours, typically scheduled in the afternoon.

What’s included in the ticket price?
Your ticket covers the guided history tour, access to artifacts and photographs, oral history recordings, the live blues performance, and a buffet lunch.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s not suitable for those under 21 years old, mainly due to the nature of the music and venue.

Are there any accessibility considerations?
Yes, the venue is wheelchair accessible, making it manageable for many mobility needs.

Do I need to pay extra for the food or show?
No, both the buffet lunch and the live performance are included in the ticket price.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility for your travel schedule.

You can check if your dates are available here: