New Orleans: Voodoo, Storyville, and Treme Walking Tour

Discover the Heart of New Orleans with the Voodoo, Storyville, and Treme Walking Tour

This 2-hour guided walking tour of New Orleans offers a captivating glimpse into the city’s legendary neighborhoods—Voodoo, Storyville, and Treme. While we haven’t experienced it ourselves, the detailed itinerary and numerous positive reviews suggest it’s an immersive way to understand the city’s cultural layers, from jazz roots to spiritual traditions.

What makes this tour stand out? First, the focus on authentic history with visits to significant landmarks like Basin Street Station and Congo Square. Second, the insight into the mystique of Voodoo, especially through stories about Marie Laveau, which are both fascinating and eye-opening. Third, the opportunity to explore historical neighborhoods steeped in Creole and African-American culture, including Treme and its ties to the jazz scene.

A minor consideration might be the pace of the tour—with a lot packed into just 2 hours, it’s quick and energetic. Travelers who love in-depth explorations might find it a bit surface-level, but for those seeking a broad overview, it’s perfect.

Ideal for newcomers eager to get a flavorful intro to New Orleans’ layered story, this tour suits history buffs, jazz fans, and culture enthusiasts alike. If you’re looking for a well-rounded, affordable way to get your bearings and discover some iconic sites, this tour will serve you well.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Authentic Cultural Insights: Focuses on the history of Voodoo, jazz, and local neighborhoods.
• Historical Landmarks: Visits Basin Street Station, Congo Square, and sites linked to Marie Laveau.
• Expert Guide: Led by knowledgeable guides with good reviews for engaging storytelling.
• Accessible Duration and Price: Just 2 hours for $30, offering great value for an introductory tour.
• Rich Neighborhoods: Explores the historic Treme and the site of the former red-light district Storyville.
• Optional Extras: Can include visits to places like the Backstreet Cultural Museum, but entrance fees are separate.

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

Starting at Backatown Coffee, located in the heart of the historic Storyville district, the tour immediately immerses you in an area once known for nightlife and jazz legends. The guide—whose history and storytelling skills have been praised—sets the tone with engaging anecdotes, making the area’s colorful past come alive.

Storyville’s legacy as a decriminalized prostitution district is explored through surviving buildings and historical context. The guide emphasizes how this district, active for about 20 years, was crucial in the development of early jazz, and you’ll hear about musicians like Jelly Roll Morton, King Oliver, and Sidney Bechet who played here. One reviewer noted, “Seeing the old buildings and hearing about the jazz giants who played here made the history feel very real.”

Next, the focus shifts to Voodoo—a subject often conjuring myths and misconceptions. The guide breaks down the religious roots of Voodoo, tracing its African origins and its intersections with Roman Catholicism in colonial Louisiana. A highlight is learning about Marie Laveau, the most famous Voodoo Queen, whose home site is marked along the tour. The guide helps distinguish fact from fiction, which many reviewers appreciated, calling the stories “fascinating and surprisingly approachable.”

A visit to Basin Street Station offers a chance to see where jazz and blues flourished, while Louis Armstrong Park and Congo Square reveal the African rhythms that influenced New Orleans music and culture. Walking through Congo Square, you’ll discover its significance as a gathering place for enslaved Africans, where music, dance, and communal rituals persisted despite hardships.

The tour then ventures into Treme, one of the city’s oldest neighborhoods, famed for its deep musical roots and the “War of the Pews”—a historical church conflict that highlights the neighborhood’s social complexity. Guided commentary here underscores how Treme has been a cradle for jazz, Creole culture, and African-American heritage. The Rabassa-de Pouilly House and St. Augustine’s Catholic Church are stops that reveal the area’s layered history.

Marie Laveau’s site stands out as a key highlight. The guide shares her biography and her enduring legend—an essential story for understanding Voodoo’s place in New Orleans culture. Visitors often find themselves asking about the myths surrounding her, but the guide provides a balanced, factual account, emphasizing her influence rather than sensationalism.

An optional stop at the Backstreet Cultural Museum enriches the experience, especially for fans of Mardi Gras Indian and Second Line traditions. While admission is separate, many find it a valuable addition that deepens their understanding of local festivities.

Throughout, the tour features a good pace—allowing time to absorb each site without feeling rushed. It’s a walking tour, so comfortable shoes are recommended, and the guide’s commentary helps make the history both accessible and engaging. The 2-hour duration makes it manageable for most schedules, although some reviews suggest that those seeking exhaustive detail might want to pair it with other visits.

Practical Details and Value

Pricing at $30 per person makes this tour a very accessible introduction to New Orleans’ storied neighborhoods. Given the number of sites visited and the in-depth stories shared, it offers excellent value compared to more expensive, longer tours. Keep in mind, entrance fees to sites like the Backstreet Cultural Museum are extra if you wish to visit, but the tour covers the significant outdoor and historical landmarks.

The tour includes a guide—whose reputation for friendly, knowledgeable storytelling is often highlighted—and covers a substantial amount of ground on foot. Expect a significant amount of walking, so wear comfortable shoes and dress appropriately for weather conditions.

While transportation isn’t included, the tour’s starting point at a local coffee shop helps travelers get oriented before they set out. It’s ideal for those who enjoy exploring on foot and prefer a relaxed, conversational pace rather than a hurried sightseeing scramble.

The tour is available in the morning and afternoon, offering flexibility to fit into various itineraries. With a live guide speaking English, it’s well-suited for international travelers who want authentic insights without the distraction of prerecorded commentary.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for first-time visitors wanting a broad but meaningful overview of New Orleans’ neighborhoods. History buffs, jazz enthusiasts, and those interested in cultural stories will find plenty to enjoy. The focus on local legends and historic sites makes it an educational yet accessible option.

It’s also suitable for travelers who appreciate walking tours that cover multiple neighborhoods in a compact timeframe. If you’re looking to understand the city’s roots and see its historic sites up close, this tour offers a balanced mix of storytelling and sightseeing.

However, if you prefer in-depth museums or guided visits inside buildings, this might feel a little light on detail. But for those seeking an authentic outdoor experience that captures the spirit of New Orleans’ history and culture, it hits the mark.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

The Sum Up

The Voodoo, Storyville, and Treme walking tour delivers an engaging, well-rounded introduction to some of New Orleans’ most iconic neighborhoods. It balances historical facts with stories that bring the city’s legends to life, all at a very reasonable price. With a knowledgeable guide leading the way, you’ll gain insights into jazz origins, Voodoo traditions, and the vibrant neighborhoods that define the city’s character.

This tour is especially valuable for travelers who want a manageable, informative experience without the need for extensive planning or significant expense. It’s a great way to orient yourself to New Orleans’ diverse culture and history, setting the stage for further exploration.

Whether you’re a curious traveler, a jazz lover, or someone fascinated by the city’s spiritual traditions, this tour offers a memorable glimpse of New Orleans’ soul—authentic, lively, and full of stories waiting to be uncovered.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, since it’s a walking outdoor tour, most ages can enjoy the experience, but consider the walking distance and pace if you’re bringing young children or individuals with mobility issues.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, which is manageable for most schedules and is designed to cover multiple key sites efficiently.

Are transportation arrangements included?
No, transportation to and from the tour is not included. The tour starts at Backatown Coffee and is primarily walkable.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, and dress appropriately for weather conditions, as the tour involves significant outdoor walking.

Can I visit the sites inside the landmarks?
Some sites may require respectful behavior, and entrance to sites like the Backstreet Cultural Museum is optional and paid separately.

Is the tour good for history lovers?
Absolutely. The guide’s storytelling focuses on historical and cultural insights, giving a well-rounded view of the neighborhoods’ past.

What if I want to learn more about Voodoo or jazz?
The tour provides a great starting point; for deeper exploration, consider supplementing with visits to local museums or performances.

How much does the tour cost?
It’s priced at $30 per person, offering good value for a curated, guided experience covering several neighborhoods and landmarks.

This detailed review highlights the genuine value of the Voodoo, Storyville, and Treme Walking Tour for anyone keen on exploring New Orleans’ authentic culture and history in a practical, engaging way.

You can check if your dates are available here: