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New Orleans Tours & Vacations

Catch some Southern sweetness in New Orleans, where good times, great food, and even better music are everywhere. 

Beating to the sound of trumpets, NOLA (as it’s affectionately known) is an eclectic city made up of European, Creole, and Cajun culture in a vibrant melting pot that’s sure to satisfy your inner excitement-seeker. Take a stroll through the historic French Quarter, chow down on some boiled crawfish with your New Orleans tour group, and soak up as much of the ‘Big Easy’s atmosphere as you can in what is guaranteed to be the adventure of a lifetime. From enjoying a drink (or 10) down New Orleans’ iconic Bourbon Street or the less well-known but equally as good Frenchman Street  to immersing yourself in the rhythm of the best jazz performers going round, this city has everything to offer. Why not ask your tour guide for directions to Café du Monde, New Orleans’ famous beignet café? Or seek further information about this city’s troubled past and its haunted history ? However you choose to spend your time here, our New Orleans tours and holidays  will leave your head full of music and your stomach full of gumbo.

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Tennessee Music Trail to New Orleans

Best of the South: Atlanta to New Orleans

Articles of New Orleans

Meet the chef behind New Orleans’ African American-owned cooking school

8 things to do on an Atlanta to New Orleans road trip

New York to New Orleans: 6 things not to miss

Spooky stories: a guide to the most famous cemeteries in New Orleans

Beyond Bourbon Street: 5 reasons to visit Frenchmen Street in New Orleans

Ribs, rock ‘n’ roll and raucous times: 4 unmissable Deep South pit stops

How to watch live music like a local in New Orleans

New Orleans travel FAQs

Do i need a covid-19 vaccine to join an intrepid trip.

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

From 1 January 2023, Intrepid will no longer require travelers to provide proof of vaccination against COVID-19 (excluding all Polar trips and select adventure cruises).

However, we continue to strongly recommend that all Intrepid travelers and leaders get vaccinated to protect themselves and others.

Specific proof of testing or vaccination may still be required by your destination or airline. Please ensure you check travel and entry requirements carefully.

How do I get to New Orleans, Louisiana?

Depending on where you travel from, New Orleans is pretty easy to get to.

You can arrive in New Orleans by car from neighboring cities such as Baton Rouge and Lafayette, or if you are a bit further away, flying to New Orleans is another good option.

The distance between New Orleans Airport and the French Quarter is only 15 miles and will take roughly 45 minutes.

What is the weather like in New Orleans, Louisiana?

New Orleans has a humid subtropical climate with hot, humid summers and short, mild winters. Rainfall is high throughout the year, and even more so during the summer, so make sure you pack your umbrella... you'll need it!

Sizzling temperatures and humidity create a perfect storm (literally) for hurricanes between June and November, and although they're rare, rainstorms are fairly common and can cause flooding across the city.

The humidity can be oppressive, so if you're planning a summer trip you may be better off taking refuge indoors with aircon during the day, and doing most of your exploring in the early mornings and evenings when it's cooler.

What do I pack for New Orleans?

When traveling to New Orleans, it's essential to read what weather to expect.

The temperatures in New Orleans can often fluctuate throughout the day in some seasons.

Regardless of when you're going, New Orleans is quite a humid place, so it's best to pack hot weather clothes so you won't be too uncomfortable.

We'd also recommend packing an umbrella if you're traveling during Winter or Fall and some appropriate wet-weather shoes.

You should always remember to pack sunscreen and apply it outside, even if the day looks overcast.

Are there any beaches in New Orleans?

There are no beaches close to the French Quarter or New Orleans.

The closest area where you can tan, swim and play other beach-related sports is Coconut Beach, a man-made attraction about a 15-minute drive from Kenner, Louisiana.

If you have access to a car and a day to spare, traveling to Pass Christian Beach is also an option, located 1 hour from New Orleans' city limits.

How far is New Orleans from....?

New Orleans is a trendy city among both locals and tourists alike, thanks to its fascinating history, beautiful architecture, and reputation for having fun. The City of New Orleans is located close to other states. It is a popular destination for weekends away, as well as longer vacations. Driving to New Orleans might be the best option if you live in one of the surrounding states or cities. Below is how far New Orleans is from its neighboring regions by car: 

• New Orleans is roughly 81 miles away from Baton Rouge, making the journey by car just over an hour. 
• Travelling from Biloxi to New Orleans would take roughly 1 hour and 20 minutes, as the journey is 91 miles. 
• The city of Pensacola is just over 200 miles away from New Orleans. To travel there by car, it would take you just under 3 hours. 
• New Orleans is 205 miles away from Lake Charles, so the car journey would take roughly 2 hours and 50 minutes. 
• If you're road-trippin' your way from Houston to New Orleans, it will take you 4 hours and 50 minutes to reach your destination, with the journey being 347 miles. 

Why is New Orleans called the 'Big Easy'?

It's not known exactly where the nickname the 'Big Easy' came from or when it started circulating. It is widely believed that it was introduced in the 1900s as a direct comparison to 'New York City's Big Apple.'

New York was considered a bustling place where things were happening all the time. New Orleans was seen as the opposite; a city with a relaxed, laidback lifestyle.

What are the most haunted cemeteries in New Orleans?

Historically, New Orleans is quite a haunted city thanks in part to its spooky and troubled past. The cemeteries in New Orleans make up some of the most haunted places in this city, with ghostly apparitions sighted and eerie noises heard among the tombstones.

These are the most haunted cemeteries in New Orleans: 

• St. Louis #1 Cemetery 
• St. Roch Cemetery 
• Lafayette #1 Cemetery 
• Metairie Cemetery 

Are Intrepid trips accessible for travellers with disabilities?

We are committed to making travel widely  accessible , regardless of ability or disability. We do our best to help you see the world, regardless of physical or mental limitations. 

We are always happy to talk to travellers with disabilities and see if we can help guide them toward the most suitable itinerary for their needs and, where possible, make reasonable adjustments to our itineraries.

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Summer in Our City

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Break away from ordinary summer vacation destinations and plan a getaway that allows you to experience the one-of-a-kind culture, magic, and timelessness of New Orleans.

Whether you're in town for Pride or any other time of the year, enjoy our three-day itinerary packed with must-dos from supporting LGBTQ-owned businesses, nightlife, dining, and more.

Hop aboard this historic mode of transportation for scenic rides to some of the city’s best attractions, restaurants and more.

Visit New Orleans this June for Pride Month celebrations, Restaurant Week New Orleans, New Orleans Wine & Food Experience, and more. 

From classic Creole eateries to neighborhood po-boy joints, New Orleans is a city for foodies. Celebrate Restaurant Week from June 17-23 and try multi-course menus at some of the best spots.

New Orleans is full of once-in-a-lifetime meals at every budget. Looking to treat yourself? Here are the top spots for bigger-ticket meals that are 100% worth it.

Looking for snacks long after the sun has set? Here are some of our favorite places to grab a bite after a night out on the town.

Find bites that both kids AND adults will love at these top picks for family-friendly dining in NOLA.

There's a New Orleans hotel for every traveler's needs. Take advantage of deals and offers from hotels all around the city.

Whether you're looking for low-key relaxation, breathtaking views, poolside cocktails with lounge vibes, or a family-friendly oasis, we've broken down our favorite pools by type.

From suites to kid-friendly amenities, make your little ones right at home with these family-friendly hotel options.

From total overhauls to extensive upgrades, book a room at one of these recently revamped hotels in New Orleans.

New Orleans is known for its cocktail culture. Some even say we invented it. Whether you’re looking for craft creations or a neighborhood dive (or both), we've got you covered.

When the temperatures rise, so does the need for a nice, cold beverage. From frozen daiquiris to fresh fruit tropical concoctions, here are our favorite libations to cool off with.

Immerse yourself in a tropical paradise at these six, must-visit tiki bars in New Orleans.

From laid-back spots for natural wine to outdoor oases with live music and small plates to boot, here are our favorite wine bars in NOLA.

For more great New Orleans content, visit our Instagram page at VisitNewOrleans .

Leave with a story, not just a souvenir. Share your NOLA story with #visitneworleans .

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Awesome Adventures

Beyond the music: treme & congo square, creole kids tour, highlights of new orleans tour - 3 hours, beyond the bayou swamp tour, paddle & plantation tour, spooky tour, magazine street foodie tour, new orleans roux class, swamp & plantation tour, vip city tour, dr. gumbo's combo cocktail and food history tour, french quarter hauntings & history, french quarter and garden district bike tour, garden district history & food tour, french quarter bike tour, 5 star garden district tour, 5-in-1 new orleans ghost & mystery tour, gondola tour, combo plantation tour, 3 hour city tour, original cajun food tour, heart of the city downtown bicycle tour, new orleans swamp tour, french quarter breakfast tour, ghost walking tour, kayak swamp tour, haunted pub crawl, new orleans brunch cooking class, manchac magic kayak tour, lee harvey oswald and the jfk conspiracy tour, breaux bridge food tour, french quarter historical tour, louisiana swamp photography tour, french quarter ghosts & legends tour, eat like a local - bywater food & art tour, ghost tour and haunted pub crawl party, whitney plantation tour, ghost, voodoo, vampire and french quarter tour, raven's omen, dr. gumbo's cocktail history tour, best chefs of new orleans food tour, around the world in acadiana taste tour, laura plantation tour, twilight tour, nola drunken history tour, unlocking bourbon street, new orleans traditions cooking class, cemetery & garden district tour, oak alley plantation tour, louisiana sauce class, french quarter: drunk & haunted, french quarter photo shoot, creole odyssey bicycle tour, american adventure bicycle tour, culinary history tour, dr. gumbo's food history tour, ghosts of the french quarter tour, garden district & lafayette cemetery walking tour, new orleans nightlife & live music tour, highlights of new orleans tour - 5 hours, nola nightlife ride, new orleans cemetery tour, pedal bike barge cruise, nola music tour, mafia, murder, sex and all that jazz, cemetery bus adventure, new orleans sauce class, louisiana kayak fishing, french quarter history & cocktail tour, new orleans plantation tour | 5 hours, tours & activities in nola.

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The Best New Orleans Tours, from Cemeteries to Street Art

By Paul Oswell

One of the many great things about New Orleans is that it’s an eminently explorable city. Much of the downtown was designed in the 18th century, and so the streets lend themselves to walking; unlike most American cities, car travel is often unnecessary. This makes exploring all the Crescent City’s many facets an absolute delight, and there’s a thriving industry of tours in and around the French Quarter and the Garden District to educate you about most of them. Down here, the locals have a love affair with music, food, art, cocktails and tradition year-round, and the menu of tours celebrates all these things with a tangibly New Orleanian flavor. 

Read our complete New Orleans travel guide here .

This gallery has been updated with new information since its original publish date.

Garden District/Lafayette Cemetery Tour Arrow

Spend two hours walking around the Garden District and one of NOLA's most grand burial grounds with guides whose love of history and New Orleans' rich culture rings out loud and clear. It's okay to geek out seeing the current and former homes of larger-than-life figures like Trent Reznor, Nicolas Cage, and Anne Rice. History buffs are much better suited for this tour than ghost hunters and Goths.

Saints and Sinners Tour, French Quarter Phantoms Arrow

Tour operator French Quarter Phantoms is one of the larger tour options in New Orleans, and this is one of their more niche tours; one that dives into the seedier side of the city’s history in a way that the regular ghost and cemetery tours don’t. Learning the origins of the more hedonistic parts of the French Quarter is an eye-opening part of the experience, from the reason Bourbon Street caters to revelers, to the local burlesque scene, to pirates, corrupt politicians, and other unsavory characters (i.e. the sinners). The saints on this tour are far and few between but include Henriette DeLille, a Black Catholic nun in the 19th century. It’s an eclectic mix, delivered entertainingly and even-handedly.

The Cocktail Tour – Drink & Learn Arrow

Drink & Learn, a walking tour, kicks off in a bar in the heart of the French Quarter. Your guide will furnish you with chilled drinks, meant to savor on the route. With the perfect blend of humor and information, Elisabeth, the guide, uses cocktails to talk about the city's history and highlights. Sugar cane, absinthe, bitters: They were all a huge part of the local economy at various times.

LGBT Queer History Tour, No Secrets Tours Arrow

This tour of New Orleans' LGBTQ+ history has an average group size of around four people; typically members of the LGBTQ+ community, although it can also be a cross-section of allies, people interested in local history, and those who just want a change of pace from the regular ghost tours. It meets in the middle of the historic French Quarter, just a block or two from Jackson Square, and is led by guides with encyclopedic knowledge of the queer history of New Orleans that weaves into modern day political and social context. It’s queer history, but it’s also a social history of civil rights and changing attitudes in the city and in the United States, from Stonewall-era NOLA riots to ‘the closet’ as a Southern phenomenon and queer culture in the city's Mardi Gras celebrations. 

New Orleans City Tour Arrow

Consider this a solid way to see all the best sights in the city. Greatest part: It doesn't just focus on touristy areas like the French Quarter or Jackson Square; it also covers the cold, hard realities of Katrina and shows the current state of the 9th Ward via a 14-seater van that covers an incredible amount of ground over three hours. Only have time for one tour and never been to NOLA before? Make it this one.

New Orleans Street Art & Mural Walk Arrow

Anyone with an interest in art beyond the galleries and museums would love this tour, which demystifies street art and provides meaning to the murals that you’ll see walking around the Marigny neighborhood. There’s around two hours of walking in total, with a bathroom/refreshment break in the middle; comfy shoes are a must. Some tours like this can feel voyeuristic, but the detail and well-informed tour guides here will make you feel like you are being shown a city's ‘behind the scenes.’ It’s even-handed, well-informed, and brings to life the murals and assorted art works with respect paid to various recent current events in New Orleans history. Plus you’re in the fresh air, appreciating striking paintings with fresh eyes.

Killers and Thrillers Ghost Tour, Ghost City Tours Arrow

This adults-only tour goes deep into the city's most notorious and gruesome crimes. Guides don't go overboard on the drama, but let the history speak for itself. People who enjoy true crime and the darker side of documentaries will find much to unpack on this 90-minute tour that might make you never look at the gorgeous French Quarter in the same way again, from the iconic Pharmacy Museum to more unassuming spots like the Sultan's Palace house on Dauphine Street.

Conspiracy in the Big Easy, Strange True Tours Arrow

Lee Harvey Oswald lived in NOLA from April to September of 1963—just before the Kennedy assassination. This tour seeks to uncover just what exactly he was doing in New Orleans over about a mile of walking. People who like to ask questions and never stop learning will appreciate how compelling this tour is. Cynics and the easily bored, though, need not apply. In our opinion, this tour is so thorny and thought-provoking it's best experienced with no expectations at all.

Hermann-Grima House Urban Enslavement Tour Arrow

This new offering from the well-established Hermann-Grima House, a historic house museum in the French Quarter of New Orleans, runs five times per day with advance reservations required and group sizes capped. The tour covers the history of rural and urban slavery practices, pairing the general social and political climates of the time with deeply humanizing details of everyday existence in the very house in which the tour takes place. Visitors learn the names of those people that lived here and their familial relationships and roles in the household, and see where people slept and ate. Slavery is presented in all its brutal truth, given its full historical context, and in the end, presented as a lesson for modern day incarceration. The house itself is an interesting example of how the upper classes lived, and it has been well conserved with all the original decadent fixtures and fittings. These, if anything, underline the stark contrast at play during this dark time, and it’s a sobering, impactful tour for anyone.

New Orleans Music & Heritage Tour, Abel Tours Arrow

This is for anyone remotely interested in New Orleans' rich history of jazz, blues, and rock music. The tour starts at Louisiana Music Factory and manages to cram three centuries of musical history into a few hours. Stories include those of the Royal Orleans Hotel —a longtime favorite of Led Zeppelin, Jefferson Airplane, and The Grateful Dead—plus key songs shared on a Bluetooth speaker.

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New Orleans Travel Guide

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New Orleans is an over-the-top experience for the senses, a city filled with vibrantly colored streets, soul-filled rhythm and blues, and memorable flavors. The coastal Louisiana enclave is the culinary heart of creole and cajun food, and beyond delicacies from gumbo to shrimp and grits, it's the city that brought us the muffuletta, beignets, and char-broiled oysters.

Nicknamed "The Big Easy," it's a town of jazz kings and queens, iconic architecture, the New Orleans Saints, and perhaps the most spirited street in America — Bourbon Street. It's also one of the only cities in America where you can legally drink on the street, which only adds to the lively nature of NOLA nightlife.

Comedian and actor Hannibal Burress famously said of the Big Easy that "for $300 you can have your own parade on a day's notice," and if that doesn't beautifully encapsulate the glory of New Orleans in one sentence, we don't know what does. Not surprisingly, the motto of New Orleans is " Laissez les bon temps rouler ," or "Let the good times roll."

Louisiana is divided into parishes rather than counties like the other states, and greater New Orleans spans eight parishes. New Orleans is one of the top 10 cities in the United States for the number of annual visitors. And it's important to remember that category five Hurricane Katrina hit New Orleans in August 2005, flooding 80 percent of the city, which is still rebuilding from the devastation.

For legendary New Orleans jazz — the city is known as the birthplace of jazz, and legendary musician, Louis Armstrong was born in the city — the best restaurants in New Orleans, and every other must-try activity, including tours of the bayou and ghost tours of the city's most haunted streets, consult this guide. We've mapped out exactly what to do in New Orleans to experience this renowned city of celebration and resilience.

Best Hotels and Resorts

Maison de la luz.

A favorite of luxury travelers, Maison de la Luz is a gorgeously decorated hotel known for its idyllic guest house. The hotel has 67 suites, including over-the-top rooms like the Grand Studio suite, which can be joined with a one-bedroom suite to accommodate larger groups. If you're looking to book a room in one of the best hotels in New Orleans , this is definitely a must-stay.

Hotel Peter and Paul

Once a church, rectory, schoolhouse, and convent, Hotel Peter and Paul has refurbished the former religious institution into a memorable boutique hotel.The schoolhouse has 59 rooms and the reception area; the convent has seven rooms and the Sundae Best Ice Cream shop; and the rectory features a brick-lined courtyard, on-site restaurant, and the last five rooms.

The Roosevelt New Orleans

Home to the Sazerac Restaurant, an outdoor pool, a rooftop bar, Waldorf Astoria spa, and polished guest rooms and suites, the historic Roosevelt New Orleans offers an opulent experience.

The Ritz-Carlton, New Orleans

Set in the heart of the French Quarter on famed Canal Street, guests can listen to live jazz at the Davenport Lounge, marvel at the authentic Beaux Arts architecture of the 1908 building, indulge in the spa's VooDoo ritual, and dine at on-site M Bistro.

Melrose Mansion

This luxury boutique offers 14 rooms and suites, each with unique design, in the historic Faubourg Marigny neighborhood within walking distance to attractions like the French Market, Cafe du Monde, and Jackson Square.

Best Things to Do

French market.

French Market is a popular open-air market and food hall in New Orleans. The space has permanent food stalls serving local  étouffée,  char-broiled oysters, crawfish, and more. Culinary demonstrations and cultural events are held there as well.

New Orleans Kayak Swamp Tours

New Orleans Kayak Swamp Tours offers a range of excursions, including a tour of Manchac Swamp, an extended bayou tour along Shell Bank, and an introduction to the scenic Honey Island Swamp. The discovery experiences are educational, ecological, and cultural.

Preservation Hall

Honorable Mention: Frenchmen Street is one of the best streets for live music in New Orleans, and the Blue Nile is one of the best spots. Catch jazz, funk, blues, and brass bands at Blue Nile, and you'll immediately be swept up in the Frenchmen Street atmosphere.

New Orleans Ghost Adventures Tour

Much of New Orleans folklore is rooted in the city being more than a little bit haunted. As such, ghost tours are quite popular in the French Quarter. Summon spirits from the beyond with a New Orleans Ghost Adventures Tour. They offer a selection of tours, including voodoo and cemetery tours, haunted pub crawls, and ghost tours of the Garden District.

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National WWII Museum

The museum's exhibits cover "the war that changed the world" through exhibits that focus on world leaders, events, and the war's courageous men and women. Stay on the Museum's campus at the  Higgins Hotel and Conference Center , an art-deco-style property offering first-class accommodations.

Read More : 25 Best Things to Do in New Orleans, From Streetcar Rides to Bar Crawls

Best Shopping

Shops at the colonnade.

Next to French Market, the open-air food hall, you'll find great shopping at the Shops at the Colonnade. After lunch at the market, dip into the Shops at the Colonnade to find souvenir vendors and local boutiques.

Piety & Desire Chocolate

Be sure to visit Piety & Desire Chocolate for a box of gorgeous  chocolats  to take home as a souvenir. (or enjoy while you're in NOLA)

Louisiana Music Factory

Stop in at Louisiana Music Factory where you'll find an inspiring number of records (across every genre, but with an emphasis on soul) as well as CDs, sheet music, posters, books, tee shirts, and hats.

St. James Cheese Company

A local favorite in New Orleans, St. James Cheese Company has an extensive, high-end array of  fromage . Visit St. James at either their uptown or Warehouse District venues for a few artisanal goods—and grab a sandwich to go while you're there.

Billy Reid is a prominent Southern clothing designer, so why not duck into the branch on Magazine Street and outfit yourself like a Southern lady or gentleman? Their style has an air of Southern class with a modernized, street-style finish.

Best Restaurants

New Orleans is a food lover's paradise with many must-try dishes and delicacies. The official cocktail of New Orleans is the Sazerac which was created in a French Quarter bar. Those visiting should try Creole and Cajun food. Some iconic dishes from New Orleans include gumbo, shrimp and grits, muffuletta, beignets, char-broiled oysters, and po' boys.

Commander's Palace

World-class chefs like Emeril Lagasse and Paul Prudhomme have graced the kitchen of this landmark restaurant. In existence since 1893, Commander's Palace features "haute Creole cuisine" and a "dirt to plate within 100 miles" policy that contributes to its legendary status as one of the city's great dining establishments.

Herd Dat Kitchen

This Black-owned eatery is a no-frills spot with (limited) outdoor seating. Though, we recommend ordering for pickup or through an app to enjoy on a night in. First-time visitors at Herd Dat Kitchen should try the Superdome: blackened fish topped with mashed potatoes garnished generously with lobster cream sauce, corn, and crispy onion rings.

Susmita Baral / Travel + Leisure

Elizabeth Street Cafe

This neighborhood Vietnamese cafe and French bakery TK.

Loretta's Authentic Praline

Cafe du Monde and Cafe Beignet get a lot of recognition (rightfully so!) for their beignets but Loretta's Authentic Praline elevates the offerings. The praline beignets are decadent and the Rampart Street location offers savory varieties like crab meat beignets and breakfast versions.

Susmita Baral/Travel + Leisure

Toup's Meatery

With signature Meatery Boards and his meat-focused entrées that range from lamb to venison, chef Isaac Toup manages to blend fine dining with the casualness of charcuterie and wine. As Toups approaches its 10-year anniversary, Toup continues to branch out, releasing two new hot sauce flavors to go along with his 2018 cookbook  Chasing the Gator .

Courtesy of Toup's Meatery

Best Time to Visit

New Orleans is a great city to visit in the winter and spring, whereas the heat, high humidity, and threat of hurricanes make the summer and fall less enticing. June through August can be rainy. Hurricane season is from June through November.

Some visitors plan a trip around Mardi Gras (or Fat Tuesday), which typically falls in February. (If you want to experience Mardi Gras, be sure to book well ahead of time and be ready for hotel rates to be higher than at other times of the year. Also, many popular sightseeing attractions are closed during Mardi Gras.) Others stay away from the crowds and high price tags associated with the festivities of the biggest event of the year.

The New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival and New Orleans Wine & Food Experience are popular events that attract visitors.

Read More: Best Time to Visit New Orleans for Great Weather and Fewer Crowds

Mariah Tyler/Travel + Leisure

Neighborhoods to Know

French Quarter: Between the Central Business District and the Marigny, the French Quarter is where you'll find some of the best restaurants and nightlife in New Orleans. One of New Orleans' most historic neighborhoods, the Quarter is where you'll find the delightful French Market and, of course, lavish homes with the quintessential decorative facades.

Marigny: From gorgeous historic buildings to under-the-radar jazz clubs and inviting local shops, the Marigny is a lovely place to spend time when visiting New Orleans. Adjacent to the French Quarter, it's an easy walk to find the artistic heart of New Orleans. Come for the preserved architecture, and stay for the Frenchmen Palace Market.

Garden District: South of the French Quarter and Marigny area and slightly farther inland, you'll find NOLA's Garden District, home to Commander's Palace and lush, oak tree-lined streets. In this neighborhood, which dates back to the 19th century, you'll find opulent mansions that exude Southern charm and old-world design.

Bywater: Boho-chic New Orleans neighborhood, Bywater, sits on the Mississippi River, bordering the Marigny. It's slightly quieter than the Marigny and significantly quieter than the French Quarter but packs an arts and culture punch. You'll find NOLA's best galleries and vintage shopping in Bywater.

Central Business District: Also thought of as New Orleans' downtown, the Central Business District (CBD) is centrally located, roughly equidistant to the Marigny and the Garden District. New Orleans' business district is bustling seven days of the week and is home to some of the city's most renowned restaurants and high-end hotels.

Treme: Bordering the French Quarter, this area was founded in the 18th century, and is known for African American history, authentic Creole food, parades, jazz funerals, and the Backstreet Cultural Museum.

How to Get Around

The New Orleans Transit Authority operates four streetcar lines: the St. Charles line, the Canal Street line, the Riverfront line, and the Rampart line. Plan ahead using the map and have your exact fare ready as they do not give change. ($1.25 one way) They also offer a Jazzy Pass which can be purchased online.

Taking a streetcar is part of the fun as well as convenient transportation. The historic vehicles are part of New Orleans' history.

Buses: There are 40 different RTA bus routes that run across the city of New Orleans. A one-way ticket costs $1.25, and a $3 all-day Jazzy Pass gets you unlimited rides for 24 hours.

Ferries: RTA Ferries transport travelers to Algiers for $2 per ride and are commonly referred to as "water taxis."

Address: 2727 S Broad Avenue New Orleans, LA 70125 Phone: (504) 799-1709 Website

Be sure to visit Piety & Desire Chocolate for a box of gorgeous chocolats to take home as a souvenir. (or enjoy while you're in NOLA)

Address: Multiple locations Website

A local favorite in New Orleans, St. James Cheese Company has an extensive, high-end array of fromage . Visit St. James at either their uptown or Warehouse District venues for a few artisanal goods—and grab a sandwich to go while you're there.

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VISIT NEW ORLEANS

Most popular experiences, steamboat natchez harbor jazz cruise, steamboat natchez jazz brunch cruise, steamboat natchez jazz dinner cruise, new orleans city & cemetery tour + garden district stroll, new orleans interactive ghosts and spirits walking tour, small airboat tour, new orleans craft cocktail walking tour, new orleans school of cooking, new orleans cooking class and cocktail walking tour, large airboat tour, swamp boat cruise with transportation from new orleans, swamp boat cruise & oak alley plantation tour from new orleans, double plantation tour in new orleans, oak alley plantation tour, whitney plantation tour, jingling through the crescent, *new date 12.23* christmas eve bonfire express in new orleans - call 504-569-1401 to reserve, group rate: steamboat natchez jazz dinner cruise, group rate: steamboat natchez harbor jazz cruise, group rate: steamboat natchez jazz brunch cruise, swamp boat cruise & destrehan plantation tour from new orleans, new orleans city tour and steamboat natchez jazz cruise, ultimate swamp tour experience, new orleans historic garden district walking tour, authentic experiences in new orleans:,  recommended by local experts, beyond tourist spots: see new orleans from a local's perspective and discover our rich culture, loved by locals and travelers alike.

If you've ever met a New Orleanian local, you know the love they have for their city is unlike anywhere else in the world. We love our music, our food, our history, and our community. Come discover it all on your next visit. We are sure that when you do, you'll fall in love with New Orleans like a local.

SEE THE MOST INSTAGRAMMABLE SPOTS

Beautiful backgrounds, stunning architecture, and gorgeous nature await you for a very Instagrammable trip. Our local experts will show you the most picturesque locations across the city that will delight and inspire you. You don't want to miss these amazing photo opportunities for the gram.

FESTIVALS FOR EVERYONE AND EVERY SEASON

Did you know that New Orleans hosts over 130 festivals per year? That's multiple per week which makes our city a great vacation spot as there is always something exciting happening. Some of our most famous festivals are Mardi Gras, Jazz Fest, French Quarter Fest, Essence Festival, and the New Orleans Wine & Food Experience.  

EXPLORE AMERICA'S MOST HISTORIC CITY

Established in 1718 then ruled by both the French and Spanish before Louisiana became part of the United States, New Orleans is one of America's most historic cities. A fascinating blend of French and Spanish influence have found their way into our buildings, food, music, and way of life. Come step back in time and discover the tales of an incredible city.

  VISITING NEW ORLEANS 

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504-503-0196

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566-678-7813

OUR HOME, YOUR ADVENTURE

EXPLORE LIKE A LOCAL

TASTE AUTHENTIC CAJUN CUISINE

DISCOVER LOUISIANA

YOUR ADVENTURE STARTS HERE!

Pelican New Orleans specializes in designing unique experiences through custom events and authentic tours. We are locals who have operated programs in New Orleans and throughout the World for over 25 years, so we have the knowledge and know-how to show you the “Spirit of New Orleans,” with a dedication of delivering every detail with perfection and style.

Superior Tours

Our superior guides are the key, combined with the deluxe vehicles to get you to the best places. This winning combination is the result of many years of research, creative planning and operational execution.

Deluxe Transportation

The best fleet of vehicles and vessels for our land and swamp tours bring your group passengers to the best locations where wildlife abounds, sunsets rise brilliantly on the horizon and quaint side streets offer quiet respite to the hustle and bustle of the city’s main tourist attractions.

Unique Events

New Orleans is known for throwing a big party, but PNO can offer your group so much more. Known as the true “Melting Pot” of a nation, 300 years of history and a convergence of many cultures provide myriad content options for authentic and unforgettable event themes.

corporate & group PROGRAMS

See the Big Easy in a whole new light.

Celebration Tours and Transportation

Small, Intimate Tours with a New Orleans Native

Over 100,000 happy visitors toured New Orleans with Celebration Tours

As a family-owned tour company, we pride ourselves in providing tourists with the best tour experience possible. Our entire team has deep New Orleans roots which makes us passionate about showing you our love for this city. Our guides will take you to the French Quarter, Historic Cemeteries, the Garden District and Katrina Recovery. Our tours depart rain or shine! We will even pick you up and drop you off right at your hotel.

We also offer private transportation options in the Greater New Orleans area. So why not plan your next event with us? We will help take the headache out of organizing the transportation for a big group. Just get in touch.

If you’ve already seen the city highlights then we’d recommend a visit to some of the historic Louisiana plantations on our Private Plantations Tour. You’ll receive an informative guided tour at the Oak Valley and Laura Plantations where you’ll explore this fascinating part of Louisiana history.

Comfortable + Reliable

Sit back and relax in our comfortable 14 seater passenger van. We provide punctual, roundtrip transportation to and from your hotel. Our spacious vans are perfect for navigating the narrow streets of New Orleans – something you can’t do on a big tour bus!

Custom Transportation

Have an event coming up, but not sure about your group’s transportation? Don’t stress! Book custom transportation with Celebration Tours. We will take care of all your transportation needs including pickup and drop off to and from multiple locations.

Why Choose Celebration Tours?

Personalized + reliable tours.

Our small group tours enable us to personalize your experience in New Orleans. As locals we know our city intimately and can take you to the top tourist spots as well as some of the hidden jewels.

Family Business

We are a family-owned company, who pride ourselves in offering tourists the best experience possible. Our entire team has deep New Orleans roots which makes us passionate about showing you our love for this city!

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Whether you're booking a tour, custom transportation we take care of all the details. You won't need to worry about planning, driving, parking or reservations when booking with us.

Custom Tours

If you can't find exactly what you are looking for then we can customize a private tour just for you! We can accommodate anyone from solo travelers to families and groups of up to 30.

• mhoffman1802, Portland: Our day with this 3 hour tour was fun informative and efficient. Our guide was humorous and knew his territory. He gave us a great feel for New Orleans past and present Read full Testimonial
• Athol G, Australia: We wish we could have spent more time with Oz. Book with CELEBRATION and it will be an enjoyable experience touring New Orleans with Oz Read full Testimonial
• Kip1012: This is a great way to see all of NOLA! Ozzie knows his history. Learned more about NOLA than I could ever read about. It was a great tour--especially if you have limited time Read full Testimonial

Recommended By Condé Nast Traveler

"The whole tour was great, to be honest, as it didn't just focus on touristy areas like the French Quarter or Jackson Square; it also covered the cold and hard realities." Condé Nast Traveler

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The 13 best new orleans walking tours.

Take on the Big Easy with a stroll through its streets.

The 14 Best New Orleans Walking Tours

Getty Images

Take your time getting to know New Orleans with an easygoing walking tour.

Thanks to its melting pot of cultures, New Orleans has many sides to explore. Choose a walking tour so you'll not only burn calories from all those beignets, but also discover the Big Easy's top attractions along with its history, hauntings and food. Using both traveler sentiment and expert opinion, U.S. News created a list of the top New Orleans walking tours. No matter which one you choose, you're bound to have a rousing good time.

New Orleans Legendary Walking Tours – French Quarter Tour

This approximately two-hour tour not only includes a walk through the French Quarter , but also an extensive overview of the city's centuries-old history. You'll walk past iconic New Orleans homes and see the Mississippi River, among other sights. You'll also learn about the events that led up to the creation of Jackson Square and the importance of music in New Orleans culture. Reviewers say the guides are outstanding and describe the tour as a "must-do," especially for history buffs.

Tours run at 10 a.m. and 1 p.m. daily. Tickets start at $27.75 for adults and $16.75 for children 4 to 11; children 3 and younger tour free. The company also offers ghost tours and tours of the Garden District .

[ View & Book Tickets .]

New Orleans Secrets – Magazine Street Foodie Tour

Eat your way through Magazine Street – described by New Orleans Secrets as a local foodie paradise – on this three-hour food tour. During your trip, you'll sample six different items from five local restaurants. Plus, the tour is accessible. Reviewers praise their informative guides and say the tour provides just the right amount of food. Tourgoers also say this is a great experience for first-timers and repeat visitors alike.

Tickets start at $85 per person ages 6 and older. The ticket price covers all food and one pint of local beer or soda; additional alcoholic beverages can be purchased separately at each stop. Tours run Thursday through Monday at 11 a.m.; there's an additional 3 p.m. weekday tour. Hungry for more? New Orleans Secrets also offers a French Quarter History and Cocktail tour.

TOURS by Steven – Garden District & Lafayette Cemetery Walking Tour

Admire celebrity homes, famous filming locations and lush landscaping on this two-hour tour of the Garden District. Though you won't walk through Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 (public access is not allowed), you will stop outside of it, where you'll learn all about the city's unique burial traditions and cemeteries. Reviewers praise guides for their vast knowledge of New Orleans and the Garden District. Tourgoers also appreciate that guides share their recommendations for restaurants and things to do.

Tours are available daily at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. Tickets cost approximately $30 for adults and $20 for children ages 6 to 11. TOURS by Steven also lead guided walks through the French Quarter, in addition to jogging tours.

Friends of the Cabildo – French Quarter Walking Tours

This tour is run by Friends of the Cabildo, a nonprofit group that supports the Louisiana State Museum, which is partially housed in the Cabildo building. The two-hour tours focus on the history, architecture and folklore of New Orleans. Reviewers say they learned so much while on the tour and describe guides as well-versed in Louisiana history.

Tours run daily at 10:30 a.m. and 1:30 p.m., and ticket prices start at $25 for adults and $20 for students, seniors and the military.

Two Chicks Walking Tours – Grand Garden District Tour

Admire the Garden District's historic mansions and enjoy a Louisiana history lesson on this two-hour tour. As you meander among the neighborhood's opulent homes, your guide will regale you with stories about the city's role in the Civil War, its famous architecture and the filming locations for a variety of popular movies and TV shows. You'll also pass by Lafayette Cemetery No. 1, where you'll learn about local burial traditions. Reviewers say the tour is paced well and highly educational thanks to the informative guides. Travelers also appreciate that the guides don't whitewash their discussions of New Orleans history.

Tours run daily at 10:30 a.m. and 2 p.m. Tickets cost approximately $30 per person. Two Chicks Walking Tours also operates tours of the French Quarter.

Courtesy of Lucky Bean Tours

Lucky Bean Tours aims to engage kids of all ages on its walking tour of the French Quarter with snacks, crafts and stories.

Ghost City Tours – Killers and Thrillers Tour

Get a look at New Orleans' haunted past, Voodoo practices and infamous crimes on this nighttime tour for adults. You'll stroll through the French Quarter for 90 minutes as guides tell you the real crime story behind ghostly tales. The excursion is pet-friendly, and participants are invited to bring alcohol. Reviewers say the guides are great storytellers, and that the tour is a must-do experience if you're a fan of true crime.

The tour runs nightly at 6 and 8 p.m. Tickets cost approximately $35 per person, and participants must be 16 or older. If you're looking for an experience the whole family can enjoy, consider the company's Ghosts of New Orleans Tour, which is suitable for all ages.

Doctor Gumbo – Cocktail History Walking Tour

New Orleans is a city that knows a thing or two about cocktails. In fact, it's the birthplace of the Sazerac, a whiskey drink. This Doctor Gumbo tour takes visitors through a history of the city's cocktails with stops at up to four restaurants and bars like SoBou, the Bourbon O Bar and Peychaud's. Along the way, travelers will sample the Sazerac, the grasshopper and more. Participants enjoy the tour thanks to the relaxed pace and fun guide, and say they learn a lot about mixology and cocktail history.

Tickets cost approximately $70 per person. Tourgoers must be 21 years or older. Tours run Wednesday through Sunday at 5 p.m. and last about three hours. More interested in eating than drinking? Doctor Gumbo also offers a food history tour.

Free Tours by Foot – Voodoo Tour

Voodoo plays an integral role in New Orleans legends and culture, and this tour highlights that aspect of the city. Free Tours by Foot's 1 1/2-hour Voodoo Tour unveils the religion's origins in West Africa and includes stops at Congo Square and city cemeteries. You'll conclude the tour with a visit to a modern Voodoo temple. Reviewers describe guides as entertaining and knowledgeable and say the tour is educational.

Join the tour Thursday through Monday at 10 a.m. or 3 p.m. Though you name the price of the tickets, reservations are required. The tour is suitable for all ages. The company also offers free food and ghost tours, among others.

Courtesy of New Orleans Architecture Tours

View some of New Orleans' most unique buildings with a tour from New Orleans Architecture Tours.

New Orleans Architecture Tours – Garden District Tour

This two-hour trip offers a close look at the Garden District and its Greek Revival, Victorian and Italianate mansions. As you view these 19th-century homes, you'll learn which ones have historic and celebrity ties. Tourgoers say they are wowed by the guides' architecture savvy and say the experience is well worth the cost.

Tours run daily at 10 a.m.; an additional 1 p.m. tour may also be available. Tickets cost approximately $30 per person, and all ages are welcome. The company also offers tours of Marigny and the French Quarter.

Gray Line – New Orleans Original Cocktail Walking Tour

Discover famous bars and restaurants within the French Quarter on this 2 1/2-hour cocktail walking tour that shares the history of the city's drinks from absinthe to Pimm's Cup. The adventure starts with a complimentary Natchez jazz punch, and you can buy additional drinks at stops along the way. Reviewers say guides are well-educated and praise the quality of the stops and the drinks. They advise taking the tour early in your New Orleans trip as it helps you familiarize yourself with the French Quarter.

Tours depart at 4 p.m. each day, and tickets cost approximately $30 for adults. You must be at least 21 years old to participate. Gray Line also offers swamp tours and plantation tours, among others.

French Quarter Phantoms – Ghost and Vampire Walking Tour of the French Quarter

Hear the spine-chilling details behind some of the city's most famous ghost stories and vampire lore on this approximately two-hour walking tour through the French Quarter. Tourgoers describe guides as entertaining and say they skillfully weave in a fair amount of history to their ghost stories.

Tours are offered nightly at 6 and 8 p.m. Ticket prices start at $22 for adults and $5 for children 7 and younger. French Quarter Phantoms also conducts tours that visit several of the city's cemeteries, as well as a Tremé walking tour.

Destination Kitchen – New Orleans Food Walking Tour of French Quarter

Stop by some of the most famous restaurants in the French Quarter on this three-hour walking food tour. Along the way, you'll enjoy up to seven tastings as you visit eateries recommended in popular cookbooks and listen to tales of New Orleans culture and history. Jambalaya, pralines, alligator bites and chargrilled oysters may be among the dishes sampled. Reviewers rave about the food and the guides. Many travelers call this a "must-do" and recommend booking it for your first day in New Orleans to help get your bearings.

Tours operate daily multiple times a day in the morning and afternoon. Tickets start at approximately $70 per person. Destination Kitchen also hosts tours of the Garden District, as well as a combo cocktail and food tour of the French Quarter.

Haunted History Tours – French Quarter Ghosts & Legends Tour

Visit some of the French Quarter's most haunted locations on this approximately two-hour tour. Though this walking tour focuses on New Orleans' paranormal activity, the stories that guides share are rooted in historical fact. Tourgoers say guides are entertaining storytellers who manage to be both humorous and informative at the same time.

Tours operate daily at 3, 6 and 8 p.m. Tickets cost approximately $30 for adults and $20 for children ages 6 to 12. Haunted History Tours also hosts evening pub crawls, as well as tours of the Garden District, among other options.

You may also be interested in:

• Best New Orleans Tours
• Best New Orleans Cemetery Tours
• Best New Orleans Ghost Tours
• Best New Orleans Plantation Tours
• Best New Orleans Swamp Tours
• Best Louisiana Swamp Tours

Tags: Tours , New Orleans , Vacations , Travel , Louisiana Vacations , Southeast Vacations , US Vacations

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From Cemeteries To Cocktails — 6 Amazing Tours To Experience In New Orleans

• Activities and Interests
• Destinations
• Guided Tours
• New Orleans
• Sightseeing
• United States

Whenever I visit a new-to-me city, I schedule a tour with a local tour company. There’s no better way to get the lay of the land than to grab your shoes and hit the streets. And with a local leading you around town, you’ll learn way more, way faster than you would on your own. I have a particular fondness for culinary tours. There’s nothing better than enjoying great, local food and getting to know the stories behind it.

On my recent visit to New Orleans, I was lucky enough to experience a fabulous food tour that took us through the foods of the French Quarter. While there are lots of great food tours to choose from in NOLA, the city offers tours on almost any subject you can think of. From cemeteries to cocktails, there’s a tour (or two) for everyone. Here are some of the most amazing tours to experience in New Orleans.

1. New Orleans Food Walking Tour Of The French Quarter

Destination kitchen.

When you visit a food-centric city like New Orleans, a food tour is a must. A tour with Destination Kitchen Food Tours is perfect if you’re looking for a locally-led, small food tour, with lots of stops at unique places in the French Quarter. Our tour leader, Susan, led our group of 13 on a 3-hour walking food crawl all through the Quarter.

One of the first things she pointed out is that New Orleans is a city on the brink of a party — pretty much at all times. After all, the city is quickly sinking, and tomorrow is promised to no one. So it’s always drink-o’clock in NOLA. And with that, we were off to sample all the wonderful dishes (and cocktails) New Orleans is known for. At the top of my list are the boudin on a stick, the po’ boy, and the Southern fly cocktail.

Honestly, I think it’d be tough to find bad food or drink in New Orleans. Gastronomy is what they’re known for here. So while you can find good food on your own, you can’t learn about the history and culture of the people and the city unless you do a tour. Destination Kitchen provides expert, local tour leaders that know their stuff.

They’re a local, small business that’s based in New Orleans, not a gigantic tour company with offices in every city. The folks here are either native New Orleanians or have been here long enough that they’re the next best thing. This personal connection is what makes their tours a cut above.

Check out our top choices for New Orleans hotels in the French Quarter .

2. New Orleans Garden District Tour

Two chicks walking tours.

If you want to learn about the Garden District, one of the most exclusive areas of New Orleans, a walking tour is the way to go. Two Chicks Walking Tours offers a great walking tour through the Garden District. See incredible homes and learn about the neighborhood’s history on this 2-hour tour.

Two Chicks Walking Tours is a small, locally owned tour company that’s been doing tours for about 10 years. We spent a couple of hours with our tour leaders, walking through the neighborhood viewing gorgeous homes, grand gardens teeming with all sorts of flowers and plants, and hearing fascinating tidbits about the history of the Garden District. Our Two Chicks tour guide was a wealth of knowledge about the area and the city of New Orleans in general.

We learned a lot about why the city has a “French” quarter, along with information about the original American sector of town. You’ll see magnificent homes built in a wide range of architectural styles including my favorite, the Greek Revival style. Known for its historic mansions and a range of architectural styles, the Garden District is one of the most fabulous areas in New Orleans.

We liked Two Chicks because they have insider information about famous people who have lived in the Garden District. Most of these historic homes have at least some intriguing history attached to them. Two Chicks will give you the low-down.

3. Treme/Storyville/Cemetery/Voodoo Tour

Nola historic tours.

If you’re looking for a combo tour that highlights multiple areas of the city and covers history, culture, and religion, book the Treme/Storyville/Cemetery/Voodoo Tour with Nola Historic Tours. A provider of educational and entertaining tours in the city since 1995, Nola Historic Tours does unique tours that you won’t find anywhere else, and their guides are some of the best. 

According to NOLA Historic Tours President Robert Florence, they look for guides that have impressive credentials on paper, but more importantly, they hire tour guides that have great communication skills, charisma, warmth, and a sense of humor.

As part of the cemetery tour, you’ll tour St. Louis Cemetery #2 , the historic above-ground cemetery where many notable African American historical figures and musicians are buried. Among those buried here are Henriette Delille, founder of the Sisters of the Holy Family, the nation’s second oldest order of African American nuns; Jordan Noble, the free military drummer who drummed commands in 4 different wars; and early civil rights publishers Jean Baptiste Roundanez and Paul Trevigne.

If you’re into voodoo, this is the tour for you! You’ll visit Our Lady of Guadalupe Church, New Orleans’ oldest surviving Catholic Church, and learn about the connection between West African spiritual beliefs and Roman Catholicism. This is one tour offers a little bit of a lot of subjects that will appeal to a diverse group. So if your group can’t agree on just one tour, do this one with NOLA Historic Tours.

Pro Tip: If you want to visit St. Louis Cemetery #2, you need to go on a tour because it’s closed to the public due to recurrent vandalism issues.

4. New Orleans Streetcar Cocktail Crawl

Self-guided cocktail tour on st. charles avenue.

A self-guided cocktail tour through the Big Easy is a fun way to spend an afternoon. Did you know that New Orleans has a streetcar system that’s easy to navigate? To help promote the streetcar system and the local watering holes, the city has created a tour that allows you to experience both.

Jump on the St. Charles Streetcar and begin your New Orleans Streetcar Cocktail Crawl . This low-commitment tour allows you to plan your stops, using the framework of the streetcar stops. For only a few dollars you can ride the streetcar all day. The route goes from South Carrollton Avenue to St. Charles Avenue, and then into downtown. Stop at any or all of these restaurants and bars for a drink.

Cooter Brown’s is a sports bar where you can grab a cold beer and freshly shucked oysters. The Delachaise , a French wine bar, offers frog legs and frites with wine. To get a look at the New Orleans skyline, head to the Pontchartrain Hotel rooftop bar, the Hot Tin , where the views are amazing.

5. Burlesque NOLA Or NOLA Literary Craft Cocktail

A salon tour is a unique splurge experience for people who are interested in history and culture and want to actually experience what life was like in the city’s early years. These Salon experiences combine a live, interactive experience and make the history and culture of New Orleans come alive.

NOLA Historic Tours offers several Salon Experiences , or you can create your own. Listen to readings from New Orleans literary greats like William Faulker, Ernest Hemingway, and Truman Capote and indulge in a cocktail they enjoyed.

Or, take in a live burlesque show as many did back in the day when New Orleans was a burlesque hot spot, and learn the stories of some of the most famous dancers. If you’d rather create your tour NOLA Historic Tours can customize a once-in-a-lifetime salon experience for just about any subject you may be interested in.

6. Our Favorite Ghosts

Unique nola tours.

Are you looking for spooky fun after dark? If you’re into paranormal activity, the Our Favorite Ghosts tour from Unique NOLA Tours may be just what you’re after. After all, New Orleans is known far and wide as one of the most haunted cities in the United States. In fact, many of the famous ghost-chasing series like Ghost Hunters , Ghost Adventures , and even American Horror Story have all filmed in New Orleans.

More specifically, the French Quarter is said to be a hotbed for ghosts and goblins. This 2-hour tour winds through the French Quarter, going to the highly haunted spots, where you’ll learn the history of all the ghostly activities that took place here. At one French Quarter stop, the St. Louis Cemetery, you may even catch one of the city’s most well-known ghosts, Marie Laveau, a Creole woman who was quite fond of practicing voodoo. Legend has it that she enjoys hanging around her tomb!

Pro Tip: This ghost tour commences in the evening when it’s dark and creepy!

Enjoying a local tour with a local tour operator is the best way to learn about a new city. These New Orleans tour guides are professionals and they know their stuff. No matter which tour you decide to try, you’re practically guaranteed to learn something new and have some fun.

Related Reading:

• 8 Fantastic Walking Tours To Experience In New Orleans
• How To Spend A Long Weekend In Fabulous New Orleans
• 12 Fabulous Reasons You Need To Visit New Orleans Again

SJ is a professional travel writer based in the Midwest. She has a background in credit card points and miles, having spent years working on loyalty campaigns for various financial institutions. She has a B.A. in history and is a member of the North American Travel Journalists Association, the International Food Wine and Travel Writers Association, and the International Travel Writers Alliance. SJ specializes in writing about travel, food, and wine.

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10 Things To Do For In New Orleans For $25 Or Less

From exploring historic sites to savoring local cuisine, enjoy the New Orleans, aka the Big Easy, without breaking the bank!

Quintessa Williams • Jun 24, 2024

New Orleans is renowned for its vibrant culture, rich history, and unique music, food, and architecture blend. Despite misconceptions about affordability, the city offers many experiences catering to varying budgets. 

From free  cultural festivals  and live music performances to affordable local eateries and historic neighborhood tours, New Orleans provides enriching experiences accessible to all. Its deep-rooted African American heritage adds an extra layer of significance, making it a compelling destination that  celebrates diversity  and offers meaningful  connections to history  and culture. Here are 10 things you can do in New Orleans for under $20.

Wake Up With Treme Coffeehouse

Treme Coffeehouse in New Orleans offers a cozy atmosphere with delicious coffee, pastries, and light bites. Located in the historic Treme neighborhood, it’s an ideal spot to relax, enjoy local art, and engage with the vibrant community. Perfect for a casual meetup or a quiet moment with a book.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by Treme Coffeehouse (@tremecoffeehouse)

• Cost: $1 to $10
• Website: thetremecoffeehouse.com
• Get more for your money: Treme also has sandwiches and bagels for under $10.

Visit The Backstreet Cultural Museum

The Backstreet Cultural Museum in New Orleans showcases African American cultural traditions, including Mardi Gras Indians, jazz funerals, and social aid and pleasure clubs. Visitors can explore vibrant exhibits, learn about local history, and experience the rich heritage of Treme through guided tours and cultural events.

View this post on Instagram A post shared by BackStreet Cultural Museum (@backstreetculturalmuseum)

• Cost: $20 admission
• Website: backstreetmuseum.org
• Get more for your money: Children can also visit the museum for only $10.

Relax At Louis Armstrong Park

Louis Armstrong Park in New Orleans celebrates the legacy of jazz legend Louis Armstrong. Visitors can stroll through its scenic paths, admire statues and fountains, and enjoy live music at the historic Congo Square. The park offers a serene environment for relaxation, picnics, and experiencing the city’s vibrant musical heritage.

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• Cost: Free entry 
• Website: neworleans.com/listing/louis-armstrong-park/32549/
• Get more for your money: The park also hosts events such as festivals and live music performances throughout the year.

Tour The French Quarter

The French Quarter in New Orleans is a historic neighborhood known for its vibrant nightlife, stunning architecture, and rich cultural heritage. Visitors can explore Bourbon Street’s lively bars, enjoy jazz music, dine on Creole cuisine, visit historic sites, and shop for unique souvenirs in its charming boutiques and markets.

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• Cost: Free (self-guided tour)
• Website: neworleans.com/plan/neighborhoods/french-quarter/
• Get more for your money: Select tours of the French Quarter are $25. Visit the tour page for more information. 

Visit The Historic Voodoo Museum

The Historic Voodoo Museum in New Orleans offers an intriguing glimpse into the mystical world of Voodoo. Visitors can explore exhibits on Voodoo rituals, artifacts, and folklore. The museum provides an educational experience on Voodoo’s cultural and historical significance in New Orleans, with opportunities for guided tours and spiritual readings.

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• Cost: $8 (self-guided tour)
• Website: voodoomuseum.com
• Get more for your money: The museum also offers select voodoo dolls for $10 to $20.

Brunch At Dooky Chase’s Restaurant

Established in 1941, Dooky Chase’s is a historic Creole restaurant known for its rich history and delicious cuisine. It played a significant role during the Civil Rights Movement as a meeting place for leaders. The restaurant is renowned for its traditional Creole dishes and warm, welcoming atmosphere.

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• Cost: Lunch menu items all under $20.
• Website: dookychaserestaurants.com
• Get more for your money: Dooky Chase’s also offers desserts such as bread pudding and peach cobbler for only $7.

Visit The New Orleans African American Museum

The New Orleans African American Museum is dedicated to preserving and showcasing African Americans’ contributions to the city’s culture and history. Located in Treme, it features exhibits on local artists, historical figures, and cultural traditions. Visitors can enjoy art exhibitions, educational programs, and special events celebrating African American heritage.

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• Website noaam.org
• Get more for your money: NOAAM also offers free public discussions, exhibitions, and live music performances. Visit the calendar for upcoming events.

Dine At Neyow’s Creole Café

Neyow’s Creole Café offers a warm, family-friendly atmosphere with a menu full of traditional Creole dishes. Known for its generous portions and flavorful cuisine, it’s a popular spot for locals and visitors. Feast on signature dishes like chargrilled oysters, shrimp Creole, and gumbo. Enjoy the lively and welcoming environment that reflects the heart of New Orleans culture.

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• Cost: Many meals under $25
• Website: neworleans.neyows.com
• Get more for your money: All kids’ meals are under $12.

Listen To Music At Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro

Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro in New Orleans is a premier music venue renowned for its intimate jazz performances. It is located on Frenchmen Street and offers a cozy dining experience with Creole and Southern cuisine. Visitors can enjoy world-class live jazz in an inviting atmosphere, making it a must-visit spot for music lovers seeking authentic New Orleans sounds.

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• Cost: Select cover charge ranges from $15 to $25
• Website: snugjazz.com
• Get more for your money: The bistro also offers select appetizers, such as broiled shrimp and oysters, for less than $20.

Visit The Community Book Center

The Community Book Center in New Orleans is a vibrant hub for African American literature and culture. Visitors can browse a diverse selection of books by Black authors, attend readings and community events, and engage in cultural discussions. This welcoming space fosters learning, connection, and celebration of African American heritage, making it a cornerstone of the local literary scene.

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• Cost: Many items are under $25.
• Website: bookshop.org/shop/readcbc
• Get more for your money: The book center offers specials on select items throughout the year. Visit the special offers section for more information.

New Orleans is a captivating destination for Black travelers, offering a unique blend of cultural richness, historical significance, and vibrant experiences. The city’s deep ties to African American heritage are reflected in its music, cuisine, and traditions, allowing visitors to connect with their roots and explore pivotal chapters of American history.

In addition to its cultural richness, New Orleans warmly welcomes visitors, offering unforgettable experiences ranging from Mardi Gras festivities to soul-stirring live music performances. Whether tracing ancestral roots or seeking a new adventure, New Orleans promises a journey filled with warmth, authenticity, and the enduring spirit of community.

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Have you heard these Louisiana ghost stories? Tales span from New Orleans to Shreveport

BATON ROUGE, La. (BRPROUD) — Have you heard that Louisiana is haunted?

Louisiana history is filled with reported hauntings, paranormal activity and ghost stories, According to Explore Louisiana .

New Orleans has been named one of the most haunted cities in the nation. From haunted hotels to historic homes, Louisiana has found a way to capitalize on the haunted rumors by offering guided haunted tours, cemetery visits and haunted accommodations.

So to help you test the theories for yourself or just to increase your knowledge, we’ve compiled a list of hauntings along with the ghost story behind it.

The St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 in New Orleans holds the tombstone of Voodoo priestess, Marie Laveau. According to Brittanica , she was known for her alleged healing powers and overseeing spiritual rites. The St. Louis Cemetery holds about 100,000 of the city’s dead, who are rumored to walk through the cemetery. A licensed tour guide is required to visit the cemetery.

Arnaud’s Restaurant has accounts of having paranormal sightings. This fine-dining upscale restaurant has been serving the New Orleans area for over 100 years with classic Creole meals and Dixieland music. According to Explore Louisiana , Count Arnaud reportedly appears in the main dining room in a tuxedo and disappears into a wall. Patrons also report seeing a group of well-dressed ghostly gentlemen at the bar.

LaLaurie’s Mansion is another location in New Orleans that is believed to be haunted, according to Explore Louisiana. The mansion belonged to Delphine LaLaurie, the daughter of Louis Barthélémy de Macarty, a diplomat of the Royal and Military Order of St. Louis. LaLaurie was known for the extravagant parties she threw. After a fire at the LaLaurie mansion, firefighters discovered bodies of reported slaves and children chained and tortured in a portion of the mansion. Many true-crime films are based on the history of the LaLaurie mansion. The tortured souls are said to still be looking for revenge. Visitors are allowed to tour the mansion.

In the capital city, the Old State Capitol is believed to be haunted. According to reports, Legislator Pierre Couvillion had a heart attack in the capitol’s chambers after a discussion about corrupt politicians. A security guard reports feeling someone tap him on the shoulder and seeing figures moving in the dark.

The Shreveport Municipal Auditorium is another haunted building in the state. The basement of the auditorium was used as a temporary morgue during the days of the Louisiana Hayride show days, a music festival for artists to showcase their talents. According to Explore Louisiana, reports include a spirit by the name of Sarge playing with women’s hair and a young girl running around the arena floor, opening and closing doors. Another spirit named Mary can sometimes be seen in tourists’ photos, sitting in seats around the arena.

One of the most prominent reported haunted locations in Louisiana is The Myrtles Plantation in St. Francisville. The Myrtles was built in the 1700s. Reports show that the hauntings started after a slave named Chloe was punished for eavesdropping on the family. Chloe reportedly baked a poisonous cake, killing three of the family members. Ghosts of the residents have been been documented in photos, videos and by tourists. Visitors have the option of taking a tour of the home and staying overnight in the rooms. The Myrtles has been featured on national TV shows and has been designated a national historic place.

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Neil Young Cancels Crazy Horse Tour Dates Citing Band Illness

"We are still not fully recovered, so sadly our great tour will have a big unplanned break," said Young in an announcement on Wednesday

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Neil Young and Crazy Horse's "Love Earth Tour" has officially been canceled.

On Wednesday, June 26, the 78-year-old musician announced on his website that while the tour "has been a great experience," filled with "great audiences and music," some of the group members have fallen ill.

Young said that a "couple of us got sick" after performing at the Pine Knob Music Theatre in Clarkston, Mich., on Wednesday, June 22 . Days after the performance, he and his group postponed two shows in Texas "due to illness."

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"When a couple of us got sick after Detroit’s Pine Knob, we had to stop. We are still not fully recovered, so sadly our great tour will have a big unplanned break," Young explained in his latest update.

The performer noted that the band "will try to play some of the dates we miss as time passes when we are ready to rock again."

Gary Miller/Getty

"We know many of you made travel plans and we apologize for the inconvenience," his statement continued. "Thanks for your understanding and patience. Health is # 1. We want to stay and do more shows and more albums for you…. and for for us. With love and thanks to all of you from Crazy Horse….. Neil, Micah, Ralph and Billy Love Earth."

One of the group's upcoming highly anticipated performances was scheduled to take place at the 2024 Ohana Festival .

The festival confirmed in a Facebook statement that the group would no longer be performing at the event, adding, "Please stay tuned for a lineup update coming as soon as possible; in the meantime, we are wishing the band a speedy recovery."

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Young's announcement comes days before he and Crazy Horse are set to release Early Daze , a collection of recordings done by the band in 1969.

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" Early Daze showcases the band's unique style at the end of the 1960s, capturing the essence of their live performances and their contribution to the evolution of rock & roll," Young's website explains. The album will be released on Friday, June 28.

The current Crazy Horse lineup joining Young includes bassist Billy Talbot, drummer Ralph Molina and guitarist Micah Nelson. Talbot and Molina have been with the band since 1968, while Nelson joined last year.

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