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Free Walking Tour New Orleans

The only locally owned and operated free walking tour in new orleans, free  new orleans walking tour.

Nola Tour Guy started in 2012 by owner David Hedges to offer visitors a deeper understanding of New Orleans unique culture and history. Nola Tour Guy is the only locally owned and operated walking tour company that offers FREE Historical Walking Tours.

Nola Tour Guy currently offers three different historical walking tours. One of the French Quarter, the original city settled by the French in 1718. The Garden District, where wealthy southerners built beautiful mansions in the 19th century and of the cemeteries, where you can learn about New Orleans unique burial traditions that hearken back to our French, Spanish and African roots. Why book a tour with a big international chain when you can have a local guide give you a rich and detailed history of the city they truly love. After taking our tours you will understand why New Orleans is perhaps the most unique city in the United States. We generally offer tours daily at 10am and 3pm. Check our website for the most up to date information.

In addition to our Free to join "pay what you feel like" walking tours we also offer affordably priced private tours which are perfect for larger group of travelers. If our scheduled guided tours don't fit your needs we also offer free Self-Guided Tours you can take anytime at your leisure and a Free New Orleans Travel Guide so you can easily plan your trip to the most interesting city in the United States and not miss out on any must do activities.

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Free Walking Tours in New Orleans (Budget Friendly Activity!)

If you are looking for some low-cost things to do in New Orleans, this post about free walking tours in New Orleans is perfect for you! Free walking tours are my favorite way to see and learn about a new city at a very affordable cost. It’s also a great way to get acquainted with a new town, meet other travelers and have someone to ask for local recommendations. Free walking tours are free to sign up for and participate in; all they ask at the end is a “tip” for the tour at what you feel the tour was worth and can afford. The typical suggested tip is $15-25 (but you are not obligated to any amount).

New Orleans is a city that must be experienced on foot. Luckily, a couple of walking tours are available to help visitors get acquainted with the Big Easy. Here are a few free walking tours, including the walking tours I took in New Orleans in December 2021.

Free Tours By Foot

I did two walking tours with Free Tours By Foot during my three-day stay in New Orleans and had a great experience with both. Their Food Tour was informative and fun, and their Garden District Tour was full of New Orleans history. So I highly recommend this company from my experiences!

Tours offered by this company include The French Quarter, The Garden District, New Orleans Ghosts, Voodoo Tour, St. Louis #3 Cemetary and Bayou John, and others.

They also have self-guided audio tours you can download for $2.99, as well as private tours for $25. Very very affordable!

Also, as a side note , their website has YouTube videos of the tours which is helpful to see the kind of content you will get on a tour with them. I also found them beneficial to help me get familiar with the city before arriving.

NOLA Tour Guy

Here’s another great option for free walking tours in New Orleans. Check out NOLA Tour Guy !

Tours include French Quarter, The Garden District, and Cemetary Tour. 

They also have private tours available for $20. 

I wouldn’t hesitate to give them a try, they have excellent ratings on Trip Advisor !

If you’re looking for a great way to see the city, I highly recommend taking one of the free walking tours. Not only are they affordable, but you also get to learn about New Orleans’s history and culture from a local guide. Would you take one of the free walking tours in New Orleans?

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“ There's a variety of options to choose from for all sort of interests and we chose the voodoo tour . ” in 130 reviews

“ YouTube has great examples of Sandy's and Robi 's style but it still doesn't do them justice... ” in 77 reviews

“ Louis Cemetery #1 where booking was just $2 online plus whatever we felt was appropriate as their keep in person. ” in 41 reviews

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The exact ending point depends on the tour guide, but with that said, the ending is going to be very near to the starting point.

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845 reviews

We took 7 tours in total during our recent NOLA trip, with 6 FTBF guides. I have EXTENSIVE reviews of each and every one of these AWESOME experiences. Yelp limits my post, so ANYONE seeking more detailed information regarding the below tours is welcome to message me and I'll pass along that specific review! I've also posted it's entirety on the FTBF page of a major social media site that once used faces as it's bases for publishing books... so you can find it there, too! Enjoy! #AndrewFarrier: Garden District Tour, &Creole Christmas Tour In The French Quarter #DanielChick: French Quarter Tour #KaylaLemaire: French Quarter Food Tour #EvianHardester: Tremé Tour #SandyHester: Historically Accurate Voodoo Tour #AndrewSimoneaux: Ghost Tour #NewOrleans #FreeToursByFoot #NOLA

See all photos from Shekinah S. for Free Tours By Foot

I took the Voodoo tour led by High Priest Robi. The tour was education and exceptionally fun. Priest Robi is unapologetic about his passion for history, Voodoo and genuine in his presentation. This was definitely a high point of my visit to NOLA and I would highly recommend anyone who has the chance to join in. You will laugh, might feel uncomfortable at times and learn a great deal. All of these are good things that will leave you a better person after you take this tour.

I love finding free tours by foot. We did at 7:30 PM ghost tour with Mari and she was great. She is from the city and was highly knowledgeable about the haunted history and took us to places we shouldn't miss. Some of the stories gave a little chill, and some were downright disturbing. Mari was animated and hilarious. Even a weird thing happened during our tour. A potato came out of nowhere and hit some of the people in our group which is quite freaky. There were many other ghost tours around, saying essentially the same things. The next day we went on a French Quarter food tour with Kayla. She is also from Louisiana and very knowledgeable about the food history and gave us lots of information about the food influences found here. The places we went to try some of the food wasn't too bad, could have been better, but she did provide us with an extensive list of restaurant recommendations. I do recommend this tour as it is very informative and Kayla is super nice.

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We participated in the ghost tour within the French Quarter and walked away with goosebumps! Our guide, Andrew S., met us out front the St. Louis Cathedral. He checked everyone in, introduced himself, and away we went on an adventure we will never forget (and was one of the highlights of our whole trip to New Orleans)! Andrew S. safely guided us to different buildings around the neighborhood that hold some seriously tragic and dark history and teach us the story behind each place. He explained the fully history of each building, and then elaborated on how and why some people have picked up on different energies or hauntings at these buildings. Every question that was asked he was able to answer. My two (fairly particular) teenagers were even creeped out after the tour and had huge smiles on their faces because the tour was so engaging and fun. The ghost tour is well worth it!

Another 5-star worthy walking tour by Free Tours By Foot! [Booking]: I had my very 1st Free Tours By Foot when I visited Washington DC in 2017 and this time I booked a French Quarter Walking Tour at 10 AM on Sunday. There's an OPTIONAL booking fee of $2.75 per person and the booking fee is used to guarantee a spot on the tour. [Parking]: Free Sunday street parking in The French Quarter. In fact the city turns off all of street parking machines until the following Monday. I was able to find plenty of street parking spots at 7:30 AM on Sunday (near St Philip St / Chartres St intersection - about two blocks away from Jackson Square) so come early (before 8 AM) for free Sunday street parking spots near Jackson Square. Paid parking lots are available near Jackson Square, but don't expect cheap parking fees in this part of the town. [French Quarter Walking Tours]: Daniel was an amazing tour guide and time for 2-hour tour flew so quickly. The meeting spot switched from Andrew Jackson Statue (Jackson Square) to St. Louis Cathedral instead because Jackson Square was closed the December Concert Series. The cathedral entrance was quite chaotic as the Sunday mass just ended at 10 AM. Our group started at St. Louis Cathedral, made a small loop, and ended approximately few blocks away from Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop Bar on Bourbon Street. What made Daniel such a good tour guide was his great delivery with a good mix of humor and fun history facts. He made a small joke on how many people are going to cancel the tour because the World Cup Final was happening at the same time and everyone actually showed up for the tour. Below are some of memorable highlights mentioned by our guide: * The tragic story of chess prodigy Paul Morphy and Morphy was mentioned in Netflix's hit show "The Queen's Gambit". * Four pillars of New Orleans cuisine are Creole, Cajun, Vietnamese, and Soul Food (aka comfort food). Not eating one of the four cuisines = missing out 25% of food New Orleans is really good at. * The story of Axeman of New Orleans and how it has been covered by various true crime podcasts. * Brief history of the original red-light district of New Orleans called Storyville as well as the "unofficial" red-light district designation for Bourbon Street. * The oldest bar in town (Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop - built in the 1770s) and how it survived fires that engulfed the French Quarter in the late 1700's. * Old Ursuline Convent is the oldest building in the French Quarter. At the end I paid appropriate compensation to our guide (for reference their competitors charge $20 - $40 per person.) Out of all tours I had in New Orleans, this was the best one and I highly recommend it!

See all photos from Luke L. for Free Tours By Foot

Shocked by the high reviews for Robi. I am a proud liberal and am certainly no fan of trump but the amount of time Priest Robi spent complaining about trump and politicians in general was truly excessive. I was there to learn about Vooodoo not listen to political rants. It felt like a waste of time.

I thoroughly enjoyed my previous tour with Free Tours by Foot (of the Garden District) and knew that I could trust them to provide a stellar tour of the French Quarter while visiting with a friend who hadn't been to New Orleans before. Daniel was an amazing guide through the FQ, or as we learned it's called by those who've lived there for years, Vieux Carre! His deep knowledge of the area, from the time the French Market was a Choctaw trading post to the years The Axeman terrorized the neighborhood (while also boosting the popularity of jazz music!), was extremely impressive and gave me a better appreciation for the city's rich history and culture. His sense of humor and passion for the subject made the experience one not to be missed. I couldn't recommend Daniel's walking tour more!

Very much enjoyed the Voodoo tour with Priest Robi. I didn't really know what to expect going in, but Robi's clarification of misconceptions of voodoo and education in its history and practices were great. I recommend the tour as an excellent way to get a clear introduction to voodoo.

We really enjoyed the food tour with Kayla. Thanks for sharing the differences between Cajun and Creole, and everything in between! We also did the Treme tour with Evian. He is a wealth of knowledge, for sure! Learning about the city makes our visit so much more meaningful. Thanks for sharing your insights. We highly recommend this tour! Thank you, Evian!

We were so lucky to find this company while in New Orleans! We did two tours with them, and both of them were amazing and the best tours we had while on our trip. They offer multiple different walking tours of New Orleans, and they only charge a small booking fee. However, their tour guides are great, so make sure you tip them well! Highly recommend Robi's Voodoo tour and Robert's ghost tour. Robi was so energetic and full of knowledge on voodoo. He really enlightened us on the topic and made the tour engaging - we would gladly take the tour a second time. And Robert's ghost tour was so much fun - we walked through the French Quarter at night while stopping at different locations to hear ghost stories about that spot. Robert's telling of the stories was spooky and made the tour that much more fun. Greatly recommend looking up this company while looking for tours in New Orleans!

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Free Tours By Foot

• P: (504) 222-2967
• New Orleans, LA 70130 ( Directions ) P: (504) 222-2967
• Neighborhood: Garden District/Uptown

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Walking tours of the French Quarter, Garden District and many New Orleans cemeteries. Also offering food, ghost, voodoo and bike tours. We offer both public group walks as well as pay-what-you-wish public group walks. 

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5 Reasons to Take a Free Walking Tour in New Orleans

New Orleans, Louisiana, the vibrant and culturally rich city located on the banks of the Mississippi River, is known for its unique blend of French, African, Spanish, and Creole influences. At the heart of what makes New Orleans unique is its cultural tapestry, woven from a diverse range of influences.

Over the centuries, the city has been shaped by French, Spanish, African, Creole, and even American influences. This dynamic fusion is palpable in the city’s music, cuisine, language, and daily life. Nowhere else can you find such a vibrant amalgamation of traditions, evident in the spirited rhythms of jazz and lively brass bands parading at a Jazz funeral and the mouthwatering flavors of Creole and Cajun cuisine .

You can explore the city’s history, architecture, and vibrant culture on your own but If you’re planning a visit to the Big Easy, one of the best ways to immerse yourself in the city’s essence is by booking a free walking tour.

What Is a Free Walking Tour?

Free Walking tours are guided tours where the tour is free to book and guests are encouraged to pay “what they feel like” the tour is worth. Your tour guide will take you around the city on foot so you can really get immersed into the details of our unique city. Skip the streetcar, taxis, or Ubers and enjoy this chance to see NOLA up close and personal.

This is a great way to see New Orleans and learn its detailed history for a price anyone can afford.

After checking out all the options the city offers we found the best free walking tours of New Orleans was Nola Tour Guy, the only locally owned free walking tour company in New Orleans. Started by David Hedges, a historian in 2011 in response to the lack of accurate and fun historical walking tours in New Orleans and his passion for the city’s unique culture came through.

Read on and find five compelling reasons why taking a free walking tour in New Orleans is our biggest travel tip and check out New Orleans free walking tours yourself!

1. Gain Local Expertise & Insights

When you book a free walking tour in New Orleans, you’re not just strolling through the streets with a map in hand. You’re guided by a knowledgeable local who can provide you with a wealth of historical and cultural insights.

These guides are passionate about their city and eager to share its fascinating stories, from the founding of the city and the influence of French and Spanish colonization to the vibrant music scene and unique cuisine that New Orleans is renowned for.

2. Dive Into History & Architecture

New Orleans is a city steeped in history, and its architecture reflects that rich past. A walking tour offers you the opportunity to explore the intricate details of the city’s iconic neighborhoods, like the French Quarter and Garden District .

You’ll learn about the architectural styles, the historical significance of different buildings, and the role they’ve played in shaping the city’s unique character. For those interested in the history of New Orleans and the culture that radiates today, a New Orleans walking tour is a must.

3. Discover Hidden Gems

While guidebooks and self-guided tours can be helpful, they often miss the hidden gems that a local guide can unveil. Free walking tours in New Orleans take you off the beaten path to explore lesser-known corners of the city.

You might stumble upon charming courtyards, unique art installations, or tucked-away restaurants that you wouldn’t have found on your own.

4. Enjoy an Interactive & Engaging Experience

Walking tours are not passive sightseeing. They are interactive and engaging experiences that allow you to ask questions, interact with your guide, and even meet fellow travelers. Whether you’re interested in the history of Mardi Gras , the origins of jazz music, or the best spots to sample authentic Creole cuisine, your guide can provide real-time answers and recommendations.

Although not a food tour, ghost tour, or history tour specifically, don’t be shy to ask your guide the questions that most interest you! They’ll be able to answer your questions and give great recommendations of things to do, see, and eat after the tour ends.

5. It’s a Budget-Friendly Option

One of the most attractive aspects of free walking tours is their affordability. While the tours are free, it’s customary to tip your guide at the end, which allows you to determine the value of the experience based on your satisfaction.

This makes it a budget-friendly way to explore the city and get a feel for its culture without breaking the bank.

Will You Take a Free Walking Tour in New Orleans?

Booking a free walking tour in New Orleans is a fantastic way to dive deep into the heart of this unique city. You’ll gain a richer understanding of its history, culture, and architecture while uncovering hidden gems and enjoying an interactive, budget-friendly experience.

So, after you’ve checked into your vacation home in New Orleans , don’t forget to lace up your walking shoes and join one of these insightful tours. You’ll come away with a deeper appreciation for the Crescent City and a treasure trove of memories to cherish.

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13 Budget-Friendly or Free Things To Do in New Orleans

Posted: November 9, 2023 | Last updated: November 9, 2023

With its rich cultural heritage, vibrant music scene, and unique cuisine, New Orleans offers visitors a treasure trove of experiences. When I travel, sometimes spending money on airfare and hotel can substantially impact other elements of your trip — like tours, activities, and even how long you stay in a place — so I like finding free or low-cost things to do to balance my vacation budget.

While exploring these attractions, remember to savor the flavors of New Orleans. The city’s Creole and Cajun cuisine is a culinary adventure, and you can sample it without emptying your wallet at local eateries. You should check out this list of restaurants in New Orleans , where you’ll find something for any budget. Most importantly, relax and enjoy your time in the vibrant Crescent City.

1. City Park: A Natural Gem

City Park is one of New Orleans’ crown jewels. This sprawling urban park—50% larger than New York’s Central Park—has lush gardens, serene walking trails, boating on the lake, bike rental, and one of the oldest tree groves with live oaks. There’s also the serenity of the Singing Tree, which many people love to sit or lay beneath and listen to the magical wind chimes. The iconic Cafe Du Monde and other eateries are in the park, along with the New Orleans Art Museum, the Botanical Gardens, and the Louisiana Children’s Museum. While some of these attractions within the park may have entrance fees, exploring the park itself is free.

2. French Quarter: A Historic Stroll

The French Quarter—also known by its French name, The Vieux Carre—is the absolute highlight of any trip to the Big Easy. The architecture is protected, so you’ll find charming historic galleys, gaslights, and buildings, just like traveling through time. Visit historic Jackson Square, check out the work of local artists, and take in some street performances. You can also visit the iconic St. Louis Cathedral. You’ll also find the historic seat of Spanish rule in the city, the Cabildo, which is now a museum where you can learn about the city’s past, and entry is only $10 per adult.

3. Street Music: A Symphony of Sounds

New Orleans is renowned for its street music scene. You can meander through the French Quarter and immerse yourself in the lively atmosphere created by talented street musicians. While they may pop up in random locations, your most likely spots include in front of Cafe Du Monde on Decatur Street —where you can also grab three beignets and cafe au lait for around $8— and on the corner of Royal and St. Peter Streets in front of Rouse’s Grocery and near the French Market on Decatur. 

4. Mardi Gras World: A Glimpse Into Carnival

While Mardi Gras World does have an admission fee of $22 for adults and $14 for children, it’s one of the unique things to do in New Orleans where you can marvel at the grandeur of Mardi Gras floats and costumes without having to come during the very crowded and expensive time of Mardi Gras in February. There are discounts for the military, students, and seniors. 

5. Cemetery Tours: A Walk Through History

New Orleans, founded in 1718 by the French, faced burial challenges due to periodic flooding. They buried residents on the levee, but rising waters would expose bodies and caskets. As a result, these structures are mainly above-ground tombs, family tombs, civic association tombs, and wall vaults. They often follow neo-classical design principles and are arranged in orderly patterns, resembling city streets. While the popular tourist attraction St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 is now only accessible by a $25 guided tour , others, such as Lafayette Cemetery in the Garden District, are free to explore.

6. St. Charles Avenue Streetcar: A Historic Ride

Hop on the St. Charles Avenue Streetcar, one of the world’s oldest continuously operating streetcar lines since 1835. It’s an affordable way to see the city and appreciate its historic charm. It’s only $1.25 for adults to ride and $0.50 for children — you’ll need exact change if you’re paying in cash. You can also buy credit and use the RTA public transport app. This streetcar will take you to the majestic Garden District. 

7. Garden District: A Walk Among Mansions

The Garden District beckons with its historic mansions and distinct architectural charm. It’s an ideal place for a leisurely stroll and admiring the elegant surroundings. Some properties here also house museums and are open to the public for a small fee. You’ll find properties used in filming, Anne Rice’s old house, and the very charming Rink Shopping Center. The area was settled in the early to mid 19th century after the Louisiana Purchase of 1803 saw wealthy Americans wanting to settle there.

8. New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park: Musical Education

Experience the New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park , where admission is entirely free. Stop by the visitor center at 419 Decatur Street to engage in a ranger talk, participate in a vibrant drum circle, relish a jazz concert, and get insights into upcoming musical events around the city. This is an excellent introduction to the music and culture of the Crescent City. 

9. Frenchmen Street: Music for the Soul

When I first came to New Orleans over five years ago, I stayed in the Marigny district and walked down to Frenchmen Street. I immediately fell in love when a random brass band started playing on the corner, and people began dancing in the streets in the middle of the afternoon. Even if you have a different experience, many jazz clubs here can be enjoyed by purchasing a drink. 

10. Riverfront: A Scenic Riverside Walk

The Riverfront offers amazing views of the mighty Mississippi and historic paddle steamers, and you might find free performances in nearby Woldenberg Park. The park provides a riverside jogging path and art installations and often hosts impromptu musical events and festivals. Its prime location makes it a perfect spot for relaxation and escape. 

11. Audubon Park: Picnic Park

Audubon Park has been a cherished destination for over a century in historic uptown New Orleans. It offers a tranquil 1.8-mile jogging path, a picturesque lagoon, picnic spots, and play areas beneath ancient live oak trees. The park is open to the public and features amenities like tennis courts, riding stables, soccer fields, a pool, the Audubon Clubhouse Café, and the Audubon Golf Club, making it a versatile urban oasis for an impromptu picnic.

12. Free Tours by Foot: A Learning Adventure

Free Tours by Foot is an organization that allows you to pay tour guides via tipping in a “pay what you feel” system. These types of tours can be found worldwide, and I’ve had some of the best tour guides and learned some amazing things about the locations I’ve been to. New Orleans is no different—the tour company offers French Quarter Tours, Ghost Tours, Garden District Tours, and Voodoo Tours. Check out the Free Tours By Foot website for more information. 

13. Louis Armstrong Park

On the outskirts of the French Quarter along North Rampart Street, you’ll find the iconic arches proclaiming Louis Armstrong Park. The park often features music events and also features the historic site of Congo Square. Many claim that jazz music started here as enslaved people would gather in the square every Sunday with music and dance in the 1800s. There are also duck ponds, sculptures, and plenty of spaces to relax and do some people-watching. 

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New Orleans  >  Free French Quarter Walking Tour

‎ New Orleans Tourist Tips ‎ |  Suggested Itineraries For New Orleans

• New Orleans
• Top 10 Things To Do
• French Quarter Walking Tour
• Garden District Walking Tour
• Plantation Mansions
• Frenchmen Street
• Top 10 Must Eats
• Top Ten Must Drinks
• Other Sights
• Best Day Trips
• Helpful Tourist Advice
• Suggested Itineraries
• Madri Gras Tips

French Quarter Walking Tour:

Location :  French Quarter New Orleans Cost :  Free, Self-Guided ( Optional costs listed below ) Style :  Do-It-Yourself Walking Tour ( Self Guided ) Starting Point :  Washington Artillery Park & Terrace End Of Tour :  The Carousel Bar Walking Distance :  2.5 miles of walking ( -0.5 if you skip stops 9-13 ) Time Required : 2 Hours of walking ( +a few hours for food and drink ) Fun Scale :  9.5 out of 10

Overview of the French Quarter:

Our free, self-guided French Quarter walking tour will put you in the center of the cultural heartbeat of New Orleans for an unforgettable experience.  Originally called the  Vieux Carré  ( pronounced Vue Ca-Ray ), or Old Square in French, the French Quarter has vibrant roots dating long before New Orleans was officially founded in 1718.  From local Native Americans as early as 400AD to European settlers and slaves centuries later, the French Quarter grew as a blend of many cultures.  By its heyday in the mid-1800s, the French Quarter was a  thriving melting pot  of French, Spanish, African, Native-American, and Creole heritage.

Today the unique mix of culture shines through the French Quarter with bursts of colorful festivals, hints of voodoo, live jazz music, an unbeatable bar district and some of the best food in the country.  New Orleans is often considered the  most unique city in the world  and its all on display in the French Quarter.  We hope you enjoy our do-it-yourself French Quarter walking tour!

French Quarter Walking Tour Sights:

1. washington artillery park & terrace ( 768 decatur street ):.

About Washington Artillery Park :  While often overlooked by tourists, we love to start our French Quarter walking tour on the perch of Washington Artillery Park & Terrace.  The park is actually  on top of a levee  that was enhanced in the 1800s to protect New Orleans from the flood waters of the Mississippi River.  With its elevated position over Jackson Square to one side and the mighty Mississippi River on the other, the  stunning views  from the terrace really help you get a lay of the land.  It is no wonder that this position was used by the French, Spanish, Confederates, and Americans to defend New Orleans over the centuries.  A memorial in the middle of the terrace pays homage to its history as a military battery with a  Civil War-era cannon  always on guard.  The cannon is a model 1861 Parrot Rifle used in the Civil War and is dedicated to the local 141st Field Artillery of the Louisiana National Guard.

Looking toward the Mississippi River from the terrace, you’ll see a delightful waterfront walking path known locally as the Moonwalk.  If you hunt you for it, will also find a marker for the New Orleans Steamer which landed here in 1812 as the 1st steamboat to navigate both the Ohio and Mississippi Rivers to the Gulf of Mexico.

Before leaving the terrace, make sure to take in the perspective of the Saint Louis Cathedral and the  horse-drawn carriages  that line the front of the Jackson Square below you.  A ton of carriage companies are available on standby to take you anywhere you want in the French Quarter and Garden District, but our favorite is  Royal Carriages  ( website ).  As you descend toward the carriages, make note of the stepped amphitheater where you can often watch some great street performers in action.

2. Jackson Square ( 700 Decatur Street ):

About Jackson Square :  For as much fanfare Bourbon Street gets, the real heart of New Orleans has always been Jackson Square.  Soon after the French founded the city in 1718, they began carefully planning New Orleans around this large central square which was originally called  Place d’ Armes  ( meaning Weapons’ Square ).  The square, which opened in 1921, was modeled after the famous Place de Voeges in Paris and the location was selected because of its close proximity to a longstanding Native American trading post.

Today’s French Quarter neighborhood, first known as  Vieux Carré  ( meaning the Old Square ), was quickly built out around the Place d’ Armes in a clean grid system.  From the start, the main square quickly turned into an important gathering point in early New Orleans life.  France’s influence on the city was further highlighted by the construction of the Catholic Saint Louis Church on the North side of the square along with the adoption of the French language.

After a series of crippling wars in Canada and Europe, the French had to transfer all of the Louisiana Territory  under Spanish control  in 1762, which was cemented by the Treaty of Paris.  The name of the central square stayed intact ( Plaza de Armas ) and local French influence on culture remained strong as Spain chose to rule Louisiana at an arm’s length away from Cuba.  France eventually got Louisiana back from Spain, but in less than a year, Napoleon sold the entire territory to the United States in 1803 through the  Louisiana Purchase .

Even though America “owned” the entire Louisiana Territory and started forming new states out of it, they didn’t fully control it until they withstood British attacks in New Orleans as part of the  War of 1812 .  This war came to a climatic end when the United States won the  Battle of New Orleans  in 1815 under the leadership victorious  General Andrew Jackson .

During the War of 1812, Andrew Jackson had consulted with local pirates in New Orleans for the planning of the battle and then paraded over 6,000 troops in celebration around Place d’ Armes after they won.  It was this victory that made Jackson a national war hero and propelled his political career all the way to the United States Presidency ( U.S. President from 1829-37 ).  In 1856 a large statue of Andrew Jackson triumphantly riding on a horse was unveiled in the center of the square which  was renamed Jackson Square  in his honor.  In early day New Orleans, public executions commonly took place in the area of the square where the beautiful statue now sits.

Hours : Gates are open Daily 8am-7pm ( until 6pm in the Winter ).   Cost : Free.

3. Saint Louis Cathedral ( 615 Pere Antoine Alley ):

About Saint Louis Cathedral :  Built in 1727 on the site of a hurricane-damaged parish, the Saint Louis Church was dedicated to the sainted King of France, Louis IX from the 1200s.  The church helped to better establish Catholicism in the  Louisiana Territory to contrast the largely Protestant United States.  Tragedy struck when a massive blaze known as the  Great Fire of 1788  badly burned the church and 855 other buildings in the French Quarter.  Luckily the church was quickly rebuilt thanks to funding nobleman Andrés Almonaster who also funded stops 4 & 5 of this walking tour.  The new Spanish-style church was  declared a Cathedral  soon after it opened on Christmas Eve, 1794.  The timing was perfect as the public badly needed the Church for moral support as earlier in the month the Great Fire of 1794 struck the heart of New Orleans and burned 212 buildings.  This led the Spanish to get away from wood and start building with brick and rod iron which can still be seen all over this free French Quarter walking tour.

As support beams were removed during a facade update in 1849 the roof collapsed, the walls developed cracks, and much of the Cathedral had to be demolished.  The following year a redesign began with heavy French architectural influences and the only main element they were able to salvage from the Spanish church was the central tower’s bell.  The final result of the relentless rebuilding is today’s breath-taking Saint Louis Cathedral, now designated as a basilica, which has become the  most iconic landmark  in all of New Orleans.  Make sure to check out the interior with its checkerboard tile floor and stained glass window depicting the life of King Louis IX including the 7th Crusade.  The flags hanging from the interior balconies on the right show the countries New Orleans has been under since 1718, while the left side has various Papel crests.

During  Hurricane Katrina  in 2004, two large oak trees in  St. Anthony’s Garden  on the backside of the Cathedral was ripped up along with portions of the Cathedral’s roof.  The hole in the roof allowed water to damage the pipe organ which required a lot of restoration.  You can still see some of the damage while in the garden behind the church where a marble statue of Jesus lost a finger and a thumb.  Even with the missing fingers, the statue has awesome lighting that at night casts a larger than life shadow onto the backside of the Cathedral.  The easiest way to reach the Garden is by walking down  Pirates’ Alley  which we will visit later on this tour.  The most celebrated moment in the history of the St. Louis Cathedral was the visit of  Pope John Paul II  in September 1987, although Pope Paul VI also stopped by in 1964.

Cathedral Website :  ( HERE ).

4. The Cabildo ( 701 Chartres Street ):

About The Cabildo :  The grand Cabildo was built in 1795 as the new New Orleans City Hall after the old building burned in the Great Fire of 1788.  The name come from the  Illustrious Cabildo ( City Council )  who would meet here during the years Span controlled Lousiana.  It was kind of a weird time for the local government as they spoke Spanish while the residents continued to speak French.  Famously, The Cabildo as the location of the  signing of the Louisiana Purchase  when the French sold the Louisiana Territory to the United States in 1803 less than one month after getting it back from Spain.

The building also served as the home of the Louisiana Supreme Court where the nationally significant decisions in both the  Slaughterhouse  and  Plessy vs. Ferguson  cases were handed down in the late 1800s.  We love the details from this period of history on the facade including the huge relief of an American eagle with cannonballs which replaced an image of the Spanish coat of arms in 1821.

Since 1911, The Cabildo has been the flagship building for the Louisiana State Museum.  Exactly two hundred years after it first burned down, The Cabildo was once again severely damaged by fire in 1988. Thankfully the building was beautifully restored using 600-year-old French timber framing methods and in 1994 reopened to the public with exhibits focusing on Louisiana’s early history.  There are excellent topics to explore ranging from local Native American history, to colonial events, the and the Civil War.  Our favorite item on display is  Napoleon’ Death Mask  from 1927 which was given to the city by France because Napoleon died on his way to New Orleans while seeking shelter during his exile.

Cabildo Museum Hours :  Tuesday-Sunday 10am-4:30pm.   Admission Cost :  Adults $6, Children Free ( Purchase tickets for 2 or more city museums and get 20% off ).   Museum Website :  ( HERE ).

5. The Presbytère ( 751 Chartres Street ):

About The Presbytère :  Flanking the Eastside of the Saint Louis Cathedral as a mirror bookend to The Cabildo is the timeless Presbytére.  This stunning building was completed in 1791 on the former site of the residence ( presbytére ) of the local Capuchin monks which had been damaged in the Fire of 1788 like much of the French Quarter.  The new Presbytére building served as a home for local clergy and was known as the  Casa Curial ( Ecclesiastical House ) .  Construction delays really hampered the completion of the Presbytére as the 2nd floor wasn’t finished until 1813 and the 3rd floor in 1847, more than 50 years after the project started.  The church finally sold the Casa Curial in 1853 and it became part of the Louisiana State Museum in 1911.

Our favorite exhibit at the Presbytére Museum is one highlighting the history of  Mardi Gras  with many stories, masks, party favors, souvenirs, invitations, and more all displayed in huge open storage cabinets.  The most dazzling exhibit is probably the  Crown Jewels Vault  with an astonishing array of tiaras, scepters, necklaces and other baubles worn by generations of royalty.  Artifacts in the main exhibit focus on the aftermath of Hurricanes Katrina and Rita in 2005, provide an unforgettable experience of loss and devastation.

Presbytere Museum Hours :  Tuesday-Sunday 10am-4:30pm; Closed Mondays.   Admission  Cost :  Adults $6, Children Free ( Purchase tickets for 2 or more city museums and get 20% off ).   Museum Website :  ( HERE ).

6. The Pontalbas & 1850 House ( 523 Saint Ann Street ):

About The Pontalbas :  Running along each side of Jackson Square are massive one block long, 4 story tall red brick complexes built in the 1840s by  Baroness Micaela Pontalba .  The Baroness spent in upwards of $300,000 on the buildings which were constructed in honor of her father Andrés Almonaster.  Her father was a Spanish colonial landowner who helped finance the current versions of The Cabildo, Saint Louis Cathedral, and The Presbytère we just visited on this free French Quarter walking tour.

Known today as The Pontalbas, the buildings were originally used as townhomes, but were later divided into upper-level apartments with lower level shops after the Great Depression.  To help give you a glimpse into what upper-class life was like in  antebellum era New Orleans ( 1840-50s ), the city set up a living museum called 1850 House.  Furnished with everyday items, decorative art, and clothing from the period, the 1850 House does a great job of depicting upper-middle-class family life during the most prosperous period in New Orleans’ history.  If you are trying to prioritize your time, keep in mind that later on this walking tour there are three other excellent period homes you can also tour including the Hermann-Grima House, Merieult House, and Gallier House.

1850 House Hours :  Tuesday-Sunday 10am-4:30pm.   Admission Cost :  Adults $3, Children Free ( Purchase tickets for 2 or more city museums and get 20% off ).   1850 House Website : ( HERE ).

7. Cafe Du Monde ( 800 Decatur Street ):

About Cafe Du Monde :  Any time you go to New Orleans one of the first questions your friends will ask is, “Did you get a beignet at Cafe De Monde?”   Beignets  are square French-style doughnuts, lavishly covered with powdered sugar and they are delicious.

Cafe Du Monde, established in 1862, is also known for its strong coffee served both Black and  Au Lait .  Au Lait coffee means that it is mixed half and half with hot milk.  We highly suggest trying their  Chicory Root Coffee  which is a unique blend of coffee grounds mixed with the bitter chicory root of the endive plant.  The coffee was made very popular after the Civil War because coffee was scarce and the root added flavor to the brewing process.  Normally served Au Lait, the root added an almost chocolate flavor to your coffee.

Keep in mind that Cafe du Monde is so popular that the walk up line to buy beignets can often be a full city block long in the mid to late afternoon, especially on the weekends.  If you want a manageable line or a sit down spot inside the cafe you will want to visit early.

Cafe Hours :  Daily, 24 Hours.   Cafe Website :  ( HERE ).

8. Decatur Street ( 900-1100 Decatur Street ):

About Decatur Street :  As you leave Cafe Du Monde and stroll down Decatur Street you’ll find the best deals in town on your tourist souvenirs.  Although there are fancier shops and art galleries on Royal Street later on this free French Quarter walking tour, Decatur Street has a dense collection of great tourist shopping even though some of it is tacky.  The road was originally called Levee Street, but after the Mississippi River altered course in 1870 the levee located here was no longer needed and the street was renamed in honor of the naval hero Stephen Decatur.

At the start of the tourist shops, you’ll run into the  Central Market Deli  ( 923 Decatur, website ) which is famous for inventing the  Muffaletta , a delicious Italian deli sandwich that makes a get a snack or lunch to go.  We have the Muffaletta sandwich as one of our Top Ten Must Eats In New Orleans .  Another favorite place of ours to grab food in the area is  BB King’s Blues Club  ( 1104 Decatur, website ) which also has excellent live music.  The nearby  Crane & Table Restaurant ( 1113 Decatur, website ) is very well known for their great brunch and bottomless drinks.

Make sure to check out the golden Joan of Arc statue  in the middle of the small Latrobe Park while walking along Decatur Street.  Gold is the official color when she is honored with a parade here every January 6th as an unofficial patron saint of the city.  Joan’s time in France in the 1400s mirrors New Orleans own battles against the British as she had famously liberated the citizens of Orleans, France from British siege.

After Dark:  The stretch of Decatur Street between Dumaine Street to Esplanade Avenue can feel a bit seedy after dark, but is perfectly fine during the day and early evening.

9. French Market ( 1008 N. Peters Street ):

About The French Market :  What began as a Native American trading post and portage point on the banks of the mighty Mississippi River, was turned into a full market by French settlers in 1791 making the French Market  America’s oldest public market .  Over its long history, the French, Italians, Spanish, Portuguese, Moors, Irish, English, and Dutch have jockeyed for market share in the French Market making it a cultural melting pot.  The melting pot nature of the covered French Market lets you can find pretty much anything here as the Market serves as a Bazaar, Butcher’s Market, Seafood Market, Flea Market, Vegetable Market, and Farmers’ Market with a peppering of restaurants and shops.

Market Hours :  Flea Market Daily 7am-7pm, Farmer’s Market Daily 9am-7pm.   After Dark :  The stretch between stops 9-13 can get a little shady after dark with you aren’t with an official tour group and you may feel safer sticking to just the stops around Jackson Square, Royal Street, and Bourbon Street if it’s getting late.  Since the French Market is closed at 7pm it shouldn’t really be an issue anyway.   Market Website :  ( HERE ).

10. Old United States Mint & Jazz Museum ( 400 Esplanade Avenue ):

About The Mint Museum :  The Old United States Mint is the only building in America to have served as a mint for both the  United States and the Confederate States .  The Mint was built in 1835 under President Andrew Jackson, who had advocated for its establishment in order to help finance development of the nation’s Western frontier.  Jackson was always a huge supporter of coins and gold over paper money.

Now serving as a Museum, the 1st floor of the Mint houses an amazing collection of both Confederate and Union money while the 2nd floor is home to the New Orleans Jaxx Museum complete with a ton of instruments.  We have always felt that the Mint was built backward as the cool columned facade side of the building faces away from the French Quarter.  One block away is the lively Frenchmen Street which has amazing jazz clubs with live music in the evenings.

Hours :  Tuesday-Sunday 10am-4:30pm.   Cost :  Adults $6, Children Free ( Purchase tickets for 2 or more city museums and get 20% off ).   Jazz Museum Website :  ( HERE ).

11. Old Ursuline Convent ( 1100 Chartres Street ):

About The Old Ursuline Convent :  With a storied past, the Ursuline Nuns were the  first religious order  to arrive in Louisiana when they landed in 1727.   The nuns’ first convent building was half-timbered which didn’t fare well in the humid climate of New Orleans and was a bit of a fire hazard.  The deteriorating structure was replaced by today’s impressive brick and stucco Colonial-style convent in 1751.  With tales of  vampires and casket girls , this eerie three-story convent is known for its intense stories of hauntings.

With a largely male population in the mid-1700s the King of France started to send poor and orphaned ladies from French convents to New Orleans.  Each girl was sent over with a casket shaped chest said to hold their belongings which were to be held in storage on the 3rd floor of the Ursuline Convent until the girls found an acceptable suitor.  Often looking sickly after 5 months at sea, and donning caskets, rumors that the girls were vampires or brought vampires with them started quickly.  Some of the girls did find husbands, but many fell in prostitution or were never heard from again.  With the local death rate starting to rise, the girls’ casket chests were found to be empty and the shutters of the 3rd story  windows were sealed up  out of fear.  It’s said that the Pope himself blessed the nails to keep in the evil and they remain closed to this day.

The sitting just across the street from the convent, the  Beauregard-Keyes Mansion  was built in 1826 a year after the Ursuline Nuns moved to a new convent starting to sell off their extra property.  During the Civil War the Greek revival mansion was home to Pierre Gustave Toutant-Beauregard, who was the first prominent general of the Confederate States Army.  Was later home to author Frances Parkinson Keyes.

Convent Hours & Tours :  Free self-guided tours available Monday through Friday, 10am-4pm; Saturday 9am-3pm; last admission 45 minutes before close; Closed Sundays.   Convent Website :  ( HERE ).  Keyes Mansion Hours & Tours :  For $10 the home and garden (added in 1833) there are tours each hour from 10am-3pm on Monday-Saturday.  Keyes Mansion Website :  ( HERE ).

12. Madame LaLaurie’s Mansion ( 1140 Royal Street ):

About Madame LaLaurie’s Mansion :  This creepy 3 story mansion was built in 1831 by the infamous Delphine LaLaurie and is considered to be the  most haunted house in New Orleans .  The twice-widowed Delphine, known as Madame LaLaurie, was fresh on a new marriage to a local doctor when something evil started brewing.  The LaLaurie’s neighbors were the first ones to suspect that something was wrong and that Delphine was potentially a  sinister woman .  They noticed that the LaLaurie family’s house slaves seemed to disappear often and that parlor maids would be replaced at will.  Some servants who disappeared were said to have committed “suicide” and one of their prominent stable boys suddenly vanished, never to be seen again.

he suspicions started coming to light one Summer’s day when a neighbor heard a scream and saw Delphine chasing a young servant girl with a whip.  The girl fled to the roof for safety, but when Delphine continued to come after her, the  girl jumped to her death .  The same neighbor later claimed to see the small slave girl being buried in a shallow grave beneath a tree in the yard.  It is said that even today the girl’s screams can still be heard from time to time.

The  most gruesome discovery  happened on April 10th, 1834 when a fire broke out in the home and neighbors burst in to help.  What they found on the top floor were a dozen starving slaves chained to tables, the walls, and even in cages.  Some of the slaves had their guts hanging out, others their lips stitched shut, and many others missing limbs.  As the neighbors ran after Delphine, calling for her head, she quickly jumped in her carriage to never be seen again.  The creepy history is part of the draw that got actor  Nicolas Cage  to own the home from 2007-09.  The story of Madame LaLaurie goes further attention when she becomes the main character of an entire season of the hit TV show  American Horror Story .

13. Gallier House ( 1132 Royal Street ):

About The Gallier House :  In the mid-1800s, James Gallier was one of New Orleans’ most prominent architects.  His design work found an enthusiastic audience of civic leaders, businessmen, and affluent families.  You will enjoy a stroll through Gallier’s elegant Victorian home, restored to reflect the lifestyle of a successful urban designer in pre-Civil War New Orleans.  Local author Anne Rice was inspired by the Gallier House and used it as the home of Lestat and Louis in her famous novel  Interview with the Vampire .  It’s said that Rice was inspired by the stories of  Count Saint Germain , son of the Prince of Transylvania, and one of New Orleans’ most famous vampires.  The Count was said to be an immortal man possible 500 years old who lived nearby at the intersection of Ursulines and Royal.  In 1902, a girl tried to escape him by jumping off the balcony but he got away.  When authorities arrived they found no dishes in the home but did find 17 bottles of human blood said to have over 100 strands of DNA.

In addition to its vampire fame, the exterior of the Gallier was also used as the facade of the Madame LaLaurie Mansion in the hit TV show  American Horror Story .  The same owners of the Gallier House also own the Hermann-Girma House which we will visit later in this free French Quarter walking tour.  Their other home was also featured in American Horror Story as the interior of the Madame LaLaurie Mansion.  We love touring both of these fabulous homes in the same day.

Hours & Tours :  Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday hourly tours run from 10am-3pm; Wednesday tours by appointment only; Saturday hourly tours 12pm-4pm; Closed Sundays.    Admission Cost :  Adults $12, Children $10 ( you can add admission to the other home they manage at Stop 27 for $8 ).   Museum Website :  ( HERE ).

14. Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar ( 941 Bourbon Street ):

About Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar :  With fireplace heating and no electric lights, a visit to Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar will make you feel like you are stepping back in time.  Built between 1722 and 1732 as a cottage-like home for Nicolas Touze, the historic tavern is considered the  Oldest Bar  in the American South.  From 1772-1791 the Blacksmith Shop served as a hideaway for  Jean Lafitte  ( pronounced Zhah La-feet ) and his band of pirates who posed as blacksmiths while they smuggled goods in from the Caribbean.  The smuggling operation was widely held under wraps by locals as New Orleans was under Spanish rule at the time and a trade embargo made it hard to get some goods in.

Jean Lafitte later became a national hero when he used his pirate expertise to help General Andrew Jackson defeat the British in the  Battle of New Orleans in 1815 .  With American troops outmatched and undersupplied, Lafitte secretly smuggled supplies to the Americans giving them the edge to win the Battle.  After his good deed was done Lafitte then sailed off to new adventures and the Blacksmith shop became a full-time tavern.  The tavern is our favorite stop on this free New Orleans walking tour.

You may notice that the  architectural style  of the Blacksmith Shop looks quite a bit different than most of the other houses in the neighborhood.  This is because a slate roof and brick helped to protect the Blacksmith Shop from the great fires in 1788 and 1794 which destroyed hundreds of the neighboring wooden homes.  With Spanish rule at the time of the fires, many of the rebuilt homes nearby had more of a Spanish influence compared to the old French cottage.  To this day the Blacksmith Shop still rolls old school with no electric lighting, allowing its fireplace, romantic candlelight, and live music make it a truly magical place to have a drink after dark.  While they have a wide selection of drinks, our favorite it the purple frozen  Voodoo Blend  that comes right out of an old school slushy machine.

Keep an eye out for other buildings in this style as you make your way further down Bourbon Street our free French Quarter Walking Tour.  While many of the other bars on Bourbon Street were also historic homes, most weren’t converted into bars until the late-1800s and have been heavily modernized inside.  The name Bourbon Street predates these bars as it was named after the  royal Bourbon Family  of France and not the alcohol.  It is also said that the bathroom of the Blacksmith Shop is haunted.

Blacksmith Bar Hours :  Open daily until late.   Blacksmith Bar Website :  ( HERE ).

15. New Orleans Voodoo Museum ( 724 Dumaine Street ):

About The New Orleans Voodoo Museum :  Really, no one grows up in New Orleans without being exposed to the culture of Voodoo.  In the case of Charles Massicot Gandolfo, the Voodoo Museum’s founder, it was a little stronger with tales that his great-grandfather had been raised in New Orleans by a real  Voodoo Queen .  An artist, with a passion for all the history and romance of New Orleans, Charles opened this museum in 1972 to share his fascination with the world.  Taking all the mysteries, the secrets, the history and folklore of rituals, zombies, and gris-gris of the Voodoo Queens, Charles put it all in one place in the heart of the New Orleans French Quarter.  This is a worthwhile stop if you want a better introduction to Voodoo than the souvenir shops give.  Cameras, photographs, and questions are always welcome and encouraged.

Hours :  Daily 10am-6pm.   Cost :  $7 for Adults; Children $3.50; Admission is FREE if you do their $19 Voodoo walking tour.   Museum Website :  ( HERE ).

16. Cornstalk Hotel ( 915 Royal Street ):

About The Cornstalk Hotel :  This elegant yellow hotel is one of our favorite homes in the French Quarter.  Judge Francois Xavier Martin, author and  first Attorney General of State of Louisiana , built the Cornstalk in 1816 and lived here until 1826.  Doctor Joseph Secondo Biamenti purchased the mansion in 1834, turned it into a hotel, and added its famous cast iron  Cornstalk Fence  in 1856.  The fence is truly a landmark that in itself has helped make the old French Quarter famous.  Your gaze will be drawn to the fence’s beautifully ornate and delicate iron handicraft.  Ripe ears of corn on their stalks are seemingly ready for the harvest, each kernel a work of art.  Pumpkins form the base of the iron columns around which are entwined by pumpkin vines and the leaves and morning glories.  Look for the yellow butterfly on the front gate.

Famous guests at the hotel include Bill & Hillary Clinton, and even the “King” himself…Elvis Presley.  Among many famous hotel guests,  Harriet Beecher Stowe  allegedly stopped here and was inspired to write  Uncle Tom’s Cabin  from the sights at nearby slave markets.  The novel was later a major influence on the starting the Civil War.  Speaking of famous guest, the neighboring Nine-O-Five Royal Inn ( 905 Royal St ) claims to have been a place where  Rip Van Winkle  slept.  It’s hard to believe this claim though since the fictional story of Rip was actually written in and based in England.  Also, make note of the  Romeo spikes  on the gallery posts across the street ( 910 Royal ) which are decorative, but also to stop intruders.  Famously in 1904, a man who was sleeping with the red-headed lady that lived her tried to slide down the pole to escape her fencing champion father and was split wide open.

Hotel Website :  ( HERE ).

17. Madame John’s Legacy ( 632 Dumaine Street ):

About Madame John’s Legacy :  After the Great Fire of 1788, this timeless home was built on the ashes of the previous home that dated back to 1725.  Shortly after the new construction was finished, it ended up being one of the only houses in the area that  escaped the Great Fire of 1794 .  The name Madame John’s Legacy came much later from a story called Tite Poulete, written in 1879 by author Geo Cable Madame about the previous home that once stood here.  John’s Legacy is an excellent example of Louisiana  Creole design  from the end of the 18th century which mainly only survives today deep in the bayou.  Before the second great fire in New Orleans, it was commonplace to see many homes in this style all over the French Quarter.

Museum Website :  ( HERE ).   Hours :  Currently closed for 2019 for renovations but you can see it from the outside.

18. Royal Street Art Galleries ( 731-841 Royal Street ):

About The Royal Street Art Galleries :  In contrast to the sometimes grimy Bourbon Street bar scene, Royal Street offers a much higher quality shopping and tons of funky artist galleries.  While the art is fairly expensive, the classy galleries are a pure joy to wander through.  With a wide selection of sculptures and paintings, our favorite pieces are mixed media works depicting street scenes and jazz life in New Orleans.  Every day parts of Royal street are closed off to cars, creating a lively pedestrian-only zone.

19. Marie Laveau’s House Of Voodoo ( 739 Bourbon Street ):

About Marie Laveau’s House Of Voodoo :  Marie Laveau’s House Of Voodoo is a really cool Voodoo themed tourist shop.  The House of Voodoo offers a wide variety of items to help in both learning about and practicing both the spiritual and religious ceremonies of Voodoo.  Tribal masks and statues from around the world symbolize man’s connection with the spirit and earth.  Talismans and charms directed towards all different things you many want from the spirits from health, to wealth, and much more.  They also have Mojo Bags, Voodoo Dolls, Spell Kits, and a fortune teller and palm reader on-site.  They typically do not allow photos inside.

Hours :  Sunday-Thursday 10am-11:30pm; Friday-Saturday 10am-1:30pm.   Cost :  Free to enter.   Museum Website : ( HERE ).

20. Tropical Isle Bar ( 721 Bourbon Street ):

About Tropical Isle :  Although the Original Tropical Isle is down the street ( 600 Bourbon Street ), this Tropical Isle location is one of the most fun bars on this free French Quarter walking tour.  They have live music, a really funky interior, great balcony, and are known for their over-the-top signature drinks the  Shark Attack and Hand Grenade .  The fun Shark Attack is truly that as each one comes with a rubber shark the attacks your drink as warning lights flash the bar leaving a pool of blood ( grenadine ).

Make sure to see how high you can blow on the  bar’s breathalyzer machine contest .  If competition is truly your thing, the urinals in the bath also have the  wizinator game  where you can race your neighbor.  Right next to the Tropic Isle is the  Funky Pirate Bar , which has the same owners and has a great assortment of late night live Blues music.

Bar Hours :  Daily Noon-2am ( 3:30am on Friday & Saturdays ).  Live Music Schedule :   Tropical Isle typically has live music Monday-Thursday 5pm-1:30am and Friday-Sunday 1pm-close; next door at the Funky Pirate their Jazz & Blues music runs Monday-Wednesday 8pm-close and Thursday-Sunday 4pm-Close with Saturdays sometimes starting at 1pm; the original Tropic Isle at 600 Bourbon has music daily 1pm-Close.   Bar Website :  ( HERE ).

21. Le Pretre Mansion ( 716 Dauphine Street ):

About Le Pretre Mansion :  The creepy Le Pretre Mansion is rumored to be haunted after the  gruesome events  that took place in the 1800s.  Built in 1836, the mansion was later bought by plantation owner Jean Baptist Le Pretre as an urban getaway during the Winter months.  In 1879 Le Pretre decided to rent his mansion out to the brother of the  Sultan of Turkey .  Along with the Sultan’s brother came eunuch guards and 17 harem girls.  The home quickly became the frequent scene of large parties and orgies.

After 3 years of frequent parties the house went silent one night in 1882 and an old lady passing by saw a  river of blood  pouring down into the street.  When the authorities burst in they found 37 mutilated bodies, but it took 3 days to find the body of the Sultan’s brother who was buried alive in the courtyard.  There had been no screams and the murders are still somewhat of an unsolved mystery.  To this day, however, many locals claim to have heard screams by the home and have seen haunting shadows in the windows.

22. Cat’s Meow Karaoke Bar ( 701 Bourbon Street ):

About The Cat’s Meow :  The highly rated Cat’s Meow has way more of a lively party atmosphere then your normal Karaoke Bar and is very fun even if you don’t like to sing.  Many famous musicians have enjoyed some of the nightlife at the Cat’s Meow ranging from soul singer Seal to country musicians Brooks and Dunn, comedian/songwriter “Weird Al” Yankovic, the Smashing Pumpkins, Depeche Mode, and N’Sync have all sang here.  Other  celebrities  from software mogul Bill Gates of Microsoft, actors Tori Spelling, Mario Lopez, Julie and Doria of Playboy’s Night Calls, and adult film star Stormy Daniels have stopped into the Cat’s Meow to sing.

Aside from the more famous people that have visited Cats Meow, several national television shows shot on-site broadcasts from the club. The festive atmosphere of the Cats Meow has provided wonderful backdrop and ambiance for such popular TV programs like The Regis and Kelly Show, MTV’s Road Rules and The Grind.   We love the Bar’s 3-for-1 happy hour and of course the fact that all your friends back home can watch you sing your lungs out on the live webcam posted on their website.  If your more in the mood for some great live music, consider  Krazy Korner  ( website ) which lies kiddy corner from Cat’s Meow. This compact corner bar can be a really fun place to get your Jazz and Blues fix.

Cat’s Meow Hours :  Daily until late.   Bar Website :  ( HERE ).

23. Preservation Hall ( 726 Saint Peter Street ):

About Preservation Hall :  Today’s Preservation Hall was opened in 1961 to help protect the traditions of live Jazz music as Rock-n-Roll took over America.  The Hall is a popular place to hear traditional New Orleans Jazz at night.  It’s a widely popular place with older crowds to hear  traditional New Orleans Jazz  at night so check their nightly schedule as you pass by.  Please note that during the day they are closed, shows starting usually around 8pm, and even when they are open they do not sell alcohol.

Across the Street from the Hall are  Yo Mama’s , known for its great burgers, and an old French cottage building housing Reverend Zombies House of Voodoo.  The Voodoo shop is not as good as the others from earlier on this French Quarter walking tour, but just outside is where you can join a walking tour by  Haunted History Tours  ( website ).  We highly recommend fitting one of their tours into your stay if you are in New Orleans for a few days which range from ghosts, to cemeteries, and even vampires.  Others haunted tours that we like are Lord Chaz ( website ) and the very highly rated Jonathan Weiss Tours ( website ).

Preservation Hall Website :  ( HERE ).

24. Pat O’Brien’s Piano Bar ( 718 Saint Peter Street ):

About Pat O’Brien’s Piano Bar :  Pat O’Brien’s may be known for its red Hurricane Drinks,  Dueling Pianos , and large outdoor patio with flame fountains we also love the bar’s history.  In 1791, Maison de Flechier built a private home ( 600 Saint Peter Street ) which later became home to the French Theater Company, then was home to the 1st Grand Opera in America, and later then morphed into a speakeasy .  With the lifting of prohibition, Pat O’Brien bought the speakeasy in 1933 and turned it into a full-service bar.

Pat O’Brien’s Bar was so popular for its piano music and drinks that it needed to expand and quickly moved into the current location ( 718 Saint Peter Street ) which was built in 1834.  The bar’s popularity hit epic status when Pat O’Brien created the  Hurricane Drink  in the 1940s which cemented the establishments home forever in the New Orleans drinking scene.

As you enjoy some live dueling pianos, makes sure to notice the crossed muskets from 7 counties and over 500 beer steins that decorate the ceiling of the bar.  They also have a large outdoor courtyard with stunning fire fountains to keep you warm after dark.  If you happen to be in town with a group and are looking to book an amazing space for your private party, the Briar’s Lounge ( website ) at Pat O’Brien’s is amazing.  Modeled after Napolean’s private suite, the entire second floor really lets the 1834 roots of the building shine through.

Pat O’Brien’s Hours :  Monday-Thursday Noon-Close; Friday-Sunday 10am-Close.   Dueling Piano Music :  Often daily during the day but the main times are Monday-Thursday 6pm-Close; Friday-Sunday 2pm-Close.   Cup Deposits :  Included in the price of your Hurricane drinks is a deposit on your stylish glass which you can keep to bring home ( they can package it ) or turn it in for a refund.   Bar Website :  ( HERE ).

25. LaBranche House ( 700 Royal Street ):

About The LaBranche House :  Built in 1835, the large LaBranche House is one of 11 homes the rich sugar planter Jean Baptiste LaBranche built in the French Quarter.  With its many levels of detailed cast-iron gilding, the LaBranche House is one of the  most photographed buildings  in the New Orleans.  We especially like taking photos of this large corner lot mansion in December when it’s decorated in holiday lights.

It is important to note, especially among locals, that decorative balconies on the LaBranche House are  actually called galleries .  Galleries go all the way to the ground with supportive posts while balconies only jut out of the side of a home.  Sitting directly across Saint Peter Street from the LaBranche House, you’ll find the  Le Monnier Mansion  ( 640 Royal Street ).  When Le Monnier was built in 1811 it was considered to be a “sky scrapper” of its day even though it was just 3 stories tall at the time.

26. Pirates’ Alley ( 622-698 Pirates’ Alley ):

About Pirates’ Alley :  Originally called Orleans Alley, the 16 foot wide Pirates’ Alley is  steeped in folklore .  The tales range from mad scientists to swashbuckling pirates, and although they are mainly fiction, the stories are fun to dream about.  In early day New Orleans, the alleyway was more of a shortcut path to get behind the cathedral and wasn’t even paved with cobblestones until 1831, long after pirates left New Orleans.  Because the alley was right next to the main public square, Cabildo town hall, and was home to the jail, the local pirates would have likely avoided the path.

In real life, the often foggy alley did house a few  famous residents  at times including briefly Andrew Jackson ( 616 Pirates Alley ) and author William Faulkner ( 624 Pirates Alley ).  Faulkner, the Nobel Prize prize winner author, wrote his first published novel Soldiers’ Pay in 1924 while living in this house.  Faulkner House Books ( website ) opened in the home on September  25th, 1990 in honor of the writer’s birthday.  Our favorite house is the Creole House which now holds the Pirate Alley Cafe ( 622 Pirates Alley,  website ).  This corner home started as a French guardhouse and jail in 1728 which was nicknamed the Calabozo during Spanish rule and rebuilt after a series of fires.  The Calabozo Jail once held Pierre Laffite, brother of pirate Jean Laffite, who famously escaped from prison here in 1814.  The current Creole House replaced the jail in 1837 and with the legends taking hold, the lane’s name was officially changed to Pirate’s Alley in 1964.

Before leaving the Pirate’s Alley, make sure to check out the fenced-in Saint Anthony Garden behind the Saint Louis Cathedral.  The beautiful statue of Jesus with his arms raised in the air is illuminated at night to cast a breath-taking shadow silhouette on the back wall of the church.  The statue, which was damaged by Hurricane Katrina in 2004, is often called  Touchdown Jesus  by local football fans.

27. Streetcar Named Desire House ( 632 Saint Peter Street ):

About The Streetcar Named Desire House :  If you pop down St. Peter a couple houses to 632 you’ll find the red brick home where  Tennessee Williams  wrote the book Streetcar Named Desire.  The book became not only and instant hit and symbol of New Orleans, but was also turned into a very successful play.  The film adaptation of the book from 1951 is a  must watch movie  before your visit to New Orleans.  From time to time you can still she tourists yell “Stella” at the house in the spirit of the play.

Next door to the Streetcar Named Desire House you’ll run into one of our favorite restaurants,  The Gumbo Shop  ( 630 Saint Peter Street,  website ).  This great restaurant will help you get your fill of Creole cooking with its mouth-watering Gumbo.  Our personal favorite is the chicken and sausage gumbo which is truly amazing and is on our list of the  Top Ten Must Eats In New Orleans .

28. Court of Two Sisters ( 613 Royal Street ):

About The Court of Two Sisters :  The Court of Two Sisters is a great restaurant to visit if you want some more high end dining in New Orleans.  Their award-winning food is served in three different indoor dining areas, plus they have a timeless bar and a breath-taking inner courtyard under a gorgeous canopy of interlaced wisteria tree branches .  Make sure to rub wrought irons gates at the main entrance which were blessed by Queen Isabella of Spain for good luck.  While the food is gourmet, the atmosphere is still has a very laid back New Orleans feel.

The restaurant’s location also has a storied past to go along with the excellent food.  In 1726 Sieur Etienne de Perier, the second French royal governor of colonial Louisiana, was the first to live here.  Originally the entire 600 block of Royal Street was originally nicknamed  Governors’ Row  for all of its powerful residents.  At the time this stretch of road was home to 5 governors, 2 State Supreme Court Justices, a future U.S. Supreme Court Justice, and Zachary Taylor who later became the 12th President of the United States lived for a time at 621 Royal Street.  Needless to say, if you lived on this block of Royal Street in the mid-1700s you were among some excellent company.

The current building was completed in 1832 and after changing it became a store known as the  “The Shop of the Two Sisters” in 1886.  The shop was run by two daughters of a local aristocratic Creole family who became famous throughout the Gay 90s for there custom Mardi Gras dresses and perfumes imported from Paris.  After becoming a restaurant in 1968, The Court of Two Sisters became famous for their daily Jazz Brunch which takes place in the inner courtyard.  It’s said that the legendary pirate Jean Lafitte once killed three men in three separate duels one night under a willow tree that once stood in the courtyard.

Jazz Brunch :  The 3 course Jazz Brunch is excellent and starts around $50 per person.   Website :  ( HERE ).

29. Merieult House Collection ( 533 Royal Street ):

About The Merieult House :  This block of Royal Street was originally owned by the French government who built a workmen’s barracks and the king’s forge here in 1720.  Those buildings, along with most of the neighborhood was lost in the Great Fire of 1788 which destroyed 856 of the 1,100 structures in New Orleans.  This epic blaze on Good Friday ( March 21, 1788 ) wiped out a lot of the original French architecture in the city as the recovery development was done under Spanish governance.

The destruction from the fire made way for the Merieult House which was built in 1792 by the prosperous merchant Jean Merieult.  It is said that Merieult’s wife was so beautiful that Napoleon wanted to buy some of her hair as a wig for the Sultan of Turkey.  Six years after the first huge fire the Great Fire of 1794 hit taking out 212 structures over 18 nearby blocks, but luckily the Merieult House barely survived it.

Today the Merieult House is the centerpiece of a collection of connected homes you can tour together to get a glimpse of life in the early-1800s.  The adjacent buildings you get to visit on the block as part of the tour include neighboring homes, former warehouses of Jean Merieult, the Counting House, and the Williams House.  The fine details and furnishing may not be as impressive as some of the other homes on this free French Quarter walking tour, but the guides are great and you get to cover a lot of buildings in a relatively quick visit.

Hours :  Tuesday-Saturday 9:30am-4:30pm; Sunday 10:30am-4:30pm; Closed Mondays.   Cost :  The 1st-floor gallery is Free, Guided Tours are $5.   Guided Tours :  45-minute tours of the 11 galleries on the second floor provide a comprehensive look at the settlement and development of Louisiana from the early 18th century to the present.  Tour Times : Tuesday–Saturday 10am, 11am, 2pm, 3pm and Sunday 11am, 2pm, 3pm.   Museum  Website :  ( HERE ).

30. One Eyed Jacks ( 615 Toulouse Street ):

About One Eyed Jacks :  Expect a lot of live music ranging from jazz, funk, hip hop, to rock as well as touring comedy acts and alternative shows at One Eyed Jacks.  The most famous show is the sexy Burlesque show called  Fleur de Tease  ( website ) which takes place daily at 8pm & 10pm.  Fleur de Tease is a premiere Variety Burlesque Revue.  This modern twist on a classic vaudeville show has something to please and tease every audience member.  Magicians, fire eaters, comedians, aerialists and of course beautiful burlesque dancers all make up the core members of the troupe.  Special guest artists such as sword swallowers, singers, and other circus acts make each show a unique and different experience so no two programs are ever the same.

Not far from One Eyed Jacks is the former home of Army Treasurer Don Vincente Jose Nuñez ( 619 Chartres Street ) where the Great Fire of 1788 started.

Burlesque Show Cost :  For the Fleur de Tease general admission is $15 and reserved seating is $20.  Other Shows vary.   Show Times :  Fleur de Tease is daily at 8 & 10pm.  Other traveling shows vary.   Bar Website :  ( HERE ).

31. Napoleon House ( 500 Chartres Street ):

About The Napoleon House :  House built for New Orleans mayor Nicholas Girod in 1812 who offered it to Napoleon in 1921 as a refugee during his exile from France.  Unfortunately, Napoleon died of poisoning the same year and never made it New Orleans.  Luckily the home was turned into a restaurant in 1914 and still bursts at the seams with charm.  Seriously go here and eat or at least stop by for a drink, the old vibe is awesome.

Hours :  Sunday-Thursday 11am-10pm; Friday & Saturday 11am-11pm.   Website :  ( HERE ).

32. Louisiana State Supreme Court ( 400 Royal Street ):

About The Louisiana State Supreme Court :  Built in 1908, the huge Louisiana State Supreme Court building looks almost like a marble palace and takes up an entire city block.  While the court was established in 1813, the new building was required when it moved from the Cabildo building in Jackson Square.  Nearby is a delightful yellow mansion which used to be the Louisiana State Bank.  The is not really a whole lot more to say about either building’s history, but every time we visit we end up being impressed and taking a lot of photos.

Website :  ( HERE ).

33. Antonie’s Annex ( 513 Royal Street ):

About Antonie’s Annex :  After the restaurant opened in 1840, Antonie’s Annex quickly became the place for New Orleans locals to get their Bourbon Whiskey and Black Coffee drink called  Café Brûlot .  Variations of the drink were vast and in the 1890s the owner Jules Alciatore created a flaming concoction of coffee, brandy, and spices he called  Café Brûlot Diabolique .  This new concoction became a huge hit and even more popular during Prohibition as a great way to disguise alcohol.

If it is your first time to New Orleans, visiting the famous Antonie’s can be a little confusing as there 14 dining areas all with unique history and charm inside the  massive complex .  While many people all the entire place Antonie’s Annex, the Annex is actually the more casual cafe and deli area around the corner of the block ( 513 Royal Street ) with excellent coffee, sandwiches, pastries, and take away items.  We love the Annex, but it can also be nice to visit the unique dining rooms of the more fancy sit down Antonie’s Restaurant ( 713 Saint Louis Street ) which also has its own bar called Hermes.  The sit-down restaurant does have more limits hours of operation and you definitely want to make a reservation if you want to go for dinner.

Annex Cafe Hours : Daily 8am-7pm.   Restaurant Hours : Lunch Monday-Saturday 11:30am-2pm; Dinner Monday-Saturday 5:30-9pm; Jazz Brunch Sundays 11am-2pm.   Website :  ( HERE ).

34. Hermann-Grima House ( 820 Saint Louis Street ):

About The Hermann-Grima House :  While the Gallier House from earlier on this free French Quarter walking tour focused on middle-class living, it is the wealthy on showcase at the Hermann-Grima House.  A walk through the meticulously restored Hermann-Grima House and gardens allow you to peak back into this the Golden Age of New Orleans history.  It was built in 1831, by a German Jewish immigrant, Samuel Hermann, who amassed his fortune in the cotton market.  This handsome Federal mansion with its courtyard boasts the only horse stable and  functional 1830s outdoor kitchen  in the French Quarter.  The outdoor hearth kitchen, with its view of the antique roses, citrus and parterre gardens, provides a dynamic experience for our visitors.

As a museum, the home celebrates artistic contributions and building trades of the Free People of Color and enslaved persons in New Orleans, without who, the Hermann-Grima House would not stand today.  Visitors are also fascinated to learn that Hermann originally purchased the property from a  Free Woman of Color .  The interior of the home was also used as Madame LaLaurie Mansion in the TV show  American Horror Story .  The same owners of the Hermann-Girma House also own the Gallier House which we was earlier in this free French Quarter walking tour.

Hours & Tours :  Monday, Tuesday, Thursday, Friday hourly tours 10am-3pm; Wednesday tours by appointment; Saturday hourly tours 12pm-4pm.   Cost :  Adults $12; Children $10. Add the Gallier House ( Stop 13 ) for $8.   Museum Website :  ( HERE ).

35. Larry Flynt’s Barely Legal Strip Club ( 423 Bourbon Street ):

About Larry Flynt’s Barely Legal Strip Club :  Larry Flynt’s is one of the many strip, lap dance, and cabaret clubs that pepper the 200-400 blocks of Bourbon Street.  The presence of these clubs may feel trashy or grimy to some, but they are isolated and add to the personality of the care-free French Quarter.  While strip clubs aren’t really our thing, walking by them is still a unique tourist experience somewhat similar to the Red Light District in Amsterdam.  Do remember that you are in the Big Easy so try not to be uptight about the clubs being there.

Club Website :  ( HERE ).

36. Old Absinthe House ( 240 Bourbon Street ):

About The Old Absinthe House :  Shortly after the building opened as a coffee house in 1807, the owners came up with a new drink using the wormwood herb-based alcohol Absinthe they called the  Absinthe House Frappe .  This narcotic-like drink became so popular that the owners eventually decided to change the coffee house’s name to the Old Absinthe House.  The name was later expanded to Jean Lafitte’s Old Absinthe House, as this is the place where pirate Jean Lafitte and General Andrew Jackson ended up  planning the Battle of New Orleans .

Lafitte and Jackson haven’t been the only celebrities to grace the bar as their bartenders tell us that Mark Twain, Voodoo Queen Marie Laveau, Oscar Wilde, P.T. Barnum, General Lee, and Edgar Allen Poe also came to get their Absinthe on.  As you can see by the business cards, postcards, sports jerseys, football helmets, and celebrity photos that plaster the walls of the bar, people are still coming here from all corners of the world.

When wormwood-based Absinthe became illegal in 1912 for being “hallucinogenic”, the owner switched to a Herbsaint-based Absinthe to keep the business running strong.  Thanks to a change in the law they were once again able to go back to using Wormwood in 2007.  One of the coolest things inside is the  original copper-colored bar  which had been removed for its own protection during Prohibition and was finally returned in 2004.  The photo we used of the Old Absinthe House is from a postcard dated 1910.

Attached to the Old Absinthe House the bar’s owner Tony’s Moran also runs called  Tony Moran’s Restaurant  ( website ) which is renown for its Crawfish.  Overall we’ve found Moran’s to be a little pricey for what you actually get and you are better off going down a block to Iberville Street where you’ll find  Felix’s Restaurant  ( website ) &  Acme Oyster Bar  ( website ).  Both of their menus are great, cover a wide range of food including Oysters and Crawfish, and are much more affordable than Tony Moran’s.  Our favorite New Orleans dishes are Po-boy Sandwiches and the Fried Seafood Platter so make sure to read more about our  Top Ten Must Eats In New Orleans .

Bar Website :  ( HERE ).

37. The Carousel Bar ( 214 Royal Street ):

About The Carousel Bar :  With great views overlooking Royal Street, The Carousel Bar in the  Hotel Monteleone  ( website ) is the only bar in New Orleans that revolves around the room.  The focal point of the bar is the  rotating the 25-seat carousel bar , which was originally installed in 1949.  The large embellished carousel turns on 2,000 large steel rollers, pulled by a chain powered with a one-quarter horsepower motor creating a very smooth ride. While the bar always rotates at the same speed, visitors who have drink at the bar for a while often claim that the bartender has turned up the motor’s speed.  The bar was renovated in 1992 when the current carousel top was added. Fiber optics were also installed in the ceiling to create unique stars in the night sky and even one special shooting star was created to cross the room at regular intervals.

In the early days of the Carousel Bar, the hotel was the home to the famous  Swan Room , a nightclub where celebrities such as  Liberace performed .  It wasn’t unusual for the performers to join their friends for a nightcap after their shows.  William Faulkner, Tennessee Williams, Truman Capote, and Winston Grooms ( Forrest Gump ) are among the famous authors who have enjoyed drinks at the Carousel Bar. Today, the Carousel still attracts celebrities, including some recent sightings – Michael Jordan, Dennis Quaid, Greg Allman, and Sally Struthers.

In addition to the rotating bar, the adjoining room features quiet booths and tables where live entertainment is offered nightly at the piano. If you arrive at just the right time during the cocktail hour you can enjoy complimentary hors-d’oeuvres from the famous Monteleone kitchen.  Our favorite original drinks at the Carousel are French flared  Vieux Carre Cocktail  and the Caribbean inspired  Goody .

Bar Hours :  Daily 11am-2am, get there early to avoid a long wait for your turn on the 25-seat carousel.   Bar Website :  ( HERE ).

Other Sights Near The French Quarter Walking Tour:

38. house of the blues ( 225 decatur street ):.

About The House Of The Blues :  WEven with the heavy Jazz influence on New Orleans, you can’t come to the Big Easy without getting your fix of blues music and the House of the Blues gets some of the biggest names.  Even if you can’t make one of their daily performances, they have a unique vibe to grab a drink and the colorful entrance makes for great photo opportunities.  By far our favorite thing at the House of the Blues has an amazing  Gospel Choir Brunch  every Sunday morning which cost $40.

Bar Hours :  Daily 11:30am-Close.   Show Cost :  Daily performances/events costs vary, but they are always open for dining and drinks.   Bar Website :  ( HERE ).

39. Saint Louis Cemetery #1( ( 425 Basin Street ):

About Saint Louis Cemetery #1 :  New Orleans’ oldest cemetery from 1789 is a spooky one indeed with tales of  Bloody Mary  and the tomb of  Voodoo Queen Marie Laveau .  The blocks around the St Louis Cemetery #1 can be very shady as the neighbor is part of the often dangerous Storyville Projects.  Only go during the day with a tour group.  We like the tour from  Save Our Cemeteries  ( website ) the most which leaves Daily at 10am plus Fridays & Saturdays having a second tour at 1pm.  The tour is run amazing, costs $20 a person and lasts 1 hour.  Other tour companies charge from $30 to $50 per person for pretty much the same tour, however, the money that Save Our Cemeteries makes goes toward the restoration of the tombs.

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Disclaimer: Information on this page and in our walking tours were deemed accurate when published, however, details such as opening hours, rates, transportation, visa requirements, and safety can change without notice. Please check with any destinations directly before traveling.

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Planet of the Little Green Men

• April 12, 2024 Setlist

Planet of the Little Green Men Setlist at The Den @ Howlin' Wolf, New Orleans, LA, USA

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• Apr 04 2024 Hi-Ho Lounge New Orleans, LA, USA Add time Add time
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• Apr 12 2024 The Den @ Howlin' Wolf This Setlist New Orleans, LA, USA Start time: 9:30 PM 9:30 PM
• Apr 12 2024 Esplanade Street New Orleans, LA, USA Start time: 1:00 PM 1:00 PM

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Hans Williams the latest musician to emerge from Noah Kahan's 'Stick Season' state

The cover of the latest album released by a young Vermont-raised singer-songwriter shows him wearing flannel and jeans and posing in a very-Vermonty scene complete with weathered barn, lush green grass and moody gray skies.

He grew up in the Upper Valley of Vermont and attended high school across the Connecticut River in Hanover, New Hampshire. He enjoyed early success by releasing his music online as he builds his audience before going out on a long tour of the U.S.

That description fits Noah Kahan to a T, doesn’t it?

This isn’t him.

That description also fits Hans Williams, a 23-year-old native of Norwich who last month released his debut EP, “More Than One Way Home.” More than halfway through a 26-date North American tour, Williams plays a home-state show Thursday, April 18 at Higher Ground.

Williams acknowledges he’s inspired by Kahan’s shooting superstardom of the past couple of years. He knows his promo shots bear a close resemblance to those of his fellow Vermonter/Hanover High School alum from his “Stick Season” album photos.

‘”This is going to look so similar,’” Williams recalls thinking as those photos promoting “More Than One Way Home” were being shot. “But it’s where I’m from and I don’t want to negate that.”

Growing up on Al Green, Tracy Chapman

With a name that’s one letter off from Hank Williams, Hans Williams seemed destined for a music career. It helped, too, that his father was a big fan of funk and soul who exposed his son to Al Green, James Brown and Parliament Funkadelic. Williams remembers one of the first concerts he went to featured the Average White Band at the now-defunct Tupelo Music Hall in White River Junction.

Williams also grew up hearing Norah Jones and Tracy Chapman. Those crossover artists might be most audible in the easy, soulful timbre of Williams’ voice.

Williams lives in New Orleans now after attending Tulane University. He said he grew up “out in the boonies” on Tucker Hill Road in Norwich, and that Vermont upbringing has followed him south.

“I didn’t recognize the influence it had until I got here,” Williams told the Burlington Free Press in a video call from New Orleans. His community in and around Norwich was tight knit, he said, and he went to school with the same people for a dozen years.

“You’re just all in the same boat and you know everyone on some level,” Williams said. “The social dynamics are just different. You kind of just have the people you’re with.”

Even in New Orleans, Williams prefers a smaller, close group of pals to the social possibilities of a large city. He even convinced a few Vermont friends, including musicians, to join him in his music-intensive city.

The Vermont nature, though – both what he called the “sweet” personalities of those he grew up with and the natural environment he lived in – remains with him.

“It’s just something for me that’s really personal and reflective that I can tap into,” Williams said.

Similar stories in the ‘Stick Season’ state

Norwich has no high school, so Williams – like Kahan, who’s from nearby Strafford – spent his last years in public school across the Connecticut River at Hanover High School. He was in eighth grade when Kahan was a senior and knew Kahan only vaguely, though his older brothers went to school with the musician. Since his Vermont-inspired album “Stick Season” came out in late 2022, Kahan has become Vermont’s biggest star.

Williams, who has since encountered Kahan and played music with him a couple of times, doesn’t deny how his image mirrors Kahan, from the similar setting of their promotional photos to the thoughtful nature of their acoustic-driven tunes.

“There’s so much similarity. Almost too much,” according to Williams. “But we grew up in similar places.”

Songs on Williams’ debut EP, such as “Skin,” could fit snugly on a “Stick Season” follow-up. “So I’ll wait/Wait for my high to fall,” Williams sings, “And wait for your word to call/With every other smile/Propped up in alcohol/You said it’s fine.”

“As far as career trajectory we have some differences,” according to Williams. “He got signed (to a major label) right out of high school and worked really hard for a few years to put that (“Stick Season”) project together. I’ve been kind of throwing things at the wall the last six years, and I’ve been independent.”

“All that has come to him,” Williams said of Kahan’s success, “because he’s had such relatable songwriting that people can get in touch with.”

Success on Spotify

Williams began releasing music online when he was 17 and started building his following with shows in New Orleans after arriving at Tulane. He’s had more than 65 million streams of his songs but takes it with a grain of salt; Williams noted that he has a tenth of the following on Apple Music that he has on Spotify and attributes his success with the latter in part to the vagaries of the algorithm.

He likes being independent of a major label. It’s easier to make decisions, he said, and by not taking money from a major label he’s creatively self-sufficient. He would like to have a business partner help with distribution of his music, but otherwise he’s enjoying the path he’s following.

He might release a full album in a couple of years, but otherwise doesn’t have a clear sense of where his path will take him.

“I’ve honestly been trying to have fewer goals,” Williams said. “I’d like to just keep creating with the people I’m creating with and do as many shows as possible. I don’t really have an idea of the scope for my career.”

WHAT : Hans Williams with Brooks Hubbard

WHEN : 7:30 p.m. Thursday, April 18

WHERE : Higher Ground Showcase Lounge, South Burlington

INFORMATION : $25 in advance, $30 day of show. www.highergroundmusic.com

C ontact Brent Hallenbeck at [email protected].

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Here at Nola Tour Guy, we are experts and not only the history and culture of New Orleans but also knowing the best things to do in New Orleans, The best places to see and the best places to eat in New Orleans. We’ve put it all together in the following Free New Orleans Travel Guide.

You’ve probably seen other guides online. Most of these guides are written to promote paid links. The writers of these guides get a percentage of sales, this is called affiliate links. Our guide features no affiliate links, we are sharing our favorite things to do in New Orleans based on our actual knowledge and passion.

New Orleans is a vibrant sensory experience, full of colorful streets, soulful rhythms, and unforgettable tastes. It’s the culinary heart of Creole and Cajun cuisine, and beyond delights from gum­bo to shrimps and grits, it’s the city that invented he muffuletta, the beignet, and the char-grilled oyster.

New Orleans, is famous for it’s iconic architecture, the New Orleans Saints, and perhaps the most famous street in America—Bourbon Street. Did you know you can legally drink on the street anywhere in New Orleans? Here locals like to say, “Only in New Orleans!” After spending about a day in New Orleans, you’ll quickly see why.

From where to catch legendary New Orleans live music to the best restaurants in New Orleans, and every other must do activity, including including swamp and plantation tours. Check out our guide. Scroll down and hit any of the buttons to access more detailed articles

Best Time to Travel to New Orleans (what is the weather like there?)

New Orleans is a wonderful place to visit in any season. But summers can get hot, the average high temperature is around 90F (or 32C). In addition hurricane season runs from August until November. That said, the crowds are smaller and the prices for hotels are lower. So if you don’t mind warm (and often rainy) weather this can be a good time to visit but we’d recommended purchasing travel insurance encase there’s a hurricane.

Winter is a great time to visit New Orleans. December and January see the streets dressed in their holiday best with multiple events and concerts, yet the overall crowds are lower, and hotel rates are cheaper. February in NOLA means Mardi Gras, the city’s most crowded season, with over 4 million party-goers from around the world.

The weather is also on your side -Louisiana has mild winters, with temperatures averaging in the 50s at night and 80s during the day. All of these factors combine to make NOLA an excellent winter destination!

Spring in New Orleans starts early, like mid February. Which also happens to be around Mardi Gras time. Mardi Gras falls anywhere between early February to March. Spring is the busiest time of year hosting the biggest festivals like Jazz Fest, because it has the best weather. So restaurants, bars and hotels might be much more crowded.

It rains something like 200 days in New Orleans, find out what to do on a rainy day in New Orleans .

There’s a lot of things to do in New Orleans. From drinking on Bourbon street to strolling among the ancient live oaks in City Park check out our guides below to find out more things to do in New Orleans

Need more Check this list out: Things to do in New Orleans ?

The French Quarter is probably the most famous place to go in New Orleans and we definitely think you should check it out. It has been continuely occupied for 300 years. More then likely your hotel will either be in or close to the French Quarter but there lots of other places to check out in New Orleans. From antebellum mansions of the Garden District, to the quiet serenity of St Louis Cemetery #3 check out our guides to the Best Places to go in New Orleans.

People in New Orleans are extremely friendly. I like to say aggressively friendly. This might seem off putting if your coming form somewhere like New York City where people don’t talk to each other but this is normal and a great way to find out about things to do and places to eat and what peoples experiences are, and isn’t that what travel is all about? Get a drink at a bar and you might find yourself chatting with locals, just let it happen. Category five Hurricane Katrina hit New Orleans in August 2005, flooding 80 percent of the city. It’s not polite to ask strangers about their Katrina experience many locals still have PTSD from this experience.

New Orleanians love wearing costumes, for pretty much any reason. If you are coming for a holiday like Halloween or Mardi gras you should consider packing a costume or buying one when you arrive. 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, so it’s if your coming for Mardi Gras don’t expect to do much besides celebrating Mardi Gras.

New Orleans is known as the birthplace of jazz. So seeing live music should be on your to do list. Be sure to try Gulf seafood. Whether it’s raw, boiled, fried, stuffed in a po’ boy, served in an étouffée or prepared any other way, a plate full of should be on everyone’s to do lists. New Orleans is one of the top ten cities in the United States for the number of annual visitors. and it’s very popular for conventions Louisiana is divided into parishes rather than counties like the other states, and greater New Orleans spans eight parishes. The motto of New Orleans is “Laissez les bon temps rouler,” or “Let the good times roll.” and we think it really sums it all up

The New Orleans Transit Authority operates four streetcar lines: the St. Charles line, the Canal Street line, the Riverfront line, and the Rampart line. 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.The green St Charles line street cars were built around 1948, they are truly antiques. Streetcars are the most iconic way to travel in New Orleans and are definitionally recommend but be aware they are a leisurely form of travel.

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. Important bus lines are the 91 Esplande bus that runs from the French Quarter to City Park and the 11 Magazine bus that goes from the CBD (near the French Quarter) to shops on Magazine and the Garden District. Ferries: RTA Ferries transport travelers to Algiers from Canal street for $2 per ride. You can catch the ferry from the foot of Canal and it’s great way to check out the Mississippi river.

We strongly recommend checking out their App to buy tickets and find our more info on routes and schedules. You can also use Google Maps enter in the address you want to go and hit the bus icon and Google will give you directions on how to get where your going on public transportation.

Bicycles New Orleans is a relatively small city. We at Nola Tour Guy usually ride our bicycles to work to our walking tours and it usually only takes about 20 minutes. The city has been added bicycle lanes but we still strongly recommend wearing a helmet as New Orleans drivers are some of the worse in the country. Another thing to be aware of is the potholes. Our streets aren’t the smoothest . If this hasn’t deswaded you from riding a bicycle around New Orleans check out our Blue Bike program there are also several local business that rent bicycles.

Renting a car : Should you rent a car in New Orleans? Depends what your planning on. Just hanging out in the French Quarter? Probably unnecessary. Interesting in a Day Trip outside of New Orleans? Then consider renting one.

Find out more in our article about Should I rent a car in New Orleans?

The Green St Charles street cars have been operating since 1948!

New Orleans is famous for food. Muffuletta sandwiches, po’boys , oysters Rockefeller, and bananas foster all originated here, after all. Before we talk about where to eat lets talk a little about the food. You will see places advertising “Creole” and “Cajun”. Both Cajun and Creole dishes are native to Louisiana and found all over New Orleans. However, Cajun and Creole are unique ethnic groups with their traditions, culture, and cuisine. Cajun food was brought to Louisiana by the French Acadians , who migrated from Nova Scotia 250 years ago after the Seven Years War. Today, Cajun food is found all along the bayous of Louisiana, combining French and Southern dishes. They used to say a 7 course Cajun meal is a six pack of Bud and some boudin sausage.

More challenging to define, the term Creole holds no official definition but is generally said to have elements of French, European, African, Caribbean, or Hispanic descent mixed with a flair that is distinctly New Orleans. The impact of Creole culture is an inseparable part of the city. So the way to think about it is Urban vs Rural. Creole culture was historically centered around New Orleans and the French Quarter while Cajun culture is centered around the Bayous that surround the city.

We think that walking tours are the best way to see the city of New Orleans. Walking tours can go into so much more detail then bus tours. Nola Tour Guy offers FREE Historical Walking Tours, French Quarter tours, cemetery tours , Garden District Tours and Private Tours of New Orleans. How can our expert guides lead you through; the most interesting and historic neighborhoods in New Orleans for free? We are so sure you will love our tours you will gladly pay what you feel the tour is worth ($15-25 per person is suggested). Unlike other free walking tours in New Orleans, Nola Tour Guy is not a corporate chain but is run by local guides who are passionate about our history and excited to share with you the unique culture of the city they love. Our goal is to demystify the city so you’ll walk away understanding what makes New Orleans unique and important to us and to the world.

It might seem strange to you to want to tour a New Orleans Cemetery but New Orleans Cemeteries are extremely unique. However, by exploring a “ city of the dead ”, we can actually learn a lot about how people in the past lived, and perhaps even gain clues on how we should live today.

The first thing I think we all learned when either a grandparent or a beloved pet died is that life is impermanent, and that death is sudden and often random. This was especially true in New Orleans in the 19th century, when premature death was quite common. I don’t think it’s much of a leap to connect New Orleanians’ propensity for wild celebration to this proximity to death.

New Orleans has lots and lots of cemeteries and two very famous ones. Learn more about what Cemeteries to visit in New Orleans and why. Which ones are worth visiting and why? check out our guides.

What we are about:

Nola Tour Guy is a collective of passionate guides, both men and women, who are experts in the history of New Orleans. Our goals are to give tours that are intellectually stimulating, historically accurate and FUN. We only offer walking tours because we believe that walking is the best way to see a city and learn about it and at a price everyone can afford. Nola Tour Guy offers no novelty tours only the real history brought to life by our passionate guides. Join us, you won’t be disappointed..

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New Orleans

On this tour, we combine history and how-to. We’ll share stories of the holiday’s origins, but your guide will also be a seasoned parade veteran who can help you decide which events to attend and how to have a great time. And if you’re not here for parade days, we can help you get a taste of the season anytime.

As tour guides, we are always asked where the best places are to indulge in New Orleans culinary delicacies. During our tours, we'll often tell you the old standbys such as Commander's Palace, Antoines, Dooky Chase’s, and Cafe Du Monde. However, sometimes we will whisper to guests the local establishments that we hold near and […]

While there are a lot of great places to stay in New Orleans, one of the most popular types of accommodation is a hotel with a balcony, typically somewhere in the French Quarter. There are a lot of reasons that this particular type of hotel room is popular, but the main reason is thanks to […]

Whether you’re interested in taking a New Orleans hop-on hop-off bus tour or you’ve already got your ticket, it makes sense to plan out your journey ahead of time.  This post covers each of the attractions included on these tours, including the full route provided by both companies and a map showing where each stop […]

If you're looking for the short answer, most visitors will want to consider spending at least 2-3 days in New Orleans for a first visit. That is unless you plan to be back for certain, which you almost certainly will want to do. Trust me. I visited in 2006 and I'm still here. For those […]

This post provides details about how to use Streetcars, buses, ferries, and even bike rentals in New Orleans. Our local tour guides know several useful tips and tricks to help you get around New Orleans with ease, and we’ve compiled all of that information below. And in the video below, Tour Guide Andy explains how […]

Be prepared to be scared on this New Orleans ghost tour by Free Tours by Foot. The French Quarter has rascals both dead and we'll show you them all.

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This post answers some frequently answered questions (FAQs) about Mardi Gras in New Orleans as well as Carnival Season in general, updated for 2024. You can also find videos and links to further content to help you plan your time in New Orleans for this uniquely New Orleans festive season. One thing to get clear, […]

This post provides details about the Pirates Alley in New Orleans and why it is one of the most notable sites in this historic city.  History of Pirate's Alley There may be no more fabled location in New Orleans than Pirate’s Alley. New Orleanians like to tell a tale, but we don’t know if all […]

This post is about where to find the best Muffuletta in New Orleans. We include a map with places both within the French Quarter and outside as well as descriptions of and links to each recommended establishment. What is a Muffuletta 10 Top Places to get a Muffuletta French Quarter Food Tour 13 NOLA Foods […]

This article will explain what voodoo is, how it came about, and how to make it a part of your visit to New Orleans. WHAT IS VOODOO? Voodoo is a religion with its roots in West Africa. When France and Spain ruled New Orleans, Catholicism was the only legally permitted religion. But enslaved people had […]

This post covers the best night cemetery tours you can take in New Orleans.  We include tips about what to expect, how much it costs, and other important details to keep in mind. Overview There are a few cemetery tours in New Orleans that take place after dark, but it’s actually a somewhat uncommon activity […]

This post lists the top five voodoo shops in New Orleans. We go over what makes them unique, what they specialize in, and what you can buy at them. We make sure to know this information because, as local walking tour guides, we’re asked all the time by our tour guests where they can go […]

This post will provide information about the best ways to save money finding a place to stay while you’re in New Orleans. We include details about hotels, hostels, bed and breakfasts, airbnb and more. Overview While many of the best activities in New Orleans are quite affordable, one of your biggest expenses is going to […]

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