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The Best New Orleans Tours, from Cemeteries to Street Art

By Paul Oswell

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

Read our complete New Orleans travel guide here .

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

Garden District/Lafayette Cemetery Tour Arrow

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

Saints and Sinners Tour, French Quarter Phantoms Arrow

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

The Cocktail Tour – Drink & Learn Arrow

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

LGBT Queer History Tour, No Secrets Tours Arrow

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

Olivia Morelli

Gianluca Longo

Charlie Hobbs

New Orleans City Tour Arrow

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

New Orleans Street Art & Mural Walk Arrow

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

Killers and Thrillers Ghost Tour, Ghost City Tours Arrow

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

Conspiracy in the Big Easy, Strange True Tours Arrow

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

Hermann-Grima House Urban Enslavement Tour Arrow

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

New Orleans Music & Heritage Tour, Abel Tours Arrow

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

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The 15 Best New Orleans Tours You Have to Book!

New Orleans is one of the most culturally diverse and historically rich cities in the US. From the charming Creole restaurants and buzzing jazz venues in the French Quarter to the beautiful swamplands and plantations on the outskirts of the city, there are a staggering number of things to do in New Orleans . So much so that it can be tough to wrap your head around! 

If this is your first visit to NOLA (or your fifth!), tagging along on a tour or two is one of the best ways to delve a little bit deeper into everything this dynamic city has to offer. Whether you’re interested in sampling all of the best foods in New Orleans or getting up close and personal with gators in a moss-laden swamp, you’ll have tons of unique tours to choose from. 

New Orleans is the perfect place to explore on a guided or self-guided walking tour. You can easily get to know the city by taking a few hours to cruise around the French Quarter or the Garden District and checking out all of the city’s most famous landmarks.

Once you’re a bit more acquainted with your surroundings, you can tap into NOLA’s Creole culture on a food tour before learning all about its boozy history on a group pub crawl or cocktail tour. Or, if it’s history you’re after, you’ll definitely want to learn about New Orleans’ complicated past at a sprawling plantation or educate yourself about voodoo culture at the city’s oldest cemeteries!

With so many things to see and do, you might not know where to begin. So we’ve compiled our list of the absolute best tours in New Orleans for you. Stick to these fun and unique NOLA tour recommendations, and there’s no doubt you’ll have an amazing time getting to know this one-of-a-kind Louisiana city.

Don’t forget to check out our web story: The 15 Best New Orleans Tours You Have to Book!

Disclaimer: This post may contain affiliate links. If you make a purchase or booking through one of our links we may earn a small commission (don’t worry, it’s at no extra cost to you).

15 Fun and Unique Tours in New Orleans 

1. take a walking tour of the garden district.

The French Quarter might get most of the attention, but if you want to experience one of New Orleans’ most charming and historic neighborhoods, you really can’t go wrong with a walking tour of the Garden District ! 

While you can easily stroll through this lush district on a self-guided tour, it’s well worth booking a guided tour if you’d prefer to walk away with a deeper understanding of the history, culture, and architecture of the area. 

This two-hour tour will take you down oak tree-lined streets, past stately 19th-century mansions, and through beautiful gardens as your guide showers you with interesting stories and facts. Along the way, you’ll even spot celebrity homes belonging to Anne Rice, Sandra Bullock, and John Goodman! 

You’ll also get to see the historic gravesites in Lafayette Cemetery, which is one of the oldest cemeteries in New Orleans, as well as the filming locations of films and television shows like Interview with the Vampire and The Vampire Diaries .

Book a Garden District: Walking Tour

2. Send Shivers Up Your Spine on a Vampire & Voodoo Tour

Another one of the best walking tours in New Orleans is the Ghosts, Vampires & Voodoo Tour of the French Quarter . If you’re fascinated with all things vampires, voodoo, and witchcraft, then you’re going to love this unique New Orleans walking tour!

You’ll meet up with your knowledgeable and entertaining guide on the steps of the Louisiana Supreme Courthouse. During the tour, you’ll walk to haunted New Orleans sites like Muriel’s Restaurant , the Old Ursuline Convent , and the LaLaurie Mansion, which is rumored to be the most haunted building in New Orleans. 

If that’s not enough to spook you, you’ll also have the chance to check out the famous St. Germain House, which was the home of the notorious vampire Jacques Saint Germain in the early 1900s. You’ll learn all about the mysterious antics of the age-defying Saint Germain, as well as the wild parties he once threw at his New Orleans home.

Finally, you’ll hear all about the city’s historic Voodoo queens and contemporary Voodoo culture as you make your way to the New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum . 

Book your Vampires and Voodoo French Quarter Tour here!

3. Eat Your Way Through the French Quarter on a Food Tour

One of the best ways of experiencing any new city is by taking a food tour – and that couldn’t be more true in a city like New Orleans! With its Creole, Cajun, and French influences, New Orleans has a unique culinary landscape you won’t find anywhere else. 

If you don’t know where to start your foodie journey, it’s well worth booking this French Quarter Food Tour . During this three-hour jaunt, you’ll have the chance to sample New Orleans’ most iconic dishes at six local eateries. From cheesy chargrilled oysters to classic po-boy sandwiches and praline-encrusted treats, you won’t walk away from this New Orleans food tour hungry!

Plus, along the way, you’ll chat with the local food vendors and learn all about New Orleans’ unique culinary history and culture. And the best part is, you’ll walk away having an excellent grasp of New Orleans’ best foods, meaning you’ll know exactly what to order during the rest of your trip.

Book a French Quarter Food Tour

4. Marvel at the Historic Oak Alley Plantation

One of the most interesting and sobering tours in New Orleans is easily the Oak Alley Plantation Tour . Located in Vacherie, a little over an hour from the French Quarter, this stunning plantation and National Historic Landmark dates back to 1839, and it’s easily the best New Orleans plantation to visit if you’ve only got time for one plantation tour. 

If this place looks familiar, that’s because it’s one of the most photographed plantations in the US. It was also used as a filming location for movies like Interview with a Vampire and Primary Colors .

One of the standout features of the Oak Alley Plantation is the picturesque canopy created by the 250-year-old oak trees that stretches for 800 feet from the mansion to the Mississippi River. 

Given this plantation’s dark and disturbing history with slavery, a visit to Oak Alley Plantation isn’t for everyone. But if you do decide to visit, you’ll get a sobering glimpse into this grim reality through a series of informative placards and exhibitions.

Book an Oak Alley Plantation Tour

5. Learn How to Make Creole & Cajun Dishes

If you’re searching for fun New Orleans tours and activities, you might consider taking a cooking class! With this Cajun & Creole Cooking Class , you’ll have the chance to check out a demonstration cooking class and sample a range of local dishes at the New Orleans School of Cooking. 

You’ll learn how to cook popular Cajun and Creole foods with the help of a professional chef who will prepare a variety of local dishes in front of you. Think gumbo, jambalaya, red beans and rice, crawfish étouffée, bread pudding, or bananas Foster, to name a few. While the chef is chopping, sizzling, and sautéing, they’ll also entertain you with useful cooking tips and fun New Orleans food history facts. 

But the best part comes at the end of the demonstration when you get to sample all the dishes yourself! Come hungry because this will be a 3- or 4-course Cajun and Creole meal, which you can wash down with a Dixie beer, iced tea, or lemonade.

After your meal, you’ll be given a coupon to the on-site general store, where you can pick up locally sourced ingredients so you can prepare each of these dishes back at home. Don’t worry if you can’t remember all the steps and ingredients because you’ll be given copies of the recipes before you leave the tour!

Book a Cajun & Creole Cooking Class experience here!

6. Spot Gators On a High-Speed Airboat Swamp Tour

You pretty much can’t go to New Orleans without taking a swamp tour. And if you’re looking for a thrill, you have to embark on a High-Speed New Orleans Airboat Swamp Tour !

New Orleans is surrounded by tons of swampland, so you won’t have to go far to see all sorts of fascinating local wildlife. These small-group tours take 6-10 passengers to the wetlands just 40 minutes outside of the French Quarter.

During the 1-hour and 40-minute boat ride, you’ll have the chance to glimpse a range of swamp creatures, from bald eagles, pelicans, and osprey to turtles, wild pigs, and alligators. Do note that you will get up close and personal with giant gators, though the guides will be sure to keep a safe distance! 

Aside from spotting gators, the most fun part is gliding through swamps, marshes, and lakes at speeds of up to 35 miles an hour. If you’re looking for the most fun tour in New Orleans, this is your best bet!

If you have your heart set on seeing as many alligators as possible, you’ll have the best chance during the summer months, as they hibernate when the weather is too cold.

Book a New Orleans Swamp Tour

7. Get a Behind-the-Scenes Look at NOLA’s Mardi Gras Floats

While we highly recommend visiting New Orleans during the city’s (in)famous Mardi Gras celebration at least once, chances are you’re not planning to visit in late February. But that’s OK because you can still revel in NOLA’s Mardi Gras spirit by getting a behind-the-scenes look at Mardi Gras World !

One of the most unique tours in New Orleans, this one-hour self-guided tour gives you access to a huge warehouse that’s brimming with massive Mardi Gras floats and other paraphernalia. As you stroll around, you’ll be able to watch as artists and architects design, build, paint, and decorate their elaborate floats. There are over 500 floats built each year for the festivities, so you’ll have a lot of ground to cover!

After that, you can watch a fun film about New Orleans’ Mardi Gras traditions while enjoying a complimentary slice of king cake, a Mardi Gras classic. This tour also includes a free shuttle that will whisk you to and from Mardi Gras World!

Experience a Mardi Gras World Behind-the-Scenes Tour

8. Take a Scenic Cruise Along the Mississippi River

One of the coolest ways to experience New Orleans is on a tranquil cruise along the Mississippi River . On this two-hour tour, you’ll board the old-fashioned Sternwheeler Steamboat Natchez and make your way down the river, past the French Quarter and the New Orleans skyline.

Along the way, you’ll learn all about the history of New Orleans and why it was founded along the Mississippi River via the live narration. You’ll also be treated to a live jazz concert, which is the perfect backdrop to the river views!

If you’re feeling peckish, the wait staff will serve you a delicious Creole lunch. Just be sure to select this option when you book your tickets. Expect traditional New Orleans dishes like Southern fried fish, red beans and rice, and jambalaya served alongside coffee and iced tea. 

Book a Mississippi River Cruise on the Steamboat Natchez

9. See Historic Tombs on a New Orleans Cemetery Tour

It might sound strange, but one of the best ways to tap into the city’s history and culture is on a cemetery tour, and one of the most highly-rated cemetery tours in New Orleans is this Cemetery Walking Tour.  

On this 90-minute tour, your super knowledgeable guide will take you to five very different cemeteries in the northern (lakeside) part of New Orleans. You’ll start at the Old Fellows Rest Cemetery and the Masonic Cemetery.

After that, you’ll learn all about the early Irish immigrants in St. Patrick Cemetery, the havoc that was wreaked by yellow fever at the Charity Hospital Cemetery, and the history behind the lavish tombs in Greenwood and Cypress Grove cemeteries. This tour ends with a sobering look at the devastating effects of Hurricane Katrina at the Hurricane Katrina Memorial Cemetery.

If you’re looking for something more offbeat, there are tons of different cemetery tours on offer. From spooky nighttime ghost hunting tours to tours dedicated to the historic tombs in St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, you’re sure to find a New Orleans cemetery tour that’s perfect for you!

Book a New Orleans Cemetery Walking Tour

10. Sip Iconic NOLA Cocktails & Snack on Award-Winning NOLA Dishes 

If you’re looking for classy but boozy New Orleans tours, you honestly can’t go wrong with the Combo Cocktail and Food History Tour . Come hungry and thirsty because this walking tour plies you with a whopping four cocktails and nine dishes and snacks! Plus, at the end of the tour, you’ll walk away with tons of knowledge about New Orleans’ food and cocktail history.

You’ll start your foodie journey at the award-winning Red Fish Grill in the French Quarter, where you’ll sample alligator sausage and seafood gumbo while learning about Louisiana’s colonial past. 

After that, you’ll mosey four blocks down the road to Pepper Palace , where you’ll get educated about the Cajun influence on New Orleans cuisine while testing your limits with everything from hot sauces and dry rubs to spicy salsas and sauces. You’ll even get a free bottle of Louisiana-style hot sauce!

You’ll then sample praline-infused confections at the iconic Leah’s Pralines before hunkering down with a muffuletta sandwich and a signature Pimm’s Cup cocktail at Napoleon House . We hope you’re still hungry for more because, after that, you’ll move on to Dickie Brennan’s award-winning Tableau for a French 75 cocktail and Creole Cookery for red beans and rice.

You’ll end the tour at the James Beard Award-nominated Cane & Table , where you’ll snack on their famous curry pork skins and sip on a classic daiquiri!

Book your New Orleans Cocktail and Food History Tour here!

11. See New Orleans’ Most Famous Landmarks on a City Highlights Tour

If this is your first trip to New Orleans, the best way to get to know the city is by booking a City Highlights Tour . We highly recommend doing this tour on the first day so you can make the most of your trip! 

The guides are always incredibly knowledgeable and entertaining and offer the perfect mix of historical facts and social commentary. On this tour, you’ll meander through the French Quarter, where you can check out all the historic buildings while learning about the important roles jazz and Mardi Gras play in New Orleans’ culture. 

You’ll also get to check out all the eclectic shops on Magazine Street and the lavish graves at New Orleans’ oldest cemetery. From soaking in the views at Lake Pontchartrain to learning about the devastating impact of Hurricane Katrina in the Lower Ninth Ward, you’ll walk away with a much better understanding of this dynamic Louisiana city and its most iconic landmarks.

Book a City Highlights Tour

12. Take a Fascinating Tour Through Tremé

If you’re looking for unique tours in New Orleans, it’s well worth booking a spot on the African American & Creole History Tour in Tremé. This is an exceptionally fun and insightful tour, especially if you’re a fan of the HBO show Tremé . You’ll see tons of filming locations from the show throughout the tour!

But you don’t have to have seen Tremé to enjoy this tour. The tours are all led by licensed guides who are local historians, so you can rest assured that you’re in very capable hands. 

By the end of the tour, you’ll walk away with an in-depth understanding of Tremé’s African-American history, role in the civil rights movement, Creole culture, jazz and modern brass history, and so much more. You’ll also get to visit St. Augustine Church, the tomb of an unknown slave, and a laundromat that actually made its way into the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame!

Book an African American & Creole History Tour

13. Get Tipsy on a Haunted Pub Crawl

There’s no shortage of wild and boozy tours in New Orleans. So if you’re looking to let loose and have a good time during your trip, a Haunted Pub Crawl might be right up your alley!

You’ll meet up with your guide and fellow pub-crawlers at the Jax Brewery building on Decatur Street. With a drink in hand, you’ll explore the French Quarter while stopping off for drinks in some of the most haunted bars in the French Quarter.

Along the way, you’ll learn all about the tortured past of the haunted Lalaurie Mansion, the gruesome mass murder that took place at the Sultan’s Palace, and so much more. 

Plus, you’ll have the chance to stop off at Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop , which dates back to the 1700s and is one of the oldest bars in the United States. And, of course, it’s rumored to be haunted too!

Experience New Orleans Haunted Pub Crawl

14. Take a French Quarter Walking Tour

First-timers looking for the best New Orleans tours should definitely book a French Quarter walking tour. From booze-infused pub crawls to creepy ghost tours, you’ll have tons of different options to suit all tastes!

For one of the best and most highly-rated French Quarter walking tours, we recommend the French Quarter Walking and Storytelling Tour . On this two-hour walking tour, you’ll be able to tick off all of the French Quarter’s most iconic attractions, from the St. Louis Cathedral and Jackson Square to the French Market and the Mississippi River.

As you stroll, your guide will regale you with the fascinating (and often morbid) stories behind the 18th- and 19th-century homes, shops, and businesses and the antics of their former residents, shopkeepers, and patrons. 

You’ll love getting a glimpse into the history and culture of one of the most unique places in the US. Plus, your guide will be more than happy to give you restaurant recommendations, so you’ll know exactly what and where to eat for the rest of your trip! 

Book a French Quarter Walking Tour

15. Go Kayaking in Manchac Swamp

If you’re looking for something a bit more nature-filled, you might consider taking the Manchac Swamp Kayak Tour . Set roughly 30 minutes from the French Quarter, you’ll have the chance to experience the natural and wild side of New Orleans as you paddle your way through the peaceful Manchac and Maurepas swamps.

Don’t worry if you’ve never been kayaking before because these guided tours are tailor-made for beginners (though experts will have a great time, too!). Your guide will give you all the practical and safety tips for a successful and fun kayaking excursion. 

One of the best parts of the Manchac Kayak Tour is that groups are capped at 12, so you know you’re getting an intimate tour experience. Plus, the guides are super knowledgeable and passionate about the local wildlife and eco-system, so you’ll learn all sorts of fascinating tidbits about New Orleans’ swamps as you paddle through thick cypress forests and serene wetlands.

As you make your way down the shallow and narrow waterways, be sure to keep your eyes peeled for small alligators and turtles swimming in the water! This is also a prime spot for bird-watching, and you’ll likely spot owls, egrets, and more during your kayaking trip!

Book a Manchac Swamp Wildlife Kayaking Tour

There you have it! The 15 best tours in New Orleans. Do you have any tours in New Orleans you’d recommend? Let us know in the comments below! 

Planning a trip to New Orleans, Louisiana? Check out our favorite books and travel guides!

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About the Author:

Justine is a writer and editor who always seems to take the unconventional route in life. She also suffers from a serious case of wanderlust! In 2013, she left her hometown in California and set off on a yearlong round-the-world journey with her now-husband – they never looked back. Since then, she’s lived the expat life in Indonesia, Cambodia, China, Vietnam, Mexico, and now Dubai. Along the way, she's written and edited for magazines, newspapers, and websites in Asia and beyond. When she's not stoking her wanderlust by working on travel articles for Wandering Wheatleys, Justine is busy caring for her many foster cats in Dubai, seeking out all the delicious vegetarian food, and taking every chance she gets to explore a new corner of the world!

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New Orleans Tours & Vacations

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

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

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New Orleans travel FAQs

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

Trips from 1 January 2023 onwards

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

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

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

How do I get to New Orleans, Louisiana?

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

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

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

Getting around New Orleans

If you're staying within the French Quarter, the best way to get around is definitely on foot.

The streets in the French Quarter are sometimes narrow, and there tends to be a bit of traffic during peak periods.

If you want to travel outside the Quarter, catching a ride on one of New Orleans' iconic streetcars, renting a vehicle, hopping in a taxi, or riding a bike are more suitable forms of transportation.

What is the weather like in New Orleans, Louisiana?

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

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

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

What do I pack for New Orleans?

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

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

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

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

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

Are there any beaches in New Orleans?

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

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

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

How far is New Orleans from....?

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

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

Why is New Orleans called the 'Big Easy'?

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

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

What are the most haunted cemeteries in New Orleans?

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

These are the most haunted cemeteries in New Orleans: 

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

Are Intrepid trips accessible for travelers with disabilities?

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

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

Top Tours in New Orleans, LA

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1. New Orleans City and Cemetery Tour

2. Large Airboat Swamp Tour with Transportation from New Orleans

3. Swamp Boat Ride and Oak Alley Plantation Tour from New Orleans

4. New Orleans Food Walking Tour of the French Quarter with Small-Group Option

5. New Orleans Ghost, Voodoo and Vampire Walking Tour

6. Steamboat Natchez Evening Jazz Cruise with Dinner Option

7. New Orleans Steamboat Natchez Jazz Cruise

8. Adults-Only New Orleans Ghost, Crime, Voodoo, and Vampire Tour

9. New Orleans Cemetery Bus Tour After Dark

10. New Orleans Airboat Ride

11. Craft Beer and French Quarter Bike Tour in New Orleans

12. New Orleans Swamp and Bayou Boat Tour with Transportation

13. New Orleans Garden District Walking Tour Including Lafayette Cemetery No. 1

14. New Orleans City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

15. Small-Group Airboat Swamp Tour with Downtown New Orleans Pickup

16. St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 Official Walking Tour

17. French Quarter Historical Sights and Stories Walking Tour

18. Readings at the Haunted Sanctuary: Tarot and Bone

19. Oak Alley Plantation and Large Airboat Swamp Tour from New Orleans

20. New Orleans Small-Group Haunted History Carriage Tour

21. New Orleans Ghost Adventure Walking Tour

22. New Orleans Hands-On Cooking Class with Meal

23. New Orleans Small-Group City Tour by Van

24. Whitney Plantation Tour with Transportation from New Orleans

25. Haunted Pub Crawl in New Orleans

26. New Orleans Swamp Tour Boat Adventure

27. Oak Alley Plantation Tour with Transportation from New Orleans

28. New Orleans Swamp Tour Boat Adventure with Transportation

29. New Orleans Cocktail and Food History Tour

30. New Orleans City Tour: Katrina, French Quarter, Garden District

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• New Orleans Ghost, Voodoo and Vampire Walking Tour
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• Adults Only New Orleans Ghost, True Crime, Voodoo and Vampire Walking Tour
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From Cemeteries To Cocktails — 6 Amazing Tours To Experience In New Orleans

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

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

1. New Orleans Food Walking Tour Of The French Quarter

Destination kitchen.

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

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

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

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

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

2. New Orleans Garden District Tour

Two chicks walking tours.

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

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

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

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

3. Treme/Storyville/Cemetery/Voodoo Tour

Nola historic tours.

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

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

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

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

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

4. New Orleans Streetcar Cocktail Crawl

Self-guided cocktail tour on st. charles avenue.

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

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

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

5. Burlesque NOLA Or NOLA Literary Craft Cocktail

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

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

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

6. Our Favorite Ghosts

Unique nola tours.

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

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

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

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

Related Reading:

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

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

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Recommended by New Orleans Convention & Visitor’s Bureau and Louisiana Travel Association:

Travel writer reviews:, join us for an enjoyable, entertaining & accurate crescent city experience.

Since 1995, NOLA Historic Tours has been an alternative for the curious traveler, specializing in French Quarter, Cemetery, Garden District, Voodoo, Music, Haunted, Treme, Literary, Swamp and Plantation Tours. Preservationist / author Robert Florence has restored many historic tombs and runs the New Orleans Musicians Tomb which provides free burial to musicians. Experience the city’s most accredited guides who insightfully and humorously feature New Orleans’ most spectacular sites and intriguing traditions.

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GREAT Garden District Tour The tour moved along to keep it very interesting. I highly recommend this tour!” - baney3, Fairfax, Virginia

From : Did a broken wagon wheel decide the fate of Marksville? Curious Louisiana investigates https://www.theadvocate.com/curious_louisiana/the-city-of-marksville-started-with-a-broken-wagon-wheel/article_44747a3a-d74d-11ee-a7ba-f70465b6288a.html https://www.tourneworleans.com/tours/

From : An immersive exhibit of Banksy's provocative graffiti is promised for New Orleans https://www.nola.com/entertainment_life/arts/exhibit-of-graffiti-superstar-banksys-art-coming-to-nola/article_9f847e2a-ebf2-11ee-8849-578e18129a15.html https://www.tourneworleans.com/

NEW ORLEANS MUSIC TOUR Today, 2 PM Buddy Bolden recolled by Jelly Roll Morton: The 3 Recordings of ''Buddy Bolden's Blues''- 1938/1939. https://www.tourneworleans.com/music-tour/

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13 Absolute Best Food Tours In New Orleans

The city of New Orleans can best be described as a food lover's paradise. Its rich and cultured past has paved the way for an eclectic and diverse food scene to rival all others in the country. In the Big Easy, everything is iconic, from fresh seafood out of the Gulf Coast to delicious drinks that fuel the festivities and sweet treats that many tourists travel far and wide to sample. The city's unique blend of cultures gives rise to exclusive dishes, drawing visitors from across the globe to savor unforgettable cuisine and create lasting memories.

When visiting a new city, it's often wise to let a tour guide tote you around to the most serene, signature spots on your checklist. When New Orleans is the destination, tourists should never leave before booking a food tour to open their eyes to tastes outside the tourist district. We all know to indulge in cajun gumbo and beignets. However, lesser-known New Orleans classics like hearty red beans and rice and yakamein soup are often overlooked by travelers. A food-focused tour ensures a taste of the renowned favorites of the city, while unveiling hidden gems beyond the staples of The French Quarter, where authentic Cajun and Creole flavors come to life. Using personal experience and research methods, this list sums up the best food tours to make your New Orleans vacation unconventional and, therefore, spectacular.

Doctor Gumbo

Ever been on a boring tour? Doctor Gumbo Tours  implore guests to forget their preconceived notions about standard tours, with bored, blasé tour guides reading off lists and going through the motions. Doctor Gumbo boasts "a cure for the common tour" with food-focused walking tours that are designed to be both fun and informative. Meet new friends and explore the ins and outs of the most vibrant city in America. Whether you choose the food history tour or strictly cocktails while you walk along the streets of New Orleans' revered French Quarter, you're in for an experience that will have you swooning over the Big Easy.

Doctor Gumbo's food history tour allows visitors to dine in five iconic New Orleans locations, including some centuries-old establishments that are household names in the city. You'll discover dishes like seafood-rich gumbo, savory boudin balls, and the best muffuletta in Nola . Enjoy your leisurely stroll through the city streets, enjoying jazz performances and exploring various restaurants. There are plenty of opportunities for candy shop stops and hot sauce store tours so that you can pick up some classic New Orleans souvenirs along the way.

Sidewalk Food Tours

Food is the name of the game for Sidewalk Tours . The company specializes in a variety of food-themed tours to accommodate all visitors. Learn about the neighborhoods of The French Quarter and the Lower Garden District while you sample the flavors that put the city on the map as a culinary hotspot. Sidewalk tour guides are friendly and laidback, so instead of feeling like a structured tour with a strict itinerary, this experience is more like a casual stroll through a beautiful city that leaves guests with a full belly and fond memories to last a lifetime.

Choose whether you'd like to explore The French Quarter or the less famous but equally impressive Lower Garden District with Sidewalk tours. For The Quarter tour, choose five locations, including Leah's Pralines — arguably the best place for iconic sweets in New Orleans — and Felix's Oyster Bar, where you can sample freshly shucked oysters fresh from the Mississippi River. Opt for the Garden District tour to explore locations such as the famous sandwich shop Turkey and the Wolf and Juan's Flying Burrito, the world's first Creole taqueria. Sidewalk Tours also offers private and corporate tours.

Let a bona fide local tote you around the Garden District with Bon Moment tours. Whether you'd like a guided bar crawl or a tour that will satiate your appetite, Bon Moment is an ideal choice for a small group looking for an intimate, in-depth New Orleans culinary experience. This tour focuses heavily on small businesses, meaning you might sacrifice stops at some famous chains. Still, in exchange, you'll be supporting the local economy of the city you've been longing to visit.

Bon Moment's tour guide will educate you on the history of the neighborhoods that you're touring before and after you indulge in some iconic NOLA food and beverages. Take the company's Bywater food and drink tour to do New Orleans like a local. Drink in a dive bar and grab po '  boys at the corner deli while you admire street art and listen to live music in this up-and-coming part of town. Bon Moment also offers tours of The Garden District and a nightlife tour on Frenchman Street, where you can party like the locals do.

Guided Underground Donut and Beignet Tour

Those who are unfamiliar with the city may not think of donuts and sweet treats when they think about the culinary scene of New Orleans (usually fishy food and booze are what come to mind). But locals know all too well the addictive nature of New Orleans-style beignets and other soft and sugary NOLA treats. On the  Guided Underground  donut and beignet tour, you'll get to indulge in a different way than everyone else partying in the French Quarter on Fat Tuesday. Guided Underground's tour takes visitors through the neighborhoods of Magazine Street — an area to explore that tourists don't often add to their itinerary. Yet for New Orleans locals, Magazine is the go-to spot for culinary delights, refreshing drinks, lively parties, and an all-encompassing good time.

On the tour, you'll visit four pastry shops, enjoying the best beignets the city has to offer with a cup of chicory-laced café au lait in hand. You'll try the classics as well as seasonal donuts loaded with local ingredients unique to the city. The tour promises to finish with a fun surprise, so book this distinguished food tour on your next New Orleans excursion to enjoy something off the beaten path.

New Orleans Secrets

So you've tried gumbo, beignets, and rum-rich hurricanes — now what? There's a lot more to the New Orleans foodie scene than just the classics that we can all name off the top of our heads. New Orleans Secrets aims to shed some light on the lesser-known delights that the city has to offer and leave the gumbo to the novices. The company's Magazine Street Foodie Tour  includes six stops with seven menu items to enjoy. The experience is anything but a tasting tour and more like a full day of indulgence. You can certainly check this eclectic meal off as one of the best you'll ever have in New Orleans and beyond.

The New Orleans Secrets foodie tour leaves guests in suspense by staying true to its name and keeping the restaurants a surprise until the tour begins. So for an adventurous foodie who loves to throw all caution to the wind and embrace a mouth-watering, savory meal in any and all forms, this tour is a must-experience. Guests will stroll for a half mile down Magazine Street, enjoying the sights, sounds, and — most importantly — flavors of the city.

Destination Kitchen

Considered one of the best in the Crescent City, Destination Kitchen offers tours to suit any group. Whether you're on a cocktail-laden girl's trip or a family-friendly vacation, a culinary tour by Destination Kitchen will please everyone in your group by showcasing the best of the best in New Orleans cuisine. Amble through The French Quarter during Destination Kitchen's walking food tour, perfect for first-time visitors. On this tour, you can sample gumbo and other iconic dishes, as well as "make groceries" (otherwise known as "shop for tasty treats" in New Orleans language). This tour includes a stop at the city's famous French Market, where you can choose any seafood meal you can fathom and grab a cold beverage to ease the sticky Louisiana heat.

For a more intimate and unconventional experience, opt for Destination Kitchen's walking tour and cooking class. At nearly six hours, this tour turns the culinary world of New Orleans into a fun day of gastronomic bliss. Visit the most famous eateries in the city and learn about their impact on New Orleans culture, all while sampling beloved dishes. Then, enjoy an entertaining and informative cooking demonstration at the New Orleans Cooking School, complete with a full lunch.

Taste of Nawlins

Let Taste of Nawlins  take you on an educational epicurean excursion through the French Quarter. Don't let the quirky phonetic spelling in this tour's name fool you — the company promises to take you and your guests on a dignified journey through the famed culinary landscape of New Orleans as it was meant to be experienced. You'll learn the history of iconic dishes like jambalaya and gumbo , as well as the story behind the historical buildings that line the streets of The Quarter. On this tour, you'll meet the locals who keep New Orleans's food scene alive and thriving, providing a hearty dose of sweet Southern culture to accompany the savory meals you'll enjoy.

If you're after a tour that offers a little something beyond the classics, take the Taste of Nawlins breakfast tour. On this excursion, you'll start your day with a full New Orleans-style breakfast in a popular restaurant on Decatur Street before you head out for an early morning educational adventure. You'll learn about food, architecture, and the French history that made this Gulf Coast cuisine among the most revered in the country.

The Premier New Orleans Food Tour

Lead by two New Orleans locals with a fiery passion for The Big Easy's eclectic charm, the Premier New Orleans food tour is sure to impress even the pickiest of palettes. Naif and Sandy — two lifelong Louisiana residents — will be your knowledgeable and quirky guides on the culinary circuit. Both Naif and Sandy are former educators and cooking aficionados, making them the perfect guides for those who want to learn about New Orleans food history with delightful Southern friendliness.

The Premier New Orleans French Quarter tasting tour leads guests along the historical streets to taste the best po' boys in New Orleans — stuffed with meat or seafood and dressed to the nines — all while learning the myriad differences between Cajun and Creole cuisine. Tour five different locations in the French Quarter at a leisurely pace while your guide answers any questions you may have about the food or historical sites that you'll visit. The Premier New Orleans Food Tour offers tours for small and large groups, as well as private tours.

Intrepid Urban Adventures

Intrepid Urban Adventures  employs a network of tour guides all over the world to host food-centric and other themed excursions in cities spanning every continent. In New Orleans, Intrepid Urban Adventures hosts a small tour that brings out the foodie in every Big Easy visitor. Meet your tour guide at Jackson Square, and then stop at four mouth-watering stops in the French Quarter. On this tour, the more famous eateries are cast aside in favor of New Orleans's hidden gem establishments. Enjoy dishes from restaurants that tourists otherwise would overlook if not for a knowledgeable, local guide to show them how to eat like a resident in The Quarter.

Intrepid Urban Adventures tour guides are full of energy and dedication to their city, and their passion is reflected in their tour. You'll learn historical facts about the French Quarter that many locals aren't even aware of. Even if you've lived in NOLA all your life, this tour makes for a worthwhile adventure for anyone who wants to learn about the famous heart of New Orleans while enjoying some unconventional eats.

Tastebud Food Tours

Whether you're on the hunt for a taste of the best seafood in the city, a strong and refreshing cocktail, or the most iconic flavors of Cajun and Creole cuisine, Tastebud Tours has you covered. The company offers seven distinct food tour options, as well as options for private tours and large group tours. Learn to craft three famous New Orleans cocktails and discover the history behind them with Tastebud Tour's cocktail class. Or, tour the famous foods of the French Quarter and enjoy a boozy bourbon brunch followed by a bourbon-focused cocktail class.

We recommend a seafood-centric tour that showcases the best fish dishes in the city. Visit the Court of Two Sisters, famous for its enticing brunch offerings and lively jazz accompaniment. You'll stop at Cornet Restaurant, home of the largest balcony in The Quarter, perfect for celebrating Mardi Gras and treating yourself to some fresh and steamy crawfish étouffée. Next, you'll visit New Orleans Creole Cookery, a NOLA staple offering chargrilled oysters and shrimp remoulade. These restaurants are steeped in history and contribute to the diverse culture that makes New Orleans such an enticing spot for travelers.

Nola Detours

Nola Detours  boasts off-the-beaten-path sightseeing — a tempting option for travelers who want to experience a city in all its glory. The company hosts backstage music tours, sight-seeing drives, haunted tours, and, most importantly, culinary excursions. Embark on a cocktail tour as you take in the view of the centuries-old city from the rooftop bar of the esteemed Royal Orleans Hotel — an experience that will undoubtedly leave a lasting impression on every newcomer to New Orleans.

Choose Nola Detours' street food tour, where you'll be led to low-key spots that are usually only frequented by locals. Here, you can get the real Nawlins treatment. Experience some of the most authentic cuisine in the city, including a stop where guests can try alligator meat — a Louisiana delicacy . The tour is led by a former New Orleans restaurant owner, so you know you're getting first-hand knowledge and experience on the bayou fare that makes New Orleans a coveted culinary haven. As you scour the streets in anticipation of the next delicious treat, you'll visit the famous St. Louis Cathedral and other historical sites to check off your travel itinerary.

WeVenture Taste of Gumbo

If there's one dish in New Orleans that deserves a tour solely in its honor, it's gumbo. WeVenture  offers tours in top urban destinations around the country, including a New Orleans culinary tour with a heavy focus on the rich, savory, and controversial dish native to the distinctive city. No two gumbos are alike, which is why on this tour, visitors experience several variations of the acclaimed dish. Experience fresh seafood and veggies melded together thanks to an expertly prepared roux accompanied by a hearty scoop of rice, making it filling enough to grant it dinner status. You can then decide for yourself if you're team tomato in gumbo or prefer to pass on the tart flavor, and whether you prefer a light or dark roux .

On The Taste of Gumbo Tour, you'll meet your guide in Jackson Square and stroll through the French Quarter sampling various gumbos, each with a distinct style and made with different meats and seafood. Discover each immigrant culture's contributions to the gumbo recipe that we know and love today, and learn about all of the different styles of the dish throughout history. New Orleans's storied past is reflected in this iconic dish, so let WeVenture be your gourmet gumbo guru on this French Quarter quest.

New Orleans School of Cooking

Our list concludes with an unconventional and compelling tour experience. Learn to cook Louisiana's renowned dishes under the tutelage of skilled chefs. Fueled by a passion for the Cresent City and a love for the bounty of the Gulf Coast, the chefs of the New Orleans School of Cooking  delight in educating and entertaining tourists. You'll be given a brief history of the city as well as a list of fun facts and tidbits about the food before you witness it come to life before your eyes.

New Orleans School of Cooking offers cooking demonstrations where guests can witness first-hand the skill and expertise required for crafting NOLA's favorite dishes. For a more hands-on experience, guests can opt for a cooking demonstration and class. Here, you'll get to prepare from scratch a New Orleans staple meal with a highly skilled chef by your side to guide you through the fun and informative journey. After the class, sit down and enjoy a family-style meal over chatter about the New Orleans experience. This culinary adventure is bound to leave a lasting impression. Now that you've obtained the skill necessary to cook top-tier Louisiana fare, you can prepare the perfect meals for Mardi Gras back home to impress friends at a NOLA-themed party.

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Awesome Adventures

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

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French Quarter: The Vieux Carre - New Orleans, Louisiana

Often called the Crown Jewel of New Orleans, the French Quarter is one of NOLA's most historic neighborhoods. But you'll find plenty of new mixed in with the old. There’s a reimagined French Market, modern boutiques and artisan cocktails mix with beloved antique stores and old restaurants.  (Antoine’s. Arnaud’s. Galatoire’s. Brennan’s – the world would be far less flavorful without you!)

Like the Creole aristocrats lining the galleries of the Historic New Orleans Collection, the French Quarter is a timeless portrait – especially come dusk when swallows glide above the fortunetellers on Jackson Square and St. Louis Cathedral’s butter-crème-colored walls reflect the fiery sunset. Ghost tours troop past mad Madame LaLaurie’s mansion while neon signs stutter to life on Bourbon Street where syrupy red Hurricanes, slosh in famed ‘go cups’– those plastic tumblers responsible for uncountable curbside parties. Night falls. Horse hooves clop, music throbs and gaslights flicker in a place full of long-told legends and those waiting to be born. Create one of your own.

Quick Facts & Tips

• YEAR FOUNDED: 1718
• VIBE: Romantic, mysterious and jazzy
• KNOWN FOR: Bohemian charm, Jackson Square history, Steamboat cruises, Bourbon Street fun, Old-world architecture, Century-old restaurants

• Things to Do

With so much culture, history and entertainment, you’ll find a unique and exciting experience around every corner with choices from museums, tours, riverboat rides...

Nowhere else in New Orleans are there as many memorable dining establishments as there are in the French Quarter. From 19th century Creole cuisine to contemporary...

Famous for its bars and clubs, the French Quarter has a nightlife scene unlike any other.

Welcome to shopping in the French Quarter, the oldest neighborhood in New Orleans and a designated National Historic Landmark. Whether you’re searching for jewelry...

Whether you prefer a quaint, tucked away inn or a hotel right in the middle of the bustling French Quarter, you’ll find the perfect accommodations in this...

Must See & Do

• St. Louis Cathedral
• Jackson Square
• French Market
• Cafe du Monde
• The Presbytere
• Old U.S. Mint
• Historic New Orleans Collection
• Ursuline Convent

Major Events

• French Quarter Festival
• New Orleans Wine & Food Experience
• Running of the Bulls
• Tales of the Cocktail
• Satchmo SummerFest
• Southern Decadence
• Tennessee Williams Festival
• New Year's Eve

Streets of Interest

• Bourbon Street
• Royal Street

Founded by the French in 1718, the Quarter is New Orleans’ oldest neighborhood. Touched by centuries of influence from across the globe, the Vieux Carré tells ages-old stories of trade,...

From cast iron balconies and walled courtyards, to colorful Creole cottages and townhouses, the “Vieux Carré” is a unique collection of historic French, Spanish, Creole, and...

Central to the city’s most popular attractions, the French Quarter is best travelled by foot, pedicab, or even horse and buggy. If you choose to drive downtown, public parking lots are available...

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The 12 best ghost and vampire tours in new orleans.

Hear chilling tales of the city's paranormal activity on one of these guided tours.

Top New Orleans Ghost and Vampire Tours

Getty Images

Often referred to as the most haunted city in America, New Orleans is filled with stories of ghosts, Voodoo, magic, pirates, vampires and more. There's no better way to learn about the city's haunted history than on a guided ghost tour, where local experts share their insider knowledge. U.S. News compiled this list of the top New Orleans ghost tours, considering traveler sentiment and expert opinion.

Ghost City Tours – The Ghosts of New Orleans Tour

Price: Adults from $25; kids from $10 Duration: 1.5 hours

During Ghost City Tours' Ghosts of New Orleans Tour, guides lead visitors on a walk to some of the most haunted locations in the French Quarter, including restaurants, hotels and the infamous LaLaurie Mansion. Despite its recounting of the city's gruesome crimes and murders, the tour is considered kid-friendly. And according to reviewers, the experience is both informative and entertaining for all ages.

Tours are offered nightly at 8 p.m.; additional tours at 4 and 6 p.m. may be available as well (offerings vary by day). Other experiences from this tour outfitter include adults-only tours like a haunted pub crawl and a Killers and Thrillers tour, which focuses on the city's most notorious crimes and murders.

Check prices & availability on:

French Quarter Phantoms – Ghost and Vampire Walking Tour

Price: Adults from $22; kids from $5 Duration: 2 hours

Tourists enjoy a double dose of spooky tales regarding local hauntings and vampire lore on this tour with French Quarter Phantoms. Tours are led by licensed guides who revel in talking about disease, disaster, sinister spirits and murder in the city. That said, guides promise the thrills are mixed in with lots of laughs. According to visitors, the guides are excellent, funny and entertaining. What's more, reviewers describe the walking tour as family-friendly.

Tours are offered nightly at 6 and 8 p.m. French Quarter Phantoms runs other tours in New Orleans , including outings to Tremé and the Garden District, among other neighborhoods.

Witches Brew Tours – 3 in 1 French Quarter, Voodoo & Cemetery History Tour

Price: Adults from $33; kids from $20 Duration: 2 hours

If you're on the hunt for a tour that covers the history of the French Quarter, the city's unique above-ground cemeteries and its relationship to Voodoo, reviewers say you can't go wrong with this tour. Along the excursion, your guide will discuss New Orleans customs, traditions, architecture and superstitions, and take you to visit a cemetery, where you'll learn about the city's unique interment process. You'll also hear about the history of Voodoo and visit Congo Square, located in Louis Armstrong Park.

The tour is offered daily at 11 a.m. and 1:30 p.m. The tour is capped at 28 people, and reservations are required. For even more spine-chilling tales, consider the company's 4 in 1 tour, which includes stories of vampires in the Crescent City.

Courtesy of Royal Carriages

Royal Carriages – New Orleans History & Haunts Carriage Tour

Price: Adults from $60; kids from $40 Duration: 1 hour

Climb aboard a mule-drawn carriage to clip-clop through the streets of the French Quarter on the New Orleans History & Haunts Carriage Tour. Tourgoers will learn about haunted hotels, Voodoo history, vampires and more as they ride slowly through the quarter. Reviewers appreciate the knowledgeable guides and the relaxed pace of this small group tour, which is capped at eight passengers.

Tours are offered seven days a week at multiple times between 3 and 10:30 p.m. Royal Carriages also offers a daytime history tour of the French Quarter and Marigny neighborhoods, as well as private carriage rides.

Haunted History Tours – French Quarter Ghosts & Legends Tour

Price: Adults from $30; kids from $20 Duration: 2 hours

The French Quarter Ghosts & Legends Tour visits sites of documented hauntings found in police records, city archives and the company's own paranormal investigations. Along the way, guides share entertaining tales of the French Quarter's most famous residents. Reviewers praise the guides for their storytelling abilities. They also appreciate the emphasis on history throughout the tour.

Tours are offered daily at 3, 6 and 8 p.m. Ghost tours of the Garden District, haunted pub crawls and cemetery tours are also available.

Free Tours By Foot – New Orleans Voodoo Tour

Price: Free Duration: 1.5 hours

On the New Orleans Voodoo Tour, participants will learn about this mysterious and often misunderstood religion, which is still practiced today. Guides will talk about the history, culture and beliefs of both past and current practitioners, including the famous Voodoo queen Marie Laveau. Highlights include visits to Congo Square, the New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum and modern Voodoo shrines, among others. Visitors praise the excellent and informative guides.

Tours are offered at 10 a.m. and 3 p.m. Thursday through Monday. Though tourgoers can name their own price, reservations are required. Free Tours By Foot offers a variety of walking tours with ghost, cemetery and food themes.

Check availability on:

New Orleans Ghost Adventures Tours – Haunted Pub Crawl

Price: From $32 Duration: 2 hours

Led by New Orleans historians, the Haunted Pub Crawl aims to teach visitors the historical origins of the city's most legendary ghost stories. Tourgoers visit locations investigated by real ghost hunters (as seen on popular TV shows), all with a drink in hand. According to reviewers, this is the perfect way to explore New Orleans thanks to the insightful, humorous guides. Highlights include the LaLaurie Mansion, Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop and tales of the French Quarter's haunted past.

Tours meet nightly at 5 and 7:30 p.m. Participants must be at least 21 years old to join the tour. The company also offers tours that visit the city's most famous cemeteries, as well as Voodoo and vampire tours.

New Orleans Legendary Walking Tours – Ghost Tour

Price: Adults from $28; kids from $17 Duration: 2 hours

When you wander through the French Quarter with New Orleans Legendary Walking Tours, guides promise to thrill and chill you with tales of haunted buildings, events, legends and true crimes dating back to the Civil War. You'll learn about hauntings at the Andrew Jackson Hotel, the Ursuline Convent and Muriel's Jackson Square, as well as the yellow fever epidemic and Marie Laveau. You'll even hear about the city's present-day paranormal activity. According to visitors, the experience is informative and lots of fun, thanks to the engaging tour guides.

Tours run daily at 5:30 and 8 p.m. For a break from the ghost stories, consider the company's Garden District tour.

New Orleans Secrets – Mysteries of Voodoo Tour

Price: From $39 Duration: 2 hours

On the Mysteries of Voodoo Tour, guides promise to tell you the true history, culture and beliefs of Voodoo and dispel the myths surrounding it. Guides are either Voodoo practitioners or have spent years studying the religion academically, and they'll cover topics related to Voodoo queen Marie Laveau, slavery, spells, dolls, potions and much more. The tour is limited to nine people, so you can ask all the questions you like – an aspect visitors appreciate. In addition, you'll have the chance to see more than a dozen real Voodoo shrines and altars at several locations throughout the French Quarter.

Tours are generally offered Wednesday through Sunday at 1 or 3 p.m., depending on the day. The company also operates several food and history tours.

Courtesy of Gray Line New Orleans

Gray Line – Ghosts & Spirits Walking Tour

Price: Adults from $27; kids from $15 Duration: 2 hours

Explore the French Quarter's most haunted buildings, streets and alleys on this evening walking tour. Between stops, your guide will regale you with stories of local legend and paranormal sightings. Reviewers recommend this tour, praising the informative, personable guides. Travelers also appreciate that guides weave in a fair amount of interesting New Orleans history throughout the tour.

Tours depart nightly at 7 p.m. from the Gray Line ticket office in the French Quarter. The excursion is not recommended for kids younger than 10. Hoping to explore beyond the French Quarter? Gray Line operates a variety of day trips to nearby swamps and plantations .

Unique NOLA Tours – Lewd Spirits Tour

Price: From $37 Duration: 2 hours

Hear risqué tales of adultery, murder and mayhem on this tour of the French Quarter, which stops at three bars, including a former brothel. Reviewers applaud the knowledgeable guides for their humor and storytelling abilities. Travelers also enjoy the bars visited.

Tours, which are restricted to adults 21 and older, depart nightly at 5 and 8 p.m. Note that drinks are not included in the ticket price. If you're traveling with kids and looking for an activity the whole family can enjoy, the company also offers a kid-friendly ghost tour, among other options.

Hottest Hell Tours – Walking the Devil's Empire Tour

Many reviewers called this tour the highlight of their New Orleans trip thanks to the excellent guides, who travelers describe as "master storytellers." Along the stroll, you'll hear stories of true crime, Voodoo, vampires and ghosts, passing landmarks like Congo Square, Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop and the St. Germain House, one of the city's most photographed homes that was allegedly once home to a vampire. You can also upgrade to "Hell Vision" – a handheld projector that you can use to see historical documents, photos and more while on tour.

Tours depart nightly at 5 and 8 p.m. This is an adults-only experience; children are not allowed. Hottest Hell Tours also operates walking tours of the city's former red-light district (Storyville) and a Voodoo tour, among other options.

You may also be interested in:

• Best Things to Do in New Orleans
• Best Louisiana Swamp Tours
• Best Savannah Ghost Tours
• Hauntingly Abandoned Places You Can Still Visit
• The Most Haunted Hotels in America
• Best Historical Cities to Visit in the USA

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

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19 Best Things to Do in New Orleans with Teens

H ave you always wanted to check out New Orleans but weren’t sure you should bring along your kids? That was me, but I finally decided to take the plunge and planned a long weekend in New Orleans with my teenage son.

I’m glad I did because it turns out that just like in Las Vegas , there are actually plenty of fun things to do in New Orleans with teens – we were nonstop BUSY and still didn’t manage to see and do it all.

I’ve learned that New Orleans isn’t just a city—it’s a melting pot of music, food, and history that left me wanting more. Grab your walking shoes and your sense of adventure, because I’m about to dive headfirst into the heart and soul of NOLA and how to experience it with your teens.

From jazz-filled streets to spine-tingling ghost tours, there’s something in the Crescent City for everyone.

For the ultimate teen-friendly stay in New Orleans, consider booking a room at the Hyatt Centric French Quarter , where comfort meets convenience close to the heat of the action.

Exploring NOLA’s Heartbeat: A Bus Tour, Bourbon Street, and Frenchmen Street Adventure

The first thing I like to do when traveling somewhere new is get the lay of the land. Back in the old days that would mean studying a map for a few minutes to figure out where I am in relation to the places I’d like to go. These days, I have more fun ways to do this!

1. Small bus city tour

We started our New Orleans adventure with a small bus city tour . It was the perfect way for me to figure out how to navigate the city ( turns out it’s really easy ), and it helped us decide where we wanted to go back and visit later.

We chose a small bus as it was able to navigate some of the tighter areas of the city. Although I love those double-decker hop-on hop-off buses, for this visit, the small bus tour was ideal.

Our tour of the city included a cemetery visit which was not only super interesting but also a little bit creepy. I think on a future trip I’d love to take a walking cemetery tour , but this at least gave us a good feel for the famous above-ground cemeteries in New Orleans and why they are unique.

Get the BEST overview of New Orleans on a small bus city tour!

2. Dive into the heart of Bourbon Street

At some point on your trip to New Orleans with teenagers, you need to spend a little time on Bourbon Street . It reminded me a bit of Nashville and it’s Honky Tonk’s on Broadway , but it was MUCH longer.

These days the bars and restaurants on Bourbon Street aren’t all jazz clubs, so if that’s not your musical taste, I’d be willing to bet you can find something you prefer. Although we did experience Bourbon Street both during the day and at night, most of the places don’t allow teens, so daytime was better – we were able to enjoy the street musicians and not worry about being unable to enter the bars.

3. Experience live jazz on Frenchmen Street

Luckily, since the jazz clubs aren’t as prevalent on Bourbon Street anymore, there is still an area that focuses on jazz, and that’s Frenchmen Street . We grabbed an Uber to head over there one evening and were able to find a restaurant that had live music and allowed kids.

We enjoyed a delicious dinner, great service, and excellent music at Three Muses . We even nabbed a window seat so we could watch the fun in the street too. After dinner we wandered over to the Frenchmen Art Bazaar for a little shopping and were able to listen to the music spilling out of the other bars as we strolled. It was one of the highlights of our trip, and felt exactly like what I had imagined Bourbon Street to be like!

Savoring NOLA’s Flavorful Feasts

My family loves good food, and New Orleans did not disappoint. We ate our way through the city, enjoying every bite!

4. Enjoy the tastes of New Orleans on a food tour

One of our favorite things to do in a new city is indulge in a food tour. It’s a fantastic way to explore a section of a city, learn a little history and enjoy some of the food the area is known for. For this visit, we decided upon a food & history tour of the French Quarter .

This is one of those times it’s nice to have a teenage boy along – he happily finished my food as it was WAY more than I could eat.

Our guide was a retired teacher and knew the city well. He also introduced us to some New Orleans classics like a mufuletta, po’ boy, jambalaya, gumbo and a sweet praline for dessert. Everything was delicious and we had plenty of food. We did the 11:00 tour so it was the perfect lunch.

Don’t miss out on this mouthwatering experience— book a New Orleans food tour today and indulge in the city’s culinary delights!

5. Vote for the best beignet in New Orleans

I have yet to meet a teen who doesn’t love beignets! So a fun thing to do on your visit it try to find what your family considers the best version. They are really all over the city, and we certainly took a beignet break as often as we could!

Of course you should try the iconic Cafe du Monde , but you should also give the ones from Cafe Beignet a try. One of our favorite versions was at Morning Call Cafe – not only were the beignets delicious, the iced cafe au lait was unbelievably good!

6. Savor a leisurely brunch

Brunch is a way of life in New Orleans, and as I always tell my teenage daughter “brunch is never a bad idea”. With all that, your issue is going to be deciding where to brunch! On our last trip we actually enjoyed brunch two of the mornings. Our first day we walked over to the iconic Creole House thanks to a tip from our hotel concierge.

Later in the trip we headed out of the French Quarter area to a local hot spot Katie’s for brunch. Katie’s was featured on Diners, Drive Ins and Dives , and is a happening place perfect for a Sunday brunch. Definitely order the Crawfish Beignet – it was amazing!

Thrilling Ghost Tours and Spooky Adventures

Teens are the perfect companions for ghost tours or museums that are a little bit spooky or weird. They are old enough to appreciate the fun, and often find scary things fascinating.

7. Try a French Quarter ghost tour

Of course, we had to do a ghost tour in New Orleans, right? After a fun one here at home in Indy , I knew this would be a part of our New Orleans trip. I wanted it to be after dark, so we planned it for Sunday night – which also gave us something fun to do after dinner.

My insider tip: the guide you get will make or break your tour, so you might want to check reviews and then call to ask who will be the guide on the night you want to participate.

The history in New Orleans is just made for ghost tours! We spent about two hours walking around the French Quarter learning about the various haunted spots, and even made a quick stop at the oldest bar in the city – Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop .

Embark on a spine-tingling journey through New Orleans’ haunted past— book a ghost tour now for an unforgettable thrill!

8. Check out one of the unique and spooky museums

New Orleans is home to not one, not two, but THREE unique and spooky museums. So, if the ghost tour was a hit, consider spending an hour or so exploring the New Orleans Historic VooDoo Museum , the New Orleans Pharmacy Museum , or the Haunted Museum.

Heck, even if you don’t have time for a museum you can easily duck into a VooDoo store, or do what we did and enjoy happy hour ( oysters, wine and beer along with some amazing truffle popcorn ) at the spooky-themed Apothecary . Conveniently it was also where we started our ghost tour!

Chilling Out NOLA Style: Relaxation and Recreation for Every Mood

We’ve learned through the years, that when we travel with our teenage son, he is in a much better mood if he gets a chance to hit the gym at least a few days each week. And my daughter loves her pool time! So, we try to accommodate them both.

9. Chill by the pool

I try to book a hotel with a pool when I’ve got the teens in tow. They enjoy laying out and working on their tan, and a break in the afternoon helps keep us all sane. Even if it’s too cold for me to be in the water I do enjoy relaxing with a tasty beverage and a good book!

One of the reasons I like the Hyatt Centric ( in addition to its great location ) is that it has a nice outdoor pool – so you can explore all morning, relax by the pool for a few hours in the afternoon, and then head back out for the evening. Vacation at its best!

10. Try a local gym

A really cool place we found in New Orleans was the second-oldest Athletic Club in the United States. It was just a few blocks from our first hotel, and my son was able to get a guest pass for $20. He was in heaven.

After the first visit, he declared it “the gym of all gyms.” The New Orleans Athletic Club is in a beautiful old building and houses an indoor pool, every kind of equipment you can imagine, a coffee/juice bar, a regular bar, and a library. It was well worth visiting even for a casual athlete.

Cultural Immersion and Historic Exploration

I like to sneak a little education into our family vacations and I’ve learned through the years that as long as I sandwich it with fun it will be well accepted.

11. Spend an afternoon at the World War II Museum

Typically a museum would not be at the top of my teenage son’s list of places to visit, but he happened to be studying WWII at school, so he was a little interested. Now, my daughter loves history ( we once spent 7-8 hours at Pearl Harbor ) , so this museum would have been a highlight of the trip for her.

The National World War II Museum is quite impressive. It covers multiple buildings and is immersive, educational, and a little bit exhausting. Your pass is good all day, so because it’s so big, I’d recommend spending a few hours in the first part of the museum, taking a lunch break, and then finishing up after lunch.

12. Admire the Garden District (along with a little shopping)

When we drove by the Garden District as part of our bus tour, I knew it was an area we’d like to return to. We ended up spending a few delightful hours strolling the streets, shopping in the boutiques and even had a delicious lunch.

On my next trip, I plan on signing up for a walking tour of the Garden District but I figured I had already pushed my luck with planned activities so just enjoyed the area on my own this time around.

13. Explore the French Market

Another fun historic area to explore is on the edge of the French Quarter near Jackson Square. There you’ll find the French Market . There are several blocks of vendors, restaurants and even farmer’s market-type stands under a covered roof.

It’s a happening place and a perfect location to search for souvenirs (which I know my teens love to do). Spend a little time shopping and then make a pit stop at the nearby Cafe du Monde for a beignet and cafe au lait break.

Unique Things to Do in New Orleans with Teens

If you have kids who love wildlife, then make sure to spend a little time checking out the options that New Orleans has to offer.

14. Check out the wildlife up close on a swamp boat tour

A swamp boat tour is a lot of fun for teenagers. We had a blast on a swamp tour a few years ago at Vero Beach, Florida , and so I was excited to discover how many options there were for them in New Orleans.

If you don’t have a car on this trip (and you really don’t need one in New Orleans), pick a tour like this highly-rated one that has a hotel pickup . It will make life much easier for you. These airboats do go pretty fast and get windy, so dress accordingly. Also, load up on the sunscreen and bug spray – you’ll need it!

15. Go wild at the zoo, aquarium, or insectitoruium

This was something we 100% would have done when the kids were younger, but they still enjoy the occasional zoo or aquarium as teens. What’s interesting is that in addition to Audubon Zoo and Audubon Aquarium , New Orleans has an Insectarium . I’ve never heard of one before, but if you have a kid that finds bugs fascinating, it would be a must-stop.

All three are fairly close to the main tourist areas in the central business district, so you’ll have no trouble getting an Uber there and back. You could even take the Canal Street trolley and get close enough to walk if the weather is nice.

Only in New Orleans

There are some things that you can’t find everywhere, so they should absolutely be added to your agenda of things to do with teens in New Orleans.

16. Hop a street car and explore the city

The street cars in New Orleans are a fun way to affordably explore the city. You can buy a 24-hour pass for only $3 and ride them all day. There are three separate lines, so just figure out where you want to go and hop on the correct streetcar. It’s also a fun way to see the various areas of the city – almost like an inexpensive bus tour!

17. Experience a New Orleans parade

New Orleans is well known for their Mardi Gras parades, but when we visited we learned that this city loves ANY excuse for a parade. Even weddings have parades (we got to see one and it was lovely!) . Parades were a highlight of our trip!

Our trip coincided with Easter so I was thrilled to get to experience a parade. We had so much fun at the first one we watched that we went back and enjoyed the last parade of the day ( there were three total ). Everyone is in a great mood, and all kinds of fun things (not just beads) are being tossed to the crowd.

18. Visit Mardis Gras World

If you aren’t in New Orleans when there is a parade, you can still get a feel for the floats and the fun by visiting Mardi Gras World . This huge place showcases many of the floats that you’ll see in the Mardi Gras parades and shares quite a bit of information about them. It’s a fun place to visit that’s very specific to New Orleans.

19. Listen to jazz on Royal Street

Finally, one of our favorite things for teens to do in New Orleans was just to wander Royal Street and enjoy the live jazz. We were lucky enough to visit over a weekend, so on the corner of Royal and St. Louis we got to see Doreen’s Jazz perform.

This amazing performer is on this street corner almost every weekend from about 11 to 1 and man is she talented. When she plays her clarinet or sings it gives you all the feels. Make a point to check her schedule before your visit and take the time to let her entertain you – even my teenage son who isn’t necessarily a jazz fan was on his phone videotaping her!

Where to Stay When Visiting New Orleans with Teens

As I mentioned, the Hyatt Centric is a great place to stay in New Orleans with your teens due to its location, pool, and the fact that it’s been recently remodeled.

Another good choice is the Kimpton Fontenot. We stayed one night at the Kimpton and although it didn’t have a pool, we enjoyed the bougie vibe, incredible service, wine hour, and great location near good restaurants and the casino. And the bed was heavenly!

FAQs: Things to Do in New Orleans for Teens

Is it okay to take kids to new orleans.

Absolutely!

Is it safe to walk the French Quarter at night?

Generally yes, but like any city, watch your surroundings.

Is Bourbon Street safe for tourists?

Always be careful when you are in a city, but Bourbon Street isn’t known for being dangerous for tourists.

Can kids go on Bourbon Street?

Yes, but at night there isn’t much for them to do, so I’d look for other things to do in the evening with kids.

Can minors go into bars in New Orleans?

Most bars require patrons to be 21+

Can kids go into jazz clubs in New Orleans?

There are a few jazz clubs that allow kids. We had luck at Three Muses on Frenchmen, Cafe Beignet in the French Quarter and the legendary Preservation Hall (buy tickets before you go – they will sell out).

Conclusion: Things to Do in New Orleans with Teenagers

In the bustling streets of New Orleans, adventure awaits at every turn, making it the perfect destination for families with teens. From the lively rhythms of jazz to the tantalizing flavors of Creole cuisine, the Big Easy offers a plethora of experiences that will captivate and delight.

As I discovered during my own journey with my teenage son , New Orleans isn’t just a city—it’s a mix of history, culture, and excitement waiting to be explored. And with so much to see and do, from strolling along Royal Street to embarking on thrilling ghost tours, there’s never a dull moment in NOLA.

So, whether you’re indulging in beignets and coffee, immersing yourself in the city’s rich history, or simply soaking up the vibrant atmosphere, New Orleans promises an unforgettable adventure for families of all ages. I definitely fell in love with the city and can’t wait to return!

So, pack your bags, round up the family, and get ready to experience the magic of New Orleans with your teens. Trust me, it’s a trip you’ll never forget!

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#1 - best tour group to the grave of Marie Laveau

#2 - best place to listen to some Blues

#3 - best place to listen to some jazz

#4 - best place for shrimp creole or crawfish étouffée

#5 - best place for beignets

#6 - best hotel to sit, have drinks, and people watch before calling it a night

Thank you for your help!

6 replies to this topic

#1 - the only way to go to Marie Laveau’s tomb is with this group https://cemeterytourneworleans.com/

Since “best” is so subjective, here is a link to the “best of” lists from late last year.

https://www.nola.com/gambit/best_of_new_orleans/best-of-new-orleans-2023/article_1d8538b0-570a-11ee-b582-8326929e555e.html

#6.....theFrench Quarter is full of bars. 100's of them .

If you are calling it a night, where are you staying? Don't want to reccomend a bar far from you abode.

#5...Beignets.

Uptown on Magazine Street ....The Vintage.

The key to a good Beignet is hot out the the fryer.

#3...Jazz. There are good Jazz venues all over.

Mahogany Jazz Hall, 21st Amendment. Palm Court. Maison Bourbon. Fritzels. Bourbon O. Preservation Hall .

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