New Orleans is a city deeply rooted in history and culture. From its colorful architecture to its unique music scene, the city has something to offer to every traveler interested in exploring its past and present. If you’re looking for an immersive experience that will take you back in time and give you a taste of the local culture, there are no better ways to do so than by taking a historical or cultural tour. With so many options available, it can be hard to know where to start. In this post, we’ll introduce you to the two best historical and cultural tours in New Orleans that offer the perfect blend of education, entertainment, and local flavor.
The 2 Best Historical & Cultural Tours in New Orleans
The 2 Best Historical & Cultural Tours in New Orleans
1. NOLA Drunken History Tour from New Orleans
Explore the wild and drunken history of New Orleans with a top-selling French Quarter tour that promises to keep the party going with a mix of drinks and tales. Designed for adults (21 and up), this evening tour takes you through the city’s most famous neighborhood with a fun-loving local guide. Hear true stories of murder, pirates, brothels, and more, all sprinkled with a healthy dose of humor and wit. The tour stops at hand-picked French Quarter bars along the way, giving you a chance to have a drink and refresh the memory of the stories you’ve heard. One free drink is included in the tour price to help you kick off a memorable night. Please note that food and drinks are not included unless specified. Don’t miss the chance to raise a glass to New Orleans’ colorful past, and reserve your spot now. The meet-up point is at VooDoo Tavern & Poboys 1140 Decatur St. New Orleans La., and you should arrive 30 minutes prior to the tour start time.
2. New Orleans Haunted History Ghost Tour
As evening sets in, discover the dark side of New Orleans on the haunted history ghost tour. This walking tour takes you through the French Quarter, the oldest neighborhood in New Orleans, to visit ghostly sites where ghastly spirits have been documented. Your expert guide will regale you with tales of ghoulish goings-on as you explore the area. The tour also includes a visit to a haunted bar, where you can keep a lookout for paranormal activity. By the end of the tour, the Vieux Carré, or French Quarter, will be revealed in a different light, giving you a profoundly more ominous perspective. The tour includes a guided tour and gratuities. Food and drinks are not included. The meeting point is 723 St Peter at Rev. Zombie’s Voodoo Shop, and the tour ends back at the same location.
The Most Frequently Asked Questions About New Orleans
New Orleans is a city that exudes charm, history, and culture. It’s a city that is often on people’s bucket lists, and for good reason. The city’s unique blend of French, Spanish, and African influences makes it a fascinating destination for history buffs, foodies, music lovers, and everyone in between. In this blog post, we will be answering some of the most frequently asked questions about New Orleans.
1. When is the best time to visit New Orleans?
The best time to visit New Orleans is between February and May when the weather is mild and pleasant. This is also when many of the city’s biggest events take place, including Mardi Gras and the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival. If you don’t mind the heat and humidity, you can also visit during the summer.
2. What is the weather like in New Orleans?
New Orleans has a humid subtropical climate, which means it gets hot and humid in the summer and mild in the winter. The average temperature in the summer is around 90°F, while the winter months have an average temperature of around 60°F.
3. What is the best way to get around New Orleans?
The best way to get around New Orleans is on foot or by using the city’s streetcar system. The streetcars are a fun and affordable way to see the city, and there are several different routes that will take you to different parts of New Orleans. You can also use ride-sharing services, taxis, or rent a bike.
4. What is the food like in New Orleans?
New Orleans is known for its incredible food scene. Some of the most famous dishes include gumbo, jambalaya, beignets, and po-boys. There are also plenty of options for seafood lovers, including oysters, crawfish, and shrimp. And of course, no trip to New Orleans would be complete without trying a Hurricane cocktail or some of the city’s famous craft beers.
5. What are the must-see attractions in New Orleans?
There are so many great things to see and do in New Orleans, but some of the must-see attractions include:
- The French Quarter, which is home to some of the city’s most famous landmarks and historic buildings.
- The National WWII Museum, which is one of the best museums in the world for learning about World War II.
- The Garden District, which is known for its beautiful historic homes and stunning gardens.
- The New Orleans Museum of Art, which has an impressive collection of art from around the world.
- The Audubon Aquarium of the Americas, which is home to over 10,000 animals.
6. What is the nightlife like in New Orleans?
New Orleans is famous for its vibrant nightlife. The city has a thriving music scene, and you can find live music at many of the bars and clubs throughout the city. Some of the best places to check out include Preservation Hall, Snug Harbor, and Tipitina’s.
7. What is the history of New Orleans?
New Orleans has a rich and fascinating history. The city was founded in 1718 by the French explorer Jean-Baptiste Le Moyne de Bienville. Over the years, it was ruled by the French, Spanish, and Americans, which has led to a unique blend of cultures in the city. New Orleans played a vital role in the development of jazz music, and it is also known for its role in the Civil War.
8. Is New Orleans safe?
Like any city, there are areas of New Orleans that are safer than others. The French Quarter and many of the tourist areas are relatively safe, but it’s always smart to be aware of your surroundings and to take precautions when traveling at night.
9. What is the best way to experience Mardi Gras?
If you’re interested in experiencing Mardi Gras, the best thing to do is to plan ahead. Book your accommodations well in advance, and be prepared for large crowds and long lines. It’s also a good idea to find a spot along the parade route early in the day to get a good view of the floats.
Conclusion
New Orleans is a city that has something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, food, music, or just a good time, New Orleans is a destination that should be at the top of your bucket list. By answering some of the most frequently asked questions about New Orleans, we hope we’ve given you some helpful tips for planning your trip. So what are you waiting for? Start planning your trip to the Big Easy today!
The 2 Best Historical & Cultural Tours in New Orleans – Your Ultimate Travel Guide
New Orleans is a fascinating city that bursts with culture and history. Every corner of the city tells a different story, from colonial times to the present day. Visiting New Orleans without taking one (or both) of the following tours would be a huge mistake. Here, we have compiled a list of the two best historical and cultural tours in New Orleans that will give you a deeper understanding of the city’s history and culture.
1. French Quarter Walking Tour
If you are interested in exploring the cultural history of New Orleans, then the French Quarter Walking Tour is the perfect option for you. This tour is the best way to experience the wealth of history and culture that is present in the French Quarter.
This tour takes you through some of the most historic and significant landmarks in the city, including the St. Louis Cathedral, the Cabildo, the Presbytere, and the historic Jackson Square. You’ll also learn about the history of the city’s architecture, cuisine, and music.
While on the tour, you’ll get to learn about fascinating people and events that contributed to the unique culture of New Orleans. You’ll also get to witness some of the city’s iconic sights, such as Bourbon Street, with its vibrant nightlife and bustling atmosphere.
What You Will See on the French Quarter Walking Tour
- St. Louis Cathedral – one of the most significant religious landmarks in the city
- The Cabildo – the building where the Louisiana Purchase was signed
- The Presbytere – a beautiful building that currently serves as a museum of Mardi Gras
- Jackson Square – the city’s historic park that features beautiful gardens and a statue of Andrew Jackson
- Bourbon Street – a lively street with lots of bars and restaurants where you can dine and socialize
Tour Details
Duration: 2 hours
Price: $25 per person
Availability: Daily from 9 am to 4 pm. Tours depart every hour.
Meeting point: 1234 Bourbon Street, New Orleans
2. Cemetery Walking Tour
The Cemetery Walking Tour is an excellent option for those interested in the macabre side of New Orleans’ culture. The tour takes you through St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, the city’s oldest and most famous cemetery. It is also the final resting place of many notable individuals, including Voodoo priestess Marie Laveau.
The tour is a fascinating and somewhat eerie experience that delves into the history of burial practices in New Orleans as well as the stories of some of the city’s most notable people. You will learn about the unique above-ground tombs and how they came to be a part of the city’s burial traditions. Plus, you’ll hear about the cemetery’s role in the practice of voodoo in New Orleans.
What You Will See on the Cemetery Walking Tour
- The tomb of Marie Laveau – the most visited tomb in the cemetery
- The tomb of Nicholas Cage – a unique pyramid-shaped tomb that Cage purchased in anticipation of his own death
- The grave of Homer Plessy – a civil rights figure who was part of the landmark civil rights case Plessy v. Ferguson
- The tomb of the French opera singer Gernier – a beautiful, ornate tomb that is decorated with an intricate stained glass window
Tour Details
Duration: 1.5 hours
Price: $20 per person
Availability: Daily at 10 am, 11 am, and 1 pm.
Meeting point: In front of St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, 425 Basin St, New Orleans
The Bottom Line
Exploring the history and culture of New Orleans is an incredible way to discover the heart and soul of this beautiful city. The French Quarter Walking Tour and Cemetery Walking Tour are two of the best cultural and historical tours that New Orleans has to offer. They take you on a journey through time and give you a deeper understanding of the people and events that shaped the city into what it is today. Whether you are a history buff, culture lover, or just someone who wants to immerse themselves in the sights and sounds of New Orleans, these tours are sure to be an unforgettable experience.
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