Welcome to the Big Easy, a city known for its vibrant culture, captivating history, and stunning architecture. New Orleans is a place that simply cannot be described in just a few words. It’s a city that you have to experience for yourself. With so many unique attractions and activities to choose from, it can be overwhelming to decide where to go and what to do. That’s why we’ve put together this guide to help you explore the best of what this incredible city has to offer. From the iconic French Quarter to the colorful Garden District, here are the must-see attractions and things to do in New Orleans. Let’s dive in!

The 20 Best Walking Tours in New Orleans

1. New Orleans Chilling Walking Tour With Craft Cocktails
2. New Orleans Citywide Driving Tour
3. New Orleans Vip Sightseeing Flight Including Champagne and Chocolates or Wine and Cheese
4. New Orleans Cocktail History Tour
5. New Orleans Guided Sightseeing Bike Tour
6. New Orleans Food History Tour
7. Private New Orleans City Tour
8. New Orleans French Quarter Sightseeing Carriage Ride
9. New Orleans Oak Alley 16 Passenger Swamp Airboat Combo
10. New Orleans 2 Hour Haunted City Tour at Night
11. New Orleans Destrehan Plantation Tour
12. New Orleans Hop on Hop Off Sightseeing Tour
13. New Orleans Oak Alley Plantation Half Day Tour
14. New Orleans Killers and Thrillers Walking Tour
15. Oak Alley Plantation Tour With Transfers
16. New Orleans Voodoo Tour
17. New Orleans Unlimited Sightseeing Package
18. New Orleans Power Pass
19. New Orleans Power Pass With Fast Track Entry
20. 2 Night Tour to Rameshwaram and Dhanushkodi from Madurai

The 20 Best Walking Tours in New Orleans

1. New Orleans Chilling Walking Tour With Craft Cocktails

Uncover spine-chilling stories from New Orleans’ fascinating past on this guided walking tour. Hang on the edge of your seat as you hear about everything from vampire legends to deadly criminals, and travel back in time as your guide breathes new life into old stories and legends. Head to hot locations like the Old Absinthe House, The Court of Two Sisters, and Evangeline, and have the chance to decide which tales are true and which stories are legends. And in between stops, savor delicious hand-crafted cocktails served at upscale venues in New Orleans. The walking tour includes a guide, drinks, and hotel pickup and drop-off, but please note that it’s not suitable for people under 21 years.

2. New Orleans Citywide Driving Tour

Experience the diversity and contrasts of New Orleans on a private half-day city driving tour. Your personal guide will show you the historic French Quarter, opulent St. Charles Avenue, devastated Ninth Ward, cemetery City Park, and other top attractions. Choose from several morning and afternoon start times and have the flexibility to designate stops for refreshment, photo opportunities, or to see a favorite attraction up close. On this 2- to 3-hour tour, you’ll learn about New Orleans’ history, culture, and famous people from your knowledgeable guide. Along the way, stop to tour cemeteries, take photos, and visit museums (entrance fees not included). Enjoy the convenience of a private tour with live commentary and an open discussion board. Your licensed and insured local guide will ensure a memorable experience. Gratuities are included, but food, drinks, and admissions to any unplanned attractions are not.

3. New Orleans Vip Sightseeing Flight Including Champagne and Chocolates or Wine and Cheese

Add magic and romance to your New Orleans vacation with a VIP sightseeing flight that includes your choice of either Champagne and chocolates or wine and cheese. This 45-minute flight takes you over urban New Orleans and the surrounding wetlands, offering stunning views of the French Quarter, the Mercedes-Benz Superdome, and other iconic sights. You’ll hear colorful tales of the city from your experienced pilot while enjoying a bottle of Champagne and chocolate or a bottle of wine, a block of artisan cheese, and crostini. This is the perfect way to celebrate a special occasion or to treat a loved one to a unique and unforgettable experience. You’ll relax in a window-side seat while your professional commercial pilot, certified by the FAA with 20,000 hours of experience, takes care of everything else. Sightseeing requests are welcome, so don’t hesitate to ask your pilot to fly over specific areas you’d like to see.

4. New Orleans Cocktail History Tour

Your night out in the French Quarter will be nothing short of colorful as you join a 3-hour New Orleans Cocktail History Tour. Start off with a homemade rum punch inside a tiki-themed hidden bar, and then head over to SoBou to sample the classic Sazerac and 1852 Brandy Crusta, both drinks dating back to pre-Civil War times. At Tujague’s, taste the sweet and minty Grasshopper, an invention just prior to Prohibition. As you sip your way through the cocktails, your guide will provide you with insightful narratives on the big-picture history of cocktails, as well as interesting pieces of information about absinthe and the origins of cocktail mixing. By the end of the tour, you’ll walk away with a newfound appreciation for the popular drinks that are considered a mainstay in the New Orleans culture.

5. New Orleans Guided Sightseeing Bike Tour

Take in the rich history and unique vibe of New Orleans on a guided bike tour. Explore iconic landmarks such as Armstrong Park Congo Square and an enchanting above-ground cemetery where you can uncover the city’s funeral traditions. Admire the stunning architecture of the French Quarter and the historical Faubourg Marigny district. Filled with scenic views, the tour takes you down Esplanade Avenue where you can appreciate the beauty of the majestic oak trees and old mansions. Keep an eye out for the local wildlife like turtles and colorful tropical birds that may fly by. You’ll end your tour at the Mississippi River, which offers a breathtaking view overlooking Jackson Square. The tour includes a bicycle rental and helmet, bottled water, and a knowledgeable guide. Note that the tour is only suitable for those over 12 years old, who can ride a bike and weigh less than 300 lbs (136 kg). Enjoy this memorable experience while discovering one of the best attractions New Orleans has to offer.

6. New Orleans Food History Tour

Explore the culinary heritage of New Orleans on a guided food tour that takes you through the French Quarter. With up to 9 food tastings of Louisiana staples like Boudin, Po-boys, Pralines, and Gumbo, this tour will satisfy your taste buds. Along the way, you’ll visit Creole restaurants, boutique candy shops, and hole-in-the-wall joints. Get a chance to enjoy both of New Orleans’ famous sandwiches: the Muffuletta and the Po-Boy. Your local guide will provide historical context and insight into the food culture of the city. The tour also includes gratuities to servers/waitstaff, water at most stops, and alcoholic beverages. Note that the tour is not suitable for people with mobility impairments, vegans, or vegetarians. Come ready to walk about 1.5 miles and burn off those calories while enjoying the best of New Orleans’ cuisine.

7. Private New Orleans City Tour

Explore the vibrant city of New Orleans with a private half-day tour that is customized to suit your interests. Your personal guide will escort you in a private van, accommodating up to 14 passengers, to see the city’s top attractions including the French Quarter, Garden District, 17th Street Canal, the Lakefront, and St Louis Cemetery No 1. You’ll have the opportunity to explore each site on foot and your guide will provide live commentary throughout the tour. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included for your convenience. The tour also includes admission to St. Louis Cemetery No. 3 and City Park. Bottled water is also provided. Note that confirmation will be received upon booking and the tour is not wheelchair accessible or stroller accessible, but infant seats are available.

8. New Orleans French Quarter Sightseeing Carriage Ride

Discover the fascinating history and culture of the French Quarter on a one-hour mule and carriage ride. This guided tour takes you through iconic landmarks such as the St. Louis Cathedral, Jackson Square, Napoleon House, and the French Market. As you sit back and relax, enjoy the entertaining live narration from your guide about the rich history and unique charm of New Orleans. Pass by Bourbon Street and explore the historic Faubourg Marigny, known for its incredible architecture and live music scene. Don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience of sightseeing via carriage ride. Optional extra fee available. The tour starts and ends in New Orleans, French Quarter.

9. New Orleans Oak Alley 16 Passenger Swamp Airboat Combo

Discover Louisiana’s fascinating history and natural beauty on this guided day trip from New Orleans. Tour the stunning Oak Alley Plantation and learn about the history of slavery in the area. Then, soar through the bayou swamplands on an exciting airboat tour where you’ll have the chance to see alligators, raccoons, and wild pigs. Enjoy the convenience of hotel pickup and drop-off and transportation by air-conditioned bus, as well as entry tickets to Oak Alley Plantation and a knowledgeable guide to lead the way. Please note that this tour is not suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility impairments. Join us for an unforgettable adventure through Louisiana’s most captivating places.

10. New Orleans 2 Hour Haunted City Tour at Night

Experience the spooky side of New Orleans with a 2-hour haunted city tour at night. Join your professional local guide and embark on a journey through the city’s dark past as you visit two of its most haunted cemeteries. Watch footage of EMF readers picking up spirits in the cemeteries you visit and hear ghost stories along the way. Learn how to use an EMF reader with your guide and walk through cemeteries to discover New Orleans Voodoo history. Plus, you’ll get exclusive access to a cemetery where no other tour guests can go. Before you depart on your cemetery night crawl tour, enjoy a drink or cocktail. The tour includes EMF readers and gratuities, giving you a comprehensive and informative experience of the city’s haunted history.

11. New Orleans Destrehan Plantation Tour

Begin your exploration of Louisiana’s rich history by visiting the oldest plantation, Destrehan Plantation. This tour will provide you with an opportunity to learn about the American slave trade as well as the stories of the people who lived on the plantation from your personal interpreter. You will get to see some fascinating artifacts, including an original document signed by Thomas Jefferson and James Madison, which will definitely pique your interest. After the tour, you’ll have a chance to take some memorable photographs under the live oak trees covered in Spanish moss, which is something you definitely won’t want to miss. And the best part? You can get to the plantation with just a short 25-minute drive from Downtown New Orleans. Entrance fees, free parking, hotel pickup and drop-off, as well as gratuities are all included in this package.

12. New Orleans Hop on Hop Off Sightseeing Tour

Take in all the excitement and diversity that New Orleans has to offer with the New Orleans Hop on Hop Off Sightseeing Tour. With a 1-day ticket to the open-top bus tour, visitors can hop on and off at any stop to explore the best of the stunning Crescent City. Travelers can discover the iconic French Market, Jackson Square, Bourbon Street, the Garden District and much more at their leisure. Moreover, the tour includes a tour guide on the bus, attraction tickets, and a discount booklet to enhance the experience. By choosing the 3-day ticket option, visitors can gain access to free walking tours and maximize their time in this vibrant and unique city. Guests can also explore the impressive Mercedes Benz Superdome and take in panoramic views from the open-top deck. The New Orleans Hop on Hop Off Sightseeing Tour is the ultimate way to experience the best attractions and things to do in New Orleans.

13. New Orleans Oak Alley Plantation Half Day Tour

Embark on a half-day tour to the Oak Alley Plantation – a world-famous attraction located near New Orleans. Pass under the beautiful alley of 250-year-old oak trees and indulge in the history of the Old South with the help of an expert live guide.

This guided tour of the plantation is a fantastic opportunity to experience Southern hospitality old-style and to marvel at the sublime oak trees. Oak Alley is one of the most photographed plantations and has been the setting for notable motion pictures such as “Interview with a Vampire” and “Primary Colors.” It is ideal to visit with friends or family for a day filled with educational exploration.

The package includes round-trip transportation and guided tour of the Big House. You can also enjoy a self-guided tour of the surrounding areas. After exploring the plantation and learning about its history, you can treat yourself to a refreshing snack at the on-site café and ice cream parlor. Lastly, end your tour while taking in the beautiful views of live oak trees stretching from the mansion towards the gently flowing Mississippi River.

14. New Orleans Killers and Thrillers Walking Tour

Experience the dark side of the Big Easy on this walking tour that takes you off the beaten track. Learn about the crimes and ghosts of the French Quarter, including a murderous young prince, as your guide shares gruesome stories from New Orleans’ vivid past. Visit the scene of infamous crimes and murders and hear about the haunting events that took place there. You’ll also stop by the Pharmacy Museum and other spooky locations. This walking tour includes a knowledgeable guide, gratuities, and doesn’t require food or drink, parking, or transportation. Don’t miss out on this unique tour that offers a glimpse into the notorious history of the French Quarter.

15. Oak Alley Plantation Tour With Transfers

Explore the history of New Orleans with a guided tour of Oak Alley Plantation, known for its impressive double row of southern live oak trees that have stood for centuries. With your traditionally-dressed guide, gain insight into life on a plantation and admire the Greek Revival architecture. Learn about the first example of Antebellum restoration and view original features, including antique farm machinery. Don’t miss the opportunity to see the famous oak trees that gave Oak Alley Plantation its name. This tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, entry ticket, guided tour, gratuities, and snacks and refreshments.

16. New Orleans Voodoo Tour

If you’re interested in learning more about the misunderstood and often feared religion of Voodoo, then the New Orleans Voodoo Tour is the perfect tour for you. Led by knowledgeable guides, this tour is more of an academic experience than a spooky tour, focusing on the history and practice of Voodoo in New Orleans. You’ll visit properties and locations exclusive to this tour and learn about the origins of Voodoo, how it came to New Orleans, and where it stands today. You’ll also hear stories about the hysteria that gripped the city for over 100 years and dispel the Hollywood myths about Voodoo. The tour is offered at 19:30 on Friday, Saturday, and Sunday nights, lasts approximately 1.5 hours, and departs from Rev. Zombie’s Voodoo Shop located at 723 St. Peter Street in the French Quarter. Gratuity for the guide is included in the price.

17. New Orleans Unlimited Sightseeing Package

Looking for an affordable way to explore the great city of New Orleans? Look no further than this Unlimited Sightseeing Package! With this package, you’ll get to enjoy three walking tours of the city’s most famous neighborhoods, as well as a 3-day hop-on hop-off bus ticket that will give you the freedom to explore the city at your own pace.

During your French Quarter walking tour, you’ll get to experience the very heart of New Orleans, with its iconic architecture, bustling streets, and lively local culture. And on your Garden District walking tour, you’ll get to explore one of the city’s most beautiful and historic neighborhoods, with its grand mansions, beautiful gardens, and charming local shops and restaurants.

But that’s not all – with your 3-day hop-on hop-off bus ticket, you’ll be able to see even more of the city’s top attractions, including the iconic St. Louis Cathedral, the historic Jackson Square, and the world-famous French Market. And best of all, you’ll be able to explore the city at your own pace, with the freedom to hop on and off the bus as many times as you like, and create your own itinerary for exploring this amazing city.

So if you’re looking for an affordable and convenient way to see the best of New Orleans, be sure to book your Unlimited Sightseeing Package today!

18. New Orleans Power Pass

The New Orleans Power Pass is the ultimate way to experience the best attractions and activities that the city has to offer. With over 20 different New Orleans-area activities, attractions, and tours included, this all-inclusive pass offers incredible value for money.

You can use the free digital guide to help decide where to go and what to do during your stay, and you can choose between 1, 2, 3, or 5-day passes to see as many attractions as you like during your time in the city. Best of all, you’ll get free admission to all of the included attractions, saving you a significant amount of money compared to buying separate tickets.

Some of the highlights of the New Orleans Power Pass include popular French Quarter attractions and tours of surrounding Louisiana attractions. When you visit each location with your all-inclusive pass, the admission has already been taken care of, so you don’t have to wait in long lines or pay over and over again.

Whether you’re a first-time visitor to New Orleans or you’re a seasoned traveler looking for a comprehensive way to experience the city, the New Orleans Power Pass is the perfect choice. Book your pass today to start planning your ultimate New Orleans adventure.

19. New Orleans Power Pass With Fast Track Entry

If you’re planning a trip to New Orleans and want to make the most of your time there, the New Orleans All-Inclusive Pass is a great option. With this digital pass, you’ll get admission to some of the city’s top attractions including the National WWII Museum, the New Orleans bus tour, a Paddlewheeler Creole Queen river cruise, Ultimate Swamp Adventures, and more. You’ll even have access to walking tours like the Haunted History Walking Tour.

The pass is designed to save you money, and it’s really easy to use. Simply purchase the pass online, and then use the digital guide to plan your itinerary. The pass is valid for the number of days you choose when you purchase it, and it doesn’t become activated until you visit your first attraction.

Keep in mind that the pass doesn’t include food and drinks unless they’re specifically mentioned, and there may be additional costs for special exhibitions at some of the attractions. There’s also no hotel pickup or drop-off included, so you’ll need to make your own way to each attraction.

Overall, the New Orleans All-Inclusive Pass is a great option for visitors who want to see as much of the city as possible without breaking the bank. With so many attractions included, there’s something for everyone, and the flexibility of the pass means you can visit everything at your own pace.

20. 2 Night Tour to Rameshwaram and Dhanushkodi from Madurai

This tour is a self-guided audio tour to Rameshwaram and Dhanushkodi from Madurai. The audio guide is directly accessible in one playlist for all tourist attractions, and a personally created tour itinerary map with audio guide is provided for each attraction. The tour is valid for 6 days, giving you flexibility on your itinerary. Entry fees are included where required.

The meeting point is at New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal and the end point is also at New Orleans. As it is a self-guided audio tour, you can decide your starting and ending points as per your convenience.

During this tour, you can expect to visit various attractions such as New Orleans Public Library, Main Library and New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal among others. Confirmation of the tour will be received upon booking. Please note that the quality of the voice used in the audio guide is universally accepted. The tour is not wheelchair accessible, but it is near public transportation.

Frequently Asked Questions about New Orleans

New Orleans, the birthplace of jazz, is one of the most culturally rich cities in the United States. From the French-inspired architecture to the lively music scene, the city offers a unique experience for locals and tourists alike. However, with so much to see and do in New Orleans, visitors often have many questions before they arrive. This guide will answer some of the most frequently asked questions about the city.

What is the best time of year to visit New Orleans?

New Orleans is a popular tourist destination year-round, but the best time to visit depends on your preferences. The city experiences its busiest season during Mardi Gras, which typically falls between late February and early March. If you’re looking for a party atmosphere and don’t mind the crowds, Mardi Gras can be an excellent time to visit. However, if you prefer a quieter trip, it’s best to avoid Mardi Gras.The springtime, especially April and May, is ideal for travelers who want to experience pleasant weather and fewer crowds. The summer months in New Orleans can be hot and muggy, but many visitors brave the heat to take advantage of the numerous festivals held during this time.Fall is also an excellent time to visit New Orleans. The weather is mild, and the city hosts several popular festivals, including the New Orleans Film Festival and the Voodoo Music + Arts Experience.

What is the best way to get around New Orleans?

New Orleans is a walkable city, and many popular attractions are located within a short distance of each other. If you prefer not to walk, the city offers several transportation options. The streetcar is a popular choice for tourists as it is a scenic way to get around while also providing a glimpse into the city’s history. The city also has an efficient bus system, and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available.

Is it safe to walk around New Orleans at night?

While New Orleans is a safe city, visitors should take precautions when walking around at night. It’s best to stay in well-lit areas and avoid empty streets. Travelers should also be aware of their surroundings and keep valuables out of sight.

What is the must-see attraction in New Orleans?

New Orleans has many must-see attractions, but one of the most popular is the French Quarter. This historic neighborhood is home to iconic sites like Jackson Square, Bourbon Street, and the St. Louis Cathedral. The French Quarter also boasts excellent restaurants, bars, and live music venues.Other attractions that shouldn’t be missed include the National WWII Museum, the Garden District, and the Audubon Zoo.

What are the best restaurants in New Orleans?

New Orleans is known for its cuisine, and there are countless excellent restaurants to choose from. Some of the city’s most famous dishes include gumbo, jambalaya, and po’boys. For traditional Cajun and Creole fare, consider visiting restaurants like Commander’s Palace, Arnaud’s, or Galatoire’s.There are also many other excellent food options in New Orleans. The city is known for its incredible seafood, and visitors can sample some of the freshest oysters and shrimp at restaurants like Acme Oyster House and Coop’s Place.

Where should I stay in New Orleans?

New Orleans has many great neighborhoods to choose from, but the French Quarter is a popular choice for tourists. This historic neighborhood is home to many hotels, restaurants, and attractions, making it a convenient base for exploring the city.Other popular neighborhoods include the Garden District, which offers a more laid-back atmosphere, and the Warehouse District, where visitors can find many of the city’s art galleries and museums.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in New Orleans

New Orleans, Louisiana is a city rich with history, culture, good food and music. It is famous for its jazz, Mardi Gras and the French Quarter, making it a popular destination for tourists. If you’re planning a trip to New Orleans, but you’re not sure how to spend your time, keep reading for some recommendations on what to see and do.

Take a Walking Tour of the French Quarter

The French Quarter is one of the most famous neighborhoods in New Orleans. A walking tour is a great way to see the sights and learn about the history of the area. Some tours focus on the architecture, while others highlight the ghost stories that abound in the Quarter. No matter what kind of tour you choose, be sure to stop by Café du Monde for some beignets and café au lait.

Visit the National World War II Museum

The National World War II Museum is a must-see for anyone interested in history. The museum is well-designed and interactive, with exhibits covering all aspects of the war, including the home front, the European theater, and the Pacific theater. Be sure to give yourself plenty of time to explore – there’s a lot to see!

Explore City Park

City Park is a 1,300-acre park in the heart of New Orleans. It’s home to the New Orleans Museum of Art, the Botanical Garden, and Storyland, a playground for kids. The park is also a great place to go for a walk, a bike ride, or a picnic. In the summer, be sure to check out the Friday night concert series at the Botanical Garden.

Experience Jazz on Frenchmen Street

Frenchmen Street is known for its live music, and it’s a great place to experience jazz in New Orleans. There are a variety of venues to choose from, ranging from upscale jazz clubs to more laid-back bars. Be sure to check out The Spotted Cat, a small, intimate venue with great music and a lively atmosphere.

Take a Swamp Tour

New Orleans is surrounded by swamps, and a swamp tour is a great way to see the wildlife and natural beauty of the area. Tours typically include a boat ride through the swamp, with opportunities to see alligators, birds, and other animals. Some tours also include a stop at a Cajun village, where you can learn about the culture and enjoy some local food.

Visit the Garden District

The Garden District is a beautiful neighborhood in New Orleans, with tree-lined streets and historic homes. Take a walking tour to admire the architecture and learn about the history of the area. Be sure to stop by Lafayette Cemetery No. 1, a historic cemetery that’s open to the public.

Enjoy Some Local Cuisine

No trip to New Orleans is complete without trying some of the local cuisine. Be sure to try gumbo, jambalaya, red beans and rice, and po’boys. If you’re feeling adventurous, try some alligator or crawfish. And of course, be sure to have a Hurricane, the famous New Orleans cocktail.

Book Your Tour Now

New Orleans is a city with something for everyone. Whether you’re interested in history, music, food, or nature, there’s plenty to see and do. Be sure to take a walking tour of the French Quarter, visit the National World War II Museum, and experience the live music on Frenchmen Street. And don’t forget to enjoy some of the delicious local cuisine!