Top 5 New Orleans Sightseeing Tours: A Detailed Review

So, you’re thinking of heading down to New Orleans? That’s a brilliant idea! There’s something magical and a bit mysterious about that place, alright. To see New Orleans the way it should be seen, you’re very going to need a tour. Picking just the right one can, you know, really make all the variance in how you experience the city.

1. French Quarter History & Haunts Tour

The French Quarter is often like, the heart of New Orleans, it really beats with stories from way back then and whispers of who knows what sort of otherworldly characters. A walking tour is likely your best bet, to really, soak up all the ambiance, alright. These tours tend to bring together both bits of history, important people, and tales of ghosties.

Most times, you’ll hear stories of famous residents, somewhat notable events, and maybe a few accounts of paranormal happenings from a guide who really knows the score. Places like the LaLaurie Mansion often feature on these tours, and it’s really well-known for, its spooky history.

A few tips? Is that wearing comfortable shoes. Seriously. You’ll be doing a fair amount of walking, as a matter of fact. Also, think about bringing a little something to drink, it gets steamy down there! Last but not least, have your camera on hand for when, you know, a photo opportunity arises – whether it’s capturing balconies dripping with flowers or that slightly chilling feeling of a place where ghosts maybe just roam.

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2. Garden District Walking Tour

So, wanting something that shows off the green side of NOLA? Is that, head away from the busy French Quarter and come get a view of the Garden District. With grand houses and way old trees, it feels a fair bit like stepping into a Southern story.

Walking tours tend to point out architectural wonders, bits of history tied to families who live in some respects right there, and just all that lush greenery. A good guide will, very show you the differences amongst all those Greek Revival and Italianate homes, too it’s almost teaching you how to see New Orleans through new eyes. Sometimes they tell tales of old dramas, personal sadness and fortunes made. In this location, it could be very nice to visit Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 that sits in the Garden District. The above-ground tombs could be visited after the Garden District for anyone that wants to see that location as well. If one has the time to do so.

As I was saying, things to think about – comfy footwear are going to save the day yet again. The sidewalks can be somewhat uneven and also be expecting that Louisiana sun, and a water bottle might be a real good thing to have, also a hat would not hurt.

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3. Swamp and Bayou Tours

You know, when one gets thinking of Louisiana, might be imagining those spooky swamps and slow-moving bayous, alright? That, is taking a boat tour into the swampland that is the location of some unique beauty.

Most times, you will see all sorts of nature – different types of birds, the odd turtle, and of course, alligators! The tour guides have that unique skill of spotting gators and providing that history about the swampland plus how the plantlife there can really deal with these tricky environments. Loads of times, they are good storytellers who can pass on the area folklore and make one know just how interesting life way out in the bayou can actually be.

Things to maybe take along? That would include sunscreen, bug repellent (those mosquitoes can be out), and a camera. Actually, you’re going to want to capture those swamp shots, I can guarantee that. Also, consider packing a snack. It may be good idea to, get yourself wrapped up to deal with, the changeable weather out on the water.

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4. New Orleans Food Tour

Getting hungry just thinking of food, well, New Orleans has a lot. Is that doing a food tour is likely the yummiest way to explore the culture.

Most of these kinds of tours will be walking tours that have you stop at different restaurants and food places where you taste a bit from everything. Is that sampling everything that New Orleans cuisine has – gumbo, jambalaya, beignets, po’boys, the complete set!

And, guides fill you in on all that spice, a little history behind each and every one of those dishes, and introduce one to those chefs and owners that give this food life. It’s really just not eating. It really is getting to appreciate that complex food story and also just maybe filling your stomach.

A tip: arrive eager and ready to chow down and be comfortable because you likely are very full and very content. If possible maybe book these tours earlier in your journey just to note any favorites and plan your trip out based on the tour stops and menu samples. Also, it might sound obvious, but, maybe let the organizers know of anything you happen to be allergic to so they can keep you safe.

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5. Music History Tour

Alright, now, let’s talk about the musical side of New Orleans. Is that this city gave rise to jazz, that means the music in New Orleans runs deep.

These music tours might really explore all the spots where music did take off, all the way from old jazz clubs to all those quiet corners that provided inspiration to a lot of musicians. So you can hear just how this place was important when creating those different styles, all while you get to enjoy live performances from different, gifted local artists. Is that guides usually love those cool anecdotes concerning legends of jazz, all the stories from music way back then, and the manner music adapted and progressed over those years.

Things to be mindful of are finding tours in some respects focused on the things one is keen on; whether it’s about traditional jazz, blues or anything else from way back when. Check when they run these tours and make sure, they don’t butt heads with your own schedule.

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