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Best New Orleans Tours

There are so many ways to behold new orleans, a city of infinite possibilities.

Whether you want to explore history or haunts, shopping or swamps, food or just have fun, there’s a tour for you with a locals’ perspective.  Pick your passion or simply get to know New Orleans from a new point of view.  Either way, diving a little deeper into the city’s stories and culture will reveal so much more left to discover. So follow your NOLA with one or more of these excursions.

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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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Book New Orleans' Most Unforgettable City Tours

New Orleans is one of a kind! There’s no better way to uncover its magic than with one of our EPIC tours of the city. See for yourself why our city and swamp tours are considered a top-rated must for your trip to NOLA.

Proudly locally owned and operated, Tour Orleans delivers the truest experiences, the most authentic cultural touchpoints, and the best guides in the Big Easy. As a result, our curation of private tours grew by word of mouth to a world-class experience! Roll with us to tour and explore the nuances that make New Orleans a city that continues to stand the test of time.

What began as a muddy French settlement on the edge of the Mississippi, has become the United State’s most colorful, flavorful, and musical vacation destination. For 300 years, New Orleans has faced countless hardships and natural disasters, from slavery to epidemics, and most recently Hurricane Katrina’s landfall in 2005. We continue to learn, grow, and carry on, like a parade in the streets. Our city’s “joi de vivre”, or “joy of life” as its translated in the French language, still rings true today. Through it all, we’re happy to call New Orleans’ home.

As natives, we have always been part of the city and its culture-bearing communities at a young age. Our first-hand perspective goes beyond New Orleans’ written history, it’s in our blood. From our diverse roots to our vibrant nightlife, you’ll love the down-home hospitality.

So come take a walk with us! Join us as we explore the Garden District and our cemeteries. Let your imagination run wild with stories of ghosts, vampires, and voodoo with our French Quarter experts. Or, journey with us beyond the city limits to soak up the beauty of the swamp s with a boat tour. Book with confidence. Safety precautions like social distancing, increased sanitation, and the use of masks are taken seriously. We assure you that our New Orleans city tours will help you make the most of your stay , so book today!

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The 12 Best City Tours in New Orleans

Kaylee giacomini, whenever i check out a new city i like to orient myself with the local landmarks and culture by embarking on a city tour. moving to new orleans presented me with the conflicting identity of not necessarily being a tourist, yet not exactly being a local either. i believe that it’s important to be a tourist in your own city - to get to know it inside out and understand why it’s so beloved. unsure how to do this the best way to start is to take a tour. in my years living in new orleans, i’ve had the privilege of taking quite a few; here are my favorites..

Garden District, French Quarter, Bayou St. John, Steamboat NATCHEZ, SoBou, Haunted History Tours, Jackson Square, FreeWheelin' Bike Tours & Rentals, City Sightseeing New Orleans, St. Louis Cathedral, Louis Armstrong Park, Royal Carriages

Garden District in New Orleans, United States

Garden District Tour: Two Chicks Walking Tour - The Garden District is one of the most beautiful neighborhoods in the United States. My first home in New Orleans was on the cusp of this district bordering Central City, and most days I watched this tour company pass by. Two Chicks Best of New Orleans Walking Tour takes guests to all of the marvels of the Garden District, including pop culture filming locations and lavish celebrity homes.

French Quarter in New Orleans, United States

French Quarter Tour: Legendary Walking Tour - The French Quarter is the oldest neighborhood in New Orleans. The heritage of the city’s original Creole and Cajun settlers glimmers through in the antiquated architecture and rich culture that can be found on each street. Legendary Walking Tours does the best job of submerging tour-goers into this heritage. Their classic New Orleans French Quarter Walking Tour lasts two hours and takes guests through 300 years of history. They’re immersive and go everywhere from the banks of the Mississippi to the Quarter’s oldest streets.

Bayou St. John in New Orleans, United States

Bayou St. John by Kayak Tour: New Orleans Kayak Swamp Tour - New Orleans is bordered by swamp and river, but did you know that you can take a kayak tour in the heart of the city? Bayou St. John is yet another beautiful neighborhood in New Orleans with an expansive waterway cutting its way right through the middle. This kayak tour takes you down this waterway through lush neighborhoods and highlights famous homes, buildings, and historic sites along the way. Bonus: Unlike most swamp tours that take you away from the city this one is a mere 10 minute drive from the French Quarter.

Steamboat NATCHEZ in New Orleans, United States

Riverboat Tour: City of New Orleans Jazz Tour - Take a leisurely journey down the Mississippi river by way of Steamboat on this two hour cruise. There are options to do a brunch or dinner cruise, but my advice: save your money and opt out of food on the boat. Instead, enjoy the bars on each deck, grab an open air seat overlooking the water, and enjoy the views of sunset and glittering city skyline during an evening tour. Jazz music serenades the trip, and at times your captain cuts in to offer insight on the landmarks the boat passes by.

SoBou in New Orleans, United States

Food Tour: Doctor Gumbo Tour - One of my absolute favorite parts of New Orleans is the food - it’s all just so good. Yet If you’re here for a weekend or even a week it can be impossible to experience all of the culinary wonders of this city. The best way to get an immersive taste of the best dishes NOLA has to offer is to take a tour. Doctor Gumbo does it best. The $70 walking tour includes dishes from 5 different establishments ranging from gumbo to pralines, tales of dynastic restaurant families like the Brennans, and expert recommendations on where to eat on your future dining endeavors.

Haunted History Tours in New Orleans, United States

Ghost Tour: Haunted History - I’ve shamelessly taken three different Haunted History tours - they’re both thrilling and educational. Their Ghosts and Legends tour covers the most ground, but they also offer exciting vampire, voodoo, and true crime tours. This two hour walking tour takes you through the French Quarter’s most notorious haunts. Drink in the dark history of this neighborhood, and make a halfway stop in one of the most haunted bars in America for their famous Hurricane or Voodoo Daiquiri.

Jackson Square in New Orleans, United States

Cocktail Tour: Drink and Learn - Did someone say happy hour? Take this boozy tour to get a buzz while you learn all about New Orleans cocktail culture. The Drink and Learn Cocktail Tour takes you through the most famous landmarks in the French Quarter as you sip four classic New Orleans cocktails like the sazerac. All drinks are included in the price, making it well worth the $55 ticket. This should go without saying, but all guests must be at least 21 years old with a valid ID.

FreeWheelin' Bike Tours & Rentals in New Orleans, United States

Bike Tour: Beyond Bourbon - If there’s one thing I’ve learned since living here it’s that New Orleans is far more than the French Quarter - this tour does a great way of showing this by bike. Beyond Bourbon is a great tour if you want to cover a lot of ground while seeing the city in an authentic way. Guides take out small groups to see everything from beaded trees to voodoo sites on a five mile course from the Marigny to Bywater.

City Sightseeing New Orleans in New Orleans, United States

Bus Tour: City Sightseeing - For those who don’t want to walk or bike, the City Sightseeing bus tour is an exceptional way to take in the city. The bus operates on a continuous loop all day so you can get on and off whenever you want. Included in your ticket are also restaurant and city attraction deals all over the city. My recommendation: do this tour early in your visit to sample sites across New Orleans and take advantage of the deals it comes with throughout your stay.

St. Louis Cathedral in New Orleans, United States

Culture & History Tour: Tours by Marguerite - Any New Orleans tour will touch on culture, but if you’re looking to strictly learn about the city’s original settlers this is the tour for you. Tours by Marguerite takes guests on a walking tour of the French Quarter focused on the original inhabitants of the city. Although limited to the streets of the Quarter, this tour describes Louisiana as a whole and how it became one of the most unique places in the United States.

Louis Armstrong Park in New Orleans, United States

Jazz Tour: Urban Adventures - Urban Adventures offers plenty of great tours, but their Jazz Tour is the best. Bonus: you even get a complimentary beer along the way. The tour starts with an overview of a history of jazz before taking guests to some of the best jazz clubs on Frenchmen Street, the stage at Armstrong Park, and other places to view live brass and jazz bands on the streets of the Big Easy. It’s as much a moving concert as it is a tour.

Royal Carriages in New Orleans, United States

Carriage Tour: Royal Carriages - If you walk past Jackson Square you’re sure to see a group of mule-drawn carriages offering to take visitors on a tour of the French Quarter. Royal carriages does it best for a few reasons. For one, they treat their mules well. The tour itself is also informative and enjoyable. Guides take small groups out for an hour long tour by mule drawn carriage starting in the Quarter. After seeing the sites, the group then has the choice of touring Treme, Marigny, or St. Louis Cemetery n. 1. No option is better than another, but I will always love the Marigny.

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From Cemeteries To Cocktails — 6 Amazing Tours To Experience In New Orleans

• Activities and Interests
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• New Orleans
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• United States

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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City Sightseeing New Orleans: Your Gateway to the Best City Vibes!

See you on the top-deck, ticket packages.

3-TOUR UNLIMITED PACKAGE

• 3-Day Hop-On Hop-Off Tour
• Stops Near All Major Sights
• Live Guide in English
• Guided French Quarter Walking Tour
• Guided Garden District Walking Tour

2-TOUR EXPERIENCE PACKAGE

• 2-Day Hop-On Hop-Off Tour

1-DAY HOP-ON HOP-OFF

• 1-Day Hop-On Hop-Off Tour

CITY SIGHTSEEING NEW ORLEANS

City Sightseeing New Orleans is the most entertaining, informative, and fun City Tour you can find that offers transportation approximately every 30 minutes on an exhilarating open-top, double-decker bus!

HOP-ON! and in a single 1-hour 30-minute loop, experience a complete City Tour — 3 centuries of history, architecture, and culture narrated live in English by your very own Tour Host – see the Garden District, French Quarter, and CBD.

HOP-OFF! at any stop along the way and explore New Orleans most popular neighborhoods, attractions, and shopping districts – or – take advantage of our Guided Walking Tours in the Garden District and French Quarter, included in the 2-Tour and 3-Tour Package or sold separately.

See the city at your own pace, the next bus is less than 30 minutes away!

HOP-ON HOP-OFF NEW ORLEANS TOUR FEATURES

Tour at your own pace, live guided city tour, buses visit each stop, every 25 minutes, daily tours, french quarter walking tours, garden district walking tours, deals and discounts along the way, bus tracking app, group tickets, private tours, sightseeing attractions.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

Hop-On Hop-Off tour buses operate from 9:30am to 5:30pm, 7-Days a week. First Service at each stop will be between 9:30am and 10:00am. Board by 4:00pm from Any Stop for Full Loop tour.

Tour service closes at 5:30pm – You should board around 4:00pm if wanting to return to a particular stop.

Yes, on a few days each year, city-wide street closures impact our route and we are unable to operate. Here are the upcoming 2022 and 2023 Black Out Dates:

• Mardi Gras – No Tours on the 5 Daytime Parade Days (two Saturdays, two Sundays, and Mardi Gras Tuesday).
• Mardi Gras – Limited Services are provided on the 5 Parade Nights where streets are closed to vehicles between 3pm and 4pm .

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VIP – New Orleans City Tours

Our bus tour is second to none and all-in-one.

New Orleans City Tour

New Orleans has so much to see and history to soak in. You might be worried you won’t have time to see it all, VIP City Tours can help.  With free hotel pickup hop on one of our comfortable minibuses for your guided city tour of New Orleans! Includes a cemetery tour and a break for beignets!

• Info 2 stops and hotel pickup
• User All ages
• Hour Glass 2 hours

The French Quarter

St. louis cemetery no. 3, the garden district, the katrina-ravaged 9th ward, lake pontchartrain, come visit.

VIP City Tours is a locally owned tour company dedicated to giving you an authentic experience of Louisiana’s rich history and culture. We offer the best views and excursions New Orleans has to offer. All of our New Orleans city tours are led by local, licensed guides who are passionate about sharing their love of Louisiana.  Unlike walking tours, our New Orleans city tour includes a guided tour of New Orleans cemeteries as well as a visit to Café Du Monde in City Park for coffee and beignets!

When you take a VIP New Orleans City Tour, you’re not taking just another New Orleans bus tour… you’re getting a true local experience. Everyone visits the New Orleans French Quarter when they visit our city. VIP City Tours shows you the popular neighborhoods that walking tours and the large hop on hop off bus tours don’t get to visit — all in two hours. Join us on a tour today!

Travelling with a group?  Have a bus to yourselves with one of our private tours.  Call us to make arrangements!

Five-Star Sites = Five-Star Tours

Fabulous tour! Oriel was so knowledgeable being a native of New Orleans! We did the tour early in our stay which helped us decide what to do next.

We took a tour with the "Oreo cookie and Arial the mermaid as she said😊 this young lady was more than amazing, she was very informative and entertaining.

Our guide, Kris with a K was awesome!!! Very knowledgeable, great humor and made it even more enjoyable. Favorite part was the cemetery.

We really enjoyed the tour and would recommend it to everyone who visits the big easy. The tour guide was very knowledgeable and entertaining.

My wife and I went on this tour we got to see a lot— French quarter, Garden district, Treme, St. Louis Cemetery, district where hurricane Katrina hit, and Lake Pontchartrain.

Entertaining and Educating Travelers Since 1995

"...the place to go for authenticity rather than sensationalism.” - frommer’s new orleans, featured new orleans walking tours.

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.

Private discounted group tours, destination management services, and foreign language tours are available.

Top-Rated New Orleans Tours & Tour Guides

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NEW ORLEANS MUSIC TOUR Today, 2 PM

Great Tour Jane was our tour guide and having majored in history in school, she was very knowledgeable and informative. Provided historical and current data on the French Quarter. Had a very nice time as a first timer to New Orleans. - Fred K

From : Two penguin chicks of highly endangered species hatch at Audubon Aquarium https://www.nola.com/news/two-penguin-chicks-hatch-at-new-orleans-audubon-aquarium/article_bf95d16c-f077-11ee-8546-0fd746a212a6.html https://www.tourneworleans.com/

Great Tour with a Great Guide Leonce is charming and energetic ... he could have kept going when we were ready for a nap. The 2 hours flew by. By all means, book a tour and ask for Leonce. - Laurie G G, Arlington, Vermont

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the best New Orleans tours

swamp steamboat airboat

City and cemetery tour.

Experience the unique highlights of the Crescent City

Enjoy a relaxing ride on our City and Cemetery Tour,  with an insider’s perspective and opportunities to walk around on your own and take in the rich history of New Orleans. You will visit historic neighborhoods, including the French Quarter, Treme, Faubourgs St. John and Marigny, Garden and Warehouse Districts.  You will also visit New Orleans’ historic cemeteries, known as Cities of the Dead, and learn about the above ground burial system.

Tour begins: 11:00 AM | 3:00 PM   

Hotel Pickup: 10:30-11:00 AM | 2:30-3:00 PM

TOUR SHOWCASE

$ 650- $ 800.

1-25 passengers

Mon-Thursday $650

Friday-Sun $800

Larger groups must call for details

Tour start times:

NEW ORLEANS One HOUR TOUR

See the most important parts of New Orleans in one hour!

New Orleans Native Tours created the 1 Hour City Tour so guests without a lot of time can still see the main highlights of our city. The tour allows guests to experience the many eclectic neighborhoods New Orleans has to offer, such as the French Quarter, Garden District, Lakeview, and the Warehouse District. Learn about our city’s history, architecture, culture and more while one of our licensed tour guides drives you around the city.

Tour Times: 10:00 AM  |  1:00 PM  |  4:00 PM

Tour meets at a central location in the French Quarter on one of our new air conditioned mini busses.

PLANTATION TOUR

ONLINE PRICE

Travel through the majestic Cypress Swamps and across the Mississippi to River Road

This area is known for its hundreds of plantations. You will visit Antebellum mansions where Louisiana’s upper class made their fortune in harvesting sugarcane, which was known as “white gold”; and where slaves endured day to day hardships under the colonial laws of the Code Noir.

Tour begins: 8:00 AM  |  Hotel Pickup: 7:45 AM

airboat tours

Travel through 20,000 privately owned acres of tidewater Cypress Swamp Land

Enjoy the thrill of riding through the swamps on one of our top of the line airboats. Choose a smaller airboat, which seats 6-8 people for a more personal ride, or a large airboat which seats large groups of 15-30. Travel through 20,000 privately owned acres of tidewater cypress swamp viewing wildlife along the way.

Pick up Times: 8:45 AM  |  10:30 AM  |  12:30 PM  |  2:30 PM

Return Times: 12:15 PM  |  2:15 PM  |  4:00 PM  |  4:15 PM

louisiana swamp tour

Traverse through the legendary Manchac Swamp

Imagine what life was like in Frenier, the unique Cajun Town once nestled in the Manchac swamp before being wiped away by the hurricane of 1915. You'll see the variety of wildlife, including  Alligators, raccoons, wild boar, and many other animals  living in the murky swamps and moss covered trees. 

Much of the wildlife swim right up to the boats looking for treats; marshmallows seem to be their favorite!

french Quarter haunted tour

Learn an unconventioanl history during your Haunted French Quarter Walking Tour

The walking tour will give you a glimpse into the dark times here in New Orleans when both murder and yellow fever ran rampant throughout the French Quarter. During the tour pass through a 200 year old haunted house once owned by the mafia here in the city. After the tour you will understand why New Orleans is considered the most haunted city in the country.

Tour begins: 8:00 PM  |  Arrive: 7:45 PM

The walking tour will give you a glimpse into the dark times here in New Orleans when both murder and yelllow gever ran rampant throughout the French Quarter

Get out and strloll through the cemetery as well as through City Park. Learn about our culture, history, architecture, foor, and more

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NAILA, UNITED ARAB EMIRATES

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The 6 best new orleans swamp tours of 2024.

A local swamp tour is essential for any visit to the Big Easy.

Best New Orleans Swamp Tours

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After you’ve had your fill of beignets, strolled through spooky cemeteries and explored other highlights in New Orleans , slow down with a local swamp tour. New Orleans swamp tours offer beautiful scenery and the chance to spot alligators and other native wildlife. Plus, many of them offer transportation to and from the city.

Read on to discover the best New Orleans swamp tours by airboat, kayak, flat-bottomed boat and even zip line. All of the recommended tours either include transportation from the French Quarter and/or New Orleans hotels or offer it as an add-on service.

Best Airboat Tour: Airboat Adventures – Small Airboat Tour

Price: From $89 Duration: 2 hours

For a classic airboat swamp tour in New Orleans, choose Airboat Adventures. With this tour operator, you can expect interesting guides and multiple glimpses of alligators as you weave through 20,000-plus acres of cypress swamps. After your roughly two-hour airboat ride, take some time to explore the company's indoor facility, which houses Sugar, an albino gator.

While tours are available in both small (10 people) and large (30 people) boats, recent tourgoers recommend opting for a small boat tour, as the small airboats can access more remote corners of the swamp.

Pregnant women, children younger than 5 and people with back and neck injuries are not permitted to ride on the airboats. Pets, including service animals, are also prohibited due to the loud noise from the boat. The company provides ear protection, but you may want to bring your own if you are extra sensitive.

Transportation: Hotel pickup and dropoff is available for those staying at hotels in Greater New Orleans; the cost is $30 per person. If you'll be driving to the tour departure point, it's located at 5145 Fleming Park Road, Lafitte, LA 70067 .

Check prices & availability on:

Best Kayak Tour: New Orleans Kayak Swamp Tours – Manchac Swamp Kayak Tour

Price: From $75 Duration: 2 hours

Novice kayakers will appreciate this paddle in Manchac Swamp, as it's especially suitable for beginners. During the tour, you'll wind your way through the swamp's calm waters and take a gander at the local wildlife.

For an even more memorable experience, take the early morning or evening tour to see the swamp bathed in warm light. Summer and early fall tours will give you the best chance for seeing alligators and turtles. Reviewers say you'll gain lots of insight not only about the area's ecology but also about local history.

Transportation: Transportation is available for an additional $25 per person. Shuttles depart from the Rampart Treehouse restaurant ( 740 N. Rampart St. ) downtown.

The company also runs tours of the Honey Island Swamp and a half-day kayak tour through the Shell Bank bayou.

Best Flat-bottomed Boat Tour: Cajun Encounters – Swamp Tour

Price: Adults from $59.95; kids from $38.75 Duration: 2 hours

Cajun Encounters' daily tour of the Honey Island Swamp takes place on a flat-bottomed boat. Each ride includes commentary from a friendly guide as you look for alligators, wild boar, owls and more. Tourists say the guides are informative and fun and highly recommend the tour, but caution there are many bugs.

Transportation: Hotel pickup and dropoff is included in the rates noted above; cheaper tickets are available for those who can drive to the tour location ( 55345 U.S. Route 90, Slidell, LA 70461 ).

Cajun Encounters also runs VIP tours (which have up to 10 to 12 passengers) as well as tours of the city.

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Best Family Tour: Dr. Wagner's Honey Island Swamp Tours

Price: Adults from $58; kids from $36 Duration: 2 hours

Participants say that Dr. Wagner's Honey Island Swamp Tours are perfect for groups of all ages, making sure to engage everyone including kids throughout the tour. Guides, who are natives of South Louisiana, narrate the two-hour tours with facts and stories about the area. During the journey, travelers may spot alligators, deer, osprey, hogs, turtles, herons and more along with the traditional cypress trees.

Transportation: Hotel pickup and dropoff is included in the rates listed above, though you can save on tickets by driving to the tour location ( 41490 Crawford Landing Road, Slidell, LA 70461 ).

Best for Comfort: Louisiana Tour Company – Swamp Boat Tour

Price: Adults from $55; kids from $35 Duration: 2 hours

From the experienced, knowledgeable guides to the amiable shuttle drivers, travelers consistently praise Louisiana Tour Company's swamp boat tour. They also appreciate that boats have cushioned seats, a roof and windows to help maximize comfort in all weather. The boats also have restrooms. During the almost two-hour tour, you'll see a Native American burial mound, a fishing village, numerous critters and beautiful swamplands.

Transportation: Transportation to and from your hotel is included in the rates noted above. However, cheaper tickets are available for those who can drive to the tour location ( 9706 Barataria Blvd., Marrero, LA 70072 ).

Louisiana Tour Company also operates airboat swamp tours.

Best Zip Line Tour: Zip NOLA – Swamp Zipline Tour

Price: From $91 Duration: 1.5 hours

See the swamps from above on this adrenaline-inducing tour. The 1.5-hour experience includes five different zip lines, a spiral tree staircase and two sky bridges for prime views of the swamps (and the creatures that lurk in them) below. Recent travelers highly recommend this tour, noting they felt safe throughout. Others note that it's good for beginners.

While there is no age minimum, children must weigh at least 45 pounds to zip line; the maximum weight limit is 280 pounds. This tour is not recommended for anyone who is pregnant or suffers from back pain or serious medical conditions.

Transportation: Round-trip transportation from New Orleans is available for an additional $25 per person. Otherwise, you can drive to the attraction ( 301 Peavine Road, Laplace, LA 70068 ).

Frequently Asked Questions

You can expect to pay at least $50 per person for a swamp tour that includes transportation; if you have a rental car for your trip to New Orleans, you can save some coin by driving to the tour location. Fees also vary depending on the company and type of vessel used to explore the swamps.

If alligators are your top reason for trekking to the swamp, plan for a spring or summer tour, as alligators enter a state of brumation (a modified period of hibernation) during the cold weather months.

Perhaps the most famous swamp in New Orleans is Honey Island. For those interested in visiting this swamp exclusively, Honey Island Swamp Tours and Cajun Encounters are both great options.

You'll want to dress casually for your swamp tour in New Orleans – a T-shirt and shorts or lightweight pants is ideal. You'll also want to bring a light jacket in case you get chilly or it rains during your tour.

Some swamp tour boats (not airboats), such as those operated by the Louisiana Tour Company , offer bathrooms, while others do not. If this is important to you, be sure to double-check whether or not this amenity is offered when booking.

You might also be interested in:

• The Best New Orleans Tours
• The Best Walking Tours in New Orleans
• The Best Ghost & Vampire Tours in New Orleans

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The Bazaar Guide to New Orleans

Just in time for Jazz Fest

Even if you can’t make it to Jazz Fest, the city’s busy cultural calendar means there’s really never a bad time to plan a trip to the Crescent City. Ahead, Harper’s Bazaar shares our favorite spots to eat, drink, dance, and shop in New Orleans. Laissez les bon temps rouler —let the good times roll!

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One of the greatest things about New Orleans is that there’s no shortage of gorgeous hotels to host you. A personal favorite of mine is Hotel Saint Vincent —a former orphanage turned mod-inspired abode (and also where I happened to get married)—tucked away in the quiet Lower Garden District and home to one of the best pools in the city. Those who want to be closer the action (i.e., the reckless abandon of Bourbon Street) can opt for lodging closer to the French Quarter, where Expedia-approved properties such as the Eliza Jane , the Kimpton , and the newly renovated Four Seasons New Orleans provide not only top-tier hospitality, but also the ultimate convenience: being able to step out the door and join any party that’s passing by. New Orleans has a subtle duality that one notices once they get to know the city better—and part of its beauty is being able to switch between the lavish celebrations and the more laid-back, slow-to-start Southern mornings.

WHERE TO DRINK

There’s no such thing as a bad drink in New Orleans. Whether you’re looking for an artisanal cocktail or a glass of funky natural wine, anywhere you stumble into will likely have the libation you’re looking for. For those who want to spend the day with a bottle and the best damn charcuterie plate you’ll ever have, head to Bachannal in the city’s hipster haunt of Bywater. If it’s time for happy hour, Luke’s downtown has a perfect French 75 (with cognac! the NOLA way!) paired with a dozen fresh oysters, and there’s Peychaud’s or Columns Bar for dirty martinis done right. Paradise Lounge at Hotel Saint Vincent also makes a mean Italian margarita and rosemary spritz, and the roof of the Ace Hotel is the perfect spot for a nightcap (and makes a top-shelf espresso martini).

WHERE TO EAT

Don’t tell New York, but to me, New Orleans is America’s best food city. While on a macro level the town is known for the obvious contenders (beignets! gumbo! po’boys!), it also has so many hidden gems from local chefs aiming to reinvent how the world sees Creole cuisine. Be sure to visit Acme’s Oyster House for traditional New Orleans eats, (get a dozen chargrilled, add hot sauce, and ask for extra bread), Elizabeth’s in Bywater for a perfect Southern breakfast (praline bacon: Don’t ask, just do!), and Cafe Sbisa for chicken and (sweet potato!) waffles and sinfully good shrimp and grits. For chef-driven sandwiches bigger than your head, head to Turkey & the Wolf ; or for a gorgeous weekend brunch in a dreamy garden, opt for Cafe Amelie . Satsuma is great for vegetarians or anyone hoping for bit of lighter fare, and Dakar has been highlighted nationwide for its take on Senegalese cuisine. Cafe du Monde and its pillowy-soft beignets are, of course, nonnegotiable.

WHERE TO DANCE

Technically, the party can be wherever you want it to be in New Orleans, but for the sake of brevity, the best place to find live music in the city would be anywhere on Frenchman Street. Nightlife staples include DBA New Orleans , the Spotted Cat Music Club , the Rabbit Hole , and Treme Hideaway , among many others .

WHERE TO SHOP

New Orleans is a city for music lovers and eccentric dressers. Any vinyl fan will have a field day sorting through vintage LPs at NOLA Mix Records in the Lower Garden District, while independent boutiques like Lekha , Elysian by Emily Morrison , and Saint Claude Social Club provide provide eclectic pieces for your home and wardrobe. Nestled inside of Hotel Saint Vincent, ByGeorge is perfect for any luxury lover: The mini boutique sells resortwear and accessories from brands like Loewe, Dries Van Noten, Christopher John Rogers, and Rabanne.

Bianca Betancourt is the culture editor at HarpersBAZAAR.com , where she covers all things film, TV, music, and more. When she's not writing, she loves impulsively baking a batch of cookies, re-listening to the same early-2000s pop playlist, and stalking Mariah Carey's Twitter feed. 

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Discover the Past: Best New Orleans Cemetery Tours- 2024

O n my latest getaway to New Orleans, I had the chance to dive into something a tad different from a typical attraction – a cemetery tour. I know the idea of traipsing through graveyards might not scream ‘family weekend getaway’, but New Orleans isn’t your typical city, and its cemeteries are anything but ordinary, so participating in one of the New Orleans cemetery tours really should be a part of your trip!

New Orleans is a city brimming with tales, where every corner tells a story, and in this city, the dead have some of the best stories to share. The city’s cemeteries, with their above-ground vaults, are more than just final resting places. They’re historical goldmines, giving us a peek into the past and showcasing the unique blend of cultures that make up this incredible city.

Planning your New Orleans adventure? Click here to book your combined city and cemetery tour !

Why are New Orleans Cemeteries Above Ground?

And why are they aboveground? Well, it all boils down to New Orleans’ below-sea-level quandary. Early settlers learned the hard way that traditional burials just didn’t cut it here (the bodies float to the top when it floods!) . So they adopted these unique burial practices, creating not just a practical solution but a visually stunning landscape that’s as much a part of New Orleans as beignets and jazz.

Thanks to my many years of planning the ins and outs of our family getaways, I get how hard it is to find fun things to do for everyone in the group. You want experiences that are engaging, enlightening, and worth every minute of your precious vacation time. That’s why I did the work to help you find the best cemetery tours in New Orleans. And yes, even though they are a bit creepy, there are several that are totally kid-friendly.

Best Combined New Orleans City & Cemetery Tours

1. new orleans city and cemetery tour.

When you are tight on time, a combined city and cemetery tour is perfect for families. This is what we did on our recent New Orleans getaway. We hopped on a small bus with a few other visitors and got to experience the hidden gems scattered throughout the city.

On this particular tour, you’ll see the elegant Garden District, feel the rhythm of Treme, and catch a glimpse of the resilience in the 9th Ward. It’s a chance to dive deep into the heart of New Orleans, cruising along Frenchmen Street, Esplanade Avenue, and beyond, all while soaking up tales that breathe life into the city’s history and culture.

Top 3 Benefits of This City and Cemetery Tour:

• Maximize Your Time: This tour is all about getting the most out of your New Orleans visit. Cover more ground in less time and leave no stone unturned—from vibrant neighborhoods to sacred resting places.
• Diverse Discoveries: Beyond the jazz and jambalaya, you’ll see the real New Orleans. Each neighborhood tells a part of the city’s story, from its triumphs to its tragedies, making for an eye-opening experience.
• Educational and Entertaining: Perfect for curious minds of all ages. This tour blends fun facts, historical insights, and engaging stories to keep everyone entertained and informed.

For first-time visitors or those on a short weekend trip (maybe a combination New Orleans and beach vacation?) , this combined tour is a game-changer. Instead of having to choose between soaking up the city’s lively streets and delving into its hauntingly beautiful cemeteries, you get the best of both worlds.

Plus, after experiencing a tour like this you’ll have a good feel for where you’d like to go back to and explore in-depth (this is how I figured out I want to do just a cemetery tour on our next visit) . With prices ranging from $55 to $65, it’s an affordable way to explore New Orleans’ rich tapestry of cultures and histories.

I love this city & cemetery tour for a great overview of New Orleans AND the cemeteries.

2. New Orleans Architectural & Cemetery Tour

If you are at all into architecture as well as history, this would be the ideal combined city & cemetery tour for you. It’s a journey through the architectural marvels of New Orleans, coupled with an intimate look at St. Louis Cemetery #3, and some delightful pit stops that are sure to make your heart (and stomach) full.

The tour guides you into the sacred grounds of St. Louis Cemetery #3, where you’ll get out and explore a bit offering a rare glimpse into the city’s past, encapsulated within the silent stories of its tombs and mausoleums.

Why This Tour Stands Out:

• Architectural Focus: Showcases the best of New Orleans’ architectural diversity. You’ll leave with a newfound appreciation for the city’s design heritage.
• Cultural Immersion: The visit to St. Louis Cemetery #3 isn’t just about the graves; it’s a lesson in the traditions, beliefs, and histories that define New Orleans (which are super interesting!.
• Indulgent Intermissions: What’s a tour without a little treat? Enjoy a serene break in City Park, check out the sculpture garden at NOMA, and cap it off with the world-famous beignets at Cafe du Monde . It’s the perfect blend of culture and indulgence.

Priced between $95 to $100, this tour offers a more comprehensive exploration of New Orleans, making it perfect if you want a little more than a basic overview.

I love this City Architecture & Cemetery Tour for its extra stops!

3. Dead of the Night Ghosts & New Orleans Cemetery Tour

If you’re drawn to the mysteries that linger in the moonlit streets of New Orleans, and the tales of the past that whisper in the shadows, then the Dead of the Night Ghosts & Cemetery Tour is perfect for you. This evening tour invites you into the darker side of New Orleans, blending the eerie beauty of its cemeteries with the spine-tingling thrill of ghost stories, all under the cloak of night.

As dusk falls over the city, this tour takes you beyond the ordinary into the realms of the extraordinary, including the enigmatic St. Louis Cemetery No. 3 , where the night adds a layer of mystique to the historical and architectural wonder. You’ll also hear the stories of the Charity Hospital Cemetery and a poignant stop at the Hurricane Katrina Memorial – a sobering reminder of the devastation that occurred during that hurricane not too long ago.

Highlights of the Dead of the Night Tour:

• A Night to Remember: Experience New Orleans when it’s most magical—at night. There is nothing spookier than a cemetery at night!
• Eerie Exploration: Delve into the haunted history of New Orleans, from its legendary cemeteries to the ghost stories that have been passed down through generations. It’s a thrilling peek into the city’s spectral side, and if you have teens with you they will probably love this creepy aspect.
• Culinary Comforts: After a night of exploration and chills, wind down with a stop for coffee and beignets at the iconic Cafe du Monde in Central Park. It’s the perfect sweet note to end on, and you’ll have fun talking about all the spooky stories you heard.

Priced between $110 to $120, this tour is pricier but super cool if your family wants to experience the haunted tales of New Orleans – and I’ve found this aspect to be a good way to get teens interested in a cemetery tour!

I love this New Orleans bus & cemetery tour for its creepy angle!

Best Standalone Cemetery Tours in New Orleans

4. new orleans st. louis #3 cemetery walking tour.

This is the tour I’ll be taking on my next trip to New Orleans – since we’ve done the city tour, I want to dive into the heart of one of New Orleans’ most storied resting places with the New Orleans St. Louis #3 Cemetery Walking Tour .

This particular tour is a deep dive into history, culture, and the intriguing world of the dead, guided by Sally Asher, a renowned author and historian. Her book, “Stories from the St. Louis Cemeteries of New Orleans,” brings the stories behind the headstones to life and you’ll be walking through these stories, guided by her expert knowledge.

It’s a cool way to get up close and personal with the past. You’ll meander through the winding paths of St. Louis Cemetery No. 3, absorbing the solemn beauty and chill vibes. Sally will also unravel the mysteries behind the different types of tombs you’ll encounter, from grand mausoleums to humble resting places.

Ever wonder about the stories of the folks buried in cemeteries? I know I do, and Sally’s got the scoop on some of the cemetery’s most notable residents, sharing tales that might just make these stone markers feel a bit more… alive.

Here’s why this tour is a must-do:

• Walk and Learn: This tour is strictly on foot, offering you the chance to truly immerse yourself in the surroundings. It’s a chance to stretch those legs and your mind at the same time.
• Expert Insight: With Sally Asher leading the way, you’re not just getting a tour; you’re getting a narrative journey crafted by someone who has dug deep into the cemetery’s history. It’s like walking through a live documentary.
• Cultural Deep Dive: Understanding the burial practices and tomb architecture gives you a unique glimpse into the cultural fabric of New Orleans. This tour goes beyond the surface, exploring the why and how behind each stone.

This walking tour is super affordable at just $25 – $30 per person!

I love this walking cemetery tour for its insider information!

5. New Orleans Cemetery Bus Tour After Dark

If you’re intrigued by the tales that dance on the edge of darkness, the New Orleans Cemetery Bus Tour After Dark is your gateway to a world shrouded in mystery and legend. On this tour, you’ll get to explore the haunted heart of the city under the veil of night, where history and the paranormal intertwine.

You’ll board your bus and embark on a journey through New Orleans’ most infamous “haunted” locales. Whether you’re a skeptic or a full-fledged believer in the paranormal, there’s something undeniably eerie about venturing into cemeteries after dark.

Here’s what makes this tour a must-experience adventure:

• Nighttime Narratives: With a knowledgeable guide at the helm, you’ll be treated to interesting stories that paint a vivid picture of New Orleans’ haunted history and culture. From the eerie to the downright chilling, these tales are enhanced by historical insights that bring the shadows to life.
• Paranormal Pursuits: Ever fancied yourself a ghost hunter? Here’s your chance. Armed with EMF readers, you’ll delve into the spectral side of the city, seeking out the paranormal signatures that linger in these age-old resting places.
• Sip and Sightsee: The tour offers a unique twist—guests are welcome to bring their own drinks aboard the bus. Sip your favorite beverage as you cruise from one hauntingly beautiful site to the next, making for a relaxed yet riveting journey through the night.
• Exclusive Access: Your adventure begins at Odd Fellows Rest, entering the gates of a cemetery that opens its doors to your group alone after dark. It’s an exclusive opportunity to tread where few dare to go once the sun sets.
• Iconic Stops: Beyond the cemeteries, the tour doesn’t shy away from New Orleans’ other dark gems. You’ll visit the Hurricane Katrina Memorial under the moonlight and even stop for a snapshot outside the infamous Coven House from “American Horror Story,” adding layers of cultural context and eerie excitement to your night.

At $55 to $65 this tour packs a punch since it includes the night aspect as well as a bus tour.

I love this after-dark cemetery tour for its spooky vibes!

Tips for Taking Cemetary Tours in New Orleans

Taking a cemetary tour in New Orleans is a truly unique experience. To ensure your adventure is as smooth as it is enlightening, here are a few pro tips:

1. Know the meeting spot & arrival time

Some tours kick off with a bit of local lore right from the start, and you wouldn’t want to miss the opening act. Plus, often they want you at the designated meeting spot fifteen to thirty minutes early, so check your tour details so you aren’t late.

When we did tours in New Orleans , we scouted out the locations ahead of time (just while exploring the city on foot) so we knew how much time we’d need to get to the meeting spots – it made it much less stressful.

2. Understand how much walking you’ll be doing

Given that these tours can cover quite a bit of ground, read the fine print so you’ll know how much walking you’ll be doing. If it’s a lot, make sure you are capable of it, and wear your most comfortable shoes .

3. Check age suggestions if you have kids along

It’s also smart to check if the tour is kid-friendly or if it leans more toward an adult audience, ensuring it matches your group’s vibe. There are plenty of kid-friendly tours in New Orleans – just read the fine print and understand what the kids in your group can handle.

4. Book your cemetery tour in advance

Booking in advance is key—these tours fill up really quickly.

5. Don’t overbook yourself

Here’s a little piece of advice from someone who’s done quite a few tours in New Orleans – limit yourself to one organized tour per day. New Orleans is a city of unexpected wonders, and leaving room for those spontaneous moments can turn a great trip into an unforgettable one.

Beyond the Grave: Other Ways to Experience New Orlean’s Haunting History

If you’re itching to peel back more layers of the city’s haunting history in addition to one of the cemetary tours of New Orleans, don’t worry—the city has plenty more goosebump-inducing experiences up its sleeve.

My first suggestion is to join a ghost tour. New Orleans’ streets are practically a maze of ghost stories, and there are dozens of options to choose from. With a local guide leading the way, you’ll explore the French Quarter’s dimly lit alleys and learn about the spirits that lurk in the shadows of the city’s oldest buildings. A ghost tour was one of the highlights of our last trip to New Orleans.

Book this ghost tour to experience the spooky side of the French Quarter.

If you are on an adults-only New Orleans getaway, the city’s haunted pub crawls are a must. During this type of tour, you can sip on a cocktail while soaking up stories of the bars and spirits ( the paranormal kind, that is ) that call them home. It’s a social, slightly spooky way to see a different side of New Orleans’ nightlife and maybe make a few friends along the way.

Get your drink on with this Ghost Tour and Haunted Pub Crawl

FAQs About Cemetery Tours in New Orleans

Which new orleans cemetery is the best to visit.

All of them are interesting and well worth a visit, but you can’t go into some of them without a guide.

Can you visit the New Orleans cemeteries without a guide?

Yes to some of them, but no to others.

Are New Orleans cemetery tours worth it?

Yes, the cemeteries are so unique and interesting that the tours are well worth it.

How long is a New Orleans Cemetery Tour?

Anywhere from 45 minutes to several hours depending upon the tour.

What is the most visited grave in New Orleans?

Marie Laveau, legendary voodoo queen of New Orleans is in St. Louis Cemetery N. 1

We love the Kimpton Fontenot when we stay in New Orleans

Conclusion: Including New Orleans Cemetery Tours to Your Itinerary

Wrapping up our ghostly gallivant through the crescent city, it’s clear that whether you’re stepping softly through centuries-old cemeteries, listening to tales of the past at dusk, or sipping spirits among spirits on a haunted pub crawl, New Orleans serves up history with a side of the supernatural like nowhere else. My own journey into the heart of the city’s cemeteries was a departure from my typical tourist activities but it revealed a side of the Crescent City that was as enriching as it was unexpected.

In New Orleans, diving into its cemetery tours offers a glimpse into the soul of New Orleans. From the architectural artistry of its above-ground tombs to the vibrant lives of those it commemorates, these cemeteries are chapters in the ongoing story of the Big Easy.

But don’t just take my word for it. With tours aplenty, from the informative and insightful to the downright eerie, there’s a perfect choice for everyone. Remember, booking ahead ensures you won’t miss out on these popular excursions.

So, whether you’re a first-timer looking to soak up as much as possible or a returning visitor eager to explore deeper, the cemetary tours of New Orleans await to unveil the layers of history, mystery, and culture that lie beneath the surface of this unforgettable city. Here’s to discovering the stories that linger long after you’ve left the graveyards behind and to the serendipitous moments that await around every corner in the enchanting city of New Orleans.

New Orleans Weekend Itinerary

Visit my Etsy store to get a “done-for-you” weekend itinerary for New Orleans with your teens. All the planning is done for you – just print it out and follow along!

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Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry remain tied for lead in the Zurich Classic of New Orleans

By richard meek, associated press | updated - april 26, 2024 at 6:41 p.m. | posted - april 26, 2024 at 6:13 p.m..

Estimated read time: 2-3 minutes

AVONDALE, La. — Rory McIlroy and Shane Lowry held onto a share of the lead Friday in the Zurich Classic of New Orleans, with the Irish duo shooting a 2-under 70 in alternate play in the PGA Tour's only team event.

The teams of Davis Thompson-Andrew Novak, Ryan Brehm-Mark Hubbard and Aaron Rai-David Lipsky matched McIlroy and Lowry at 13-under 131 at TPC Louisiana. They will play best ball Saturday and close with alternate shot Sunday.

Patrick Cantlay and Xander Schauffele, the 2022 winners, were a stroke back with Callum Tarren-David Skinns, Nick Taylor-Adam Hadwin, Zach Johnson-Ryan Palmer, Luke List-Henrik Norlander and Corey Connors-Taylor Pendrith.

McIlroy and Lowry, who opened Thursday with a best-ball 61, overcame Lowry's mid-round putting woes to close with consecutive birdies. Lowry missed two short birdie putts and a makeable par putt.

"I was just trying to keep him as positive as possible and remind him that I'm here and I'm here to back him up in any way that I can," McIlroy said.

Lowry rebounded with a long par-saving putt on No. 4 and blasted out of a greenside bunker to inches on the No. 8 after a mammoth drive by McIlroy.

"I missed a pretty short one on 18 and then another one on the second," Lowry said. "I started to get a little bit into myself, but to roll that one in (on the fourth hole) was nice, and to play the last few holes the way we did was really nice too."

Rai and Lipsky held a one-shot lead heading into the 18th hole when Lipsky hit a wild hook that landed out of play. Lipsky was able to make a bogey putt that helped the team retain a share of the lead.

"It was nice for me to make that putt after I double-crossed that drive off the tee," Lipsky said, "That was wasn't fun, I'll be honest."

Cantlay and Schauffele had the best round of the day with a 67. They were tied for the lead heading into 18th but Cantlay's tee shot found the water, leading to a bogey.

Record crowds turned out for the first two days, which tournament officials attributed to the presence of McIlroy, the world's No. 2 ranked player who has been enjoying the city's cuisine. Earlier in the week, he admitted he was planning a quick visit to Bourbon Street in the city's iconic French Quarter, but as of Friday that had not occurred.

"Maybe this afternoon could be the time," he joked after his morning round.

AP golf: https://apnews.com/hub/golf

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Rolling stones announce 2024 tour openers: tyler childers, kaleo, more.

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The Rolling Stones have decided who will “Start Them Up” on tour this year.

However, unlike most tours, the Rock and Roll Hall of Famers are mixing things up and bringing different opening acts to each city they’re hitting on the spring and summer  ‘The Stones Tour ’24 Hackney Diamonds.’

Just a few of the big names joining them include Gary Clark Jr. ( April 28 in Houston ), Joe Bonamassa ( May 15 in Seattle ), Tyler Childers ( June 3 in Orlando ), KALEO ( June 11 in Philadelphia ) and Lainey Wilson ( June 30 in Chicago ).

As for their MetLife Stadium gigs, pop-soul outfit Lawrence is slated to kick things off at their Sunday, May 26 concert ; no opener has been announced for the Thursday, May 23 show .

And if you’ve been on the fence about catching Mick, Keith and Ronnie live because you fear exorbitant ticket prices, we’re happy to report that some shows have cheaper seats available than one might imagine.

At the time of publication, the lowest price we found on tickets was just $21 before fees on Vivid Seats.

Yes, you read that right. Just $21. We couldn’t believe it either.

Other nights have seats starting anywhere from $44 to $109 before fees (excluding festival dates).

Curious how much tickets cost and who will be opening for the Stones at the show nearest you this year?

While we can’t guarantee we’ll give you what you want, we promise you’ll get what you need.

Our team has all the details you’re looking for and more about the Rolling Stones’ 2024 ‘Hackney Diamonds Tour’ below.

All prices listed above are subject to fluctuation.

Rolling Stones tour schedule 2024

A complete calendar including all tour dates, venues, opening acts, and links to the cheapest tickets available can be found below.

(Note: The New York Post confirmed all above prices at the publication time. All prices are in US dollars, subject to fluctuation and include additional fees at checkout .)

Vivid Seats is a verified secondary market ticketing platform, and prices may be higher or lower than face value, depending on demand. 

They offer a 100% buyer guarantee that states your transaction will be safe and secure and your tickets will be delivered prior to the event.

New Orleans Jazz Festival 2024

The musically diverse New Orleans Jazz Festival — they don’t do just jazz, contrary to popular belief — returns to the Big Easy on April 25-28 and May 2-5 next year.

At the two-weekend fest, Mick and co. will be joined by fellow Rock Hall of Famers Neil Young , Earth Wind and Fire , Heart , The Beach Boys , and Foo Fighters .

Want to go?

Click here to check out single and multi-day general admission options.

Rolling Stones openers on tour

Many of the big names joining the Stones on the road have quite a few more shows lined up this year.

For a clearer picture, here are all the Rolling Stones opening acts who are on tour these next few months.

Gary Clark Jr. Carin León Joe Bonamassa

Lawrence The Red Clay Strays Tyler Childers KALEO Widespread Panic Lainey Wilson The War and Treaty The Beaches

The Rolling Stones set list

This 16-concert run will be the group’s first official North American trek since 2019’s ‘No Filter Tour,’ which concluded two years later due to COVID-related postponements.

Here’s what the band played at their last run, courtesy of  Set List FM .

01.) “Street Fighting Man” 02.) “Let’s Spend the Night Together” 03.) “19th Nervous Breakdown” 04.) “Tumbling Dice” 05.) “You Can’t Always Get What You Want” 06.) “Living in a Ghost Town” 07.) “Start Me Up” 08.) “Honky Tonk Women” 09.) “Connection” 10.) “Slipping Away” 11.) “Miss You” 12.) “Midnight Rambler” 13.) “Paint It Black” 14.) “Sympathy for the Devil” 15.) “Jumpin’ Jack Flash”

16.) “Gimme Shelter”

17.) “(I Can’t Get No) Satisfaction”

Most recently, the band surprised New Yorkers when they performed a set at  Racket  in the Meatpacking District with Lady Gaga.

You can find their seven-song set list from the October 2023 one-off show  here .

The Rolling Stones new music

On Oct. 20, the Stones released their 26th American studio album,  “Hackney Diamonds,”  featuring special guests Paul McCartney, Elton John, Lady Gaga and Stevie Wonder.

Comprised of 12 hard-rocking tracks that wouldn’t be out of place alongside their singalong stadium anthems of yore, “Diamonds” shows that Mick, Keith, and Ronnie still have their sticky fingers on rock and roll’s pulse.

“We wouldn’t have put this album out if we didn’t really like it,” Jagger, 80, told Jimmy Fallon. “We must say that we are quite pleased with it. We’re not big-headed but we hope you like it.”

If you’re looking to sample the record, we suggest starting with the fierce lead track “Angry” and the wistful ballad “Dreamy Skies.”

Prefer to listen in full? You can find “Hackney Diamonds”  here .

The Rolling Stones band members

No joke — the upcoming tour is sponsored by AARP.

Rather than shy away from their age, the legendary rockers are embracing their elder statesman status.

To give you a peek at who’s in the group these days, take a look below.

Mick Jagger   (80-years-old)   lead and backing vocals, harmonica, rhythm guitar, percussion, keyboards, bass guitar  (1962–present)

Keith Richards   (80-years-old)   rhythm and lead guitars, bass guitar, keyboards, percussion, backing and lead vocals  (1962–present)

Ronnie Wood   (76-years-old)   lead and rhythm guitars, bass guitar, backing vocals, pedal steel guitar  (1975–present)

Backing musicians include Chuck Leavell, Bernard Fowler, Matt Clifford, Darryl Jones, Tim Ries, Karl Denson, Chanelle Haynes, and Steve Jordan.

Their longtime drummer Charlie Watts passed away in August 2021.

Classic rockers on tour in 2024

Many AARP card-carrying icons will take the stage this year and next.

Here are just five of our favorite acts you won’t want to miss live in the near future.

•  Neil Young

•  Bob Dylan with Robert Plant and Willie Nelson

•  Electric Light Orchestra

•  Ringo Starr

•  Justin Hayward of The Moody Blues

Need more ’60s and ’70s hitmakers in your life? Check out our list of the 52 biggest classic rockers on tour in 2024 to find the show for you.

Why you should trust ‘Post Wanted’ by the New York Post

This article was written by Matt Levy , New York Post live events reporter. Levy stays up-to-date on all the latest tour announcements from your favorite musical artists and comedians, as well as Broadway openings, sporting events and more live shows – and finds great ticket prices online. Since he started his tenure at the Post in 2022, Levy has reviewed Bruce Springsteen and interviewed Melissa Villaseñor of SNL fame, to name a few. Please note that deals can expire, and all prices are subject to change.

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