best new orleans boat tours

THE 10 BEST New Orleans Boat Rides & Cruises

Boat rides & cruises in new orleans.

• Fishing Charters & Tours
• Kayaking & Canoeing
• Speed Boats Tours
• Stand-Up Paddleboarding
• Water Sports
• Dolphin & Whale Watching
• Scuba & Snorkeling
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Barataria Preserve
• Louisiana Tour Company
• Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve
• Mississippi River
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

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

2. Large Airboat Swamp Tour with Transportation from New Orleans

3. Steamboat Natchez Evening Jazz Cruise with Dinner Option

4. New Orleans Steamboat Natchez Jazz Cruise

5. New Orleans Swamp and Bayou Boat Tour with Transportation

6. New Orleans Airboat Ride

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

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

9. New Orleans Small Group Airboat Swamp Tour

10. Manchac Swamp Kayak Tour - Extended

11. New Orleans Swamp Tour Boat Adventure

12. New Orleans Swamp Tour Boat Adventure with Transportation

13. Paddlewheeler Creole Queen Historic Mississippi River Cruise

14. Steamboat Natchez VIP Jazz Dinner Cruise with Private Tour and Open Bar Option

15. Full Day Oak Alley Plantation and Swamp Boat Tour from New Orleans

16. Airboat and Plantations Tour with Gourmet Lunch from New Orleans

17. Jean Lafitte 90-Minute Swamp and Bayou Boat Tour

18. Small-Group Bayou Airboat Ride with Transport from New Orleans

19. Steamboat Natchez Sunday Jazz Brunch Cruise in New Orleans

20. Oak Alley Plantation and Small Airboat Tour from New Orleans

21. The Original New Orleans Airboat Tour with Optional Transport

22. New Orleans City and Swamp Full-Day Tour

23. Honey Island Swamp Boat Tour with Transportation from New Orleans

24. Paddlewheeler Creole Queen Jazz Dinner Cruise in New Orleans

25. Destrehan Plantation and Swamp Tour from New Orleans

26. New Orleans Swamp and Bayou Sightseeing Tour with Transportation

27. Airboat Swamp and Destrehan Plantation Tour from New Orleans

28. Full-Day Whitney Plantation & Large Airboat Swamp Tour w/Transfer

29. 90-Minute Jean Lafitte Swamp and Bayou Tour with Transportation

30. Large Airboat Ride with Transportation from New Orleans

What travellers are saying.

• New Orleans Steamboat Natchez Jazz Cruise
• Swamp Boat Ride and Oak Alley Plantation Tour from New Orleans
• New Orleans Swamp Tour Boat Adventure
• New Orleans Swamp Tour Boat Adventure with Transportation
• Steamboat Natchez Sunday Jazz Brunch Cruise in New Orleans
• Gators and Ghosts A New Orleans Tour Company
• Go City | New Orleans
• What Dat Tours
• Ragin Cajun Airboat Tours
• New Orleans Airboat Swamp Tours
• Cajun Encounters
• Swamp Tours New Orleans
• La Vie New Orleans Private Tours
• Kayak Swamp Tours
• Happiness Bayou Tours
• Nola Gondola
• Canoe & Trail Adventures
• New Orleans Swamp Zipline

THE 10 BEST New Orleans Boat Rides & Cruises

Boat rides & cruises in new orleans.

• Fishing Charters & Tours
• Kayaking & Canoeing
• Speed Boats Tours
• Stand-Up Paddleboarding
• Water Sports
• Dolphin & Whale Watching
• Scuba & Snorkeling
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Barataria Preserve
• Louisiana Tour Company
• Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve
• Mississippi River
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

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

2. Large Airboat Swamp Tour with Transportation from New Orleans

3. Steamboat Natchez Evening Jazz Cruise with Dinner Option

4. New Orleans Steamboat Natchez Jazz Cruise

5. New Orleans Swamp and Bayou Boat Tour with Transportation

6. New Orleans Airboat Ride

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

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

9. New Orleans Small Group Airboat Swamp Tour

10. New Orleans Swamp Tour Boat Adventure

11. Manchac Swamp Kayak Tour - Extended

12. New Orleans Swamp Tour Boat Adventure with Transportation

13. Paddlewheeler Creole Queen Historic Mississippi River Cruise

14. Steamboat Natchez VIP Jazz Dinner Cruise with Private Tour and Open Bar Option

15. Full Day Oak Alley Plantation and Swamp Boat Tour from New Orleans

16. Airboat and Plantations Tour with Gourmet Lunch from New Orleans

17. Jean Lafitte 90-Minute Swamp and Bayou Boat Tour

18. Small-Group Bayou Airboat Ride with Transport from New Orleans

19. Steamboat Natchez Sunday Jazz Brunch Cruise in New Orleans

20. Oak Alley Plantation and Small Airboat Tour from New Orleans

21. The Original New Orleans Airboat Tour with Optional Transport

22. New Orleans City and Swamp Full-Day Tour

23. Honey Island Swamp Boat Tour with Transportation from New Orleans

24. Paddlewheeler Creole Queen Jazz Dinner Cruise in New Orleans

25. Destrehan Plantation and Swamp Tour from New Orleans

26. New Orleans Swamp and Bayou Sightseeing Tour with Transportation

27. Airboat Swamp and Destrehan Plantation Tour from New Orleans

28. Full-Day Whitney Plantation & Large Airboat Swamp Tour w/Transfer

29. 90-Minute Jean Lafitte Swamp and Bayou Tour with Transportation

30. Large Airboat Ride with Transportation from New Orleans

What travellers are saying.

• New Orleans Steamboat Natchez Jazz Cruise
• Swamp Boat Ride and Oak Alley Plantation Tour from New Orleans
• New Orleans Swamp Tour Boat Adventure
• New Orleans Swamp Tour Boat Adventure with Transportation
• Steamboat Natchez Sunday Jazz Brunch Cruise in New Orleans
• Gators and Ghosts A New Orleans Tour Company
• Go City | New Orleans
• What Dat Tours
• Ragin Cajun Airboat Tours
• New Orleans Airboat Swamp Tours
• Cajun Encounters
• Swamp Tours New Orleans
• La Vie New Orleans Private Tours
• Kayak Swamp Tours
• Happiness Bayou Tours
• Nola Gondola
• Canoe & Trail Adventures
• New Orleans Swamp Zipline

THE 10 BEST New Orleans Boat Tours

Boat tours in new orleans.

• Fishing Charters & Tours
• Nature & Wildlife Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Louisiana Tour Company
• Barataria Preserve
• Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve
• Destrehan Plantation
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

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

2. Large Airboat Swamp Tour with Transportation from New Orleans

3. New Orleans Steamboat Natchez Jazz Cruise

4. New Orleans Airboat Ride

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

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

7. New Orleans Small Group Airboat Swamp Tour

8. New Orleans Swamp Tour Boat Adventure

9. New Orleans Swamp Tour Boat Adventure with Transportation

10. Paddlewheeler Creole Queen Historic Mississippi River Cruise

11. Airboat and Plantations Tour with Gourmet Lunch from New Orleans

12. Jean Lafitte 90-Minute Swamp and Bayou Boat Tour

13. Small-Group Bayou Airboat Ride with Transport from New Orleans

14. Steamboat Natchez Sunday Jazz Brunch Cruise in New Orleans

15. Oak Alley Plantation and Small Airboat Tour from New Orleans

16. The Original New Orleans Airboat Tour with Optional Transport

17. New Orleans City and Swamp Full-Day Tour

18. Destrehan Plantation and Swamp Tour from New Orleans

19. Airboat Swamp and Destrehan Plantation Tour from New Orleans

20. Full-Day Whitney Plantation & Large Airboat Swamp Tour w/Transfer

21. 90-Minute Jean Lafitte Swamp and Bayou Tour with Transportation

22. Large Airboat Ride with Transportation from New Orleans

23. Destrehan Plantation and Small Airboat Combo Tour from New Orleans

24. Destrehan Plantation and Large Airboat Tour from New Orleans

25. Private Airboat Ride and Plantations Tour with Gourmet Lunch from New Orleans

26. Private New Orleans Airboat Adventure for 1-8 Passengers

27. Private Bachelor or Bachelorette Airboat Swamp Tour in New Orleans

28. Small Airboat and Oak Alley Plantation Tour from New Orleans

29. Half Day Private Swamp Experience in Louisiana

What travellers are saying.

• New Orleans Steamboat Natchez Jazz Cruise
• Swamp Boat Ride and Oak Alley Plantation Tour from New Orleans
• Large Airboat Swamp Tour with Transportation from New Orleans
• New Orleans Airboat Ride
• New Orleans Swamp Tour Boat Adventure
• Gators and Ghosts A New Orleans Tour Company
• Go City | New Orleans
• What Dat Tours
• Ragin Cajun Airboat Tours
• New Orleans Airboat Swamp Tours
• Cajun Encounters
• Swamp Tours New Orleans
• La Vie New Orleans Private Tours
• Kayak Swamp Tours
• Happiness Bayou Tours
• Nola Gondola
• Canoe & Trail Adventures
• New Orleans Swamp Zipline

• Things to do in New Orleans

New Orleans Activities

• Cruises, Sailing & Water Tours
• New Orleans Boat Tours

• All New Orleans Activities
• Helicopter Tours
• Art Classes
• Craft Classes
• Dance Lessons
• Pottery Classes
• Airboat Tours
• Day Cruises
• Dinner Cruises
• Architecture Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Ghost & Vampire Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• LGBTIQA+ Friendly Tours
• Literary, Art & Music Tours
• Movie & TV Tours
• Private Day Trips
• Bar, Club & Pub Tours
• Beer & Brewery Tours
• Chocolate Tours
• Coffee & Tea Tours
• Cooking Classes
• Dining Experiences
• Street Food Tours
• Wine Tasting & Winery Tours
• Kid Friendly Tours & Activities
• Luxury Tours
• Romantic Tours
• Multi-day Tours
• Overnight Tours
• 4WD, ATV & Off-Road Tours
• Adrenaline & Extreme
• Fishing Charters & Tours
• Horseback Riding
• Nature & Wildlife
• Running Tours
• Private Sightseeing Tours
• Shopping Passes & Offers
• Port Transfers
• Ports of Call Tours
• Adults-only Shows
• Light & Sound Shows
• Theater, Shows & Musicals
• Attraction Tickets
• Museum Tickets & Passes
• Sightseeing Passes
• Sporting Event Tickets & Passes
• Audio Guided Tours
• Bus & Minivan Tours
• Escape Games
• Full-day Tours
• Fun and Games
• Half-day Tours
• Hop-on Hop-off Tours
• Night Tours
• Pedicab Tours
• Photography Tours
• Plantation Tours
• Segway Tours
• Self-guided Tours & Rentals
• Skip-the-Line Tours
• Sustainable Tours
• Trolley Tours
• Volunteer Tours
• Airport & Ground Transfers
• Airport Services
• Bus Services
• Private Drivers
• Unique Experiences
• Exclusive Tours
• Bike & Mountain Bike Tours
• Walking Tours
• Jet Boats & Speed Boats
• Kayaking & Canoeing
• Stand Up Paddleboarding
• Honeymoon Packages

Attractions

• French Quarter
• Jackson Square
• Garden District
• St. Louis Cathedral
• LaLaurie Mansion
• Bourbon Street
• French Market
• Lafayette Cemetery No. 1
• Louis Armstrong Park
• Best food & culinary tours in New Orleans
• Family-friendly things to do in New Orleans.
• New Orleans’ Most Famous Plantation Tours
• Rainy day activities in New Orleans
• Senior-friendly tours, activities and things to do in New Orleans
• The Best New Orleans Swamp Tour Experiences
• The Top 10 New Orleans Tours and Activities of 2024
• The best tours and activities for culture lovers in New Orleans
• Things to do in New Orleans this summer
• Top Day Trips from New Orleans
• New Orleans Event Calendar
• Good Friday in New Orleans
• Easter in New Orleans
• Memorial Day Weekend in New Orleans
• Cinco De Mayo in New Orleans
• Juneteenth in New Orleans
• 4th of July in New Orleans
• Labor Day in New Orleans
• Halloween in New Orleans
• Thanksgiving in New Orleans
• Veteran's Day in New Orleans
• New Year’s Day long weekend in New Orleans
• Christmas Eve in New Orleans
• New Year’s Eve in New Orleans
• Hanukkah in New Orleans
• Christmas activities in New Orleans
• MLK Day in New Orleans
• President's Day in New Orleans
• Valentine's Day in New Orleans
• St. Patrick's Day in New Orleans

• New Orleans Steamboat NATCHEZ Jazz Cruise

Board your riverboat to the delightful tunes of the Steam Calliope. Experience the sights and sounds of river life that enchanted characters of history and... Read More

• Steamboat Natchez Evening Jazz Cruise with Dinner Option

Savor the beauty and romance of the New Orleans skyline aboard the Dinner Jazz Cruise. Enjoy the Dukes of Dixieland jazz band and a narration... Read More

• Paddlewheeler Creole Queen Historic Mississippi River Cruise

Take a 2 hour, 30 minute cruise down the great Mississippi River aboard the Paddlewheeler Creole Queen. Enjoy a narrated tour with a licensed historian... Read More

• New Orleans Swamp Tour Boat Adventure

Take a New Orleans swamp tour and wetlands adventure! See the Cajuns of the Bayou living and surviving in harmony with the swamps. Here, the... Read More

• Steamboat Natchez Jazz Brunch Cruise in New Orleans

On this Sunday brunch cruise, travel along the Mississippi River while enjoying live jazz music and savoring a lovely buffet brunch, if option selected. Otherwise,... Read More

• Small-Group Swamp Tour by Airboat with Downtown New Orleans Pickup

Experience the other Swamp Tour in New Orleans. This destination is only 35 minutes from New Orleans yet a world apart. Hold onto your hat!... Read More

Swamp Boat Ride and Oak Alley Plantation Tour from New Orleans

This combination tour combines the best of the best! The best swamp tour with the best plantation along River Road. See a variety of wildlife... Read More

New Orleans Small Group Airboat Swamp Tour

Enjoy a personalized small group experience on this swamp tour just 35 minutes outside of New Orleans. This airboat has a maximum of six or... Read More

New Orleans Swamp and Bayou Boat Tour with Transportation

Meet your guide for pickup in downtown New Orleans and head for a 2-hour boat tour in Honey Island Swamp, a wildlife preserve that is... Read More

• New Orleans Airboat Ride

Take a break from the hustle-bustle of New Orleans and escape to nature on this exhilarating, family-friendly airboat ride! Spot alligators, snakes, turtles, egrets and... Read More

Swamp and Bayou Sightseeing Boat Tour with Transportation from New Orleans

Nowhere is Louisiana’s wildlife more abundant than in the swamps and bayous of New Orleans. Take a boat ride through these swamps and bayous and... Read More

• New Orleans Swamp Tour Boat Adventure With Pickup

See the Cajuns of the Bayou living and surviving in harmony with the swamps. Here, the waterways are their highways. From the relaxed comfort of... Read More

New Orleans Self-Transport Swamp and Bayou Boat Tour

Take a short drive from New Orleans to visit Honey Island Swamp, a wildlife preserve that is one of the last protected wetlands in Louisiana,... Read More

Honey Island Swamp Tour

Venture into the interior of one of the wildest swamps in America on this guided, 2-hour tour of Honey Island, Louisiana near New Orleans. Join a... Read More

• Large Airboat Swamp Tour with New Orleans Pick Up

Experience the thrill of riding a 16-passenger airboat on a 2-hour New Orleans swamp tour, with informative narration provided by the captain. See alligators and other... Read More

Steamboat Natchez VIP Jazz Dinner Cruise with Private Tour and Open Bar Option

Please arrive by 5:30pm for early boarding. Upon arrival, you'll be greeted by a ship staff member to take you onboard. Start the night off... Read More

Large Airboat Ride and Roundtrip Transportation from New Orleans

Take a thrilling airboat ride through the wetlands near New Orleans and plenty of alligators on this active, family-friendly tour. Travel over bayous and open... Read More

• Oak Alley Plantation and Small Airboat Tour from New Orleans

Oak Alley Plantation features picturesque Oak Trees, beautiful landscaping, an elegant 1837 Greek Revival style plantation house, a blacksmith shop, a restaurant, and antique farm... Read More

Full Day Oak Alley Plantation and Swamp Boat Tour from New Orleans

On this full-day tour, you'll be driven to the Oak Alley Plantation House, then see the Cajuns of the bayou living and surviving in harmony... Read More

Small-Group Airboat and Plantations Tour with Gourmet Lunch from New Orleans

A grand mélange presentation of Cajun and Creole cultures including a high-speed airboat tour of the cypress swamps. Visit Laura Plantation, built in 1804, and... Read More

Destrehan Plantation and Large Airboat Tour Combo from New Orleans

Experience two great New Orleans day trips in one with this 6-hour trip including Destrehan Plantation and an airboat swamp tour. Visit the oldest documented... Read More

Frequently Asked Questions

The answers provided below are based on answers previously given to customers' questions.

Q: What are the best options for New Orleans Boat Tours?

A: According to verified reviews on Cool New Orleans and TripAdvisor, the best New Orleans Boat Tours are:

Q: What are the best kid-friendly options for New Orleans Boat Tours Activities?

A: According to verified reviews on Cool New Orleans and TripAdvisor, the best kid-friendly New Orleans Boat Tours are:

View all kid-friendly Activities →

Q: Which New Orleans Boat Tours have Instant Confirmation?

A: New Orleans Boat Tours with Instant Confirmation include:

View all Activities with Instant Confirmation →

Q: Which New Orleans Boat Tours have Free Cancellation?

A: New Orleans Boat Tours with Free Cancellation (in most cases up to 24 hours in advance of your activity date, check the specific activity page) include:

View all Activities with Free Cancellation →

Q: I need a ride! Which New Orleans Boat Tours include Hotel Pickup?

A: No problem. These New Orleans Boat Tours include Hotel Pickup:

View all Activities with Hotel Pickup →

Q: Got any more New Orleans trip ideas?

A: We sure do. Check out our curated lists of hand-picked New Orleans Activities.

View all New Orleans Trip Ideas →

Q: What are the most popular styles of Tours and Activities in New Orleans?

A: Based on our sales data over the past year, the most popular styles of tours and activities in New Orleans are:

• New Orleans Cultural & Theme Tours
• New Orleans Tours & Sightseeing
• New Orleans Historical & Heritage Tours
• New Orleans Cruises, Sailing & Water Tours

View all tour styles in New Orleans →

Popular New Orleans Searches

• Top Rated New Orleans Activities
• Kid-Friendly New Orleans Activities
• New Orleans Tours & Activities with Instant Confirmation
• New Orleans Activities with Hotel Pickup
• New Orleans Activities with Free Cancellation
• New Orleans Activities with Perfect 5-Star ratings
• New Orleans Activities up to 1 Hour
• New Orleans Activities 1-4 Hours
• New Orleans Activities 4 Hours to 1 Day
• New Orleans Activities with Over 100 Reviews
• New Orleans Activities with Over 250 Reviews
• New Orleans Activities with Over 500 Reviews
• New Orleans Activities with Over 1,000 Reviews
• New Orleans Activities with Over 2,500 Reviews
• New Orleans Activities with Over 5,000 Reviews
• New Orleans Activities Under $50
• New Orleans Activities $50 - $100
• New Orleans Activities $100 - $250
• New Orleans Activities Over $250
• New Orleans Activities Likely to Sell Out
• New to Our Site

Things To Do in New Orleans

• New Orleans Air, Helicopter & Balloon Tours
• New Orleans Classes & Workshops
• New Orleans Day Trips & Excursions
• New Orleans Fishing
• New Orleans Food, Wine & Nightlife
• New Orleans Holiday & Seasonal Tours
• New Orleans Kid Friendly
• New Orleans Luxury & Special Occasions
• New Orleans Multi-day & Extended Tours
• New Orleans Outdoor Activities
• New Orleans Private & Custom Tours
• New Orleans Shopping & Fashion
• New Orleans Shore Excursions
• New Orleans Shows, Concerts & Sports
• New Orleans Sightseeing Tickets & Passes
• New Orleans Transfers & Ground Transport
• New Orleans Unique Experiences
• New Orleans VIP & Exclusive Tours
• New Orleans Walking & Biking Tours
• New Orleans Water Sports
• New Orleans Weddings & Honeymoons
• View all Things To Do in New Orleans

Popular New Orleans Attractions

• Royal Street
• Old Ursuline Convent
• St. Louis Cemetery No. 1
• New Orleans City Park
• Oak Alley Plantation
• Mississippi River
• New Orleans Pharmacy Museum
• Frenchmen Street
• Laura Plantation

New Orleans Calendar

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THE 10 BEST New Orleans Boat Rides & Cruises

Boat rides & cruises in new orleans.

• Fishing Charters & Tours
• Kayaking & Canoeing
• Speed Boats Tours
• Stand-Up Paddleboarding
• Water Sports
• Dolphin & Whale Watching
• Scuba & Snorkeling
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Barataria Preserve
• Louisiana Tour Company
• Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve
• Mississippi River
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

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

2. Large Airboat Swamp Tour with Transportation from New Orleans

3. Steamboat Natchez Evening Jazz Cruise with Dinner Option

4. New Orleans Steamboat Natchez Jazz Cruise

5. New Orleans Swamp and Bayou Boat Tour with Transportation

6. New Orleans Airboat Ride

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

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

9. Manchac Swamp Kayak Tour - Extended

10. New Orleans Small Group Airboat Swamp Tour

11. New Orleans Swamp Tour Boat Adventure

12. New Orleans Swamp Tour Boat Adventure with Transportation

13. Paddlewheeler Creole Queen Historic Mississippi River Cruise

14. Steamboat Natchez VIP Jazz Dinner Cruise with Private Tour and Open Bar Option

15. Full Day Oak Alley Plantation and Swamp Boat Tour from New Orleans

16. Airboat and Plantations Tour with Gourmet Lunch from New Orleans

17. Jean Lafitte 90-Minute Swamp and Bayou Boat Tour

18. Small-Group Bayou Airboat Ride with Transport from New Orleans

19. Steamboat Natchez Sunday Jazz Brunch Cruise in New Orleans

20. Oak Alley Plantation and Small Airboat Tour from New Orleans

21. The Original New Orleans Airboat Tour with Optional Transport

22. New Orleans City and Swamp Full-Day Tour

23. Honey Island Swamp Boat Tour with Transportation from New Orleans

24. Paddlewheeler Creole Queen Jazz Dinner Cruise in New Orleans

25. Destrehan Plantation and Swamp Tour from New Orleans

26. New Orleans Swamp and Bayou Sightseeing Tour with Transportation

27. Airboat Swamp and Destrehan Plantation Tour from New Orleans

28. Full-Day Whitney Plantation & Large Airboat Swamp Tour w/Transfer

29. 90-Minute Jean Lafitte Swamp and Bayou Tour with Transportation

30. Large Airboat Ride with Transportation from New Orleans

What travellers are saying.

• New Orleans Steamboat Natchez Jazz Cruise
• Swamp Boat Ride and Oak Alley Plantation Tour from New Orleans
• New Orleans Swamp Tour Boat Adventure
• New Orleans Swamp Tour Boat Adventure with Transportation
• Steamboat Natchez Sunday Jazz Brunch Cruise in New Orleans
• Gators and Ghosts A New Orleans Tour Company
• Go City | New Orleans
• What Dat Tours
• Ragin Cajun Airboat Tours
• New Orleans Airboat Swamp Tours
• Cajun Encounters
• Swamp Tours New Orleans
• La Vie New Orleans Private Tours
• Kayak Swamp Tours
• Happiness Bayou Tours
• Nola Gondola
• Canoe & Trail Adventures
• New Orleans Swamp Zipline

We're Hiring

Dinner Jazz Cruises

Cruise with dinner USD $102.50

Sightseeing option USD $55.00

Holiday Party Package USD $132.50

Daytime Jazz Cruises

Cruise with lunch USD $60.00

Sightseeing option USD $42.00

Holiday Party Package USD $85.00

Sunday Jazz Cruises

Cruise with brunch USD $75.00

Holiday Party Package USD $92.50

Groups of 10 or More

Customers booking groups of 10 or more , please use the code "WEBGROUP" during your checkout process to receive a 10% per person discount .

Daytime Jazz Cruise

Code: Webgroup

Sunday Jazz Cruise

Evening jazz cruise, new orleans tours, plantation tours, swamp tours, holiday & special events, mardi gras party package, spring fling party package, mother's day cruise, summer sips, easter bunny brunch cruise, new orleans steamboat company.

The New Orleans Steamboat Company is no newcomer to the Mississippi River or American's steamboat heritage.  Our parent company has been operating steamboats longer than any company in the world.  In fact, we've been part of the history of steam transport since 1817, just five years after the first steamboat docked in New Orleans. We're now in our fourth decade of life on the Mississippi.  We've given literally millions of people the experience of one of our country's oldest and richest traditions.

Come aboard and enjoy New Orleans hospitality ...Steamboat Style!

The newest addition to the New Orleans Riverfront & sister vessel of the Steamboat NATCHEZ

SAIL WITH SANTA ON THE STEAMBOAT NATCHEZ

SAIL WITH SANTA ON THE STEAMBOAT NATCHEZ: Celebrate the holiday season, and the return of the Steamboat NATCHEZ, at our Sailing with Santa Event! On Saturday, November 25th, our annual Sailing with Santa Cruise will be taking place on the newly renovated Steamboat NATCHEZ. The c…

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the dress code? How far in advance should I make reservations? Can we bring pets on board the boat? Is there any entertainment on your cruises? Where can we park?...

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New Orleans Steamboat Cruises

This post compares the various different riverboat tours, paddleboat tours, and cruises available to you in New Orleans to help you choose the right one from you. 

• Meet the Boats
• Daytime/Lunch Cruises
• Evening/Dinner Cruises
• Public $2 Ferries

Combination Packages

• Swamp + Airboat Tours
• Things to Do in New Orleans

Disclosure:  While our recommendations are always unbiased, we may receive a small share of sales through some of the links below at no cost to you. See the  full text .

If you are considering purchasing tourist discount packages, keep in mind that some of these cruises are included at no additional cost in several New Orleans tourist attraction discount passes . 

The two most popular cruises are aboard the Creole Queen Paddlewheeler and Steamboat Natchez (details below), but you can hop on a ferry for just a few dollars.

Each offers a variety of cruises to choose from.

We narrowed down our favorites and compiled a list that describes each trip based on experience type, ticket price, and duration.

NATCHEZ STEAMBOAT

The Natchez Steamboat is the ninth boat with the name.

The current boat boasts modern safety mechanisms within a classic, exquisite oak exterior.

It was recently rennovated and is back to cruising down the Mississippi River on a daily basis!

Take part in her adventure with daily two-hour jazz cruises, including a daytime cruise or an evening cruise . You can cruise with or without lunch or dinner.

Listen to the Captain and crew, some of whom have been with the ship since the 1975 maiden voyage, operate like the seamen of a time gone by. 

This company has received a  4 out of 5 stars  average rating on TripAdvisor and Get Your Guide ( read the reviews ). 

RIVERBOAT CITY OF NEW ORLEANS

This is the newest addition to the New Orleans Steamboat Company, and it took over for the Steamboat Natchez while that vessel was under repair.

Just like the Steamboat Natchez, this boat is also a paddlewheeler, so functionally, very little will change.

The Riverboat City of New Orleans operated all the sightseeing, lunch, brunch, and dinner Jazz cruises for the New Orleans Steamboat Company during the last few years while the Steamboat Natches was undergoing repairs.

Rest assured that even aboard this new vessel there is plenty of room across its multiple decks to accommodate plenty of guests and fill in for its sister boat.

CREOLE QUEEN PADDLEWHEELER

Built in 1983 with the esteem and allure of the late 1850s paddlewheelers, the Creole Queen features an enormous 24-foot paddlewheel and modern amenities for elegance and safety.

Browse the list of tours below to pick which experience is best for you; gather on the 1,000-passenger deck for live music, dancing, a history lesson, or maybe enjoy lunch or dinner.

This vessel's review profile is a tad lower than its competitor's but still good with an overall average rating of 4 out of 5 stars on TripAdvisor and Get Your Guide ( read the reviews ).

DAYTIME CRUISES WITH OPTIONAL LUNCH

There are basically two different cruises to choose from, one from each company.  

The main differences seem to be that the Creole Queen includes a stop at Chalmette Battlefield at the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve.

It is also included at no extra charge with the purchase of either the New Orleans Sightseeing Pass or the Go City New Orleans Pass .

The Steamboat Natchez offers jazz music on the lunch cruise during the high season. 

Steamboat Natchez Harbor Jazz Cruise

An overwhelming majority of reviews for this jazz cruise are very positive ( read the reviews ).

Some reviewers have even described their band as “magnificent,” suggesting that the music played onboard was absolutely wonderful.

Some customers feel that the experience is a bit too touristy, but they are definitely in the minority.

Most guests leave excellent feedback stating that they loved this musical trip on the Natchez. This activity is particularly popular among couples.

NOTE: After a year or two in repairs, the newly rennovated Steamboat Natchez is finally offering cruises in New Orleans as of November 2023.

What You’ll Experience:

• Live narration of the history of the area
• Live jazz concert
• Steam Engine room open to visitors
• Lunch (optional) in the dining area onboard

Duration: 3 hours total, 2-hour cruise

• Departs at 11:30 am and 2:30 am
• Adult - $39    $55 with lunch
• Child - $16     $25 with lunch
• Child (2-5) Free    $11 with lunch
• More information or to book .

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Creole Queen -  Historical River Cruise

This vessel has a daytime destination, Chalmette Battlefield at the Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve.

• Highly Recommended for history buffs!
• Battle of New Orleans
• 1,000-passenger paddlewheeler on the Mississippi River, with a 24-foot paddlewheel
• Costumed re-enactor recounting history/stories of Louisiana's most historical places and events
• Disembark for a guided tour of Chalmette Battlefield by National Park Rangers from the Battle of New Orleans

Duration: 3 hours

• Departs at 10 am and 2 pm daily.

Lunch is only purchasable onboard.

• Adult $39   $59 with lunch 
• Child (6-12) $15   $24 with lunch
• Child (3-5) Free   $5 with lunch
• Infant (2 and under) Free   $10 with lunch
• Get more information or purchase tickets .

TIP: It is also included at no extra charge with the purchase of either the New Orleans Sightseeing Pass or the Go City New Orleans Pass .

Evening Jazz Cruises with Optional Dinner

Below is a brief comparison of the two paddlewheel boats that cruise the Mississippi River every evening. 

For a more in-depth look, including what's on the menu, read our post on NOLA dinner cruises . 

Steamboat Natchez - Mississippi River Jazz Cruise (optional Dinner)

Unlike their harbor cruise, this boat trip will take you down the Mississippi River.

Ratings for this excursion are similarly excellent, but it’s worth noting that not everyone was thrilled with the food selection ( read the reviews ). 

NOTE: Although this cruise was being offered on the Riverboat City of New Orleans for the last year or two, the newly rennovated Steamboat Natchez is once again the vessel you'll be riding during this outing!

What You’ll Experience

• Ride on the Creole Queen paddle wheeler
• Live jazz music
• Lavish buffet-style dinner | cash bar cocktails
• New Orleans skyline along the French Quarter
• Boards nightly at 6 pm and sails from 7-9 pm.
• $95 with dinner
• $41 with dinner
• $20.25 with dinner

Included free with the New Orleans Sightseeing Pass  (dinner is extra).

Creole Queen Evening Cruise (optional Dinner)

Just like their other services, the evening cruise offered by this company is also highly rated.

There are a few negative reviews, but they are overshadowed by positive comments (read the reviews).

• Ride on the Creole Queen paddlewheeler.

Cost (does not include dinner):

• $52 - Adult
• $26 - Child (6-12)
• Kids under 6 are FREE

Cost (includes dinner):

• $95 - Adult 
• $40 - Child (6-12) 
• $15 - Child under 5
• Kids 2 and under are FREE

Get more information or to book . 

CANAL STREET/ALGIERS POINT FERRY

In operation since 1827, this ferry travels across the Mississippi River along Canal Street and ends at the second oldest neighborhood of New Orleans; Algiers Point. 

Unlike the paddlewheeler or steamboat, the ferry offers a cheap trip across the river from Canal Street. Just ask the locals who use this as their commute!

Once you arrive, consider taking our self-guided walking tour of Algiers Point .

This company has received a 4 out of 5 stars  rating on TripAdvisor. 

There are a few negative reviews, but most of them seem to come from customers who were expecting the typical tourist experience.

Although they don’t offer the same range of services as a boat tour or cruise, it’s clear that a lot of their customers are more than pleased with the transportation they provide.

Cost (cash only):

• Pedestrian $2 each way
• Senior (65+) $1
• Children (2 & under) Free
• Sunday - Thursday | 6:15 am - 8:45 pm
• Friday - Saturday | 6:15 am - 10:45 pm

Get more details on their website .

As we have stated above, the Go City New Orleans Pass  and the Sightseeing Pass, are all-inclusive tourist attraction passes, including one free daytime ride on the Creole Queen.  

Included in the cost of the pass is free entry into 25 other popular New Orleans attractions including:

• National World War 2 Museum
• City Bus Tour
• Swamp Tour Plantation House Tour
• New Orleans School of Cooking
• Audubon Zoo
• Audubon Aquarium
• Mardi Gras World Museum
• New Orleans Museum of Art
• + 18 other attractions and tours

Paddle and Wheel Combo by Gray Line

This combo package is a great buy, and with a total of about 4 hours, you can see the city and take a cruise full of historical information.

You save $7/adult with the combo ticket.  

This combination pairs the daytime historical cruise aboard the Steamboat Natchez and the  Super City Bus Tour  (video below).

With an overall rating of 4 ½ stars on TripAdvisor, Gray Line New Orleans is very well received.

In particular, both of the services offered through this combo ticket are positively reviewed by their customers.

Much like the Steamboat Natchez, the Super City Bus Tour also enjoys mostly positive ratings.

Although there are a few negative reviews for both tours, they aren’t indicative of any significant problems. This combo deal is most popular among couples.

You’ll Experience…

• French Quarter
• Jackson Square
• Cabildo and Presbytere Museum
• Historic Cemeteries
• Bayou St. John
• Besthoff Sculpture Garden
• Tulane and Loyola University
• 2-hour cruise with a guided history of the region
• Adult $78 
• Child (6-12) $35.50
• Child (5 and under) Free 
• You save $7-$11/adult by purchasing together.  You don't appear to save anything for a child ages 6-12.

Get more information and purchase tickets .

NEW ORLEANS KAYAK TOURS

Want a more intimate excursion on the water? Try kayaking!

Explore the swamps of New Orleans, or paddle down the Bayou St. John neighborhood inside the city with the safety of a guide at a beginner-level pace.

Ratings for this kayak tour company are very impressive. New Orleans Kayak Swamp Tours has received an overall score of 5 out of 5 stars on TripAdvisor.

Only a half dozen customers have seen fit to give them a negative review, and their comments don’t represent the typical experience with this service.

An overwhelming majority of reviews for this service are incredibly positive, recommending this trip to anyone who wants to stay active while discovering the swamps of Louisiana.

Although couples are the most likely audience to leave great reviews, guests who bring their friends along for the journey also enjoy these tours.

Tours Offered

• Bayou St. John Tour (Beginner)

Located inside the city, Bayou St. John is one of the oldest neighborhoods in New Orleans.

Learn the history of the homes and landmarks, originally settled by Native Americans, and later used for French trading routes.

• Honey Island Swamp Tour (Beginner)

This is the crowd favorite!

Located 40 minutes outside the city, this tour takes you deep into the swamp bayous to see an abundance of wildlife amongst abandoned boat homes.

• Manchac Mystic Kayak Tour (Beginner)

This tour is popular for its serene setting and Instagram-worthy photo opportunities.

You’ll weave through cypress trees and experience wildlife on this wetlands kayaking trip.

Never Kayaked?

No problem! The extent of physical skill needed is the ability to paddle, and a lesson is provided at the beginning of the tour.

The company provides all of the necessary equipment for your trip, but since you will be on the water for 2 to 2 ½ hours, you will want to be sure to bring sunscreen, sunglasses, and maybe even a hat for shade on the water.

• Bayou St. John Tour  $49 per person
• Honey Island Tour  $59 per person without transportation
• Manchac Mystic Tour - $59 per person without transportation
• Extra $20 for transportation from French Quarter only for Honey Island and Manchac Mystic Tours

Tours last 2 to 2 ½ hours

Transportation adds 40 minutes each way outside New Orleans via car/shuttle for Honey Island Swamp and Manchac Mystic tours.

KAYAK-ITI-YAT TOURS

The categories (beginner, intermediate & intermediate to advanced) are based on distance, the necessary level of athleticism and exposure to variables/natural elements.

None of the tours require previous kayaking experience.

There are no shuttle transportation costs as all of their tours launch from the city and are reachable by public transportation, bike or a cheap cab ride.

• Big Easy Bayou (Beginner, 2 hours) $49 per person

Best for first-timers and non-athletic travelers.

This two-hour tour of Bayou St. John is a great way to see the neighborhood and see some wildlife in a relaxed atmosphere.

This is a history-based tour with culture, current events, ecology, and all things relevant to Bayou St. John, its surrounding neighborhoods, and New Orleans.

• Pontchartrain (Intermediate, 4 hours) $84

Looking for something more active? Check out this four-hour lake tour that runs the length of Bayou St. John and back!

Bonus, you’ll exit the kayak to stretch and walk over to Pontchartrain Lake, and maybe even take a quick swim!

Like the Big Easy Bayou above, expect to learn about the history and culture of the area.

The Big Easy Bayou is your best option for this company, and the only one recommended for beginners.

Looking for more options? Consider looking at New Orleans Kayak Tours (above) for more newcomer-friendly trips.

Before you book...

WARNING: There is NO exiting these tours halfway through and the Bayou Bienvenue 3 hour tour has no bathroom breaks. Be sure you are committed before you buy your tickets.

This tour company is featured in several top travel recommendations for New Orleans, and explorers wishing to see more than Bourbon Street have given it rave reviews!

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Mississippi River Dinner Jazz Cruise

Step on board and cruise with us into the night where the sleepless activity of America's busiest port buzzes. The sounds of a lively jazz band fill the air as you enjoy a lavish Creole buffet in elegantly appointed dining rooms. See details

Historical River Cruise

View the French Quarter, the Port of New Orleans, and Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve and be entertained by a historian narrator with a detailed description of New Orleans landmarks, history, vessel information, and river lore. See details

Weekend Jazz Brunch

Enjoy delicious brunch delicacies as you cruise down the Mighty Mississippi River while listening to the lively sounds of a traditional New Orleans Jazz band See details

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A ride on the mississippi offers great views and a relaxing time.

Mark Twain said that the Mississippi River was a wonderful book with a new story to tell every day. Mississippi, a Chippewa Indian word that means “large river” is the life force that has shaped New Orleans history forever, defining and literally shaping the city into its famous Crescent outline. The best way to see what Mark Twain was talking about is to take a paddleboat tour along the hard working river, and travel back to the days when steam-driven river paddle wheelers were the main source of both transportation and commerce. Boat tours leave regularly from the riverfront area adjacent to Woldenberg Park, some offering music and meals, all offering cocktails and narration. So hop aboard one of these. 

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Boat Tour in New Orleans (NOLA)

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WILD Boat Swamp Tours in New Orleans

Our customized New Orleans Swamp Tours are perfect for kids and families. Explore acres of authentic Louisiana swamps and waterways on a New Orleans swamp tour that gets you up close and personal with Alligators! 

Get an unforgettable, up-close experience with majestic Alligators

• The Ride: Feel the adrenaline rush on our airboats, where thrills await at every turn, or enjoy a serene journey on our pontoon, offering a scenic and tranquil cruise.
• The History: Learn about the bayous and the New Orleans swamplands.
• The Wildlife: Interact with all the living creatures including gators, raccoons, wild hogs, birds, and much more!

Our Boat Swamp Tour Options in Louisiana, New Orleans

The Small Airboat

👫 6-10 passengers ⏰ 1 hr 45 min 👦🏻 Minimum 5yo

The Large Airboat

👫 15-27 passengers ⏰ 1 hr 45 min

The Pontoon Boats

Traditional Covered Boat Swamp Tours ⏰ 1 hr 45 min

Our Pickup Service

Round trip to the French Quarter

What Animals you will find with our Boat Swamp Tours

Departure and Wild Adventure in 3 Steps

We offer pick up to most of the hotels in the French Quarter Area

Alligator Adventure

Explore thousands of acres in our unique Louisiana ecosystem featuring backwater wildlife such as alligators, over 200 species of birds, wild pigs, raccoons and so much more!

Learn about the Swamp

Embark on an enriching journey guided by the expertise of our top-rated local guides. Immerse yourself in the wonders of the swamp and surrounding areas as you learn from those who call it home.

See Swamp Boat Tour times

At 9:45 a.m., 12 p.m., 2 p.m., 4 p.m., and 6 p.m. (assuming there is enough daylight for the 6 p.m. tour), boats depart the dock. To ensure you have enough time to check in, it is crucial that you arrive at least 15 to 30 minutes in advance.

Each tour lasts an exciting one hour and forty-five minutes . Give us a call if you’d like to go on a New Orleans-style swamp tour. We book up fast!

Bayou Swamp Tours offers the most thrilling swamp tours the city has to offer. The Bayou tour company offers various options for you to choose from.

The History of Airboat Swamp Tours

Explore the Big Easy wonders : Located in eastern Louisiana, this beautiful marshland is full of natural wonders and fascinating wildlife.   T his is a one-of-a-kind adventure,  you’ll sail past natural cypress trees that form the backdrop of breathtaking photos and life-long memories.

Scenic Views : Surrounded by lakes and rivers, it’s a great place for picturesque scenery and peaceful nature walks.

Wildlife Sanctuary : Over half of its area is protected, making it a haven for animals like alligators, bears, and eagles.

Swamp Monster Legend : Add a touch of adventure to your visit with tales of the mysterious Honey Island Swamp monster.

Family-Friendly Tours : Our guided tours are suitable for all ages, offering a safe and enjoyable way to explore the swamp.

Why book with Bayou Swamp Tours?

Our passionate and experienced Captains combine the excitement of a New Orleans airboat swamp tour with the fascination of a backwater nature tour. Discover why we are the #1 New Orleans swamp tour.

Book with confidence! As a well-established, family-owned company with a longstanding reputation, we take pride in providing exceptional service and memorable experiences.

Availibility

Swamp tours from New Orleans typically sell out weeks in advance. With us, you’ll have exclusive access to the most availability on airboat tours and swamp boats in all of Louisiana.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Get answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about our Louisiana airboat tours.

What Time are the New Orleans Swamp Tours?

What kind of louisiana airboat tours do you offer, do you offer private tours in new orleans, do you offer new orleans hotel pickup, are there restrictions to being on the airboat, what kind of animals will we see, when is bayou swamp tours open, when should i book my swamp tour in new orleans, what should i wear, can i bring a cooler, is alcohol allowed, do you have a covered boat, what is a ride in a covered boat like, are there mosquitoes in the swamp, what happens if the weather is bad, do you have a wheelchair accessible boats, what to expect after booking.

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THE 10 BEST New Orleans Boat Tours

Boat tours in new orleans.

• Fishing Charters & Tours
• Nature & Wildlife Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Louisiana Tour Company
• Barataria Preserve
• Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve
• Destrehan Plantation
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

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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.

Tips on Trips and Expert Picks

Travel tips, vacation ideas and more to make your next vacation stellar.

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:

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Tags: Tours , New Orleans , Travel , Vacations

World's Best Places To Visit

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5 of the best New Orleans Airboat Tours

Make your time in New Orleans a whole new kind of thrilling, while getting closer to nature, on these top airboat tours.

(Photo: Getyourguide.com)

New Orleans sits near the Mississippi River delta, where a vast network of bayous, lakes and wetlands crisscross the fringes of America before succumbing to the Gulf of Mexico. With so much water around, sometimes the best, and often the only, way to get from one place to another is by boat. With sea levels on the rise, this method of transport will only become more necessary than ever. Some airboat tours ply the extensive network of waterways around the New Orleans, while others incorporate other sights into the tour. Here are our favorite five.

Swamp Tours South of New Orleans by Airboat

For a chance to spend two hours winding along the cypress-lined waterways of the Lafitte wetlands at Bayou Barataria, check out this popular ride from Airboat Adventures. You’ll see plenty of wildlife along the way, including alligators (two of which are albino), turtles, snakes and plenty of water birds, such as ibis, egrets and herons. These airboats are large, holding up to 30 people. The prices do not include transport to the dock from New Orleans, although this can be added onto your ticket. From $59 per person.

Book at Getyourguide.com

New Orleans High-Speed 16 Passenger Airboat Ride

Get a swampy thrill on a high-speed airboat ride on this two-hour tour. Taking up to 16 passengers, the boat alternates between speeds of up to 35 miles per hour and virtual standstill, once reaching areas where the wilderness becomes particularly fascinating. Professional guides help lend context to the flora and fauna, that’s if the alligators don’t first come and introduce themselves. The fan-propelled boat can get to areas of the swamp that would be inaccessible by any other means. From $63 per person.

New Orleans High Speed 6-9 Passenger Airboat Tour

With passengers limited to only nine people, there is a much more personalized feel to this New Orleans swamp tour. Over the course of two hours the boat will explore varied waterways, including swamp, lake and marshland. The emphasis of this tour is to discover local wildlife, getting nice and close to large reptiles and fascinating birdlife along the way. Although there are no guarantees with the wild, it is highly likely that alligators will appear. From $82 per person.

Small-Group Swamp Tour by Airboat with New Orleans Pickup

For travelers who don’t have any way of getting out to the start points of some of the other tours, this is a great option as downtown hotel pickup in New Orleans is included. The tour itself will last two hours (not including transfers to and from New Orleans). Your guide will help unlock the mysteries of the local flora and fauna, including alligators, which will be clearly abundant on all sides once the airboat gets moving. Group numbers on the boats are kept low. From $102 per person.

Book at Viator.com

Swamp Airboat, 2 Plantation Tours & Lunch from New Orleans

It’s worth remembering that there are plenty of other great sights around New Orleans, and some of them can be combined with an airboat tour. In this example, you can pair a short airboat ride with guided tours of two different plantations. Start the day with a scenic narrated history of New Orleans, before discovering the teeming wildlife of a swamp environment from the comfort of your airboat. Then visit Laura and Houmas House plantations, and enjoy a Cajun lunch served at the latter. From $230 per person.

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Visiting New Orleans? Must-See Attractions for Your Itinerary

Posted: June 6, 2023 | Last updated: August 5, 2023

Take a Behind the Scenes Tour of Mardi Gras

Recommended by Rebecca Gade Sawicki of Veggies Abroad

While most people only think about Mardi Gras as a one-day celebration of bead-slinging, it's a much longer celebration that takes the entire year to plan. The Carnival festivities begin on January 6 and are a period of indulgence that ends on Fat Tuesday, more commonly thought of as Mardi Gras (French for Fat Tuesday)! Visitors are encouraged to try the iconic varieties of King Cake, watch parades, and celebrate with locals.

In the lead-up to Fat Tuesday, New Orleans comes alive with non-stop fun that features multiple fancy balls (many are by invite only), over 54 parades, and over 1,000 creative floats! As you can imagine, it takes a lot of effort and time to pull off a massive celebration like this, but you can see it coming to life at Mardi Gras World!

On the Mississippi River, you will find a giant 400,000-square-foot warehouse filled with colorful floats, memorabilia, and countless artists tirelessly working. Mardi Gras World offers guests the opportunity to learn about the history and see the work up close.

Your tour begins with a short video on the unique history of the event and a slice of the famous King Cake. After, you're encouraged to explore the warehouse on your own. Aside from checking out the impressive floats, you can watch artists create new designs and artwork in real-time. The warehouse is home to multiple design studios and welcomes the public to check out what they are doing.

Mardi Gras World is open seven days a week from 9 AM – 5:30 PM (the last tour entrance is 4:30 PM). After your tour, make sure you grab a bite to eat at one of New Orleans' fantastic vegan or vegan-friendly restaurants in the area.

Enjoy Beignets & Coffee at Café du Monde

Recommended by Victoria of Southern Trippers

Undoubtedly, one of the best things to do in New Orleans is trying beignets. After all, the Big Easy is known for creating delectable versions of this square-shaped piece of deep-fried dough that is generously sprinkled with copious amounts of powdered sugar. 

To sample this delectable dessert, most people head to Cafe Du Monde. And that makes sense since this famous cafe in New Orleans has been serving up beignets and coffee since 1862. 

However, you will have to wait in line because everyone visits this place during their trip to NOLA. They also have a limited menu since the primary focus is creating delicious beignets. 

But, if you want to get off the beaten path and try (arguably) better beignets, head over to Cafe Beignet in the French Quarter. They not only serve delicious beignets but also feature a comprehensive menu of delicious entrees. Highlights include the crawfish omelet in addition to their classic gumbo!

So, you can easily dine at one of the best places for breakfast in New Orleans before grabbing a beignet for dessert. Just don't forget to pair your order with some of their delicious coffee. 

And if you want even more beignets, then head to Morning Call. This classic coffee stand started in the French Quarter over 150 years ago and has a quirky charm that is enhanced by live musical performances throughout the weekend. 

Therefore, be sure to stop by and pair a cup of their intense chicory coffee with a nice, hot beignet.

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Explore the French Quarter and Garden District

Recommended by Trijit Mallick from Budget Travel Buff

French Quarter

If you are looking for the  cheapest places to travel , you must visit New Orleans. The French Quarter, the city’s oldest neighborhood, is also known as the Jewel of New Orleans. Now this place has become an eclectic place of culture. You will get to see old buildings as well as modern sculptures too.

The  nightlife  of the French Quarter is most famous to the outer world, but the historic part of the French Quarter is also one of the best attractions in New Orleans. Places like Jackson Square, St. Louis Cathedral, New Orleans Pharmacy Museum, and Preservation Hall are some of the most visited places in the French Quarter where you would love to take a walk to learn about the history of this place.

Everything will make each evening colorful and remarkable in the French Quarter. From boutique shops to street bars, jazz clubs to pubs. If you’re a foodie, you will find some excellent eateries around every corner of the French Quarter. These food junctions serve delicious delicacies.

Garden District

If you prefer to avoid the hustle and bustle of the French Quarter, you must visit the Garden District. Your New Orleans tour planning is complete with visiting the Garden District. This is considered one of the most beautiful places in New Orleans.

As soon as you step out of the city car and step onto the land of Garden District, you will start feeling that it’s a place of a fairy tale. Beautiful mansions and cottages surround this area.

To explore the best out of Garden District, you must start by simply walking on its streets. So many tiny details at every corner of this place will satisfy you. You can go shopping at the beautiful Magazine Street to explore this iconic place of New Orleans. Everything you will see, from clothing to home goods, has the essence of this place. You will also find some good restaurants here on Magazine Street so you can indulge your craving.

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Try Classic New Orleans Food

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New Orleans is renowned for its fantastic food offerings, with something to suit every taste. From traditional Creole and Cajun dishes like gumbo and jambalaya to incredible seafood specialties like oysters Rockefeller and crawfish étouffée, there's no shortage of delicious local fare.

One of the most iconic dishes from New Orleans is the muffuletta sandwich, a monster-sized treat filled with layers of Genoa salami, capicola ham, provolone cheese, and olive salad. The best one in the city comes from Central Grocery, located on Decatur Street in the French Quarter.

Another New Orleans favorite is the po'boy. This classic sandwich originated as a hearty meal for working-class laborers in the early 1900s and can now be found all over New Orleans, from dive bars to fine dining restaurants. The most popular fillings are roast beef and fried shrimp, but you can also find gourmet takes on the po'boy, like alligator sausage and soft-shell crab. 

While locals have many opinions on which place makes the best po’boy, Parkway Bakery & Tavern is a favorite for its huge selection of fillings and signature "dressed" po’boys with lettuce, tomato, pickles, mayo, and Creole mustard.

One final dough-based item to try in the city is the beignet, a light and fluffy pastry dusted with powdered sugar. Locals line up outside Café du Monde in the French Quarter every morning to get their hands on the classic fried dough treat. The café also serves chicory coffee as a café au lait, brewed with roasted chicory root and topped off with steamed milk. If you're looking for a sweeter snack, head to Sucré on Magazine Street for handmade chocolates, gelato, and exquisite desserts.

Foodie's Paradise 

New Orleans has something delicious to offer no matter what you hunger for. With its unique culinary blends of Creole and Cajun flavors, it's easy to see why this city is such a foodie's paradise . Whether it's muffulettas, po’boys, beignets, or something else entirely, you're sure to find the perfect dish in New Orleans.

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Take A Plantation Tour

Recommended by Natalie of Voyage Scribe

A visit to one of the many plantations around New Orleans is one of the  best NOLA day trips  you can take without access to a car. That's because it's possible to take a tour bus from the city to almost all the nearby plantations. And there are so many good ones to choose from.

Slavery isn't a pretty part of US history, but it's a part that shouldn't be forgotten. Visiting a plantation is a great way to ensure that doesn't happen. Whitney Plantation is probably the best plantation near New Orleans to visit if you're looking for a plantation that focuses on slavery rather than plantation owners.

If you're interested in architecture, Laura Plantation's main house is built in Creole style, unlike the nearby English plantations. It's a beautiful house, and the tour is excellent, painting a vivid picture of life for both the plantation family that lived in that house and the enslaved people who worked on the plantation.

And finally, another famous plantation is Oak Alley, which is the most beautiful because of the lines of old oak trees in front of the Big House. A tour of the house is included in admission to this plantation and a self-guided tour of the slave quarters.

So no matter which plantation you choose, a trip to New Orleans is incomplete without a visit to the countryside to better understand the area's history. Most of the plantations are located along the Mississippi River on River Road, a beautiful drive.

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Go On A Ghost Tour

When people think of things to do in New Orleans, they often think of things like Mardi Gras, music, and delicious food. However, the city also has a dark side when it comes to things to do – visiting haunted places.

You can explore some of the oldest parts of the city while learning about its old secrets, haunted houses, and famous characters. A local guide will show you around, pointing out historical points of interest as well as places with hidden (or not-so-hidden) paranormal activity.

From the LaLaurie Mansion to St. Louis Cemetery #1, many of the sites are full of eerie stories and urban legends told within the city. It’s believed that these locations are full of spiritual activity from the deceased, who once called the Big Easy home. While those looking for things to do in New Orleans might want to take note: things can get pretty spooky when exploring some of New Orleans’ best-haunted locations!

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Ride A New Orleans Streetcar

Recommended by Catrina of 24 Hours Layover

When you are in New Orleans, you need to experience the streetcars – they are a fun, unique, and convenient way to see the city and its neighborhoods. Five streetcar lines (Saint Charles, Canal Street, Rampart/Saint Claude, Loyola/UPT, and Riverfront Lines) terminate in Downtown New Orleans. The streetcars are so charming, romantic, and vintage and are a symbol of New Orleans! 

If you are only in  New Orleans for 24 hours  or a weekend and can go on one streetcar – make it the St Charles Streetcar! The St Charles Streetcar is the longest continually running streetcar in the world – it has been rattling down St Charles Avenue for over 150 years! With its impressive exposed light bulbs and brass fittings, a ride on this streetcar will take you back in time. It also has the most scenic views out of all the streetcars – taking you from the Garden District to the French Quarter via stunning mansions, Universities, parks, and the majestic part of Uptown New Orleans.

Another favorite streetcar line is Canal Street, which takes you through the Central Business District to the Mid-City area and terminates at the historic cemeteries (known as ‘Cities of the Dead').

The streetcar fare is $1.25, or $3 for a Jazzy pass unlimited one day pass. You need exact change to pay onboard, although if you download the RTA Le Pass app, you can pay your fare from your phone. 

Take A New Orleans Cooking Class

Recommended by Denise Macuk of Chef Denise 

One of the great things about visiting New Orleans is exploring its unique cuisine. NOLA is one of the best foodie cities in the US, and so much deliciousness awaits your taste buds. Your  New Orleans food bucket list  should include eating authentic gumbo, jambalaya, and pralines. Kick the experience up a notch by learning how to make these dishes yourself at the New Orleans School of Cooking. 

Located in the French Quarter in a historic building that dates back to the 1800s, at the New Orleans School of Cooking, you'll learn a lot more than just how to cook a few recipes. The instructors are pretty entertaining, knowledgeable, and even humorous. So, the lunch class is more of a fun-filled demonstration than a pressured lesson. 

Learn about the differences between Creole and Cajun cuisines. In New Orleans, many famous dishes like gumbo and jambalaya can be found in both Creole and Cajun versions. To tell at a glance-the Creole will be redder from the use of tomatoes, and the Cajun will appear browner. But there's much more history and culture to the differences between these cuisines than just red vs. brown food; food is a great way to learn about it.

In addition to the entertainment, the history lesson, and learning traditional recipes, you'll enjoy a delectable lunch. Not just a little sample, a meal-enough to fill you up. Lunch, laughter, and knowledge. This is one of the best deals in the Big Easy.

• New Orleans Hands-On Cooking Class & Meal
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Take a Mississippi Riverboat Cruise

One of the most exciting things to do in New Orleans is to take a riverboat cruise along the Mississippi River. Not only can you enjoy a leisurely boat ride, but these cruises will also provide an opportunity to explore some of the unique history and culture of the area. A typical riverboat cruise may include stops at Points of Interest such as lush wetlands and bustling harbor towns.

Many of these cruises offer an evening of entertainment, good food and drinks, and a chance to take in the local beauty of the city’s skyline. You can choose to enjoy a romantic dinner cruise or be taken on a guided tour along the many waterways that make New Orleans so unique.

The gliding tour boats offer everything from evening, narrated excursions with jazz music, to brunch and lunch tours that give a different perspective of the city. No matter which option you choose, taking a riverboat cruise through New Orleans is sure to be a great experience full of fun and adventure!

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Take A Louisiana Swamp Tour

Recommended by Nicholas Rosen of The World Overload

When you think of New Orleans, you think of vibrant music, exquisite art, and delicious food. But there is so much more that makes it attractive once you expand outside New Orleans. If you want to take a break from enjoying the city life of New Orleans, take a drive out to the sweet, sweet Louisiana bayou for a classic swamp tour. It’s a must for any first-timer visiting here as it’s a great way to enjoy the outdoors but what you are coming for is to view the wildlife.

Most will have you take a large swamp boat, but other touring companies will give you the option to take an airboat or even pick a kayak. Here in the bayous, snakes, owls, raccoons, egrets, boar, turtles, and of course, the crème de le crème, alligators. Your guide will provide detailed knowledge of the animal’s habits and how it goes hand in hand with the swamplands.

These tours are suitable for a nice day trip and only take about 2 hours for a full circle of the bayou area. But you can also select night tours on some weekends, which gives it an almost spooky Cajun voodoo vibe (think The Princess and the Frog) with all the wildlife sounds.

The one drawback must be the humidity and heat during the summer. Enjoying your time here makes it very uncomfortable, especially while being pestered with mosquitos. Best case if you decide to come here is to do a swamp tour during the fall or spring. More animals, cooler weather, it’s a win-win for you.

When you visit Crescent City, it’s worth adding this to your list of things to do. Coming back from a day in the bayou will make you appreciate and enjoy Bourbon Street even more.

• New Orleans Swamp Tour Boat Adventure
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Catch A Collegiate or Professional Sports Game

Recommended by Jason Butler of My Money Chronicles

If you are a sports fan, New Orleans is a city that you should check out. The city has several major and collegiate sports teams and events to cheer for and attend.

Professional Sports

The New Orleans Saints play in the National Football league. They were founded in 1967. The Saints play their home games in the Caesars Superdome.

The New Orleans Pelicans play in the National Basketball Association. The team relocated from Charlotte in 2002. They were initially called the New Orleans Hornets. They rebranded and became the New Orleans Pelicans in 2013. They currently play their home games in Smoothie King Center.

Collegiate Sports

Many colleges and universities in the area have sporting events throughout the year. Tulane, Dillard, Xavier, and SUNO are a few of them.

The Sugar Bowl is an annual college football bowl game played in New Orleans every year in late December or early January. The bowl game is played at the Caesars Superdome.

The Bayou Classic is an annual football game between Grambling State and Southern University. They are the state’s largest historically black universities. This game typically happens in November.

Major Sporting Events Held in NOLA

New Orleans has also hosted several other sporting events. The Super Bowl has been in New Orleans ten times. They are slated to host the big game again in 2025.

New Orleans previously hosted the CFP National Championship game in 2020. They previously hosted the BCS National Championship game in 2000, 2004, 2008, and 2012.

The NBA All-Star game has been held in New Orleans three times. The most recent time was in 2017.

As you can see, New Orleans is a sports city. When planning your trip, schedule some time to attend a game.

Find A Speakeasy-Style Bar

Recommended by Margarita Ibbott from Down Shifting PRO

The allure of Speakeasy bars became prominent during the Prohibition era (1920–1933). At that time, distilling, sales, and transportation of alcoholic beverages were illegal throughout the United States. This led to an increase in bootlegging and drinking establishments hidden away from the authorities.

Therein lies the history of these secretive drinking lounges and hidden bars. This  unique experience in New Orleans  can be found at one of the coolest speakeasies and lounges, Bar MariLou, on Carondelet St. in the Warehouse District of New Orleans. The main bar has dimmed moody lighting, extraordinary signature cocktails, and a speakeasy! Carefully hidden behind a bookcase, you can access this private lounge from Bar MariLou. Drinks are passed through a secret window connected directly to the main bar. Sip a spell in this cozy room and have a look at the décor, it is pretty extraordinary.

Located in what used to be the library of the City Hall annex, it is adjacent to the very, very exclusive Maison de la Luz hotel. Step into the hotel lobby, but be quick, as the concierge will be asking what you are doing there!

Other speakeasies and lounges worth finding include Potions Lounge, Double Dealer, Good Trouble Lounge, and The 21st Amendment.

Visit The National WWII Museum

Recommended by Sam of My Flying Leap

The National WWII Museum in New Orleans is a historical museum dedicated to honoring the legacy of the "Greatest Generation." Visiting this treasure is one of the most popular things to do in New Orleans. Whether you're a war and history buff, you'll learn a lot at this special place.

The WWII Museum presents an intensely immersive experience of the war that changed the world. Through walking this path in history, people can understand why it was fought, how it was won, and what it means to us today.

Through this understanding, people can embrace the lessons learned during the conflict to better understand its relevance for today and future generations.

This museum shares the stories of the American experience during the war on many levels. If you want to learn more about the war, you can learn about each strategic battle and its impacts.

You can also learn the very personal stories of the war, told through video clips, interviews, and written statements. Dig in to discover the brave people who fought for our country.

See the faces of the people who lived through and died in the war fighting for our country. Through their story, people of all ages can understand what freedom means. And this message is more poignant to our lives today than ever before.

Visit the Louisiana Children’s Museum

Recommended by Krystal DeVille of STEM Education Guide

A family trip to New Orleans is only complete with a trip to the Louisiana Children’s Museum. Located in Uptown, this educational and interactive museum offers a unique and exciting experience for children of all ages. With over 20 interactive exhibits focusing on science, math, music, art, and culture, the Children’s Museum provides an engaging opportunity for families to learn about the city’s heritage together. 

From hands-on experiments in the Science Zone to creating art in the Art Studio or exploring Louisiana’s ecosystems with live animals in ZooLab – there is something for everyone at this fun-filled museum! Kids can explore a replica of a French colonial home from the 1700s, build their robots, climb into an actual pirate ship, and much more. The Children’s Museum also features traveling exhibitions annually that offer visitors even more variety. 

While the museum has something for everyone, they have a few exhibits dedicated to kids four and younger, including the Sensory Lagoon, where your little ones will roll on lily pads and hear the sound of flowing water and feel the movement of it near their body. They will climb inside an egg, gaze at raindrops, or watch the beautiful colors change.

For kids of all ages, you’ll enjoy The River Exhibit. You’ll learn about The Mighty Mississippi, play on the water wall, and learn about the rocks and springs. 

Prepare to get wet on the 100-foot-long water table, with locks, dams, drainage systems, ports, tributaries, and all. Waterproof coats will be provided. 

No matter your kids’ ages or interests, you’ll find something interesting for the whole family at the Louisiana Children’s Museum!

Take A Day Trip To The Northshore

Recommended by Sky Fisher of Sky vs World

One of the best things to do in New Orleans is to take a day trip across Lake Ponchartrain to the Louisiana Northshore. The Northshore, also known as  St. Tammany’s Parish , comprises several towns, including Mandeville, Madisonville, Slidell, and Covington. It takes just an hour from the French Quarter to drive across the Causeway to the Northshore, making it an easy day trip.

Within the towns of the Northshore, there are so many things worth doing. You can visit the historic Olde Towne Slidell Main Street in Slidell, go fishing on the Biloxi Marsh, or visit the public Northshore beach along Lake Ponchartrain.

In Covington, you can find the start of the Tammany Trace, a walking and biking path that stretches from Covington to Slidell, the Covington Trailhead Museum, the historic HJ Smith & Sons General Store, and other historical stores. Madisonville is also worth a visit, home to the Lake Ponchartrain Basin Maritime Museum, the Fairview Riverside State Park, and some excellent bayou kayaking.

Perhaps the best thing to do in St. Tammany Parish is to take a boat tour down the Tchefuncte River. Several tour operators offer private tours, such as Louisiana Tours and Adventures. You can customize the trip however you want, whether checking out some of the filming locations of  Where the Crawdad Sings , jumping from rope swings, or searching for wildlife.

Boat tours on the Tchefuncte River are also one of the most ethical ways to see gators, as they do not bait them as many “swamp tours” do. Nevertheless, you’ll often be able to spot them in the natural habitat – sometimes even baby gators, depending on the season!

Attend Mardi Gras Festival

Recommended by Agnes of The Van Escape

One of the most iconic annual carnivals in the world is the  Mardi Gras Festival  in New Orleans. It’s worth going to NOLA around January/February when Mardi Gras takes place.

The dates of this festival are movable. Mardi Gras begins on January 6 and continues through Fat Tuesday. It’s the last day of the carnival season and is always the day before Ash Wednesday – the first day of Lent. The Mardi Gras tradition is French for “Fat Tuesday” It reflects the custom of eating rich, fatty foods on the last night before the ritual Lenten sacrifices and fasting of Lent. 

In 1699, Mardi Gras found its way to New Orleans, thanks to French-Canadian explorer Pierre Le Moyne d’Iberville. He settled near present-day New Orleans and brought the tradition with him.

In 2023, Mardi Gras falls on Tuesday, February 21. So plan your trip to New Orleans between January 6 and February 21. However, the biggest and most elaborate parades occur during the last five days of the Mardi Gras season.

Mardi Gras is all about music, parades, and excitement. The parades are organized by social clubs called krewes. The primary colors of the costumes are purple, green, and gold. The most popular krewes and parades are the Ancient Druids and the Krewe of Nyx, the Zulu and Rex parade, and the Endymion parade.

The best way to watch the parades is from the balcony of your hotel or one of the specially arranged platforms in front of the hotels. Reservations are required. However, the most exciting place to experience the parades is on the streets of New Orleans. You can feel the rhythm, the magic of the spirit, and the energy of Mardi Gras all around you.

Popular Attractions in New Orleans

Visiting New Orleans is an experience, from the bright and vibrant music echoing through the cobblestone streets to the fragrant smell of beignets freshly baked at any local café. Perhaps take a stroll in City Park and visit one of the many chic boutiques or take some time to people-watch from a café in French Quarter.

There’s so much to explore and see, from cultural cuisine that infuses Creole flavors into kitchen masterpieces to exploring historical monuments embedded with stories of days gone by. Visiting New Orleans offers unique experiences for everyone.

This article The Big Easy: 16 Popular Things To Do in New Orleans, LA on Vacation originally appeared on Wander With Alex .

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Puerto Rico’s southern coast is the island’s best-kept secret

Take it from a guayama native: the caribbean coast is worth exploring from end to end.

The scenery starts to change when you leave the tall hotels and tapón (traffic jam) of San Juan behind.

Head south on Route 52, and you will start seeing the lush green mountains of Cordillera Central. As you approach the southern coast, the dense vegetation transforms into clusters of cactuses and shrubs, painting an arid landscape against the distant view of the Caribbean Sea.

Ranging east to west from the town of Yabucoa to Cabo Rojo, the southern coast of Puerto Rico is rich in culture, food, beaches and nature. But beyond all the tangible attractions, locals say the spirit of hospitality makes the place unique. “Our greatest asset is the people, who make people feel at home,” says Milexys Rosado Romero, the owner of Hacienda Tres Casitas , a farm stay in Cabo Rojo.

I learned this growing up in Guayama, where neighbors traded mangoes for papayas. My parents were always inviting people for coffee, or my dad might arrive home with a bagful of fresh seafood he got from a friend he ran into at the beach.

Unfortunately, no reliable public transport options exist, so renting a car is the best bet to reach the smaller towns and unspoiled beaches. Highway 52 traverses the island from north to south, taking you from San Juan to Guayama in around 90 minutes, depending on traffic, and to Ponce in two hours or less. Highway 2 takes you west to Cabo Rojo and up the western coast, and Route 3 takes you along the eastern coast with scenic ocean views of Patillas and Maunabo.

If traveling during the fall, you may catch surfers in Guardarraya Beach in Patillas. It’s hard to get lost as you can easily find lesser-known beaches via Google Maps, with good cell coverage throughout the region.

Many of the lodgings offered on the southern coast, from the luxury Copamarina Beach Resort to the kid-friendly Combate Beach Resort , have been owned by local families for generations. Farm stays, small inns known as paradors and vacation rentals dominate the accommodations, making for a relaxed scene.

I recommend visiting from Wednesdays to Sundays for a livelier scene and more dining options; earlier in the week is perfect for having the beaches all to yourself.

Low-key beaches in Cabo Rojo

Even the Caribbean Sea beaches on the southern coast of Puerto Rico are in chill mode, more relaxed than their choppy Atlantic Ocean counterparts in the north.

With small waves and shallow waters, Combate Beach, on the southwest corner, is ideal for families. Make it a day-long affair with a passion fruit mojito at Annie’s Place with picturesque sunset views.

For a more rustic beach experience, go to Playa Sucia, one of Puerto Rico’s southernmost beaches. While there, hike the trails leading to El Faro de Cabo Rojo and Puente de Piedra for 360-degree views of a colorful mix of Caribbean blues, sandy-colored rocky enclaves and green mangroves along the coast. Walk a mile and a half north of Playa Sucia, and you will encounter the Salinas de Cabo Rojo, with colorful yellow-shouldered blackbirds flying over the pink salt flats.

Boquerón is a neighborhood known for its stands of local fish, oysters and clams. You can also take a dip at its small sandy strip. The neighborhood is vibrant, with music blaring throughout the many kiosks and beachside restaurants, most specializing in seafood. You don’t have to go far inland to find roasted pork at Camino Los Charros. Rosado also recommends La Catumba Lechonera among the many restaurants that specialize in pork.

Restaurants on the rise in Guayama

“Guayama esta pegao” — in style, according to what I’ve heard from many friends across the island.

A coastal city on the southeastern side, it is known for having a charming plaza (town square) with homes and buildings dating from the 1800s. One of these historical homes houses Gallo Pinto , a restaurant by chef Ángel David Moreno Zayas that has become a destination with dishes like grilled oysters, bone marrow with beef tartare, and fried red snapper.

“I’ve worked in many kitchens in San Juan and the mainland United States, but I wanted to open my restaurant in Guayama,” says Moreno Zayas of his hometown. “It started as a casual place because we were recovering from the pandemic, but now we’ve incorporated more fine-dining elements, and the reception has been spectacular.”

After a feast at Gallo Pinto, one must save room for ice cream at one of Guayama’s classic spots, Rex Cream. Owned by Chinese-Cuban immigrants, the Louke Chang family, it’s a mandatory stop. A scoop of salty-sweet corn ice cream with a generous sprinkle of cinnamon is perfect for a walk along the plaza.

At Pozuelo, a fishermen’s neighborhood beyond the city center, go to El Arcoiris for one of my childhood favorites, the octopus salad with a side of tostones. Or bite into a crispy alcapurria — a fritter made of banana and root vegetables — at El Fogón de Susa as you stroll along the beach.

You can find one of the most impressive wine lists in the south at Prime Market , where local couple Laury Cordero Sabater and Antonio Palau transformed an old home along Route 3 into an ample outdoor patio with a menu specializing in steaks.

Art and culture in Ponce

It’s hard to find Puerto Ricans prouder of their hometown than Ponceños. I’m not disputing their pride, because the city has so much to offer, especially in terms of arts and culture.

“Start with a walking tour of the city center of Ponce to learn about the history of Ponce and gain an orientation of the city,” says Melina Aguilar Colón, the founder of Isla Caribe tours. “One of the sights not to be missed is the Parque de Bombas de Ponce,” she said. Initially built in 1882 for the Exhibition Trade Fair, the Ponce firehouse is a symbol of the city; the distinct red-and-black-striped facade was an inspiration for the Ponce flag.

After walking through the city center, go for cocktails along Paseo de la Salsa Cheo Feliciano, named after the pioneering salsa singer José Feliciano. At El Marlin 107, William Collazo, a big name in Puerto Rico’s cocktail community, mixes drinks with tropical infusions like coconut water, guava and mangoes. On the weekends, expect live music along the street where you can test your salsa skills. For dinner, head to Chef’s Creations, where you catch chef Jorge Rivera cooking over a wood-fired grill in his restaurant’s patio.

Although the city has suffered structural damage during Hurricane Maria in 2017, followed by an earthquake in 2020, Ponce has focused on reconstruction and updates to many of its cultural institutions. The Teatro La Perla, a cultural hub for performance art, is set to reopen in 2025 with plays and musical performances. The Art Museum of Ponce , home of the iconic “Flaming June” by Sir Frederic Leighton (which is currently on loan to the Royal Academy of Arts in London), recently reopened its doors after extensive repairs.

Ponce is also considered the birthplace of plena music, one of the traditional sounds of Puerto Rico. Deeply infused with African beats, plena tells the story of the Puerto Rican people from the early 1900s. You can learn more about plena and other Puerto Rican music like bomba and danza at the Museo de la Música Puertorriqueña, a small museum in the city center.

El Bosque dry forest and bioluminescent bays

According to Aguilar Colón, “everybody knows about El Yunque rainforest, but nobody talks about El Bosque Seco de Guánica, the dry forest on the island’s southwest coast.” I agree.

One of the things that makes Puerto Rico unique is the contrast of ecosystems in a relatively small island. Walking along the trails, you will notice the different varieties of cactuses, Guayacán trees and mangroves as you get closer to the shoreline. Birdwatchers will rejoice with the sights of sparrow hawks, hummingbirds and brown pelicans. The dry forest is one of the island’s hottest places, so ensure you bring plenty of water and sun protection.

Next to Guánica, in the neighboring town of Lajas, there’s another natural phenomenon. La Parguera is home to one of the three bioluminescent bays of Puerto Rico. Because of overpopulation, it’s not as bright as in Vieques, but it’s still worth a trip if you’re in the area.

The local dock offers boat rides, and you can also find kayak tours taking you deeper into the bay for better views. Beyond the bay, the Parguera is known for its bustling scene on the weekends with plenty of bars, restaurants and bands.

Jessica van Dop DeJesus is a travel and food writer, digital content creator and the author of “ The Dining Traveler Guide to Puerto Rico .” She divides her time between Brussels, D.C. and western New York. Follow her on Instagram @diningtraveler .

Where to go

Our favorite destinations: These 12 destinations are at the top of our wish list for where to go this year, without crowds. In 2023, we explored an Alaskan bear paradise, Brooklyn’s famous pizzerias and a hidden gem in Italy, among other highlights ..

Travel like a local: Residents share their favorite places in our top city guides: New Orleans , Rome , Tokyo and Mexico City .

National parks: This comprehensive guide has details on all 63 U.S. national parks. For a deep dive into five of the most well-known, you can listen to the Field Trip podcast . Then explore tips from locals for visiting Yosemite , Glacier and Everglades .

Tales from the road: Dolly Parton has opened a new resort at her theme park complex in Tennessee, while “Fixer Upper” stars Chip and Joanna Gaines have a new hotel in Waco . Road-trippers may be just as excited to see the cartoon beaver at Buc-ee’s , and bargain-hunters should consider a stop at the Unclaimed Baggage store in Scottsboro, Ala.