The French Quarter History Tour

New Orleans, US
100% of travellers recommend this
Excellent (4 reviews)
Self-guided

Included

  • inclusion
    Other
    Mid-tour break, both coffee and alcohol available for purchase within one block.

Meeting Point

We meet at Cuban Creations Cigar Bar, 533 Toulouse St., outside the bar. If you see your guide, say hello, or just wait with your group in one spot. We may be across the street to avoid cigar smoke.

Meeting point

533 Toulouse St, New Orleans, LA 70130 , United States

End point

End Point

Louis Armstrong Park is a scenic park in the Treme, just outside the French Quarter.

Meeting point

1298-1100 St Ann St., New Orleans, LA 70116 , United States

End point

What to expect

1

Cuban Creations Cigar Bar

Cuban Creations is a wonderfully inviting and classy spot with very comfortable indoor and outdoor seating. It's the only smoking bar in the French Quarter and has excellent cocktails.

Duration 20 minutes
2

Washington Artillery Park

We begin the tour in the most scenic spot in the French Quarter, as you hear about the river and bed of mud out city rests on, the early Chitimacha tribe that settled the area, and the rather odd French colonists who founded New Orleans in 1718.

Duration 15 minutes
3
Mississippi River

We'll see the mighty Mississippi from our tour start.

4

Cafe Du Monde

Next we'll stop by Cafe Du Monde, the oldest coffee house in the city, and explore the sweet history of beignets.

Duration 5 minutes
5
St. Louis Cathedral

Our next stop is at our most iconic landmark, the St Louis Cathedral. It's a spectacular sight, and has some really interesting history, from pirate prisons to dueling grounds! Along the way we will talk about Pirate's Alley, and if it's open we will take a quick peek inside of the Cathedral. It's the oldest in the country!

Duration 10 minutes
Admission Admission Included
6

Pontalba Buildings

We'll see the Pontalba Buildings, and hear the story of the Baroness Pontalba, from the wealthiest family New Orleans has ever seen, Spanish nobles who paid for the construction of all the buildings in Jackson Square. Her bizarre story is a real-life psychological thriller.

Duration 15 minutes
7
Jackson Square

Then we'll take a look around Jackson Square and we'll tell you about the statue of Andrew Jackson -- the only statue in the city to be erected out of spite! During the French colonial period, it was a place of bizarre punishments.

Duration 10 minutes
8

French Quarter

There are plenty of mini-stops along the way where we'll share all the knowledge we've learned in our years of tour guiding. This city is SO interesting and you will leave with an exciting and amazing understanding of The Big Easy!

Duration 20 minutes
9
Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop Bar

We'll stop between this historic bar and a nearby coffee shop. Built in the 1780s, this popular dead-end-of-Bourbon St. bar was once a business front for smugglers and pirates. These pirates also enlisted to fight the war of 1812. To this day, men who re-enact the battle come to drink afterwards. In the 1960s, "Cafe Lafitte" was a popular gay bar, frequented by Tennessee Williams.

Duration 10 minutes
10
Louis Armstrong Park

We'll begin with a stroll through the beautiful Louis Armstrong Park, the birthplace of Jazz music! We'll talk NOLA history and how this amazing city began and share some juicy stories before heading into the heart of the French Quarter.

Duration 14 minutes

The experience can be subject to change due to bad weather or unforseen circumstances. We always endeavour to give you the best possible experience.

Additional Information

  • Additional information
    Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
  • Additional information
    Public transportation options are available nearby
  • Additional information
    Service animals allowed
  • Additional information
    Suitable for all physical fitness levels
  • Additional information
    Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
  • Additional information
    Wheelchair accessible
Provided by Spectral City Tours

What our experts say

  • icon
    Visit Cafe Du Monde for beignets!
  • icon
    Check out Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop Bar.
  • icon
    Explore nearby Jackson Square post-tour.
  • icon
    Stroll through Louis Armstrong Park.
  • icon
    Bring a camera for stunning views!

More About this Experience

Introduction

Discover the wild and hilarious history of New Orleans with the French Quarter History, Small Group Tour. This tour offers an immersive experience where you can delve into 300 years of the city's secrets, scandals, and stories. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, you'll explore famous locales that have shaped the vibrant culture of New Orleans.

What to expect?

During the French Quarter History, Small Group Tour, you can anticipate a captivating journey through time. Dive into the fascinating tales of the Chitimacha tribe, who once inhabited the area, and gain insights into the early French and Spanish colonies. From there, delve into the jazz age and discover how New Orleans became the birthplace of modern music. This tour goes beyond mere names and dates, offering a unique perspective on the strange characters who shaped the city's history.

Who is this for?

This tour is perfect for history enthusiasts, music lovers, and anyone seeking an authentic New Orleans experience. Whether you're a local or a visitor, this tour will provide a deeper understanding of the city's rich cultural heritage. The French Quarter History, Small Group Tour is designed to be inclusive, welcoming all those who appreciate the unique charm and vibrant history of New Orleans.

Why book this?

Immerse yourself in the captivating stories and hidden gems of New Orleans with the French Quarter History, Small Group Tour. Led by a knowledgeable local guide, this tour offers a one-of-a-kind experience that brings the city's history to life. You'll explore famous landmarks and gain a deeper appreciation for the characters who shaped New Orleans into the cultural hub it is today. From the wild tales of the past to the birthplace of modern music, this tour is an opportunity to connect with the heart and soul of the city.

Good to know

During the French Quarter History, Small Group Tour, you'll have the chance to take a mid-tour break. Within just one block, you can indulge in a cup of coffee or purchase alcohol to enhance your experience. Be prepared to be amazed by the stories and anecdotes shared by your guide, as they provide a unique perspective on the city's history. Don't miss the opportunity to take a piece of New Orleans history home with you and create lasting memories on this unforgettable tour.

Reviews

Those who have embarked on the French Quarter History, Small Group Tour have been captivated by the engaging storytelling and deep knowledge of the guides. Travelers have praised the tour for its ability to transport them back in time and uncover the hidden stories behind famous landmarks. Many have expressed their satisfaction with the overall experience, describing it as a must-do for anyone visiting or living in New Orleans. Don't miss out on this opportunity to explore the colorful history of the city with the French Quarter History, Small Group Tour.

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