What To Do in NOLA
I personally think that one-to-four hour tours are a great idea when one is visiting a new spot on this planet of ours. My husband and I have taken tours in Rome, Florence, Mexico City, Hawaii, the island of Curaçao and many other delightful spots. They serve a definite purpose if you have a limited amount of time and are in a brand new location.
For this write-up I am focusing on “Guided Tours in the French Quarter” that you may find helpful when visiting here. I have purposely included the address of each one because that’s where the tour will depart from – plus I’ve listed a phone number that you can call for more info. But before we get to the tours I’d like to give a quick overview of the Quarter.
It’s the city’s oldest neighborhood (it’s also called Vieux Carré, or “Old Square”) and is centered on Jackson Square, which is overlooked by St. Louis Cathedral. The French Quarter is very pedestrian-friendly, so wear comfortable walking shoes. Hard-partying Bourbon Street is infamous, but it’s definitely not the whole French Quarter – and it’s easy to avoid if it’s not for you.
History runs deep in the Square – the Pontalba Buildings that surround Jackson Square on two sides are the oldest apartment buildings in America and the French Market is the country’s oldest public market. Now, let’s take a look at five fun tours you can take that will give you a real insight into our famous French Quarter.
#1
TOUR: Friends of the Cabildo
ADDRESS: 523 St. Ann Street
PHONE: (504) 523-3939
These walking tours are led by smart, funny guides who will give you a great primer on the history of the French Quarter – you’ll hear stories about some of the most-famous streets and fascinating bits about the many architectural styles you’ll see.
The historic St. Louis Cathedral in the French Quarter
#2
TOUR: Royal Carriage Tours
ADDRESS: Decatur Street and Jackson Square
PHONE: (504) 943-8820
The conductors of these mule-drawn carriage tours know their stuff. They will note the locations of celebrity homes and reveal historic tales that will impress you. Royal Carriage Tours has a very good animal welfare record and is licensed by the city. No tours if the temperature rises above 95 degrees F.
#3
TOUR: Haunted History Tours
ADDRESS: 723 St. Peter Street
PHONE: (888) 644-6787 or (504) 861-2727
Okay, you may think these tours are a bit “out there” but, let’s face it, they’re also fun – c’mon you’re on a holiday trip, it’s time to try something that you may have never done before. Moreover, you’ll hear a lot about the shady side of New Orleans. It’s juicy stuff!
Just looking at this ad for Haunted History Tours scares me!!!
#4
TOUR: Magic Tours
ADDRESS: 441 Royal Street
PHONE: (504) 588-9693
The list of tour leaders includes teachers, historians, preservationists and journalists so you won’t be disappointed. They are well informed and know how to spin a tale – plus they’ll give you great insight into The Big Easy.
#5
TOUR: American Photo Safari
ADDRESS: Jackson Sq. by St. Louis Cathedral
PHONE: (504) 298-8876
This is a cleverly focused tour: the tour leaders don't just show you the sights – they give you lessons on how to take pictures of them as well. Explore the historic French Quarter with an insider. No more boring snapshots!
CLICK HERE to read our blog titled “An Over-the-Top Celebration in the Oaks.”
HERE’S A 2ND REMINDER: CELEBRATION IN THE OAKS takes place from November 27, 2020 and goes until January 1, 2021. Drive thru only this year! Be sure and put it on your calendar.
Shaun Nelson-Henrick
*Update: American Photo Safari is currently closed. Here is another tour to check out while visiting Rathbone Mansions:
TOUR: Destination Kitchen Food Tour
ADDRESS: Meets in the heart of the French Quarter
PHONE: (855) 353-6634
Ranked #1 Food Experience in New Orleans by TripAdvisor for 2020. The 3-hour walking food tour includes 6-7 tasting from famous New Orleans Restaurants!