City Sightseeing New Orleans HOHO Bus Tour & Bookable Extras

Getting around New Orleans can be a bit overwhelming — so many streets, neighborhoods, and sights to see. That’s where a hop-on hop-off bus tour like this one from City Sightseeing comes in handy. It promises a flexible way to explore the city’s highlights at your own pace, with a lively guide, and a route that covers everything from the French Quarter to the Garden District.

What we love about this tour is the ability to tailor your day (or days) to your interests. You can hop off at major landmarks, take scenic walks, and then hop back on to see more. Plus, the live commentary makes the experience more engaging than canned audio guides. That said, the tour is a bit on the pricier side compared to some city buses, but many reviews highlight the value in the knowledgeable guides and convenient stops.

One potential consideration is the tour’s timing — buses start around 9:30 or 9:40 am and run every 30 minutes, with the last departure at 4 pm. So, if your schedule is tight or you prefer late-night exploring, this may not be the best fit. Overall, it’s ideal for first-timers, those wanting a broad overview, or travelers who love the flexibility of hop-on hop-off arrangements.

This tour is especially suited for visitors who want to cover a lot of ground without the hassle of navigating on their own. History buffs, food lovers, and architecture enthusiasts will all find value in the stops, which include everything from jazz clubs to historic cemeteries.

Key Points

• Flexible 1-3 day options allow you to see the city at your own pace
• Live commentary enhances the experience with local insights
• Stops near major sights like Jackson Square, French Market, Garden District, and Superdome
• Guided walking tours included with longer passes deepen your exploration
• Wheelchair accessible buses ensure everyone can participate
• Cost-effective way to get an overview and plan more detailed visits

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Deep Dive into the Experience

The Route and Stops: Covering All the Highlights

This hop-on hop-off tour includes a comprehensive route with 18 stops designed to showcase New Orleans’ most iconic neighborhoods and attractions. From the historic French Quarter to the trendy Arts District, each stop is carefully chosen to maximize your sightseeing potential.

Starting at Jackson Square & St. Louis Cathedral, the tour kicks off in the heart of the French Quarter. Here, you get a chance to admire the classic architecture, watch street performers, and possibly enjoy some local beignets and café au lait if you decide to hop off nearby. The nearby French Market offers stands loaded with local produce, souvenirs, and crafts — perfect for a quick browse or snack.

Travelers rave about the live guides who bring each stop to life — many reviews praise their humor, local stories, and ability to give enough time for photos and exploration. As one reviewer notes, “The information given on the tour was informative but fun at the same time.”

From French Market to the Garden District

The route continues through vibrant neighborhoods like Marigny, Treme, and the Warehouse District, giving you a sense of the city’s diverse character. Stops at Basin St. Station or near Harrah’s Casino provide options for entertainment or a quick walk. The National WWII Museum is also included on the route, making it easy to plan a visit without extra transportation.

One of the most-loved stops is the Garden District on Magazine Street. Here, you’ll find stunning antebellum mansions, lush gardens, and the famous Lafayette Cemetery. The included guided walking tour of the Garden District allows you to appreciate the architecture and history with an expert, without the crowded hustle of larger tours.

The Superdome and Other Major Landmarks

At the Mercedes Benz Superdome, you’ll see where the New Orleans Saints and NCAA teams play. It’s a quick stop but offers a unique perspective on the city’s sports culture. The St. Louis Cathedral, an architectural jewel, is right in the French Quarter and always draws admiration from visitors.

The route also covers the Historic Arts District, with Julia Street’s galleries, shops, and eateries, giving you a taste of the city’s creative pulse. And if you’re interested in history or culture, the Civil War Museum, WWII Museum, or the Contemporary Arts Center are all accessible along this route.

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Guides and Commentary: Making the Tour Special

What sets this tour apart from others we’ve seen is the live guide aspect. Reviewers consistently highlight the guides’ knowledge, humor, and ability to give personalized tips. One said, “The guides are very knowledgeable and funny, making the tour both educational and entertaining.” This personal touch can turn what might be a routine bus ride into a memorable experience.

The Walking Tours: Deepening Your Visit

For those with the 2 or 3-day passes, the Garden District and French Quarter walking tours are a real bonus. They’re scheduled at convenient times (around 11 am to 3 pm) and are led by local guides who know the ins and outs of the neighborhoods. Many reviews mention how these tours allowed them to discover hidden gems and understand the area’s stories better.

Comfort, Accessibility, and Practicalities

The buses are wheelchair accessible, making this tour inclusive. Buses run every 30 minutes, giving flexibility to your schedule, but keep in mind they start early and finish by 5:30 pm. The tour duration is approximately 1.5 hours for the full loop, so it’s easy to fit into a busy day.

Most travelers appreciate the value for money — prices are $51 per person for the full experience, which many consider reasonable given the convenience and guided insights. Plus, both mobile and paper vouchers are accepted, simplifying the booking process.

What’s Not Included

It’s worth noting that attraction tickets, food, drinks, and hotel transfers are not included. You’ll want to budget for these separately. Many have used this tour as a starting point, then planned visits to specific sites like the French Market or museums.

Why This Tour Works Well

Many reviewers emphasize how this tour is an excellent way to get a broad overview of New Orleans. It’s especially appreciated as a first-day activity, helping travelers decide where to spend more time. “A great way to see the city and decide what you want to explore further,” one reviewer said.

The guided element means you’re not just passing through sights but learning their stories, which adds depth to your visit. That’s a big plus, considering some similar tours rely solely on recorded narrations.

Authentic and Practical Experience

The stops are conveniently near major sights, and the ability to hop on and off multiple times means you can customize your day. Whether you want to linger in the French Quarter, wander through the Garden District, or enjoy a quick visit to the WWII Museum, this tour adapts to your interests.

The Review Consensus

With over 900 reviews averaging 4.4 stars, most travelers are happy with the tour’s organization, guides, and coverage. “A well-designed route and fun guides,” as one says, seem to be common themes.

The guides’ enthusiasm and local knowledge are frequently praised, with comments like, “The guides are very knowledgeable and funny,” and “Linda, AKA, no line Linda, was an amazing guide.”

The Sum Up

This hop-on hop-off bus tour from City Sightseeing offers a comprehensive, flexible, and entertaining way to discover New Orleans. It provides a solid overview of the city’s key neighborhoods, iconic landmarks, and hidden gems, all brought to life by engaging guides. The inclusion of walking tours makes it even more enriching for those who want to dig a little deeper.

It’s best suited for first-time visitors, history and architecture enthusiasts, and anyone who appreciates the convenience of a guided, narrated tour combined with the freedom to explore at their own pace. While it might feel a bit pricey for some, many reviews confirm that the value comes from the guides’ insights, the route coverage, and the ease of transportation.

If your goal is to get a good sense of what makes New Orleans unique and to plan further adventures in the city, this tour is a solid choice. And, if you’re lucky with guides like Linda or Chris, you’re in for a memorable, fun-filled experience.

FAQs

How long does each full loop take?
The bus tour duration is approximately 1.5 hours, providing a quick yet thorough overview of the city’s highlights.

Can I hop off and on multiple times?
Absolutely. The tour allows unlimited hop-on hop-off during your ticket’s validity (1, 2, or 3 days), giving you the flexibility to explore thoroughly.

Are the buses accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the buses are wheelchair accessible, making it easier for everyone to enjoy the tour.

What are the start and end times?
First departures from certain stops are between 9:30 and 9:40 am, with the last departure at 4 pm. The tour ends at 5:30 pm.

Do I need to print my voucher?
No, both mobile and printed vouchers are accepted for redemption at any route stop.

Are guided walking tours included?
Yes, the Garden District tour is included in the 2 and 3-day options, and the French Quarter tour is part of the 3-day tickets.

Is food or attraction entry included?
No, these are not included. You’ll need to purchase attraction tickets separately and plan for meals on your own.

What’s the best way to make the most of this tour?
Start early, hop off at key sights, take the guided walks, and enjoy the flexible schedule to create a personalized experience in the vibrant city.

In summary, this City Sightseeing New Orleans HOHO Bus Tour combines practicality, entertainment, and local insights, making it a top pick for anyone eager to get a broad taste of this lively city without the stress of self-navigation.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby