New Orleans: Afternoon Cocktail Walking Tour with Drinks

If you’re heading to New Orleans and want to combine history, local flavor, and a bit of fun in one outing, then the Afternoon Cocktail Walking Tour might just be your perfect fit. Spanning about two and a half hours, this tour takes you through the historic French Quarter, stopping at four renowned bars, where you’ll enjoy tasting some of the city’s most famous cocktails. Guided by an engaging local, you’ll hear stories that bring New Orleans’ spirited past to life—along with plenty of opportunities to sip on classic drinks.

What we love about this experience is how it seamlessly blends history with lively social moments. It’s not just about drinking; it’s about understanding the roots of cocktails like the Sazerac and learning about the characters who created them. That said, because it involves walking and some venues have uneven surfaces, comfortable shoes are a must. This tour is ideal for those who appreciate a good story, love a well-made cocktail, and want a lively but laid-back way to explore the city’s boozy heritage.

One aspect worth considering is the additional cost of drinks beyond the included three cocktails. While the ticket price offers excellent value—especially given the proximity to other French Quarter attractions—it’s good to budget for extra beverages if you wish to indulge further. This tour tends to attract curious travelers, cocktail enthusiasts, and anyone looking to add some local flavor to their New Orleans trip.

Key Points

• Authentic Experience: Combines historical storytelling with cocktail tastings.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides like Robi and Elizabeth are praised for their expertise.
• Historic Venues: Stops include famous bars and establishments with centuries of stories.
• Quality Drinks: Enjoy three classic cocktails, with suggestions for more available.
• Flexible & Accessible: 2.5 hours walking, with some considerations for uneven surfaces.
• Great for Social Learners: Perfect for those who love engaging storytelling and lively atmospheres.

The Itinerary: A Step-by-Step Journey Through Spirit and Story

The tour begins on Toulouse Street, right by the Mississippi River, setting the perfect scene to start exploring New Orleans’ cocktail scene. Your guide, who has a knack for storytelling, kicks things off with tales about the city’s unique concoctions and the colorful characters behind them. Expect a lively introduction that blends history with humor, making the city’s past feel both tangible and fun.

The first stop is the Court of Two Sisters Carriageway Bar—a place with a storied past, originally a residence of Antoine Peychaud, the creator of Peychaud’s Bitters, which features in the legendary Sazerac. This historic space, with its wrought-iron gates and lush courtyard, offers a glimpse into the Creole heritage that influences New Orleans’ drinking traditions. Here, you’ll sample a classic cocktail that traces its roots back to this legendary apothecary.

Next, your guide takes you to a pirate-hangout spot, located near the St. Louis Cathedral, where you’ll learn about the city’s swashbuckling past and meet the infamous “green fairy”—Absinthe. The stories about absinthe’s mystical reputation and its influence on creative minds add an intriguing layer to the experience.

The tour then moves to a renowned jazz pub, Fritzel’s, where the atmosphere amps up with live jazz performances. This venue isn’t your typical bar—it’s a treasure trove of jazz history, drawing visitors from around the world. You’ll enjoy your third cocktail here, often one of New Orleans’ iconic creations, all while soaking in soulful tunes.

Throughout each stop, the guide shares fascinating anecdotes, from the city’s architecture to its legendary characters. Reviewers have noted guides like Robi and Elizabeth for their vast knowledge, blending historical facts with engaging storytelling. Their passion makes the experience feel like a lively lecture mixed with a pub crawl.

What You’ll Drink & Why It Matters

The included three cocktails are carefully selected to represent the city’s drinking heritage. Expect to sample some of the most infamous drinks that originated here, such as the Sazerac, Vieux Carré, and a Pimms Cup. Some reviews have pointed out that the Sazerac is a “strong drink,” so it’s good to pace yourself if you’re not used to potent cocktails.

The fact that additional beverages are available for purchase is a plus, giving you the chance to keep the spirits flowing if you’re enjoying the vibe. These drinks are more than just tasty beverages—they’re gateways into the city’s social fabric, with each sip carrying stories of pirates, jazz musicians, and Creole cooks.

The Venues: Historic and Lively

Each bar on the tour has its own charm, from the wisteria-covered Courtyard of Two Sisters to the pirate hangout with cobblestone alleys and shadowy corners. The venues are carefully chosen for their historic significance and their role in shaping New Orleans’ cocktail scene.

Some venues have steps and uneven surfaces, which might be a consideration for guests in wheelchairs or with mobility issues. If needed, special arrangements can be made, so don’t hesitate to ask your guide beforehand.

The Guide: Making History Fun

The reviews highlight guides like Robi, Elizabeth, and Kate as integral to the tour’s success. They are described as knowledgeable, personable, and able to weave captivating stories with facts about the city and its libations. For example, one reviewer noted, “Robi’s storytelling, weaving in stories with the cocktail drinks and tour, made it fun and exciting.” Their enthusiasm adds a layer of authenticity and engagement that elevates the tour beyond just a drink crawl.

The Experience: Atmosphere, Duration, and Group Size

The 2.5-hour duration strikes a balance—it’s enough time to enjoy four stops without feeling rushed. The group sizes tend to be manageable, allowing for personal interaction with guides and fellow travelers. The walking is on uneven streets and cobblestones, so comfy shoes are a must.

The tour begins at Gray Line Lighthouse on Toulouse Street, with a recommended arrival 15 minutes early to exchange vouchers. The ending point is back at the initial meeting spot, making it easy to continue exploring the French Quarter afterward.

Price & Value: Is It Worth It?

At $68 per person, the tour offers solid value considering the included guide, three cocktails, and the access to iconic venues. Given the reviews praising the guides’ knowledge, the historic significance of the stops, and the quality of drinks, it’s clear this experience provides a memorable taste of New Orleans at a reasonable price.

It’s worth noting that drinks beyond the three included cocktails are extra, so budget accordingly if you plan to indulge further. But even without additional drinks, many reviewers found the experience more than worth the cost, especially compared to the cost of drinks on your own in the city.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is perfect for history buffs who want to understand how cocktails intertwine with New Orleans’ past, music lovers who appreciate jazz and lively atmospheres, and social travelers eager to meet fellow enthusiasts. It’s also ideal for those who want a relaxed yet engaging way to explore the French Quarter without the commitment of a full-day tour.

However, if you’re looking for a more party-focused experience or prefer not to walk on uneven streets, this might not be the best fit. But for most, the combination of storytelling, historic venues, and excellent drinks makes it a memorable part of any NOLA trip.

Yes, definitely. This cocktail tour offers a well-rounded glimpse into New Orleans’ drinking traditions, flavored with captivating stories and lively atmospheres. The knowledgeable guides, especially Robi and Elizabeth, bring the city’s spirit to life, making each stop more than just a bar—they’re part of the city’s history.

If you’re eager to learn about the origins of classic cocktails like the Sazerac and experience some of the best jazz venues, this tour will hit the spot. It provides excellent value, combining entertainment, education, and tastings in a manageable and fun format.

While it’s not a pub crawl for those seeking non-stop partying, it’s a perfect way to add some authentic local flavor to your New Orleans adventure, especially if you appreciate good storytelling, historic venues, and expertly crafted drinks.

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers or those under 21?
No, you need to be 21 or older to participate, as it involves tasting alcoholic beverages.

How long does the tour last?
It runs approximately 2.5 hours, beginning at least 15 minutes early at the Gray Line Lighthouse on Toulouse Street.

Are the venues accessible for guests with mobility issues?
Some venues have steps and uneven surfaces, so they may not be fully accessible. Special arrangements might be possible—ask your guide beforehand.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended due to walking on uneven sidewalks. During warmer months, light clothing, hats, and umbrellas are advised.

Are additional drinks available?
Yes, beyond the three included cocktails, extra beverages can be purchased along the route.

Is this tour good for a group or couples?
Absolutely. The group size tends to be manageable, fostering a lively and personal atmosphere, suitable for couples or small groups.

Can I walk to dinner afterward?
Yes, the tour ends near many fine French Quarter restaurants, making it easy to continue your evening plans.

Do I need to bring anything special?
A photo ID or passport is required, and it’s helpful to bring cash or cards for additional drinks or tips.

This immersive cocktail tour offers a fantastic way to get a taste of New Orleans’ storied past while sipping on legendary drinks. Whether you’re a history buff, jazz lover, or simply in search of a memorable experience, it’s a lively, educational, and fun addition to any trip to the Big Easy.