New Orleans Award Winning Cocktail Tour of the French Quarter

If you’re planning a trip to New Orleans and want to combine a bit of history with some of the city’s best drinks, this French Quarter cocktail tour could be just what you’re looking for. Lauded for its authenticity and engaging guides, this tour offers a laid-back way to soak up the city’s legendary drinking culture while learning fascinating stories behind iconic cocktails.

What makes this particular experience stand out? First, it’s family-owned and has over 5,000 five-star reviews—a real testament to its quality and genuine hospitality. Second, the tour is completely free to book, with only your drinks to purchase along the way. That makes it a fantastic value for those wanting a rich, social, and historic experience without a hefty upfront cost.

One potential drawback? Since drinks are optional and not included in the ticket price, your overall expense depends on how many cocktails you want to try. Still, for anyone interested in authentic NOLA vibes, storytelling, and a relaxed walking pace, this tour hits all the right notes.

It’s especially suited for adults 21 and over who enjoy a good story with their spirits and are looking for an engaging way to explore the French Quarter. If you’re after a structured, high-end mixology experience, this might not be the tour for you. But if you’re after local flavor, history, and a taste of New Orleans’ legendary bar scene, you’ll probably love it.

Key Points

• Family-owned with over 5,000 five-star reviews and multiple awards.
• Free to book; pay only for drinks you want to try.
• Guided walking tour through historic bars and landmarks.
• Focus on storytelling about cocktails and local history.
• Suitable for adults 21+ who enjoy socializing and exploring.
• Tour lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes.

A Deep Dive into the French Quarter Cocktail Tour

What You Can Expect

This walking tour plunges you into the heart of the French Quarter, starting at 400 Royal Street and ending at Laura’s Candies on Chartres Street. It’s designed to be a relaxed, engaging experience—lasting about 90 minutes—with plenty of opportunities to ask questions, enjoy the scenery, and sample the city’s famous drinks.

Why It’s Worth Your Time

One of the biggest draws is the expert guide who narrates stories that turn ordinary bars into portals to New Orleans’ past. The guides are licensed professionals, passionate about sharing their knowledge of cocktails, local lore, and the city’s history. Multiple reviews highlight guides like Kim and Charlie, who combine friendliness with a wealth of insights—making the experience more like hanging out with a knowledgeable friend than a formal tour.

The Stops: From Oldest to Most Iconic

Antoine’s Restaurant

Founded in 1840, Antoine’s claims the title of the country’s oldest family-run restaurant. It’s a spot where history oozes from every brick, and the stories of early New Orleans—cotton, pistols under oaks, French influence—are brought to life. While there’s no charge to peek inside, it’s the perfect place to appreciate the city’s longstanding culinary and social traditions. You might find it interesting that Antoine’s helped shape New Orleans as a food capital, setting standards still followed today.

The Court of Two Sisters

Next, your guide will lead you into the famous courtyard of The Court of Two Sisters, renowned for its daily jazz brunch and picturesque gardens. This historic spot, over 200 years old, offers a peaceful oasis in the bustling French Quarter. Here, you’ll have time to order the house beverage in a collectible to-go cup, which adds a fun, portable element to your experience. The guide will share haunted tales of The Two Sisters—a story that adds a bit of local mystique—and you’ll get a chance to try a classic cocktail like the Sazerac.

New Orleans Creole Cookery

The tour’s final stop is at New Orleans Creole Cookery, a modern take on classic Creole cuisine with a lively atmosphere that speaks to today’s dining scene. Launched by the Tusa family, it’s a vibrant place to learn about traditional Creole dishes like Shrimp Creole and Gumbo. Here, you can also try the Voodoo Cocktail at the oyster bar—another opportunity to enjoy local flavors in a setting full of character. The guide will share stories behind the food and drinks, making the experience both tasty and educational.

What You Pay For

While the tour is free to book, the main expense is what you choose to drink. Craft cocktails are available for purchase at each stop, and to-go cups add a fun way to keep sipping as you walk. This flexible approach means you can decide your level of indulgence without paying upfront, making it easier to manage your budget.

The Experience of a Guide

A common thread in reviews is the quality of the guides. People consistently mention Kim and Charlie for their knowledge, friendly demeanor, and storytelling flair. One reviewer said Kim “quickly became a friend,” highlighting how guides make the experience memorable. Since you’re in a small group (max 16 people), there’s plenty of space for questions and spontaneous conversations.

The Walking Aspect

This is a walking tour, so comfortable shoes are a must. The routes are in the historic heart of the French Quarter, so expect cobblestone streets and narrow alleys. The tour operates in all weather, so dress accordingly—whether a hat and sunscreen or rain gear.

Overall Value

Considering there’s no upfront cost, the tour offers a rich mix of history, local stories, and the chance to taste some of the city’s most iconic cocktails. The fact that it’s recommended by 94% of participants and has earned a TripAdvisor Hall of Fame Award speaks volumes about its popularity and quality.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is perfect for adults looking for a relaxed, authentic taste of New Orleans’ drinking culture. It suits those with an interest in history, storytelling, and local traditions, rather than those seeking a high-end bartending lesson. If you enjoy a social atmosphere and want to explore bars with historical significance rather than modern cocktail lounges, you’ll find plenty to love. It’s also ideal for travelers who want a value-packed experience—since the only extra expense is what they choose to drink.

Final Thoughts

This French Quarter cocktail tour offers a friendly, approachable way to experience New Orleans’ legendary bar scene and storied past. The combination of knowledgeable guides, beautiful historic sites, and the chance to sample local drinks makes it a highlight for many visitors. It’s especially appealing if you prefer your tours to be informative and relaxed rather than formal or hurried.

The fact that it is free to reserve makes it an accessible option, and the flexible drink purchases allow you to control how much you indulge. Whether you’re a cocktail enthusiast, history buff, or just someone eager to enjoy the city’s lively spirit, this tour provides a genuine taste of NOLA that’s both fun and meaningful.

If you want to add a flavorful chapter to your New Orleans visit, this tour is well worth considering. As one reviewer put it, “Kim’s knowledge and friendliness made it the highlight of our trip.” For an authentic, laid-back introduction to the city’s liquid history, this experience delivers on every level.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for children?
No, this tour is designed for adults 21+ because of the alcohol tastings and the focus on drinking culture.

Is the tour free to book?
Yes, you only pay for drinks you decide to purchase along the way. The tour itself is complimentary.

What’s included in the ticket price?
Your ticket includes the guided walking experience, historical insights, and storytelling. Drinks are not included but are available for purchase.

Can I take my drink with me?
Yes, at certain stops like The Court of Two Sisters, you can buy a cocktail in a to-go cup and enjoy it while walking.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, making it a perfect introduction without feeling rushed.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 400 Royal Street and ends at Laura’s Candies on Chartres Street.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are recommended since it’s a walking tour through historic streets, often cobblestone.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes, guides are licensed professionals known for their passion and storytelling skills, as highlighted in reviews.

Can I customize my experience?
While the tour doesn’t include food or drinks, you can choose how many cocktails to purchase and enjoy at your own pace.

What if it rains?
The tour operates in all weather conditions, so dress appropriately for rain or shine.

In sum, this tour offers a genuine, approachable way to explore New Orleans’ historic drinking scene while soaking up local stories. It’s ideal for those who enjoy a relaxed pace and authentic experiences, especially if you like stories behind the drinks and a chance to listen and learn from passionate guides.