New Orleans Original Craft Cocktail Walking Tour

If you’re planning a trip to New Orleans and enjoy a good story along with your drink, the New Orleans Original Craft Cocktail Walking Tour might just be your perfect fit. From the moment you step onto the streets of the French Quarter, you’ll get a taste of the city’s legendary drinking culture, paired with stories that make each sip more meaningful.

What we love about this tour is how it balances fun and education—you’re not just drinking, you’re learning about the city’s history and the characters behind its most famous libations. Plus, the stops are carefully chosen for their historical significance and ambiance, making each cocktail taste even better knowing its story. On the flip side, it’s worth considering that the tour involves some walking and standing, which might be a challenge if mobility is an issue or if you’re expecting a more relaxed seated experience.

This experience suits travelers who want to combine sightseeing with a little spirited history, those curious about cocktails like the Sazerac, or anyone eager to explore the French Quarter’s lively bar scene with a knowledgeable guide leading the way.

Key Points

• Combines history, culture, and tasting in a lively two-and-a-half-hour walk
• Visits four iconic spots in the French Quarter
• Tastes three classic cocktails, including the city’s iconic Sazerac
• Guided by a knowledgeable professional with great storytelling skills
• Suitable for guests 21 and over; lively, social atmosphere
• Great for first-timers wanting an overview of New Orleans’ cocktail roots

A Detailed Look at the Tour Experience

The New Orleans Original Craft Cocktail Walking Tour kicks off at the Gray Line Lighthouse Ticket Office on Toulouse Street, a stone’s throw from the Mississippi River. Here, the atmosphere is informal but inviting—perfect for a group of like-minded travelers eager to explore the city’s legendary drinking spots. The tour lasts approximately two and a half hours, including visits to four establishments, with plenty of opportunities to chat with your guide and fellow travelers.

The French Quarter Start

Your journey begins right in the heart of the French Quarter, where the architecture alone transports you back in time. The streets are lined with colorful facades, wrought-iron balconies, and centuries-old buildings that tell stories of French and Spanish influence. Your guide’s stories bring these streets alive, with anecdotes about the characters that have made the city famous.

The first stop is just a short walk from the meeting point, as you venture into the historic surroundings of the neighborhood. Here, you’ll get an introduction to the city’s cocktail culture and the significance of drinks like the Sazerac, first concocted around 1850. The guide’s storytelling makes history accessible and entertaining—no dull lectures here, just lively tales behind each libation.

The Court of Two Sisters

Next, you’ll head to the Court of Two Sisters, a place celebrated for jazz brunch and its lush courtyard with a sprawling 130-year-old wisteria vine. Entering through wrought-iron gates, you immediately feel transported to a different era. This spot isn’t just about the scenery; it’s about the vibe—lively, historic, and full of character.

Here, your guide shares how this location has maintained its lively spirit since 1726. The bar’s ambiance is charming and relaxed, perfect for savoring your first cocktail. You might find the atmosphere a tad more elegant than some other spots, but that’s part of the experience of drinking in history.

St. Louis Cathedral and the Green Fairy

From the courtyard, the tour proceeds to the shadow of the St. Louis Cathedral, where you can stand in the cobblestone alleyways once frequented by pirates and sailors. Here, the focus shifts to the mystical appeal of Absinthe—the “green fairy”—a herbal spirit that has inspired artists and writers for centuries. Expect to learn about its influence on creative minds and its controversial reputation.

This section offers a glimpse into the more bohemian side of New Orleans’ drinking traditions, enriching your understanding of the city’s cultural mosaic.

Peychaud’s and the Birth of the Sazerac

The next stop takes you to a historic residence once inhabited by Antoine Peychaud, the creator of Peychaud’s Bitters—a key ingredient in the city’s official cocktail, the Sazerac. Learning about Peychaud’s role in cocktail history adds depth to your tasting experience, as you’ll realize you’re standing in a spot where mixology history was made.

Here, your guide explains how Peychaud’s bitters became a cornerstone of New Orleans’ cocktail scene, making the Sazerac the city’s signature drink. Sampling this cocktail during the tour, you’ll appreciate the balance of history, craftsmanship, and flavor.

Fritzel’s European Jazz Bar

The tour concludes at Fritzel’s, a jazz club that embodies the soul of New Orleans. Unlike many bars, Fritzel’s is a lively, music-filled venue—an ideal place to soak in the jazz ambiance that has defined the city’s nightlife for generations. You’re encouraged to stay for a live show if you wish, making this a memorable ending to your cocktail journey.

This spot sums up the tour’s blend of history, music, and vibrant local culture. It’s a perfect place to reflect on what you’ve learned and to toast your new knowledge with another drink if you desire.

What’s Included and What’s Not

For $68, you get a guided walk through four historic French Quarter establishments, with three included cocktails. The price represents good value considering the caliber of spots visited, the expertise of the guides, and the drinks sampled. Since gratuities, additional beverages, and food are not included, budget a little extra if you want to indulge further.

The tour is designed for guests aged 21 and over, and most participants find the group size manageable—usually around 28 people—allowing for personal interaction and a lively atmosphere. The departure point is conveniently located near public transit and most downtown hotels, with a recommended arrival 15 minutes early to ensure a smooth start.

Authenticity and the Experience

The reviews highlight the tour’s strengths: knowledgeable guides, engaging storytelling, and a genuine focus on New Orleans’ cocktail culture. Many reviewers praise guides like Robi, noting how they bring drinks and history to life with humor and enthusiasm. One reviewer states, “Robi is a wealth of knowledge! He took us to a few locations we had never been to before and shared amazing stories.” This level of local insight makes the tour stand out from more generic pub crawls.

While some travelers mention the walking and standing involved—especially if they’re expecting a more relaxed sitting experience—most agree that the balance of history, good drinks, and lively atmosphere makes it worthwhile. The tour isn’t just about boozing; it’s about understanding how cocktails reflect the city’s culture and resilience.

Analyzing Value

At $68 per person, the tour offers a lot for its price. You’re getting not only three classic cocktails but also a curated journey through some of the most historically and visually interesting spots in the French Quarter. The inclusion of stories behind each drink—like the origin of the Sazerac—adds educational value that enhances the tasting experience.

This is especially true for first-time visitors or those wanting to get a flavor of New Orleans’ drinking traditions without spending a fortune on multiple separate outings. It’s a guided introduction that can inform your future bar-hopping choices and deepen your appreciation of the city’s vibrant beverage scene.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This tour is perfect for travelers who enjoy stories as much as their drinks—people curious about the history behind cocktails like the Sazerac and Peychaud’s bitters. It suits those who want to explore the French Quarter’s scenic streets while learning and tasting. It’s also great for first-time visitors who want an overview of the city’s rich drink culture in a condensed, lively format.

Please note, it’s only for those 21 and over, and the walking nature means it’s best for those who are comfortable on their feet. If your main goal is a laid-back, seated experience, this might not be the best fit. But if you love a bit of history, jazz, and local flavor, you’ll find plenty to enjoy here.

FAQ

When is the best time to take this tour?
It’s recommended to do this early in your trip, ideally on your first day, so you can get recommendations on other must-visit spots nearby.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at the Gray Line Lighthouse Ticket Office at 400 Toulouse Street, near the Steamboat Natchez Dock.

Is parking available nearby?
Yes, public parking lots on Decatur Street are close by, with hourly rates. The closest lot is Jax Lot # P401 at 500 Decatur St.

What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable shoes are best since it involves walking and standing. During warmer months, hats and umbrellas are advisable.

How early should I arrive?
Arrive at least 15 minutes before the scheduled start time to check in and settle in.

Are drinks included?
Yes, you’ll sample three cocktails, with taxes and gratuities included in the price.

Can minors join?
No, this tour is strictly for guests 21 and over due to the alcohol involved.

In summary, the New Orleans Original Craft Cocktail Walking Tour offers a lively, informative, and delicious way to experience the French Quarter. It’s a fantastic option for those eager to learn about New Orleans’ famed libations, enjoy some local jazz, and explore iconic venues—all while sampling some of the best cocktails the city has to offer. Whether you’re a history buff, a cocktail enthusiast, or simply in search of a fun, social activity, this tour provides a memorable slice of NOLA’s spirited soul.