Walking Tour of New Orleans

An Honest Look at a Spirited City Tour

Our review of this Walking Tour of New Orleans aims to give you an honest and practical look at what you can expect. This tour offers a quick yet engaging glimpse into the city’s lively and sometimes shady past, focusing on the French Quarter’s most iconic sites—Jackson Square and the French Market. If you’re a history buff or just curious about the stories that make New Orleans unique, this might be just the ticket.

What we love about this experience is its ability to combine storytelling with walking at a relaxed pace—perfect for those who prefer to explore on foot. The guide’s tales about early traders, organized crime, and crooked politicians add color and context to the sights you see. Plus, the tour’s affordability makes it accessible to most travelers. However, keep in mind that it’s a relatively short tour—about 90 minutes—so it’s best seen as a flavorful appetizer rather than a comprehensive deep dive.

This tour is ideal for visitors who want a quick, guided introduction to the city’s more notorious and fascinating stories without committing to a longer, more expensive experience. If you’re interested in local legends, history, and a taste of what makes New Orleans the city it is, this tour will suit you well. On the downside, those expecting a more in-depth exploration of each site might find it a bit too brief. Still, for its price and focus, it offers a solid, enjoyable overview.

Key Points

• Affordable Price: At just $39 per person, it offers a budget-friendly way to explore central French Quarter sights.
• Concise Time Commitment: Lasts about 1 hour 30 minutes, making it easy to fit into a busy sightseeing schedule.
• Focus on Stories: The guide shares colorful tales of traders, crime, and politics that bring history to life.
• Small Group Feel: Limited to 14 travelers, which helps foster a more personal, engaging experience.
• Free Admission at Stops: No extra charges for visiting the French Market, Jackson Square, or the French Quarter.
• Flexible Cancellation: Free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance adds peace of mind for planning.

Exploring the Itinerary in Detail

Stop 1: French Market

Your journey begins at the French Market, a lively hub that has been part of the city’s fabric since the early days. Here, your guide will introduce you to the colorful characters who once ruled these streets with an iron fist—ruffians, traders, and notorious figures of the 1800s. Expect stories of danger and intrigue that paint a vivid picture of a rough-and-tumble past. While it’s a quick stop—about 10 minutes—it’s packed with tales that set the tone for the rest of the tour.

The French Market itself is a lively spot today, filled with vendors selling crafts and local food, but the stories behind it reveal a different, more dangerous history. From tales of gang rule to legendary traders who shaped the city’s commerce, this stop is a lively introduction to the city’s gritty side.

Stop 2: Jackson Square

Next, you’ll walk over to Jackson Square, the iconic heart of New Orleans’ French Quarter. Here, your guide shares stories about the city’s founding and its early traders along the mighty Mississippi River. You’ll learn about how this vital waterway fueled commerce and attracted diverse peoples—and con artists—over the centuries.

Jackson Square itself is a beautiful, bustling space, often filled with artists and performers today, but beneath its lively surface lie tales of the city’s origins—wars, trades, and sometimes, crime and corruption. Expect about 10 minutes here, enough to soak in the scenery and hear some remarkable stories that give life to the historic setting.

Stop 3: French Quarter

The final leg of your tour takes you through the French Quarter itself, where the stories become even more colorful. Your guide will recount tales of organized crime bosses, crooked politicians, and other unbelievable true stories that shaped the city’s reputation. This is the heart of the old city, where history is layered with stories of corruption and resilience.

You’ll spend around 15 minutes strolling through the streets, hearing about the infamous figures who once ruled this area, and how their stories still echo today. This segment offers a blend of history, gossip, and the city’s enduring charm—a lively finish to your quick deep dive into New Orleans’ darker side.

Practical Details for Visitors

Meeting Point and End Location

The tour begins at 768 Decatur St, a central spot easy to reach via public transportation or walking. It concludes back at the start point, making it convenient to continue exploring or grab a bite afterward.

Duration and Group Size

At approximately 90 minutes, this tour is perfect for travelers with limited time or those wanting a quick overview. The group size is capped at 14, fostering a friendly, intimate atmosphere where questions are encouraged.

Accessibility and Physical Effort

While the tour is manageable for most with moderate physical fitness, be prepared for some walking and standing. It’s an outdoor experience, so comfortable shoes and weather-appropriate attire are advisable.

Cost and Cancellation Policy

Priced at $39, it offers great value compared to longer, more expensive tours. Plus, with free cancellation up to 24 hours beforehand, you can plan with confidence—even if your schedule shifts.

Authentic Feedback from Participants

Though no official reviews are listed yet, the general format and content suggest that travelers will appreciate the mix of storytelling and sightseeing. The lively tales about New Orleans’ past—especially about organized crime and political corruption—are likely to appeal to history lovers and curious travelers alike.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is best for those who want a bite-sized, lively introduction to New Orleans’ more colorful and controversial past. It’s perfect if you enjoy stories behind the buildings and want to understand how the city’s notorious characters shaped its reputation. It suits travelers on a budget or those who prefer a guided walk rather than a lengthy tour.

It’s also a good choice for visitors who want to see the highlights of the French Quarter without a lot of walking or complex logistics. However, if you’re looking for an in-depth historical exploration or visiting with young children, you might find this tour’s short duration and focus a bit limited.

FAQs

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a manageable and unhurried experience.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at 768 Decatur St in the French Quarter, a central location easily reachable by public transportation or walking.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, it’s suitable for most ages, but expect some walking and standing. It’s a moderate activity, so travelers should have a reasonable level of fitness.

What is included in the price?
The tour price includes the guided walk and access to the stops at the French Market, Jackson Square, and the French Quarter. There are no additional admission fees.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour start time, offering flexibility for your plans.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted on the tour.

Our look at this Walking Tour of New Orleans shows it as a lively, affordable, and engaging way to get a taste of the city’s gritty past. It’s a great choice for curious travelers who want to hear stories that go beyond the usual sightseeing stops. The focus on colorful characters, crime, and political intrigue makes this a memorable experience, especially if you’re interested in the stories behind the historic facades.

While it’s not an exhaustive deep dive, it offers a balanced mix of entertainment and education—perfect for a short visit or for those who prefer guided storytelling over wandering on your own. The small group size and flexible cancellation policy make it a practical option for many visitors.

If you’re after a fun, educational, and reasonably priced tour that sheds light on some of New Orleans’ most unbelievable tales, this walk through the French Quarter could be just what you’re looking for. It’s a great way to connect with the city’s lively spirit and history in a relaxed, authentic way.