New Orleans: 2-Hour French Quarter History and Voodoo Tour

Delving into the rich history and captivating culture of New Orleans’ French Quarter, this 2-hour tour offers a unique opportunity to uncover the city’s deep connection to the mystical practice of Voodoo. Visitors will embark on a journey through the iconic neighborhood, exploring its charming architecture, hidden courtyards, and the lasting legacy of the infamous Voodoo priestess Marie Laveau. Beyond the ornate balconies and wrought-iron railings, the tour unveils the complex narratives that have shaped the city’s enduring cultural heritage, intertwined with the transatlantic slave trade and the displacement of Indigenous communities. As the guide illuminates these captivating stories, the tour promises to transport guests into the vibrant, multilingual atmosphere of the French Quarter, leaving them with a newfound appreciation for the city’s enduring mystique.

This experience made our list of the 8 Best 2 Hour Tours and Experiences in New Orleans.

Key Points

• Explore the French Quarter’s rich history, including its colonial past, the influence of enslaved Africans, and the legacy of the infamous Voodoo priestess Marie Laveau.
• Discover the cultural blending of African, Native American, and European traditions that shaped the unique identity of New Orleans.
• Marvel at the French Quarter’s iconic architecture, such as the intricate wrought-iron balconies, the towering spires of the St. Louis Cathedral, and the historic Cabildo and Presbytère.
• Learn about the impacts of the transatlantic slave trade and the displacement of Indigenous communities on the city’s development.
• Gain insights into the enduring fascination with Voodoo in New Orleans and its continued influence on the city’s culture and identity.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Early History of Voodoo

Originating from ancient African spiritual practices, the mystical religion of voodoo took root in New Orleans during the colonial era, brought by enslaved Africans forcibly transported to the region.

As the slave trade flourished, these spiritual beliefs blended with indigenous Native American and European Catholic traditions, creating a unique syncretic faith.

Voodoo rituals, spells, and talismans became an integral part of New Orleans’ cultural fabric, despite attempts by authorities to suppress and criminalize the practice.

Today, voodoo remains a vibrant and influential aspect of the city’s heritage, with practitioners continuing to honor its traditions and legacy in the French Quarter and beyond.

Slave Trade and Indigenous Peoples

Alongside the growth of voodoo, the French Quarter also bore witness to the harsh realities of the transatlantic slave trade, as New Orleans became a major hub for the forced transportation and sale of Africans.

The city’s colonial past is intertwined with the Indigenous peoples who lived in the region, including the Chitimacha, Choctaw, and Houma tribes. These communities faced displacement, disease, and cultural decimation as European settlements expanded.

The legacies of slavery and colonization continue to shape New Orleans’ identity, with the French Quarter serving as a constant reminder of the city’s complex and often troubled history.

Today, visitors can explore these themes on the 2-Hour French Quarter History and Voodoo Tour.

Infamous Voodoo Priestess Marie Laveau

Marie Laveau, the infamous Voodoo Priestess, once called the French Quarter her home. Her residence, located on St. Ann Street, served as a hub for the practice of Voodoo rituals and the dissemination of spiritual knowledge within the community.

Laveau was renowned for her vast knowledge of Voodoo and her ability to perform powerful rituals. She attracted a wide following, including both the elite and the marginalized, who sought her counsel and blessings.

Laveau’s influence extended far beyond the French Quarter, and her legacy continues to fascinate visitors to this day. The tour will provide an opportunity to learn more about her life and the enduring impact of Voodoo in New Orleans.

Exploring the French Quarter

The French Quarter, with its charming cobblestone streets and vibrant architecture, offers visitors a captivating glimpse into New Orleans’ rich history.

Guided tours often take participants on a journey through this iconic neighborhood, highlighting its significance as the heart of the city’s cultural heritage.

On such tours, guests may:

• Marvel at the ornate balconies, wrought-iron railings, and colorful facades that characterize the Quarter’s distinct architectural style.
• Stroll through Jackson Square, where they can admire the imposing St. Louis Cathedral and learn about its role in the city’s religious and political history.
• Discover hidden courtyards, alleyways, and local businesses that showcase the Quarter’s vibrant, multilingual atmosphere and diverse cultural influences.

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Historical Sites and Architecture

Throughout the French Quarter, visitors can find an array of historical sites and architectural marvels that showcase New Orleans’ rich past.

From the iconic St. Louis Cathedral, whose towering spires have overlooked Jackson Square for centuries, to the intricate wrought-iron balconies that adorn the neighborhood’s historic buildings, the area’s visual landscape is a testament to the city’s storied history.

As part of the French Quarter History and Voodoo Tour, guests will pass by the Cabildo and the Presbytère, two landmark buildings that once served as the seat of the Spanish colonial government.

The tour also includes a stop at Jackson Square, where visitors can admire the impressive St. Louis Cathedral and learn about its significance in New Orleans’ history.

Jackson Square and Notable Buildings

Anchoring the heart of the French Quarter, Jackson Square serves as a captivating hub where visitors can admire the towering St. Louis Cathedral, whose neo-classical façade and twin bell towers have been a prominent landmark in the city for over two centuries.

Adjacent to the cathedral, the Presbytere and the Cabildo stand as impressive reminders of New Orleans’ rich history.

The Presbytere, once the residence of the Roman Catholic Archbishop, now houses a museum showcasing the city’s vibrant cultural heritage.

The Cabildo, a former town hall, played a pivotal role in the Louisiana Purchase and today operates as a museum chronicling the state’s history.

Together, these iconic buildings create a visually stunning backdrop that enchants all who wander through Jackson Square.

Inclusions and Exclusions

This tour includes a licensed guide to lead participants through the French Quarter and provide insights into the city’s history and Voodoo past. Plus, participants 21 and over receive a souvenir cup and all-day 2-for-1 Hurricane drinks at The Voodoo Lounge. However, the tour does not include hotel pickup, drop-off, or gratuities.

Inclusions	Exclusions
Licensed guide	Hotel pickup
Souvenir cup	Hotel drop-off
2-for-1 Hurricane drinks	Gratuities

The tour takes place rain or shine, so comfortable walking shoes are recommended. A bathroom break is also included during the 2-hour exploration of the French Quarter.

Important Tour Information

The tour takes place rain or shine, so participants should wear comfortable walking shoes. A bathroom break is also scheduled during the 2-hour exploration of the French Quarter.

To ensure a smooth and enjoyable experience, the tour operator recommends arriving 10-15 minutes early. This allows time to check-in and meet the licensed guide who’ll lead the group through the historic French Quarter.

The tour highlights include:

• Learning about the early history of voodoo, the slave trade, and indigenous peoples of New Orleans
• Visiting the former home of the infamous Voodoo Priestess Marie Laveau
• Marveling at the city’s unique architecture and passing historical sites

Frequently Asked Questions

Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?

Photography is generally allowed during the tour, as it provides an opportunity for participants to capture the historic sights and atmosphere. However, guests should be mindful of not disrupting the guide’s presentation or other tour members’ experience.

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks?

No, participants cannot bring their own food and drinks on the tour. The tour includes a souvenir cup and all-day 2-for-1 Hurricane drinks at The Voodoo Lounge for those 21 and over. Outside food and beverages are not permitted.

Is the Tour Suitable for Children?

This tour may not be suitable for children as it covers mature topics like voodoo and the slave trade. However, families with older children may find the historical and cultural aspects engaging. It’s best to consider the child’s age and interests.

What Is the Cancellation/Refund Policy?

The tour operator’s cancellation and refund policy allows for full refunds if canceled up to 24 hours prior to the start time. No refunds are given for no-shows or cancellations within 24 hours of the scheduled tour.

Are There Any Age or Mobility Restrictions?

There are no age or mobility restrictions for this tour. However, comfortable walking shoes are recommended as the tour involves walking through the French Quarter. Plus, the tour is accessible to those with limited mobility.

Recap

The French Quarter tour in New Orleans offers a compelling exploration of the city’s rich history and its deep connections to Voodoo.

Visitors can discover the complex past of the region, intertwined with the transatlantic slave trade and the displacement of Indigenous communities, while marveling at the captivating architecture and the vibrant, multilingual atmosphere of the iconic neighborhood.

This tour provides a unique opportunity to take in the captivating narratives that have shaped New Orleans’ enduring cultural heritage.

You can check availability for your dates here: