New Orleans: Guided City Drive and Steamboat Cruise

Explore the rich cultural tapestry of New Orleans through this guided adventure. Enjoy the soulful jazz scene, venture through the charming French Quarters, and uncover the mystical practices of voodoo. Cap off the experience with a serene steamboat cruise along the Mississippi River, offering a unique vantage point to admire the city’s picturesque landmarks. With a small group size and personalized attention, this tour caters to diverse travelers seeking an intimate and unforgettable journey into the heart of this vibrant Southern city. The stage is set – are you ready to embark on an extraordinary exploration?

Key Points

• A 4.5-hour small-group activity that includes a guided drive through the French Quarters and a steamboat cruise on the Mississippi River.
• Pickup service available for guests staying downtown, while those outside the city center must meet at the designated location.
• Visitors can experience the rich musical heritage of New Orleans at the iconic Preservation Hall and learn about the city’s voodoo culture.
• The tour offers flexibility with a 24-hour cancellation policy and a personalized experience due to the small group size.
• Explore the historic St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 and gain insights into the city’s distinctive burial customs and the legacy of the voodoo priestess Marie Laveau.

Duration and Group Size

The activity lasts 4.5 hours and is limited to a small group of 4 participants. This ensures an intimate and personalized experience for guests.

The small group size allows for more interaction with the guide and flexibility during the tour.

Pickup is included for guests staying downtown, while those outside the city center must meet at the designated location.

Travelers can book with confidence knowing they can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour operator also offers a reserve now and pay later option, giving guests the flexibility to secure their spot without immediate payment.

Pickup and Cancellation Policy

Guests staying in downtown New Orleans can get picked up from their hotels, while those outside the city center must meet at the Jackson Brewery.

Travelers can also cancel their booking up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility in planning their trip.

The tour’s pickup service and cancellation policy cater to the needs of diverse travelers:

• Convenient hotel pickup for downtown guests
• Central meeting point outside Jackson Brewery for non-downtown visitors
• Stress-free cancellation up to 24 hours prior to the tour
• Full refund available for last-minute changes in travel plans

This thoughtful approach ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience for all participants, whether they’re staying in the heart of New Orleans or exploring from further afield.

Soulful Jazz at Preservation Hall

At the heart of New Orleans’ rich musical heritage lies Preservation Hall, where visitors can enjoy the soulful rhythms of authentic jazz.

This iconic venue, dating back to 1961, provides an intimate setting for live performances that capture the essence of the city’s vibrant jazz culture.

Guests can expect to hear the traditional New Orleans jazz sound, played by a rotating roster of talented musicians who carry on the legacy of the genre’s pioneers.

The experience is a must-do for any visitor seeking to connect with the soul of this music-loving city.

Tickets are limited, so it’s best to book in advance to secure a spot at this legendary jazz haven.

Scenic Drive Through French Quarters

After experiencing the soulful rhythms of jazz at Preservation Hall, the guided tour takes visitors on a scenic drive through the heart of the French Quarters, showcasing the district’s iconic landmarks and historic charm.

The driver expertly navigates the narrow streets, pointing out key sights such as:

• The ornate, centuries-old St. Louis Cathedral, a stunning example of French Colonial architecture
• Lively Bourbon Street, famous for its vibrant nightlife and colorful characters
• Charming wrought-iron balconies adorning historic buildings
• The bustling open-air French Market, a hub of local culture and commerce

This immersive journey through the French Quarters allows guests to soak in the unique ambiance that makes New Orleans such a captivating destination.

Exploring St. Louis Cemetery

The guided tour then ventures to the historic St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, offering visitors a unique glimpse into the city’s distinctive burial customs.

Guests explore the maze of above-ground tombs, learning about the elaborate, centuries-old tradition of entombing the deceased in elaborate mausoleums rather than traditional ground burials.

The guide shares fascinating stories about the cemetery’s most famous ‘resident,’ the iconic voodoo priestess Marie Laveau, and explains the unique architectural features and symbols found on the tombs.

Wandering through the serene and atmospheric cemetery provides a powerful sense of New Orleans’ rich history and cultural traditions, leaving a lasting impression on participants.

Voodoo at Historic Voodoo Museum

From the serene cemetery, the tour then explores the world of voodoo at the New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum, where guests discover the mystical beliefs and practices that have long been intertwined with the city’s history and culture.

The museum offers a fascinating glimpse into the origins, rituals, and symbolism of voodoo, a spiritual tradition that has survived for centuries.

Visitors can peruse an extensive collection of voodoo artifacts, including:

• Intricately carved voodoo dolls
• Colorful voodoo flags and banners
• Traditional voodoo altars and shrines
• Assorted herbs, candles, and other ritual objects

The experience provides a deeper understanding of this enigmatic aspect of New Orleans’ vibrant cultural tapestry.

Steamboat Cruise on Mississippi

Following the exploration of voodoo at the Historic Voodoo Museum, the tour culminates with a serene steamboat cruise on the mighty Mississippi River.

Guests embark on the stately Steamboat Natchez to enjoy the timeless beauty and rich history of New Orleans from the iconic waterway.

The leisurely cruise offers visitors a unique vantage point to admire the city’s picturesque riverfront and iconic landmarks while sailing along the same waters that have carried generations of travelers, traders, and dreamers.

The steamboat experience provides a peaceful respite, allowing guests to soak in the sights and sounds of the vibrant city from the comfort of the river.

Tour Pricing and Booking

Priced at $213.00 per person, this guided city drive and steamboat cruise offers a comprehensive experience of New Orleans’ vibrant culture and history.

Guests can conveniently reserve their spot now and pay nothing today, keeping their travel plans flexible. The activity lasts 4.5 hours and is limited to small groups of 4 participants.

Pickup is included for guests staying downtown, while those outside the area must meet at the Jackson Brewery. Guests can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

To book this tour, visitors simply need to check availability and reserve their spot, paying nothing until the day of the activity.

Included in the tour:

• Narrated city drive through the French Quarter
• Entry to the New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum
• Steamboat cruise on the Mississippi River
• Local guide to provide insights throughout the experience

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Bring My Own Food and Drinks on the Steamboat Cruise?

Yes, passengers can bring their own food and drinks on the steamboat cruise. However, there may be food and drinks available for purchase on board. It’s best to check with the tour operator for any specific policies or restrictions.

Is the Tour Suitable for Young Children?

The tour may not be suitable for young children as it includes activities like exploring cemeteries and learning about voodoo, which could be inappropriate or uninteresting for younger participants. Parents should consider their child’s interests and comfort level before booking.

Are There Any Special Requirements for the Cemetery Visit?

The tour requires visitors to cover their shoulders and knees when visiting St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 out of respect for the sacred burial site. Photography is also restricted inside the cemetery.

Can I Take Photos Inside the Voodoo Museum?

Yes, you can take photos inside the New Orleans Historic Voodoo Museum. However, the museum requests that you be respectful and avoid flash photography, as it may disturb the artifacts and atmosphere of the space.

Will the Tour Guide Provide Recommendations for Dining Options?

The tour guide will likely provide recommendations for dining options during the New Orleans city tour. They can offer suggestions on local, authentic restaurants and eateries that showcase the city’s renowned Creole and Cajun cuisine.

Recap

This guided tour of New Orleans provides an immersive cultural experience. Visitors will discover the city’s vibrant jazz scene, explore the French Quarter, and uncover the mysteries of voodoo.

The highlight is a serene steamboat cruise on the Mississippi River, offering stunning views of the city’s landmarks.

With a small group size, this tour offers a personalized and unforgettable adventure for diverse travelers.