New Orleans: Guided City Sightseeing Tour By Bus

New Orleans is a city steeped in history, culture, and charm. The guided city sightseeing tour by bus offers visitors a chance to dive into this vibrant metropolis. With an expert guide leading the way, travelers can expect an immersive exploration of the French Quarter, a visit to the historic St. Louis Cemetery, and a glimpse into the enchanting City Park and picturesque Garden District. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned New Orleans enthusiast, this comprehensive tour promises to uncover the city’s secrets and leave you eager to discover more. So, buckle up and get ready for an unforgettable adventure through one of America’s most iconic destinations.

Key Points

A comprehensive 3-hour guided bus tour covering 25 square miles of iconic New Orleans neighborhoods and spanning three centuries of the city’s history.
Includes a guided tour of the historic St. Louis Cemetery #3, exploration of the enchanting City Park, and a stroll through the picturesque Garden District.
Provides an opportunity to experience the vibrant atmosphere of the French Quarter and capture ‘Instagrammable moments’ throughout the tour.
Offers an experienced guide who shares captivating insights into the city’s rich history and cultural traditions.
Accessible for wheelchair users with 48-hour advance reservations, with parking available in the French Quarter.

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Tour Overview

This guided city sightseeing tour of New Orleans covers 25 square miles of the city’s iconic neighborhoods spanning three centuries, lasting approximately 3 hours.

Guests board the bus in the French Quarter and travel along Esplanade Avenue, visiting the historic St. Louis Cemetery #3 for a guided tour.

The tour then crosses Bayou St. John to City Park, where visitors can opt to explore the famous Café du Monde.

Continuing along Lake Pontchartrain, the tour passes seafood restaurants, a marina, and a historic lighthouse before following the routes of streetcars and Mardi Gras parades to the well-preserved Garden District.

This comprehensive tour provides an immersive experience of New Orleans’ rich history and vibrant culture.

Itinerary

Boarding the bus in the French Quarter, the tour follows Esplanade Avenue before visiting the historic St. Louis Cemetery #3 for a guided tour. Crossing Bayou St. John, the tour then heads to City Park, where guests can optionally explore the famous Café du Monde. Continuing along Lake Pontchartrain, the tour passes seafood restaurants, a marina, and a historic lighthouse before following the routes of streetcars and Mardi Gras parades to the well-preserved Garden District.

Itinerary	Duration	Highlights
French Quarter	–	Experience the atmosphere
St. Louis Cemetery #3	Guided Tour	Explore the historic site
City Park	Optional Café du Monde	Find ‘Instagrammable moments’
Lake Pontchartrain	–	Scenic drive along the waterfront
Garden District	Stroll	Admire the well-preserved architecture

Highlights

Visitors can experience the vibrant atmosphere of the French Quarter, where the tour begins.

The highlight of the tour is the guided tour inside the historic St. Louis Cemetery #3. This cemetery dates back to the 19th century and is known for its ornate above-ground tombs and memorials.

After the cemetery, the tour takes guests to the beautiful City Park, where they’ll find countless ‘Instagrammable moments’ amongst the ancient live oaks and Spanish moss.

The final highlight is a stroll through the charming Garden District, known for its well-preserved 19th-century mansions and lush landscaping.

Throughout the tour, guests will gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for the city’s rich history and unique culture.

Inclusions

The 3-hour guided motorcoach tour includes a visit to the historic St. Louis Cemetery #3 with a guided tour, time to explore the enchanting City Park, and a leisurely stroll through the picturesque Garden District. Experienced guides lead the way, and all taxes are covered in the ticket price.

The tour’s inclusions provide visitors with:

An immersive experience in the French Quarter’s unique atmosphere
The opportunity to discover the history and charm of New Orleans’ iconic neighborhoods
The freedom to capture ‘Instagrammable moments’ during their exploration of City Park

With these comprehensive inclusions, the guided city sightseeing tour offers an engaging and memorable way to discover the essence of New Orleans.

Parking and Accessibility

Conveniently, parking is available in the French Quarter for those joining the guided city sightseeing tour.

Plus, the tour is wheelchair accessible, though reservations must be made 48 hours in advance to ensure proper accommodations.

This ensures that all visitors can fully enjoy the 3-hour experience, which covers 25 square miles of iconic New Orleans neighborhoods.

Whether you’re looking to snap ‘Instagrammable’ photos in City Park or stroll through the well-preserved Garden District, the tour provides a rundown of the city’s rich history and vibrant culture.

With an experienced guide leading the way, you’ll be able to make the most of your time in the Big Easy.

Tour Schedule

The guided city sightseeing tour of New Orleans runs year-round, except on Mardi Gras Day and Thanksgiving Day when the tours aren’t conducted.

The 3-hour tour departs from the French Quarter and covers 25 square miles, showcasing iconic neighborhoods and landmarks.

Guests can expect the following:

A guided tour of the historic St. Louis Cemetery #3
Time to explore the lush City Park and grab a beignet at Café du Monde
A stroll through the well-preserved Garden District, admiring the stunning architecture

This comprehensive tour provides an excellent introduction to the vibrant culture and rich history of New Orleans.

Advance reservations are recommended, especially during peak travel seasons.

Guided Cemetery Tour

One highlight of the guided city sightseeing tour is the visit to the historic St. Louis Cemetery #3, where a knowledgeable guide provides a captivating overview of the cemetery’s unique above-ground tombs and the fascinating stories behind them.

Guests will learn about the distinctive architecture and symbolism of the cemetery, and hear tales of the famous and infamous individuals laid to rest there.

The guided tour offers a poignant glimpse into New Orleans’ rich history and cultural traditions. It’s an opportunity to explore this iconic landmark and gain a deeper appreciation for the city’s vibrant past.

The cemetery visit is a moving and memorable part of the comprehensive sightseeing experience.

Exploring City Park and Garden District

After exploring the historic St. Louis Cemetery, guests board the bus once more, crossing over the Bayou St. John into the sprawling, verdant expanse of City Park. Within this lush, 1,300-acre urban oasis, they’ll discover numerous ‘Instagrammable moments’ – from the iconic live oak trees draped in Spanish moss to the art-filled Sydney and Walda Besthoff Sculpture Garden.

Visitors can opt to spend time strolling through the scenic park, perhaps even indulging in a beignet and coffee at the legendary Café du Monde.

The tour then continues on to the stately, well-preserved homes of the elegant Garden District, where guests can admire the striking antebellum architecture and imagine the lives of New Orleans’ prosperous 19th-century residents.

Some highlights of exploring City Park and the Garden District include:

Discovering ‘Instagrammable’ moments among the park’s iconic live oaks and sculpture garden
Indulging in a signature New Orleans treat – beignets and coffee at Café du Monde
Admiring the striking antebellum architecture and imagining the lives of 19th-century residents in the Garden District

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I Take Photos During the Cemetery Tour?

Yes, you can take photos during the cemetery tour. However, it’s important to be respectful and follow any guidelines provided by the tour guide. Photography is generally allowed, but some areas may have restrictions.

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

There is no formal dress code for the tour. Visitors should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate clothing and walking shoes. Tank tops, shorts, and flip-flops are generally acceptable, though guests may want to dress more conservatively for the cemetery visit.

Are Food and Drinks Allowed on the Bus?

Food and drinks are generally allowed on the bus, but passengers should avoid anything messy or that could potentially spill. It’s best to check with the tour operator beforehand to confirm their specific policies.

Can I Join the Tour Midway Through the Itinerary?

Guests can typically join the tour midway through the itinerary, but it’s best to check with the tour operator first. They’ll need to ensure there’s availability and accommodate the late arrival.

Do the Tour Guides Speak Multiple Languages?

The tour guides typically speak English, but those operating in areas with high international tourism may offer tours in additional languages like French or Spanish. Guests should inquire about language options when booking to ensure their needs are met.

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Recap

This guided sightseeing tour offers an immersive look at the historical and cultural landmarks of New Orleans.

Guests will explore the vibrant French Quarter, visit the iconic St. Louis Cemetery, and discover the beauty of City Park and the Garden District.

With an experienced guide, travelers can expect a comprehensive and memorable experience showcasing the unique charm of this remarkable city.