New Orleans: Voodoo, Storyville, and Treme Walking Tour

Taking a walk through New Orleans’ most iconic neighborhoods offers a unique glimpse into the city’s vibrant and sometimes mysterious past. While we haven’t personally trotted along this specific route, the tour promises a balanced mix of history, culture, and local legends. At just $30 for two hours, this guided exploration is a straightforward way to dive deep into some of New Orleans’ most storied districts.

What makes this tour particularly appealing are the sites visited: from the legendary Storyville red-light district to the birthplace of jazz in Louis Armstrong Park, and the soulful streets of Treme. We also love the way the tour balances famous figures like Voodoo Queen Marie Laveau with authentic neighborhood sights, offering a genuine feel for the city’s complex layers. The only possible caveat? The two-hour format means some areas are explored quickly, so pace and prior research might enhance your experience.

This walk is best suited for travelers interested in history, music, and culture, especially those eager to uncover stories behind the famous names and landmarks of New Orleans. If you prefer more in-depth visits or museum time, you might want to extend your stay with additional tours or visits.

Key Points

• Affordable and brief: A two-hour guided walk at $30 offers quick but meaningful insight into New Orleans’ core neighborhoods.
• Historic sites and stories: Visit iconic locations like Basin Street Station, Congo Square, and Marie Laveau’s home site.
• Cultural highlights: Learn about Voodoo, Storyville, and Treme, and their influence on jazz, Creole culture, and African-American history.
• Authentic neighborhoods: The tour takes you through neighborhoods still alive with stories, music, and architecture reflecting centuries of history.
• Educational and fun: The guide shares myths and facts—like the “War of the Pews”—to separate legend from reality.
• Flexibility: The optional mention of the St. Louis Cemetery allows for added interest if time permits.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour’s Itinerary and Experience

Starting Point: Backatown Coffee and the Red-Light District of Storyville

The tour kicks off at Backatown Coffee, a lively spot within the historic Storyville district, known for its colorful past as a decriminalized prostitution zone that played a key role in developing early jazz. For 20 years, Storyville drew musicians like Jelly Roll Morton, King Oliver, and Sidney Bechet, shaping the sound that would define New Orleans’ musical identity. Walking into the district today, you’ll see some surviving buildings, giving a tangible link to that vibrant past.

A major highlight here is the chance to see the Iberville Housing Project, now called the Bienville Basin Apartments. The guide discusses its history, as well as how the architecture in this neighborhood reflects current trends in New Urbanism, blending old with new. Several reviews praise the tour for making the history feel alive, especially noting the vivid descriptions of how these neighborhoods looked during jazz’s formative years.

Exploring Voodoo: Myths, Realities, and Marie Laveau

Next, the tour ventures into Voodoo, exploring its West African roots and its complex relationship with Roman Catholicism—a story of cultural crossover born from the transatlantic slave trade. The guide aims to separate myth from fact, which is especially helpful in understanding the true nature of Voodoo as a spiritual practice rooted in community and tradition.

You’ll see the site of Marie Laveau’s home—the legendary Voodoo Queen—and hear about her influence on local culture. Though some myths surround her, the guide carefully clarifies what is historically documented and what has been exaggerated over time. This segment often receives praise for its respectful tone and insightful storytelling; one reviewer noted, “I appreciated how the guide demystified Voodoo without dismissing its importance.”

Highlights: Basin Street, Louis Armstrong Park, Congo Square

From here, the tour moves on to Basin Street Station, once the hub of entertainment and transportation, and a symbol of New Orleans’ jazz legacy. The nearby Louis Armstrong Park and Congo Square are essential stops—they’re where enslaved Africans and free people gathered for music, dance, and cultural expression, laying the groundwork for jazz and Caribbean influences.

You’ll learn about Congo Square’s significance as a place of cultural resilience, where community traditions persisted despite oppression. The guide provides insights into Perseverance Hall and the Rabassa-de Pouilly House, connecting architecture with history. Many travelers comment on the emotional impact of seeing these sites and hearing stories of resistance.

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The War of the Pews and the Parish Prison Vendetta

The tour also ventures into lesser-known but fascinating stories like the “War of the Pews” at St. Augustine’s Catholic Church, and the 1891 Parish Prison vendetta, which involved the assassination of Sicilian convicts accused of killing Police Chief Hennessy. These stories add depth and drama, illustrating the often turbulent history of the city’s neighborhoods.

Optional Visit: Backstreet Cultural Museum

While not included in the tour, many find the Backstreet Cultural Museum a worthwhile optional stop, especially for those interested in Mardi Gras Indian traditions and Second Line culture. It’s a chance to see artifacts and learn about the ongoing cultural expressions that continue to thrive in New Orleans.

The HBO Series Connection and Other Sights

The tour takes you past sites featured in HBO’s Treme, giving fans of the show a real-world connection to the series’ setting. The Our Lady of Guadalupe Church and the Treme neighborhood are explained in context, enriching your understanding of how the city’s stories are told through popular culture.

Practical Details and Value

The tour lasts about 2 hours, making it a manageable introduction for those on a tight schedule. The price point of $30 is quite reasonable for the depth of information and the guided experience—especially considering the historical and cultural significance of the sites visited.

While the tour doesn’t include admission to sites like the Backstreet Cultural Museum or St. Louis Cemetery, the guide provides a brief description of the cemetery upon request, which is helpful for those eager to expand their understanding without extra cost.

What Our Reviewers Say

Multiple reviews highlight that the guide’s storytelling is engaging and informative, with one mentioning, “The guide was very knowledgeable and respectful, making the stories come alive without sensationalizing.” Others appreciate the balance of myth and fact, especially regarding Marie Laveau and Voodoo.

A few note that the pace can be brisk—which suits those eager to cover a lot in a short time but might feel rushed for those wanting a more leisurely experience. Still, most agree that the tour offers good value, especially for first-time visitors.

Who Should Take This Tour?

This experience is perfect for history buffs, music lovers, and cultural explorers who want a concise but meaningful introduction to these iconic neighborhoods. It’s ideal for travelers who prefer guided storytelling over self-exploration, and for those curious about the blend of African, Creole, and European influences that shape New Orleans.

If you’re seeking a deep dive into specific sites or museums, or planning to visit cemeteries, you might consider supplementing this tour with additional activities. But for a lively overview packed with stories, landmarks, and local legends, this walk hits the mark.

The Sum Up

The New Orleans: Voodoo, Storyville, and Treme Walking Tour offers a lively, affordable way to get acquainted with some of the city’s most fascinating neighborhoods. It balances historic facts, cultural stories, and local legends, providing a textured picture of New Orleans’ unique identity.

You’ll enjoy the opportunity to see survivor buildings from the jazz era, learn about Marie Laveau’s influence, and walk through spaces where music and resistance thrived. The guide’s respectful tone and storytelling make complex cultural themes accessible, even for first-time visitors.

This tour is best suited for those who want a quick, engaging overview without committing to a full-day expedition. With its reasonable price, authentic storytelling, and key site visits, it provides genuine value—especially if you’re eager to explore the roots of jazz, Creole traditions, and African-American history that pulse through the city streets.

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, making it a short but packed introduction to the neighborhoods.

What is the price?
It costs $30 per person, which is quite reasonable given the guided storytelling and the key sites covered.

Where does the tour start?
The tour begins at Backatown Coffee, located in the historic Storyville district.

What sites are visited during the tour?
You’ll visit Basin Street Station, Louis Armstrong Park, Congo Square, the site of Marie Laveau’s home, and learn about the “War of the Pews” and the Parish Prison vendetta.

Is the tour suitable for children?
While the description does not specify age restrictions, the focus on historical and cultural stories suggests it’s suitable for older children and teenagers interested in history.

Are there any optional visits?
Yes, the Backstreet Cultural Museum can be visited separately if interested, but it’s not included in the tour.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, as the tour involves a significant amount of walking. Check the weather forecast and dress accordingly.

Are there opportunities for photos?
Absolutely. Sites like Congo Square and Louis Armstrong Park are photogenic, and the guide will likely point out good photo spots.

Is the tour accessible for people with mobility issues?
The description does not specify accessibility details, so it’s best to inquire directly if you have concerns.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for your travel plans.

Exploring New Orleans through this guided walk offers a meaningful way to connect with the city’s soul—its music, its myths, and its resilient communities. Whether you’re a history lover or just curious about the stories behind the streets, this tour provides a solid foundation to appreciate all that makes New Orleans special.

You can check availability for your dates here: