There’s a reason New Orleans is called the “The Big Easy”, but I’d like to think it’s because of how easy it is to immerse yourself in it. Since there is plenty of stuff to do around here, let me give you some help to make your trip even better. I’d suggest picking a few of the best tours to really get a taste of the Big Easy. If you’re bringing the whole crew, check out these family-friendly activities in New Orleans too. There’s plenty to keep kids happy!
In a Hurry? Here Are Our Top 4 New Orleans Tours Picks
Before We Escape…
You can absolutely be spontaneous here, but trips are meant to be relaxing too. I’d suggest booking things ahead of time, as it saves stress later!
You can also join organized day trips for a more relaxed experience. Some of the tours offer multiple stops that I recommend here, so it’ll be killing two, or more, birds with one stone.
Bayou and Swamp Boat Adventures
Best For: Wildlife encounters, wild scenery, Cajun culture
Just outside the buzz of New Orleans, the bayous open up a whole different world. In my opinion, a swamp boat tour is one of the best ways to slip into Louisiana’s wilder side for a few hours. You’d get to cruise through calm swamps and look out for gators, raccoons, and cool birds you won’t see in town. How exciting is that?
Honey Island Swamp and the Bayou Sauvage National Wildlife Refuge are two of the top picks for a day trip from New Orleans if you want a taste of true Cajun country. I really recommend dressing for the weather (it can get muggy) and always getting your cameras ready for the perfect shots!
Getting There: A Classic Day Trip in New Orleans
Visiting the bayous is one of the easiest and most memorable day trips you can add to your New Orleans plans. Most swamp adventures are just 30–45 minutes outside the city, and you can either drive yourself or kick back and let a tour handle the details. I definitely recommend hotel pickup if you’d rather not worry about directions or parking.
For a pure thrill, I really like recommending the New Orleans airboat ride. It’s fun, fast, and such a classic Louisiana experience. Here, you get to glide through winding canals and open bayous on a speedy airboat. A local guide even points out gators sunning themselves along the banks.
But sometimes you wanna see more in one day, right? I think the New Orleans City, cemetery & swamp full-day tour is a fantastic way to do it all. You’ll tour famous neighborhoods and historic sites in the morning. After that, head out to the swamp for a relaxing boat ride or a heart-pumping airboat spin.
If you love the idea of pairing wild nature with beautiful Southern history, I highly suggest a combo like the swamp boat ride and Oak Alley Plantation Tour or bayou swamp tour & Oak Alley Plantation. It’s a dreamy way to soak up Louisiana’s rich, complicated past and its wild wetlands in one swoop.
And finally, for something extra special, I recommend this airboat swamp tour South of New Orleans. You’ll zip deep into remote canals that regular boats can’t reach. It feels like a secret adventure. Plus, this tour has a fun surprise: you’ll meet Sugar and Flour, the only albino alligators living out on the bayou. So don’t forget your camera!
Quick Tips
- Morning tours typically yield more animal sightings as creatures are active before the day heats up.
- Bring sunscreen, insect repellent, and a hat regardless of when you go. The Louisiana sun can be intense, even in cooler months.
Ghost, Voodoo, and Vampire Walking Tours
Best For: Haunted history, spooky legends, French Quarter chills
When the sun dips behind those iconic wrought-iron balconies, New Orleans really shows off its haunted side. Often called America’s Most Haunted City, this place is packed with stories that feel even more real after dark. And a ghost, voodoo, or vampire walking tour is a great way to see that side of the city.Most tours lead you through spooky stops like the LaLaurie Mansion and the old Pharmacy Museum, where strange medical “cures” were once the norm.
Some tours swing by Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar, one of the oldest bars in the country and rumored to be a pirate hangout. These walks mix real history with local legends about voodoo queens, restless spirits, and vampires. I’d recommend choosing an evening tour if you want to hear New Orleans’ ghost stories where they happened. It’s a fun, spine-tingling way to explore the city after dark.
Getting There: A Spooky Tour in New Orleans
Ghost, voodoo, and vampire tours all start right in the heart of the French Quarter, so it’s easy to add one to your evening plans. I’d suggest looking at the New Orleans Premier Ghost, Voodoo & Vampire Walking Tour from Viator. Or you can book the same eerie stroll through GetYourGuide if that’s more convenient. Both hit spooky highlights like the LaLaurie Mansion and the Pharmacy Museum, plus a few chilling stories you won’t find in guidebooks.
If you’re after darker tales, there’s an adults-only Ghost, Crime, Voodoo, and Vampire Tour that dives into true crime and grisly legends. Or if you wanna get scared in a graveyard, the Cemetery Bus Tour At Dark is a great pick, giving you exclusive nighttime access to one of the city’s most haunted cemeteries. There’s also an EMF reader so you can hunt for unexplained energy yourself.
For an old-time twist, I recommend the Haunted History Carriage Tour. You will go through the French Quarter by lamplight in a mule-drawn carriage while your guide spills secrets of the city’s wildest legends. There’s just eight people per carriage, so it’s a cozy, creepy ride.
Or, you can go all out and combine ghost stories and drinks with a Haunted Pub Crawl. You get to follow your guide through the Quarter’s haunted watering holes, stopping for chilling tales and a round or two along the way.
Quick Tips
- Bring cash for drinks or tips. Some tours end at bars or include pub stops along the way. Having a few dollars handy for a quick drink or a well-earned tip for your guide is smart.
- Check the age rating. Not all tours are kid-friendly. Some of the adults-only ghost tours dive into dark true crime stories and gory details that might not be everyone’s vibe. Pick the right version for your group.
Plantation Day Trips
Best For: History buffs, scenic oak-lined estates, learning about Creole culture and slavery
If you’re up for a little trip outside the city, check out Louisiana’s old plantations. They’re about an hour from New Orleans. Walking under those massive oak trees and through these old houses really shows you what life was like back then, from Creole culture to the tough realities of slavery in the South.
Oak Alley & Laura Plantation
I’d suggest Oak Alley if you want that iconic photo of a majestic oak-lined path. The mansion tour and restored slave quarters show both the grandeur and the labor behind it. Meanwhile, for a deeper dive into Creole history, Laura Plantation uses diaries and family stories to bring its colorful house and original slave cabins to life.
Whitney Plantation
If you want an experience that puts the enslaved people’s stories front and center, Whitney Plantation is a must. The preserved cabins, memorial art, and museum exhibits are powerful and eye-opening. Many say it’s the most moving day trip you can take from the city.
Getting There: A Meaningful Tour in New Orleans
Plantation day trips are one of the best ways to get out of New Orleans and see Louisiana’s deep, complicated history up close. Most people join a guided tour with transportation included as it’s super easy and you can just sit back and enjoy the views and stories. If you’d rather explore on your own, renting a car works well too. The plantations are about an hour’s drive from the city along the River Road, and parking is simple at each stop.
I’d suggest the Oak Alley Plantation tour for the classic photo under the huge oaks, which comes with transport and a guided walk through the famous tree-lined path and the big old house.
If you want to see a side of history rarely told, the Whitney Plantation tour focuses fully on the lives and stories of enslaved people. But if you wanna to mix history with a bit of adventure, the Whitney Plantation and airboat combo tour adds a wild swamp ride after the plantation visit.
If you’d like a mix of stories, the small-group Laura and Whitney Plantation tour shows two very different sides of plantation life, or you can just dig deeper into Creole culture with the Laura Creole Plantation guided tour.
Quick Tips
- Dress for the weather. Light clothing, a hat, and comfy walking shoes will help you enjoy the grounds and gardens.
- Some plantations have cafés, but options can be limited. A reusable water bottle and a few snacks will keep you comfortable on longer tours.
- Be prepared for reflection. Many plantation tours share difficult truths about slavery; expect emotional stories and give yourself time to process what you learn.
New Orleans Food and Cocktail Tours
Best For: Classic Creole eats, iconic cocktails, tasting history one bite (or sip) at a time
This one is for the foodies! Be prepared to taste your way through New Orleans on a relaxed food or cocktail tour that serves up the city’s rich culinary heritage. These tours are an easy way to dive into the flavors that make the Big Easy famous. You’ll pop into beloved local spots and family-run gems. Many include a stop at Café Du Monde for that classic combo of fresh beignets and strong chicory coffee.
In the evening, I’d suggest swapping bites for sips on a cocktail tour instead. There are drinking tours filled with wild tales from New Orleans’ history. You get to sip Sazeracs and Hurricanes in historic bars where they were invented, swap stories with bartenders, and pick up a few tricks for mixing your own back home.
Getting There: A Foodie Tour in New Orleans
New Orleans’ food tours make it easy to explore iconic eateries and historic spots on foot, with no car needed! These guided walks usually begin in the French Quarter, with meeting points near Jackson Square or the Mississippi River.
If you’re up for some history with your bites, I’d say try the New Orleans food and history walking tour. This tour will take you to classic spots for gumbo, po’boys, muffulettas, and pralines, while hearing cool stories about how the city’s food came to be.
If you’re craving a classic sandwich, gumbo, and sweet beignets, this French Quarter Food Walking Tour: Beignets, Gumbo & More is a tasty way to experience America’s oldest public market and iconic landmarks like Jackson Square and St. Louis Cathedral. Or, go all in on local bites with this small-group French Quarter food tour. Here you can sample jambalaya, po’boys, pralines, and more in a relaxed setting.
But should you prefer to go with a trusted local guide, check out the French Quarter food history walking tour from GetYourGuide, for a tasty blend of Cajun gumbo, hot sauce, catfish po-boys, and sweet bread pudding to finish it all off.
Quick Tips
- Pace yourself. These tours often add up to a full meal (or more!), so arrive hungry and wear comfy shoes for all the strolling (and snacking).
- Check dietary restrictions. If you have allergies or dietary needs, message the tour operator in advance.
- Bring cash for extras. Many guides appreciate tips, and you might want to grab a drink or buy treats like pralines or hot sauce to take home.
Hop-On Hop-Off City Sightseeing Bus Tours
Best For: First-time visitors, flexible sightseeing, covering lots of ground
Is it your first time in New Orleans and not sure where to begin in New Orleans? A hop-on hop-off bus tour is an easy way to get your bearings and see a bit of everything at your own pace. Just climb aboard an open-top double-decker and cruise through iconic spots like the French Quarter, the Garden District, and lively Tremé. Buses usually roll by every 30 minutes, so you can hop off to explore side streets, grab a snack, or snap some photos, then hop back on when you’re ready to roll again.
The full loop takes about two hours if you stay put, which makes it a nice pick for your first day in town. The audio narration onboard is full of fun facts and local stories as you pass colorful neighborhoods and famous landmarks. I’d suggest bringing a hat or sunscreen if you sit up top; the views are great, but the New Orleans sun doesn’t mess around!
Getting There: A Fun Tour in New Orleans
The nice thing about the Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour is you don’t have to stress about directions. Just find a stop, hop on, and you’re off. The New Orleans City Sightseeing Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour is a good choice if you like the freedom to build your own plan. You can jump off at spots like Jackson Square, the French Market, or the Garden District whenever something catches your eye.
If you’d prefer more of a guided feel, this Sightseeing Bus Tour is worth a look too. You’ll cover highlights like the French Quarter, Garden District, and historic cemeteries, all with live narration. Plus, it’s an air-conditioned coach so you can cool down when it’s extra warm out.
For the best of both worlds, I’d suggest the 2- or 3-Day Hop-On Hop-Off Bus with Walking Tour. You’ll get unlimited rides plus guided walks through the French Quarter and Garden District. It’s actually perfect if you want to really dig into each neighborhood between bus stops.
Quick Tips
- The upper deck offers the best views but can get hot in summer months so bring water, sunscreen, and a hat for protection.
- For the best photos, sit on the right side of the bus when departing from the French Quarter.
- Many travelers recommend completing the full circuit once before deciding which stops deserve your extended attention on the second go-round.
Mississippi River Cruises
Best For: Classic paddleboats, skyline views, live jazz on deck
Do you want to see New Orleans from a different point of view? Then you need to try a relaxing cruise on the famous Mississippi River. You will get to experience a real paddlewheel boat like the old Steamboat NATCHEZ. You can just sit back as the city floats by.
I think the real magic is in the music. These river cruises mix two things New Orleans is famous for: the river and live jazz. Local bands play upbeat jazz while you relax with a drink and watch the city lights come on at sunset. If you’re hungry, you can even add a tasty dinner buffet with local dishes like jambalaya, gumbo, and sweet bread pudding. Just a little heads-up: dinner cruises often have two time slots. So, it’s smart to book early if you’re going with friends and want to sit together.
Getting There: An Iconic Trip in New Orleans
Most cruises depart from the city, so you won’t need to go far. For a classic evening on the water, I think the Steamboat NATCHEZ Jazz Cruise is an unforgettable pick. You can book it here on Viator or grab your spot on GetYourGuide, as they both offer dinner and live jazz options to fit your vibe.
But if you prefer a daytime float, the Steamboat NATCHEZ Harbor Cruise is perfect for families and gives you plenty of time to soak up the skyline views and sunshine, with lunch as an optional add-on.
Or, for a splash of history, you could check out the Paddlewheeler Creole Queen historic river cruise. It’s a two-hour trip complete with an educational stop to learn about the Battle of New Orleans before you drift back with a cold drink in hand.
Quick Tips
- Arrive 30 minutes before departure to collect tickets and find optimal seating.
- Bring sunscreen for daytime cruises and a light jacket for evening when river breezes pick up.
French Quarter Walking Tours
Best For: History lovers, architecture buffs, ghost story seekers
If you really want to get to know New Orleans, I’d suggest starting with a stroll through the French Quarter. It’s the city’s oldest and most colorful neighborhood for a reason. By day, guided history walks often stop at places like Jackson Square, St. Louis Cathedral, and the busy French Market. After dark, ghost and vampire tours add a spooky twist, taking you to eerie spots like the LaLaurie Mansion or Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar.
If you’re hungry while exploring, I’d recommend joining a food-focused walking tour too. You’ll get to try local classics like beignets, po’boys, and gumbo while hearing how Creole and Cajun flavors shaped the city’s soul. Just wear comfy shoes, keep your phone charged for photos, and enjoy seeing why the French Quarter really is the heart of New Orleans.
Getting There: A Colorful Tour in New Orleans
Exploring the French Quarter is best done on foot. If you’d like to dig into the neighborhood’s rich past, I’d recommend starting with the French Quarter historical sights and stories walking tour. Local guides share tales you’d never find in a guidebook as you wander through Jackson Square, peek inside St. Louis Cathedral, and discover hidden courtyards. Or, for an intimate stroll packed with legends and live street music, the French Quarter walking and storytelling tour is another good pick.
And if you’re craving something spooky, the Ghost and Vampire walking tour is a fun way to spend an evening. You’ll wander dimly lit streets and haunted corners while hearing chilling tales of restless spirits and the city’s darker side.
For foodies, I’d suggest following your taste buds on the New Orleans food walking tour of the French Quarter, which covers classics like gumbo, po’boys, pralines, and more. Another tasty option is the New Orleans food and history walking tour, which mixes local bites with stories about how the city’s mix of cultures shaped its famous food scene.
And should you want the best of both worlds, then check out the French Quarter food history walking tour. It serves up nine delicious tastings plus plenty of local stories about the Quarter’s French and Creole roots. Bring your appetite as you’ll want it!
Quick Tips
- Wear comfy shoes as the historic streets can be uneven and you’ll cover a lot of ground.
- Bring a small water bottle, especially in warmer months.
- For food tours, arrive hungry. You’ll want room to sample all the bites!
Garden District and Lafayette Cemetery Tours
Best For: Historic homes, celebrity mansions, iconic New Orleans cemetery
Are you ready to take a break from the French Quarter’s busy streets? The Garden District is a great spot to slow down and see another side of New Orleans. A guided walking tour is an easy way to learn who built these grand homes and how they’ve stayed so well preserved. Many guides share interesting bits about sugar fortunes, local families, and even movie scenes filmed in the neighborhood.
I’d also suggest choosing a tour that stops by Lafayette Cemetery No. 1, one of New Orleans’ famous “Cities of the Dead.” Its above-ground tombs and mossy pathways offer a quiet glimpse into local traditions you won’t find elsewhere, and a guide can point out notable resting places and explain how these unique cemeteries came to be.
Getting There: A Serene Tour in New Orleans
On this guided Garden District History Walking stroll, you’ll hear stories about the families, architects, and people who helped shape the Garden District’s elegant homes and unique above-ground tombs. It’s a relaxed way to get a deeper look at New Orleans’ burial customs. Plus, I’d suggest asking your guide for local tips on nearby music spots, cafés, or cocktail bars to check out after the tour.
If you’d like to see more in one go, this half-day coach tour through Cemetery, French Quarter, and Garden District is an easy option. Stops include one of the city’s oldest cemeteries, where you can step inside and hear how these “Cities of the Dead” came to be. I’d recommend this if you want to cover a lot without worrying about driving or directions. The included hotel pickup and drop-off keep it hassle-free.
This small-group Garden District walk is perfect if you like to snap photos and chat with your guide along the way. You’ll stroll past stately old homes (some you might recognize from movies). You can also peek inside Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 while hearing local trivia and stories you probably won’t find in any guidebook.
Lastly, this guided walk covers the neighborhood’s striking architecture, lush gardens, and the fascinating history of its early residents. You’ll get a glimpse of Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 (currently closed to the public) as your guide explains New Orleans’ above-ground burial style. Afterward, I’d suggest following their tips for a coffee or a bite to eat on nearby Magazine Street.
Quick Tips
- Wear comfy shoes and bring water. The shady streets are lovely, but the strolls can be long, especially in New Orleans’ humidity.
- Check cemetery access. Lafayette Cemetery No. 1 is often closed for restoration. Your guide will share history from outside the gates, but peek times can change, so check ahead if you hope to go inside.
Handy Tips for Trips and Tours in New Orleans
Before you head out, here are a few quick tips: wear comfy shoes, stay hydrated, and book your tours in advance, especially if you want night tours or popular food walks. If you’re still planning, you might like this 3-day New Orleans itinerary to help map out your days, or find the best areas to stay in New Orleans that match how you like to travel. And if you love unique stays, here’s a guide to cool hotels in New Orleans for every style and budget. Have the best time exploring!
