Top NOLA Tours: Essential Tips for Planning Your Trip
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By: Liz Wegerer
New Orleans, affectionately known as NOLA, is a city that captivates visitors with its rich heritage, diverse influences, and distinctive charms. With so much to experience, planning your NOLA tour can be exhilarating.
In This Article
TL;DR
Uncover the top NOLA tours that provide an immersive exploration of New Orleans’ storied past, cultural tapestry, and unique attractions.
Discover essential tips for planning your NOLA tour, including booking in advance, selecting the right tour type, and preparing for the weather.
Learn about the ideal times to visit New Orleans and how to maximize your tour experience.
Types of NOLA Tours
Walking tours
Explore the heart of New Orleans, known for its charming streets, historic architecture, and lively atmosphere. Guided walking tours will take you through the neighborhood’s highlights, including Jackson Square, St. Louis Cathedral, and Bourbon Street.
Admire the stunning mansions and beautiful gardens of the Garden District, one of the crown jewels of New Orleans’ 19th-century architecture. Join a guided walking tour or explore at your own pace on a self-guided tour.
New Orleans’ cemeteries, known as “Cities of the Dead,” feature unique above-ground tombs due to the city’s below-sea-level construction. Wandering through these sacred spaces feels like entering a vivid storybook, filled with art, history, and the stories of notable individuals.
Food and drink tours
Sample delectable dishes influenced by Creole, Cajun, and French traditions, such as gumbo, jambalaya, beignets, and po’ boys, while learning about the city’s culinary heritage.
Discover the birthplace of classic cocktails like the Sazerac and Hurricane, and explore the city’s vibrant bar scene.
Learn to cook authentic New Orleans dishes from experienced local chefs, and take home recipes to impress your friends and family.
Music and nightlife tours
Visit famous jazz venues, such as Preservation Hall and Fritzel’s European Jazz Club, and learn about the city’s musical heritage.
Venture down to Frenchmen Street, the heart of New Orleans’ live music scene, and experience the city’s incredible musical talent.
Discover the history and traditions behind New Orleans’ most famous celebration, and learn about the intricate costumes and parade floats.
Plantation tours
Marvel at the stunning oak trees lining the walkway of this iconic plantation, and learn about life on a 19th-century sugarcane plantation.
Address: 3645 State St, Vacherie, LA 70090
Phone: (225) 265-2151
Explore this modest but beautiful plantation, and enjoy a tour led by knowledgeable guides who bring the history of the Creole culture to life.
Address: 2247 Hwy 18, Vacherie, LA 70090
Phone: (225) 265-3690
Gain a deeper understanding of the lives of enslaved people on this former sugarcane plantation, now dedicated to educating visitors about the history of slavery in Louisiana.
Choosing the Right Tour
Consider your interests and preferences: Whether you’re a history enthusiast, a foodie, or a music lover, there’s a NOLA tour that caters to your passions.
Research tour providers and read reviews: Look for reputable tour companies with experienced guides and positive customer feedback.
Check tour duration and physical requirements: Make sure the tour length and activity level suit your needs and abilities.
Inquire about group size and tour guide expertise: Smaller group sizes often provide a more personalized experience, and knowledgeable guides can enhance your understanding and enjoyment of the tour.
Best Times to Visit
Enjoy mild weather and festivals like the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival and the French Quarter Festival.
Experience comfortable temperatures and fewer crowds, making it an ideal time for outdoor tours and activities.
Avoid summer (June to September): High temperatures and humidity can make outdoor tours uncomfortable, so consider indoor options or early morning/evening tours during these months.
Booking Your Tour
Book in advance, especially during peak seasons: Popular tours can fill up quickly, so secure your spot early to avoid disappointment.
Compare prices and inclusions across tour providers: Look for tours that offer the best value for your money, considering factors like tour length, group size, and included amenities.
Check cancellation and refund policies: Understand the tour provider’s policies in case you need to change or cancel your booking.
Inquire about discounts for groups, seniors, or students: Some tour providers offer special rates for certain groups, so don’t hesitate to ask.
Preparing for Your Tour
Dress appropriately for the weather and tour type: Wear comfortable, breathable clothing and sturdy walking shoes, especially for outdoor tours.
Bring water, sunscreen, and a hat for outdoor tours: Stay hydrated and protect yourself from the sun, particularly during the warmer months.
Carry cash for tips and souvenirs: Many tour guides rely on tips, and having cash on hand makes it easy to show your appreciation for a great tour experience.
Making the Most of Your Tour
Arrive early to meet your tour guide and group: This allows you to get settled and ensures a prompt start to your tour.
Ask questions and engage with your guide: Tour guides are a wealth of knowledge and are happy to share their expertise and personal experiences.
Take photos and notes to remember key details: Capture memorable moments and jot down interesting facts or recommendations for further exploration.
Respect local customs and tour etiquette: Be mindful of your surroundings, follow your guide’s instructions, and show respect for the places and people you encounter during your tour.
Post-Tour Recommendations
Reflect on your tour experience and highlights: Take a moment to appreciate the new insights and memories you’ve gained from your NOLA tour.
Leave a review for your tour provider: Share your feedback to help other travelers make informed decisions and to show appreciation for your guide’s efforts.
Explore related attractions and neighborhoods: Use your tour as a springboard for further discovery, visiting nearby sites or delving deeper into topics that piqued your interest.
Share your experience with friends and family: Encourage others to explore the rich history and culture of New Orleans by sharing your tour highlights and recommendations.
By following these essential tips and exploring the top NOLA tours, you’ll be well-prepared to immerse yourself in the captivating history, diverse cultural influences, and unique attractions that make New Orleans an unforgettable destination. Whether you’re strolling through the French Quarter, savoring the city’s culinary delights, or discovering the birthplace of jazz, your NOLA tour will leave you with lasting memories and a deeper appreciation for this incredible city.
Liz Wegerer is a highly experienced writer and editor with a diverse background that spans several industries. At Inside NOLA, Liz brings her exceptional writing skills and thorough research capabilities to create engaging content about New Orleans. Her global experiences, including serving as editor-in-chief of a digital magazine in London and covering international events, have shaped her into a well-rounded storyteller.
With a keen eye for detail and a passion for the unique character of New Orleans, Liz covers a wide range of topics from the city's famous attractions to its distinctive neighborhoods. Her deep understanding of the local culture and history, combined with her ability to craft compelling narratives, makes her a trusted authority on the Crescent City. When not writing, Liz enjoys traveling and exploring new culinary delights, which fuels her appreciation for the vibrant and diverse food scene in New Orleans. Her commitment to delivering top-quality content ensures that readers get an authentic and enriching experience of the city.
