Overview
Delve into the history of the French Quarter on a 2-hour walking tour with a knowledgeable guide who shares the legends and landmarks of this fascinating city. At a relaxed pace, take in the Mississippi River, French Market, St Louis Cathedral, the Cabildo, the Presbytere, Jackson Square and more.
Visit historic buildings and secluded courtyards, see famous literary and silver screen locations, and learn about Creole culture. Your entertaining guide provides a deep understanding of the forces that shaped the Big Easy.
- Recommended by 98% of travelers
- Badge of Excellence
- Free cancellation up to 24 hours before
- Mobile ticket
What's included
Local guide
Hotel pickup and drop-off
Gratuities
Food and drinks
Meeting and pickup
Travelers meet at the meeting point.
Meeting point
Departure Point: Royal Cafe Beignet, 334 Royal Street, next to the Police Station
End point
In and around Jackson Square in the middle of the French Quarter
What to expect
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French Quarter
30 min
Make your own way to Musical Legends Park to meet your guide for your walking tour. After introductions, stroll a short distance to the banks of the Mississippi River where you learn how levee construction transformed the swamp into fertile farmland, making New Orleans an important hub in the region.
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French Market
15 min
Continue by walking through the French Market, the oldest open-air market in the US.
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Old Ursuline Convent Museum
15 min
Stand outside the Mississippi River valley’s oldest building, the Ursuline Convent, whose history provides a window onto early colonization efforts in Louisiana.
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Jackson Square
15 min
Next, you will head to Jackson Square, the heart of the French Quarter
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Cabildo
15 min
See important sites including the Cabildo - built between 1795 and 1799 - this building once housed the center of government in New Orleans and it is now the Louisiana State Museum.
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The Presbytere
15 min
See the Presbytere - built in 1791 to match the Cabildo is a fascinating museum with 2 permanent exhibits telling of both the cities resilience and celebration.
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Pontalba Buildings
15 min
Learn about these block-long buildings which form two sides of Jackson Square in the heart of the French Quarter of New Orleans.
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St. Louis Cathedral
30 min
Your guide takes you inside St Louis Cathedral and shows you where the Great New Orleans Fire of 1788 started, explaining how rebuilding post-fire resulted in what is now considered the classic architectural style of the French Quarter.
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Pirates Alley
15 min
Next, step into a lush Creole courtyard and learn about the complexities of Creole society and slavery in South Louisiana. Walk to the balcony of the former Quadroon Ballroom while your guide explains the former lives of Creole mistresses and the system known as 'placage.'
During your tour, your guide points out film sites and literary haunts such as the building where Tennessee Williams wrote ‘A Streetcar Named Desire.’ You'll enter William Faulkner’s home before you stop at Pirate's Alley, where your guide recounts local legends about prison escapes and dueling. Also, enjoy the tunes of talented street musicians as you stroll. -
Mississippi River
15 min
Choose from a morning or evening tour and expect to walk about 2 miles (3.2 km) at a leisurely pace before wrapping up near the Mississippi River levee.
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.
Times are local to the experience (America/Chicago).
Additional Information
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- Mobile or paper ticket accepted
- Up to 9 travelers per booking
FAQs about New Orleans French Quarter Walking and History Tour
Can I cancel New Orleans French Quarter Walking and History Tour for free?
Yes. For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the start time.
How long does it take?
It takes about 2 hours 30 min.
Where does it start?
Departure Point: Royal Cafe Beignet, 334 Royal Street, next to the Police Station
What's included?
- Local guide
What's not included?
- Hotel pickup and drop-off
- Gratuities
- Food and drinks
Which places does it visit?
It visits French Quarter, French Market, Old Ursuline Convent Museum, Jackson Square, Cabildo, The Presbytere, Pontalba Buildings, St. Louis Cathedral.
Which languages is it offered in?
It is offered in English.
What fitness level is needed?
It is suitable for all physical fitness levels.
Operated by Historic New Orleans Tours
