How to Plan Your New Orleans Citywide Driving Tour

New Orleans, Louisiana is a fascinating city with a rich culture and history. The best way to explore this diverse city is through a citywide driving tour. The New Orleans Citywide Driving Tour is a private half-day tour that takes you through the city’s top attractions and neighborhoods. In this blog post, we will guide you on how to plan a tour of the city of New Orleans.

Booking the Tour

First and foremost, book your tour at least a week before your planned arrival. The tour is suitable for adults, children and youth alike. You can book your tour directly with your hotel, or through Viator at https://www.viator.com/tours/New-Orleans/New-Orleans-Citywide-Driving-Tour/d675-19830P1?pid=P00070472&mcid=42383. The cost of the tour is $158 per group.

Setting a Start Time

One of the best features of this tour is the flexibility it offers. You can choose your own start time and duration of the tour. The tour runs multiple times a day, so pick a time that suits your schedule. You and your group may decide to take the tour in the morning or afternoon.

Meeting Point

The meeting point for the tour is a designated spot in New Orleans that will be communicated to you at the time of booking. Make sure you and your group arrive on time as the tour will begin promptly.

What You Need to Know

The tour lasts for 2-3 hours, during which you will be given in-depth information on the history and culture of New Orleans. Your local guide is licensed and insured, so you can be assured of your safety. The tour fee covers a private tour, live commentary, and open discussion board.

Tour Highlights

During the tour, you will see some of New Orleans’ most popular areas and attractions, such as the French Quarter, St. Charles Avenue, City Park, and the Ninth Ward. This driving tour of the city takes you to see unique architecture, historic universities, and top landmarks. You will also have opportunities to stop and tour cemeteries, take photos, and visit museums (entrance fees not included).

What’s Included

The tour fee covers a private tour with a licensed guide, live commentary, an open discussion board, and gratuities. Please be advised that food and drinks are not included in the tour price, and admissions to unplanned attractions or museums are not included.

Dress Code and Safety

The best attire for the tour is comfortable clothing, closed-toe shoes, and a hat or sunscreen due to the sun’s intensity. You should also bring your camera, as there are incredible photo opportunities. Comfort and safety are important during the tour. Please wear comfortable, non-restrictive clothes and avoid wearing high heels. You will also be required to wear a seatbelt while in the vehicle throughout the tour.

In Book Your Tour Now

The New Orleans Citywide Driving Tour is a fantastic way to explore the city while learning about its history and culture. The tour offers flexibility and is designed to accommodate your schedule. Make sure to book your tour in advance, choose your start time, and arrive on time at the meeting point. The tour highlights include the French Quarter, St. Charles Avenue, City Park, and the Ninth Ward. Bring your camera, protect yourself from the sun, and wear comfortable clothing and shoes. Book the tour here, and prepare yourself for an educational and memorable experience in the vibrant city of New Orleans.

New Orleans FAQs: Everything You Need to Know

If you’re planning to visit New Orleans, it pays to research the city before you go. With its rich history, vibrant nightlife, and unique culture, there’s a lot to discover in the city. This FAQ guide will provide you with answers to some of the most commonly asked questions about New Orleans.

1. What is New Orleans known for?

New Orleans is known for its vibrant music scene, particularly jazz and blues. It’s also famous for its architecture, which is a mix of French, Spanish, and Creole styles. The city is also known for its Mardi Gras celebrations and its cuisine, with dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, and po’boys being popular.

2. When is the best time to visit New Orleans?

The best time to visit New Orleans is from February to May when the weather is mild and the city is celebrating Mardi Gras. However, this is also peak tourist season, so expect higher prices and larger crowds. If you want to avoid the crowds, visit during the fall or winter when the weather is cooler.

3. What is the weather like in New Orleans?

New Orleans has a humid subtropical climate, with hot and humid summers and mild winters. Summers can be very hot and muggy, with temperatures often reaching the mid-90s Fahrenheit. Winters are much milder, with temperatures averaging in the 50s and 60s.

4. Is New Orleans safe?

New Orleans has a relatively high crime rate, especially in certain areas of the city. However, by taking precautions such as staying in well-lit areas and avoiding unfamiliar neighborhoods, you can reduce your risk of becoming a victim of crime. It’s also a good idea to avoid walking alone at night.

5. What are the best things to do in New Orleans?

There are plenty of things to do in New Orleans, including: – Visit the French Quarter – Take a steamboat ride on the Mississippi River – Attend a jazz performance at Preservation Hall – Explore the National WWII Museum – Tour a historic plantation – Try some of the city’s famous cuisine

6. What is Mardi Gras?

Mardi Gras is an annual celebration that takes place in New Orleans and other cities around the world. In New Orleans, the celebration lasts for several weeks leading up to Lent, with parades, parties, and other events taking place throughout the city. The most famous part of Mardi Gras is the parades, which feature colorful costumes, floats, and throws (small gifts thrown by the parade participants).

7. How do I get around New Orleans?

New Orleans has a public transportation system, including buses and streetcars, that can be a cost-effective way to get around the city. However, if you plan on visiting multiple attractions in different parts of the city, a rental car or ride-sharing service may be more convenient.

8. What is the legal drinking age in New Orleans?

The legal drinking age in New Orleans, as in the rest of the United States, is 21. However, the city has a reputation for its liberal drinking laws, including the ability to carry open containers of alcohol in certain areas.

9. What is the currency in New Orleans?

The currency used in New Orleans, as in the rest of the United States, is the US dollar. Credit cards are widely accepted, but it’s a good idea to have some cash on hand for smaller purchases.

10. What is the food like in New Orleans?

New Orleans is known for its unique cuisine, which is heavily influenced by the city’s history and culture. Some popular dishes include: – Gumbo: a stew made with seafood, sausage, and vegetables – Jambalaya: a rice dish with sausage, shrimp, and vegetables – Po’boys: a sandwich made with French bread and filled with meat or seafood – Beignets: a type of doughnut dusted with powdered sugar – Crawfish étouffée: a dish made with crawfish and a roux-based gravy In conclusion, New Orleans is a city full of history, culture, and unique experiences. By knowing the answers to these frequently asked questions, you can better plan your visit to the city and make the most of your time there.

How to Spend Your Time as a Tourist in New Orleans

New Orleans is known as the crown jewel of Louisiana tourism. From the history of the French Quarter to the stunning architecture of St. Louis Cathedral, the city has something for everyone. Whether you’re a history buff, foodie, or music enthusiast, New Orleans is the perfect destination. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to make the most of your time in the city.

1. Take a Walking Tour

The best way to experience the heart of the city is by taking a walking tour. With so much history and amazing architecture, taking a tour with a knowledgeable guide can help you understand the city’s stories, legends, and landmarks. Here are some popular walking tour options to consider:

a. French Quarter Tour

The French Quarter is the most famous neighborhood in New Orleans, and a French Quarter tour is a great way to dive deep into its history. This tour takes you through the famous Jackson Square, Bourbon Street, and many other historic sites such as the St. Louis Cathedral, and the famous Cafe du Monde. You’ll learn about the city’s history, architecture, and culture.

b. Cemetery Tour

New Orleans is known for its unique above-ground cemeteries. A cemetery tour is an interesting way to explore the city’s spooky history and learn about the city’s unique burial customs. You’ll visit famous cemeteries such as St. Louis Cemetery No. 1, which holds some of the city’s most famous residents.

c. Garden District Tour

The Garden District is a stunning area in the city known for its historic mansions and oak-lined streets. Taking a Garden District tour includes visiting famous mansions, such as the Buckner Mansion (also known as the “American Horror Story” house), as well as Lafayette Cemetery No. 1.

2. Indulge Your Taste Buds

New Orleans is known for its flavorful cuisine, and with so many options to choose from, it can be overwhelming as to where to start. Here are some suggestions to help you make the most of your culinary adventures in the city:

a. Gumbo Ya Ya

A classic New Orleans dish, gumbo is a must-try. Gumbo Ya Ya is known for its delicious varieties of the dish, from traditional seafood gumbo to vegetarian and vegan options.

b. Po’ Boys

A staple of New Orleans cuisine, a po’ boy is a sandwich usually made with either fried seafood or roast beef served on a baguette. Try the famous Johnny’s Po-Boys located in the French Quarter for a delicious taste of New Orleans.

c. Café du Monde

A trip to New Orleans wouldn’t be complete without enjoying New Orleans’ famous beignets, accompanied by a traditional cafe au lait. Head over to Cafe Du Monde to experience the café’s signature treats in their original location in the French Quarter.

3. Immerse Yourself in the Music

Music is a crucial part of New Orleans’ vibrant culture. Being a cultural melting pot, New Orleans has a rich musical history, and visitors can experience it for themselves throughout the city. Here’s how to listen to jazz, blues, and more in the city:

a. Preservation Hall

For a classic jazz music experience, head over to Preservation Hall, located in the French Quarter. Here, you can experience traditional New Orleans jazz featuring local performers.

b. Frenchmen Street

Frenchmen Street is the epicenter of nightlife in New Orleans, during evenings of the week, musicians from all over the city come to perform in bars, clubs, and restaurants. From jazz and blues to funk and soul, Frenchmen Street has it all.

c. New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park

The New Orleans Jazz National Historical Park is a must-visit attraction for music enthusiasts. The park is dedicated to preserving the history and tradition of jazz music in New Orleans, and you can learn all about it through their tours, performances and even take a jazz lesson.

4. Get Festive

New Orleans has a festival for everything from jazz to seafood, there is something going on almost every month throughout the year. Here are some of the must-attend festivals in the city:

a. Mardi Gras

The most famous festival in the city, Mardi Gras brings in thousands of visitors every year to enjoy carnival parades, rich history, and the famous bead-throwing. For a great time in the city, plan your visit during this iconic festival.

b. Jazz Fest

Jazz Fest takes place every spring, and it’s a celebration of everything New Orleans, showcasing music, food, and culture in the city. You can enjoy performances from internationally-known musicians, sample food from local restaurants and engage in culture-based activities.

c. Essence Fest

Essence Fest celebrates African American culture, music, and empowerment through keynote speeches, empowerment seminars, and music festivals. It’s a great way to celebrate the city’s African American culture, music, and art.

Book Your Tour Now

In conclusion, New Orleans is a city full of unique architecture, history, music, and food. The best way to experience it all is by taking a walking tour, indulging your taste buds, immersing yourself in the music and getting festive. By using this guide, we hope that you will have an enjoyable and memorable experience in New Orleans.