How to Plan Your Soulful New Orleans Jazz History Private Tour

Are you looking for a tour that will take you on a journey through the heart and soul of New Orleans jazz history? Look no further than the Soul of New Orleans Jazz History Private Tour. In this guide, we’ll give you all the information you need to plan your perfect tour, from what to expect to how to book it.

Overview

New Orleans is known as the birthplace of jazz, a music genre that originated in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. The Soul of New Orleans Jazz History Private Tour is a unique experience that explores the deep roots of jazz in the city, taking you on a journey through essential jazz hotspots. With a private guide, you’ll discover hidden gems that locals love and get insider tips on how to avoid the tourist traps.This tour is designed to provide you with the ultimate jazz experience. You’ll learn all about jazz history, the origins of jazz, and the important musicians who made it famous. Additionally, you’ll learn about Creole culture, voodoo, and famous city landmarks.

What’s Included

• Private Tour
• Local Guide
• Hotel pick-up and drop off

Meeting and Pickup

Meeting Point: Best Western Plus French Quarter Courtyard Hotel, 920 N Rampart St, New Orleans, LA 70116, USA.End Point: Frenchmen Street, Frenchmen St, New Orleans, LA, USA.

What to Expect

During the tour, you will visit several key locations related to the history of jazz in New Orleans. These include:

Congo Square

Your tour will visit Congo Square, a public square in the Tremé neighborhood located across from Louis Armstrong Park. Congo Square is considered by many to be the birthplace of jazz, as it was the site where enslaved Africans were allowed to play drums and other instruments on Sundays during the 18th and 19th centuries. Today, the square is a National Historic Landmark and a testament to the city’s rich cultural heritage.

Saint Ann Street

Saint Ann Street is located in the French Quarter and is home to the famous Preservation Hall. This historic venue has been a mecca for jazz lovers since the 1960s, with nightly performances by some of the best musicians in New Orleans.

How to Book

To book your Soul of New Orleans Jazz History Private Tour, visit Viator at https://www.viator.com/tours/New-Orleans/The-Soul-of-New-Orleans-Jazz-History-Private-Tour/d675-24380P1306. The tour is organized by local tour guides who have extensive knowledge of the city and its jazz history. You’ll get to choose a date and time that works best for you and be in the hands of experienced professionals who will provide you with a top-quality experience.

Conclusion

If you love jazz and want to experience the history of this iconic genre in the city where it all began, the Soul of New Orleans Jazz History Private Tour is the perfect choice. This tour offers a unique and personalized experience that will take you to the heart and soul of jazz culture in New Orleans. So what are you waiting for? Book your tour here today!

Frequently Asked Questions About New Orleans

New Orleans is a city full of history, culture, and vibrancy, attracting millions of visitors every year. However, people have many questions when it comes to visiting, so we’ve compiled a list of the most frequently asked questions about New Orleans.

1. What is the best time to visit New Orleans?

New Orleans is known for its warm and humid weather, which can be uncomfortable during the summer months. Therefore, the best time to visit New Orleans is from February to May when the weather is mild, and there are fewer crowds. This is also the time when the city hosts several festivals, including Mardi Gras, Jazz Fest, and French Quarter Fest.

2. What is the best way to get around New Orleans?

New Orleans is a walkable city, but if you need to travel further distances, there are many options. The city’s streetcar system is a popular and affordable way to get around, with three lines servicing different parts of the city. Additionally, taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available.

3. What are the must-visit tourist attractions in New Orleans?

New Orleans is filled with notable tourist attractions, including:

• The French Quarter, known for its charming architecture, street performers, and 24/7 party atmosphere.
• The National WWII Museum, a world-class museum with interactive exhibits and artifacts from the war.
• The Garden District, a beautiful neighborhood with well-preserved 19th-century mansions and lush trees.
• The Saint Louis Cathedral, a stunning example of Spanish colonial architecture and the oldest continually operating Catholic cathedral in the US.

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

The legal drinking age in New Orleans is 21, and you will be asked to present a government-issued photo identification to purchase alcohol.

5. What are some must-try dishes in New Orleans?

New Orleans is famous for its culinary scene, and some must-try dishes include:

• Jambalaya, a spicy rice dish with sausage, chicken, and seafood
• Gumbo, a stew made with seafood, sausage, and vegetables, served over rice.
• Beignets, a deep-fried pastry dusted with powdered sugar, served with café au lait.
• Po-boys, a classic New Orleans sandwich served on French bread with various fillings, from fried seafood to roast beef.

6. Can I drink alcohol on the streets in New Orleans?

Yes, you can drink alcohol on the streets of New Orleans, but only in certain areas. The French Quarter is a popular area for “go-cups,” which are containers for beer or cocktails that you can take to go. However, it’s important to note that drinking to excess in public is illegal and frowned upon.

7. What should I pack for a trip to New Orleans?

When packing for a trip to New Orleans, it’s important to consider the weather and activities you have planned. In general, lightweight clothing is recommended, as the weather can be warm and humid. Comfortable shoes are a must, especially if you plan on exploring the city on foot. Additionally, you might want to bring an umbrella or rain jacket, as the city can experience sudden downpours.

8. Is it safe to walk around New Orleans at night?

Just like any major city, New Orleans has its share of crime, but the majority of tourist areas are safe, even at night. However, it’s always important to be aware of your surroundings and take precautions to stay safe.

9. Is it necessary to tip in New Orleans?

Tipping is customary in New Orleans, just like in most parts of the US. In general, it’s appropriate to tip 15-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, and $1-2 per bag for hotel and airport baggage handlers.

10. What is the best way to experience Mardi Gras?

Mardi Gras is a massive celebration in New Orleans, with parades, music, food, and drinks taking over the city. The best way to experience it is to plan ahead and book accommodations and parade tickets in advance. Additionally, it’s important to pace yourself and drink plenty of water, as the celebrations can last for days.

In Conclusion

New Orleans is a unique and exciting destination with plenty of activities, sights, and sounds to explore. By considering these frequently asked questions, you can be better prepared and have a more enjoyable trip. Remember to pack comfortable shoes, try the local cuisine, and take precautions to stay safe. With a bit of planning, your trip to New Orleans is sure to be unforgettable.

How to spend your time as a tourist in New Orleans

New Orleans is a city full of flavor, from its unique cuisine to its vibrant music and culture. As a tourist, there are many ways to spend your time in New Orleans. Here, we’ve put together a comprehensive guide to help you make the most of your visit.

1. Explore the French Quarter

The French Quarter is one of the most popular tourist destinations in New Orleans. It is the oldest and most historic neighborhood in the city, dating back to the early 18th century. The French Quarter is home to incredible architecture, lively bars and nightclubs, and a variety of shops and restaurants.

How to explore the French Quarter:

1. Take a walking tour: There are many walking tours available that will take you through the French Quarter. Consider taking a guided tour to learn about the history and culture of the area.
2. Visit Jackson Square: Jackson Square is the heart of the French Quarter. It is home to the St. Louis Cathedral, as well as street performers and artists. Take a stroll through the square and enjoy the sights and sounds.
3. Try beignets: Beignets are a New Orleans specialty. These deep-fried pastries covered in powdered sugar are a must-try. Head to Café Du Monde for the best beignets in town.
4. Take a carriage ride: Carriage rides are a romantic and fun way to see the French Quarter. They can be found on many street corners throughout the area.

2. Listen to live music

New Orleans is known as the birthplace of jazz, and music is a huge part of the city’s culture. There are many venues throughout the city where you can listen to live jazz, blues, and other types of music.

Where to listen to live music:

• Preservation Hall: Preservation Hall is a historic music venue in the French Quarter. It has been showcasing New Orleans jazz since 1961.
• Tipitina’s: Tipitina’s is a famous music venue in uptown New Orleans. It is known for its great music and lively atmosphere.
• Snug Harbor Jazz Bistro: Snug Harbor is a popular jazz club in the Faubourg Marigny neighborhood. It features live music seven nights a week.
• The Spotted Cat Music Club: The Spotted Cat is a small music club in the Frenchmen Street neighborhood. It features live jazz music every night.

3. Indulge in the local cuisine

New Orleans is known for its unique cuisine, which combines French, African, and Caribbean influences. There are many restaurants throughout the city where you can try local dishes like gumbo, jambalaya, and po’boys.

Where to eat in New Orleans:

1. Brennan’s: Brennan’s is a famous New Orleans restaurant known for its brunch and classic Creole dishes.
2. Café Du Monde: Café Du Monde is a New Orleans institution known for its beignets and café au lait. It is open 24 hours a day.
3. K-Paul’s Louisiana Kitchen: K-Paul’s is a Cajun and Creole restaurant in the French Quarter. It is known for its blackened redfish and other Louisiana specialties.
4. Commander’s Palace: Commander’s Palace is an iconic New Orleans restaurant that has been around since 1880. It is known for its classic Creole dishes and beautiful décor.

4. Visit a plantation

New Orleans and the surrounding area is home to many historic plantations. These plantations were once used for farming sugar, tobacco, and cotton, and played a major role in Louisiana’s history.

Plantations to visit:

• Oak Alley Plantation: Oak Alley is a beautiful plantation located on the banks of the Mississippi River. It is known for its stunning live oak trees that are over 300 years old.
• Laura Plantation: Laura Plantation is a Creole plantation located about an hour outside of New Orleans. It is known for its beautiful gardens and unique Creole architecture.
• Destrehan Plantation: Destrehan is one of the oldest and most beautiful plantations in Louisiana. It is located about 30 minutes outside of New Orleans.
• Houmas House Plantation and Gardens: Houmas House is a beautiful plantation located about an hour outside of New Orleans. It is known for its beautiful gardens and stunning antebellum architecture.

5. Take a swamp tour

Louisiana is known for its swamps, which are home to a variety of wildlife including alligators, snakes, and birds. Taking a swamp tour is a great way to experience the unique ecosystem of Louisiana’s wetlands.

Swamp tours to consider:

1. Cajun Pride Swamp Tours: Cajun Pride offers a variety of swamp tours, including airboat tours and covered boat tours.
2. Canoe and Trail Adventures: Canoe and Trail offers guided kayak and canoe tours of the Louisiana swamps.
3. Swamp Adventures: Swamp Adventures offers airboat tours of the Louisiana swamps. They are known for their knowledgeable guides and up-close encounters with wildlife.
4. Nola Gator Tours: Nola Gator Tours offers airboat tours of the Louisiana swamps. They are known for their small group tours and experienced guides.

Conclusion

New Orleans is a vibrant and unique city with something to offer every tourist. Whether you are interested in history, music, food, or nature, there is something for everyone in New Orleans. Use this guide to plan your trip and make the most of your time in this amazing city.