Mardi Gras Mambo Tours: Sip, Savor SecondLine

If you’re visiting New Orleans and want a taste of the city’s lively spirit without the endless party scene, Mardi Gras Mambo Tours’ Sip, Savor SecondLine might just be what you’re looking for. This tour offers a relaxed yet engaging way to soak in some of NOLA’s most iconic sights and flavors. It’s especially appealing if you’re into authentic experiences that combine culture, craft drinks, and a bit of fun, all wrapped up in a manageable four-hour window.

What really caught our attention about this tour is how it manages to balance education and entertainment — you get a guided look into Mardi Gras traditions and the city’s Prohibition-era history, plus plenty of chances to sip on local spirits. We also appreciate that it’s family-friendly (kids are welcome, though you need to be 21+ to drink), and the fact that they offer a pickup option makes it even more convenient.

That said, it’s worth noting that at $199 per person, this isn’t the cheapest thing in town, but given the inclusions — two immersive stops and an open bar — it tends to be good value for those keen on experiencing NOLA’s culture in a relaxed setting. Keep in mind, it’s best suited for those who enjoy guided tours with a focus on local craftsmanship and a lively, social atmosphere.

Key Points

• Accessible for families with children, as kids are welcomed
• Includes two major stops: Mardi Gras World and a local distillery
• Open bar experience with drinks like gin, whiskey, vodka, and moonshine
• Guided tours provide insights into Mardi Gras and Prohibition history
• Comfortable transportation included with pickup options
• Great for those who appreciate local spirits, culture, and a laid-back vibe

An Honest Look at the Tour Experience

When considering a tour like Mardi Gras Mambo Tours: Sip, Savor SecondLine, it’s important to understand what makes it stand out, and also where it might fall short for some travelers. Offering a mix of culture, history, and spirits, this tour caters to those who want a balanced experience, not just a party.

The Itinerary in Detail

First Stop: Mardi Gras World

The journey begins at Mardi Gras World, where you’ll be greeted with a classic New Orleans hurricane — a fun, themed welcome that immediately sets the mood. The guided tour of this festive facility lasts just over an hour and a handful of minutes, giving you a behind-the-scenes look at the elaborate floats and costumes that make Mardi Gras so special.

This stop is a highlight for several reasons. We loved the way it offers both visual spectacle and cultural insight — you’ll see the craftsmanship behind the floats and learn what makes Mardi Gras uniquely NOLA. As one reviewer put it, the tour “takes the time to make it great for everyone,” even those who might not be immersed in Mardi Gras traditions. It’s a vibrant, colorful start that gets you into the spirit without feeling overwhelming.

Second Stop: Seven Three Distilling Co.

Next, you head to Seven Three Distillery, a local favorite that offers a taste of the city’s craft spirits. Here, you can sample gin, whiskey, vodka, and moonshine — all with the chance to learn about the distilling process. The guided tour dives into the Prohibition era, adding a historical twist to your tasting experience.

What sets this apart is the open bar element, allowing you to enjoy the spirits freely while listening to the story of NOLA’s alcohol history. We found this to be a real highlight, especially knowing that knowledgeable guides keep the experience lively and informative. You’ll leave with a better understanding of New Orleans’ relationship with spirits and a few stories to share back home.

Transportation & Convenience

The tour includes shuttle services, which removes the hassle of figuring out how to get from one spot to another. Plus, the pickup option means you can relax before the tour even begins, rather than stressing over transportation logistics. The entire experience is private for your group, making it feel personalized and more intimate.

Duration & Timing

Starting at noon, this four-hour tour is well-timed for a leisurely afternoon. It’s flexible enough to fit into a day of exploring other parts of NOLA or as a standalone activity. The timing means you’ll avoid late-night crowds and still enjoy a social, festive atmosphere.

Pricing & Value

At $199 per person, this tour isn’t the cheapest, but it’s packed with value. You’re getting guided access to two key attractions, unlimited spirits at the distillery, and the convenience of transportation. According to reviews, it’s a “great group activity” and “totally worth it,” especially for those interested in culture and craft spirits rather than just partying.

Kid-Friendly & Family Considerations

While kids are welcome, it’s important to note that you must be 21+ to drink. Families with children can enjoy the sights and the fun of the floats, but the alcohol component means it’s not suitable for underage drinkers. The tour’s relaxed pace and engaging guides make it a good option for families who want to include a cultural outing in their trip.

Overall Feel & Authenticity

Feedback from past participants highlights how knowledgeable and friendly the guides are, adding value to the experience. As one reviewer noted, “They take the time to make the tour great for everyone,” which is a good sign of attentiveness. The combination of visual spectacle at Mardi Gras World and the local spirit tasting offers a well-rounded glimpse into what makes New Orleans special.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adults interested in local culture and craft spirits, those who enjoy guided tours, and travelers who want a relaxed, social activity with a hint of history. It’s suitable for groups, couples, or even families with older children. If you’re looking for a low-pressure way to enjoy NOLA’s vibrant spirit without the wild nightlife, this is a solid choice.

What Could Be Better?

While most reviews are glowing, the price point might be a consideration for budget travelers. Also, since the experience is focused on two specific stops, those looking for a broader or more adventurous tour might find it limited. Still, for what it offers, it provides a good balance of education, fun, and taste.

Mardi Gras Mambo Tours’ Sip, Savor SecondLine offers a relaxed yet engaging way to experience some of New Orleans’ best cultural and culinary offerings. The guided visits to Mardi Gras World and the local distillery are thoughtfully curated, with knowledgeable guides adding depth and personality. The open bar aspect makes it stand out, especially if you enjoy tasting local spirits and learning about their history.

This tour is particularly suited for travelers who want an enjoyable, insider view of NOLA’s traditions without the rowdiness of a typical party scene. It’s a good pick for those who love a mix of culture, craft, and a laid-back social atmosphere — plus, it’s family-friendly (with the caveat that only those 21+ can drink).

If you’re in New Orleans and want a taste of its spirit in a comfortable, guided setting, this tour can give you a memorable slice of the city’s lively character, all wrapped up in four hours of fun and learning.

FAQs

Is pickup included in the tour?
Yes, shuttle services are provided, and pickup options are available, making it easy to start your day without worrying about transportation.

What is the tour duration?
The tour lasts approximately four hours, starting at noon, which offers a relaxed pace without feeling rushed.

Are drinks included?
Yes, the tour features an open bar where you can sample gin, whiskey, vodka, and moonshine at the distillery stop.

Can children participate?
Yes, children are welcomed on the tour, but only those 21 and over can consume alcohol.

What is the price?
The tour costs $199 per person, which includes guided visits, spirits tastings, and transportation.

Is the experience private?
Yes, this is a private tour for your group only, adding a personalized feel to the experience.

What’s the main focus of the tour?
It focuses on New Orleans’ Mardi Gras culture, local spirits, and history, offering a taste of the city’s vibrant traditions.

How many reviews has it received?
It has received 2 reviews, both giving it a perfect 5-star rating, reflecting strong satisfaction among participants.

What should I wear?
Comfortable clothes suitable for walking and possibly some casual dress for the distillery — no special attire is necessary.

Overall, Mardi Gras Mambo Tours: Sip, Savor SecondLine offers a genuine, enjoyable way to experience New Orleans. Whether you’re a history buff, a spirits enthusiast, or just looking to add a fun, cultural activity to your trip, this tour is worth considering.