New Orleans Sightseeing City Tour

If you’re planning a trip to New Orleans, chances are you’ll want to see more than just the French Quarter. This sightseeing bus tour offers a solid way to cover a lot of ground—nearly three hours packed with neighborhoods, history, and culture. We haven’t taken this tour ourselves, but from what travelers have shared and the details available, it looks like a popular pick for first-timers eager to get a broader view of the city.

What draws many in are the knowledgeable guides who seem to keep things lively and informative, and the opportunity to see neighborhoods that aren’t always on the typical tourist radar. Plus, the stops at cemeteries and City Park add a bit of local flavor and history you won’t get from just wandering around on your own. That said, a potential downside is the short duration of stops—so if you’re keen on exploring a specific neighborhood in detail, this might not be the tour for you.

This tour feels like a good fit for those who want an efficient, engaging overview without the hassle of planning each step. It’s especially suited for first-time visitors or people with limited time who want a taste of many different parts of New Orleans in one go.

Key Points

• Comprehensive overview of neighborhoods beyond the French Quarter
• Experienced guides who are both knowledgeable and personable
• Convenient multiple departure times to suit your schedule
• Includes a cemetery visit, City Park stop, and scenic drives
• Affordable price point for the amount of ground covered
• Family-friendly, with most travelers of all ages finding it suitable

What to Expect from the Tour

This 2 hour 30 minute bus tour starts at Bons New Orleans Street Food, right in the heart of the French Quarter. Whether you choose the early or late options, you’ll meet your guide and small group (up to 24 people), ready for a relaxed yet info-packed ride through some of the city’s most notable neighborhoods.

One of the first highlights is Jackson Square, with its iconic St. Louis Cathedral and surrounding architecture. Your guide will share stories about these landmarks, giving you context that makes the sights come alive. The quick history lessons on these well-known sites set the tone for a tour that’s both fun and educational.

The Neighborhoods You’ll Explore

Next up, your journey takes you through Faubourg Marigny and Treme, neighborhoods famous for their vibrance and musical roots. From the stories shared, it’s clear guides love highlighting these areas, often referencing their appearances on TV shows like Treme. The tour emphasizes the city’s resilience, especially when passing through the Lower 9th Ward, where the effects of Hurricane Katrina are still visible.

Traveling through these neighborhoods, you’ll get a snapshot of local life, architecture, and community revival efforts. Several reviews mention how the guides’ personal stories and humor make the experience memorable, even if the stops are brief. As one reviewer put it, “The guide was very knowledgeable, funny, and had a lot of facts about the city.”

Cemetery Visit and City Park Break

A significant part of the tour is the stop at St. Louis Cemetery No. 3. Unlike the more famous No. 1, this cemetery offers a quieter, more respectful look at above-ground burials typical of New Orleans. Your guide will explain the local burial customs, which many find fascinating. Admission is included, so no need to worry about extra costs.

Afterward, there’s a quick break at City Park, where you can buy beignets and coffee (at your own expense). This stop is particularly well-loved, with reviews praising the chance to enjoy a classic New Orleans treat in a beautiful setting. It’s a chance to stretch your legs, take photos, and soak in the park’s lush scenery.

The Garden District and Magazine Street

Next, the tour brings you through the Garden District, renowned for its historic mansions and charming streets. Your guide will offer a brief history of the architecture and notable homes, including the famous Buckner Mansion. The Coven house, featured in American Horror Story, is a quick photo stop for those interested.

For shopping and local cuisine, Magazine Street is a highlight. It’s full of shops, restaurants, and cafes, perfect for browsing or grabbing a quick bite if you wish. The tour wraps up back at the starting point, completing a well-rounded introduction to the city.

The Real Value of This Tour

For $50, you get a well-organized, guided overview that hits many of the city’s highlights without the stress of navigating on your own. The small group size ensures a more personal experience, and the air-conditioned bus is a relief during hot days.

Many travelers, including those who’ve reviewed positively, emphasize the guides’ knowledge and enthusiasm. One review states, “Scott was very knowledgeable, personable, and funny,” which shows the tour’s ability to entertain while educating. The inclusion of cemetery entrance and optional Beignets makes it feel like a good deal, especially considering the transportation and expert commentary.

That said, some reviews mention issues like microphone problems or the quick pace, which may affect the experience if you prefer more detailed stops or slower sightseeing. Also, the tour’s duration means you won’t have long at individual spots, so those wanting an in-depth exploration of any neighborhood might need additional visits.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

It’s ideal for first-time visitors wanting a broad overview, as well as those with limited time in New Orleans. Since it’s family-friendly and mostly on flat surfaces, it works for most travelers, but keep in mind it’s not wheelchair accessible and involves some walking and steps to board the bus.

If you’re interested in historic cemeteries, local neighborhoods, and city culture, this tour hits those marks well. But if your priority is a deep dive into a single area or a highly interactive experience, you might prefer a more specialized or longer tour.

Final Thoughts

In summary, this New Orleans Sightseeing City Tour offers value, comfort, and a good introduction to the city’s diverse neighborhoods. The guided commentary adds depth and personality, making it more than just a bus ride. It’s a solid choice for travelers wanting a manageable way to see many key sights in a short amount of time.

While it may not satisfy those craving detailed exploration or off-the-beaten-path adventures, it’s excellent for getting your bearings and learning some fascinating stories along the way. The combination of reliable guides, scenic routes, and included cemetery visits makes it a well-rounded option—especially considering the affordable price.

If you’re seeking a convenient, informative, and enjoyable orientation to New Orleans, this tour does a lot of the heavy lifting for you. Just keep in mind the quick stops and plan to do some follow-up exploring on your own if something catches your eye.

FAQs

Is parking available near the meeting point for the New Orleans Sightseeing City Tour?
There is limited parking in the area, and rates may vary. Since the tour departs from the heart of the French Quarter, many prefer walking or using public transportation. Ride-share services like Uber or Lyft are also good options.

Can I use public transportation to get to the meeting location?
Absolutely. Public transit stops nearby, making it a convenient option for getting there without hassle.

How early should I arrive for the tour?
It’s best to arrive about 15 minutes before your scheduled departure to ensure a smooth start, especially if you’re parking or walking.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
Yes, it’s generally appropriate for guests of all ages, especially since it’s mainly on flat surfaces and involves minimal physical activity.

How strenuous is the tour?
The tour involves some walking and steps to board the bus, but it’s not considered strenuous. Most of the experience is comfortably seated.

Is the bus wheelchair accessible?
No, the bus used for this tour isn’t wheelchair accessible. Guests need to be able to walk and navigate steps.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and layered clothing are recommended, especially considering New Orleans’ weather can vary.

Are Beignets and lunch included?
Beignets and coffee are included if you choose that option at checkout. You can also purchase them at City Park or enjoy other eating options afterward.

Does the tour visit a cemetery?
Yes, the stop at St. Louis Cemetery No. 3 allows a respectful look at New Orleans’ above-ground burial practices. Entry is included.

Will I see Marie Laveau’s tomb?
Marie Laveau’s tomb is in St. Louis Cemetery 1, which isn’t part of this tour. You will pass by the cemetery but won’t visit her tomb specifically.

In the end, the New Orleans Sightseeing City Tour offers a practical, friendly way to get a taste of the city’s neighborhoods, culture, and history—all in a comfortable, guided setting. It’s especially suited for those who want a quick but meaningful introduction to this vibrant city.