Mules in New Orleans Barn Tour

If you’re after something a little different on your New Orleans trip, the Mules in New Orleans Barn Tour offers a unique peek behind the scenes of the city’s oldest stable and a lively neighborhood walk. This tour is perfect if you’re into local history, animal interactions, or just want a more relaxed, intimate way to experience New Orleans’ cultural tapestry.

From glowing reviews, it’s clear that this experience often surprises visitors with how engaging and informative it is. The highlight for many is definitely meeting the famous mules and learning how they’re cared for—something you won’t get on typical city tours. Plus, the walking tour through the historic Marigny adds a colorful local flavor that enriches the whole experience.

However, it’s worth noting that this is a small-group tour with just 14 travelers max, so it feels cozy but also might require booking well in advance—on average, travelers plan about 57 days ahead. The price is reasonable at $35, especially considering the personalized attention and behind-the-scenes access you get. If you love animals, history, and authentic neighborhood vibes, this tour probably belongs on your list.

This experience suits curious travelers who enjoy local stories, aren’t afraid of a little walking, and want to see a side of New Orleans that’s off the beaten path but deeply rooted in history and community. It’s not a high-energy, fast-paced affair, but rather a chance to slow down and savor the city’s lesser-known stories.

Key Points

• Unique focus on mules and the oldest carriage stable in the U.S.
• Includes a neighborhood walk through the historic Marigny area.
• Engages you with local legends and colorful history.
• Small group size ensures personalized interaction.
• Affordable price point at $35, making it accessible.
• Ideal for animal lovers, history buffs, and culture seekers.

An In-Depth Look at the Mules in New Orleans Barn Tour

What is this Tour About?

This two-hour experience takes you behind the scenes of Royal Carriages, the oldest carriage company in the U.S., nestled right in the heart of New Orleans. The main draw is meeting the famous mules—a chance to see these gentle giants up close, pet them, and learn about their vital role in the city’s tradition of carriage rides. It’s a rare opportunity that combines animal care with a glimpse into New Orleans’ storied past.

Following the mule barn visit, you’ll head out on foot into the Faubourg Marigny neighborhood, the city’s oldest district. This part of the tour is a deeper dive into local life, architecture, and tales that shape the neighborhood’s unique character. You’ll get a palpable sense of the area’s cultural significance, from its music roots to its colorful streets.

Finally, the tour hits Frenchmen Street, famed for its vibrant live music scene, eclectic eateries, and historic bars. The last stop is the New Orleans Jazz Museum, where you’ll learn about some of the city’s fascinating historical episodes—like the Creole Revolt against Spanish rule and Civil War betrayals—adding a layer of historical depth to your day.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Faubourg Marigny

This is where the tour really shines. You’ll start at the famous stable at 1824 N Rampart St, getting an up-close look at the mules, which many reviews highlight as a highlight. Guests often comment on how friendly and snuggly the mules are, with one reviewer mentioning, “Farin_W said the mule was very friendly and let us pet him, which made the experience even more special.”

Your guide, Shannon, or others, will share stories about the stables’ history and the care routines for these animals. We loved that this part of the tour isn’t just about looking but also about understanding how these animals are preserved and protected, a detail appreciated by Seth_W who said, “You owe it to the mules to do this one!”

The walking segment through the neighborhood offers a chance to observe local architecture and vibe, giving you context about the historic Marigny area, which has been a hub for diverse communities, music, and culture for centuries.

Stop 2: Frenchmen Street

This 15-minute stop lets you soak in the lively atmosphere of Frenchmen Street. Known for live music and fantastic local eateries, it’s a favorite for visitors wanting a taste of authentic New Orleans nightlife. It’s a quick stop, but it sets the scene for the city’s vibrant street life.

Stop 3: New Orleans Jazz Museum

The final stop offers a quick but impactful cultural lesson. You’ll hear about historical events like the Creole Revolt and learn about the only mint in U.S. history to forge coins for both Union and Confederacy. While the tour doesn’t include admission, the stories shared here add depth that many guests find fascinating, especially history buffs.

What Do Visitors Say?

The reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and the friendliness of the mules. Caitlin_O mentioned she’d do this tour again because of how much she enjoyed learning about the stables and the area’s history. Seth_W emphasized that “You owe it to the mules to do this one,” highlighting the importance of animal care and the meaningful interaction.

Many guests also appreciated the personal attention from guides, describing them as friendly and informative. JudiWheeler noted, “We learned quite a few things and spotted some places we’d like to revisit,” suggesting the tour is good for sparking curiosity about other parts of the city.

The price point of $35 is seen as fair, especially given the intimate setting and behind-the-scenes access. While it’s a relatively short tour, the quality of the experience seems to compensate well.

Practical Details

• Meeting Point: 1824 N Rampart St, starting at 11:00 am.
• Duration: About 2 hours, including the neighborhood walk.
• Group Size: Max 14 travelers, ensuring a cozy, personal experience.
• Weather: The tour is weather-dependent; if canceled due to poor weather, you can reschedule or get a full refund.
• Accessibility: Service animals are allowed.
• Booking: Most travelers book about two months in advance, so planning ahead is smart.

The Value for Travelers

At $35, this experience offers a good value for those interested in local history, animals, and authentic neighborhood exploration. It isn’t a high-energy tour but more of a relaxed, educational walk that enriches your understanding of New Orleans beyond the typical tourist spots. The behind-the-scenes mule barn visit is a real highlight that sets this tour apart from more conventional city excursions.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This tour is especially suited for animal lovers, history enthusiasts, and those curious about local culture. If you enjoy small-group experiences where guides share personal stories and detailed insights, you’ll feel right at home. It’s also ideal for travelers who prefer a more leisurely pace and meaningful interactions over rapid sightseeing.

While it’s not explicitly marketed as family-friendly, the gentle nature of the mules and the engaging guide make it accessible to older children, especially if they’re interested in animals or history. Just keep in mind the walking involved and the modest duration.

This tour offers a genuine, heartfelt look at New Orleans’ history, culture, and animal care—an experience that’s both fun and educational without feeling rushed or superficial.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
While not specifically marketed as a family tour, children who enjoy animals and history will likely find the mule interactions and neighborhood walk enjoyable. Just consider the walking and the small-group setting.

Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the scheduled start time, and you’ll receive a full refund.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended since you’ll be on your feet for part of the tour. The tour is outdoors, so dress for the weather.

Is there any additional cost?
The tour price is $35 per person, and the only potential extra cost might be at the Jazz Museum if you choose to visit inside—admission isn’t included in the tour.

Are service animals allowed?
Yes, service animals are permitted on the tour.

How many people typically join this tour?
The maximum group size is 14, which helps keep the experience intimate and personalized.

What makes this tour a good choice?
If you want a mix of local history, animal encounters, and neighborhood exploration without the crowds or rush of larger tours, this is a perfect pick.

In all, if you’re looking for a relaxed, authentic, and engaging way to connect with New Orleans’ past and present, the Mules in New Orleans Barn Tour offers a genuine slice of local life. It’s especially worth considering if you’re a fan of animals, history, or simply want to see a quieter side of the city that’s full of stories.