New Orleans City and Cemetery 2-Hour Bus Tour

Exploring New Orleans in a Nutshell: Our Honest Take on the 2-Hour City and Cemetery Bus Tour

If you’re planning a quick visit to New Orleans and want to get a solid overview of the city’s most famous sights, the New Orleans City and Cemetery 2-Hour Bus Tour might catch your eye. Offered by VIP City Tours, this experience promises a relaxed, air-conditioned ride through the French Quarter, Garden District, Treme, and more, topped off with a guided stroll through one of the city’s historic cemeteries.

Two things we love about this tour are the knowledgeable guides who mix storytelling with humor and the chance to see a broad swath of the city without the fatigue of walking miles. Plus, the convenience of hotel pickup makes logistics way easier—especially if you’re short on time.

One thing to consider is the brief parking and bathroom stops—restrooms aren’t on the bus, and some reviews mention limited time at key spots like City Park. So, if you’re someone who loves to linger or take tons of photos, this might feel a little rushed. Still, it’s a solid choice for first-timers or those looking for a quick, informative overview of NOLA.

This tour is perfect if you’re new to the city, traveling with limited time, or just want a comfortable and guided introduction to New Orleans’ most iconic neighborhoods and cultural sites.

Key Points

• Comfortable Transport: The air-conditioned bus makes exploring enjoyable, especially in NOLA’s often warm weather.
• Knowledgeable Guides: Guides provide engaging commentary, answering questions and sharing stories that bring the city’s history to life.
• Wide Coverage: The tour hits all the top neighborhoods—the French Quarter, Garden District, Treme, and beyond—giving a well-rounded snapshot.
• Historic Cemeteries: The included cemetery stop offers a glimpse into NOLA’s unique relationship with its dead, with a walk-through of a historic graveyard.
• Convenience: Hotel pickup and drop-off (at select hotels) make logistics simpler for visitors.
• Limited Time at Stops: Expect about 10-15 minutes at key sites, which is enough for photos and quick exploration but not for deep dives.

What to Expect During the Tour

Getting Comfortable on the Bus
When you hop aboard the air-conditioned vehicle, you’ll appreciate the break from the heat and the chance to relax as the guide starts weaving the story of New Orleans. With a maximum group size of around 28, it feels intimate enough for questions but still private enough to enjoy the ride.

The Itinerary Breakdown

• Garden District
  This neighborhood is known for its stunning mansions and lush gardens, making it a highlight for many visitors. Notably, many celebrities live here, including Sandra Bullock and John Goodman, which adds a fun “spotting” element. The homes are picture-worthy; you’ll see elegant architecture and tree-lined streets that evoke a calm, upscale vibe.

• Treme Neighborhood
  Known as the birthplace of jazz and the spiritual heart of the city, Treme is rooted in musical history and Black culture. Armstrong Park and Congo Square anchor this neighborhood with stories that showcase the city’s cultural resilience and significance. The guide’s commentary here is often filled with local tidbits that you won’t find in books.

• French Quarter
  The legendary heart of New Orleans is a must-see. As the bus winds down Decatur Street and passes through the French Market, you’ll get a sense of the area’s vibrant atmosphere—without the overwhelming crowds. The guide shares history and fun facts about this 300-year-old area, giving you context for the lively streets you see.

• St. Louis Cemetery No. 3
  A quick walk into the cemetery reveals the city’s unique approach to graveyard design—above ground tombs and a sense of history that lingers. Several reviews praise this stop, with one reviewer noting, “the stories that haunt the Crescent City are told here,” adding a layer of intrigue to your visit.

• City Park
  This vast green space, larger than Central Park, offers a tranquil break from city sightseeing. With its moss-draped trees and ponds, it’s a visual treat. You’ll get about 10 minutes here to soak in the scenery and then enjoy a quick snack at Café Du Monde, famed for beignets and café au lait.

• Local Rebuilding Stories & Iconic Landmarks
  The tour also touches on how New Orleans has recovered from Hurricane Katrina, with visits to Musician’s Village and other revitalized areas. Guides share stories of resilience and progress, which many reviews call inspiring.

• Guinness Record Lakes & the Superdome
  Passing by Lake Pontchartrain, one of the largest estuaries in the country, you’ll marvel at the size of the water body—bigger than many lakes. The Superdome, built on the site of an old cemetery, is another point of interest, blending history with modern city life.

• Market & Other Pass-Bys
  The outdoor market and other iconic sights are passed en route, giving you the chance to picture yourself returning for a longer visit later.

What Reviewers Say
Multiple reviews praise the guides for their knowledge and humor, with some mentioning that the tour provides a solid overview “perfect for a short visit.” One reviewer called their guide “super fun and engaging,” even in pouring rain, highlighting the personable nature of the guides.

What Could Be Better
Some reviewers note that the stops are brief—10 to 15 minutes at each site—so don’t expect to explore each location in depth. Also, the bus doesn’t have restrooms onboard, so plan accordingly, especially for the cemetery walk.

Pricing and Value
At $49.98 per person, this tour offers a very practical way to see many of the city’s highlights without the hassle of navigating on your own. Considering it includes hotel pickup, a guided commentary, and a cemetery walk, it’s a good value for first-timers or those with limited time.

Group Size & Accessibility
With a maximum of 28 travelers, it doesn’t feel crowded. The tour involves some steps to get in and out of the bus and walk in cemeteries, so it’s best suited for travelers able to handle that. Kids are welcome, but keep in mind the brief stops and walking involved.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re visiting NOLA for the first time and want a broad, guided overview, this tour hits the right notes. It’s ideal for those who prefer comfort and convenience—especially if humidity or heat might make long walks less appealing. It’s also good for travelers who want to ask questions and get local insights in a relaxed setting.

However, if you’re looking for a deep dive into specific neighborhoods or cultural experiences, this might feel a bit rushed. It’s not a substitute for exploring on your own or joining specialized tours later in your trip, but as an intro, it’s solid.

FAQs

Does the tour include hotel pickup from all hotels in New Orleans?
The tour picks up from most hotels in the French Quarter and Central Business District. When booking, select your hotel or provide your address. If your hotel isn’t listed, you can contact the operator with your hotel details to arrange pickup.

What time does the pickup usually happen?
Pickup typically starts about 30 minutes before the official start time. The tour operator will confirm your exact pickup details a few days before the tour.

Are guides knowledgeable?
Absolutely. The guides are passionate about NOLA’s history and culture, and reviews show they’re engaging, funny, and ready to answer questions. Many previous travelers mention that guides like Christopher, Henry, and Justin made the tour memorable.

Will I get off the bus during the tour?
Yes, at two main stops—St. Louis Cemetery No. 3 and City Park—you’ll be able to walk around and see up close. The rest of the tour is mainly riding and viewing from the bus.

Are there restrooms on the bus?
No, there are no restrooms onboard, so plan to use the facilities at City Park or Café du Monde.

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, children can enjoy the tour. Just be aware of the walking involved and the steps to get on and off the bus. It’s a family-friendly way to introduce everyone to New Orleans’ sights and sounds.

In essence, the New Orleans City and Cemetery 2-Hour Bus Tour offers a friendly, insightful, and convenient way to see many of the city’s iconic sites in a short time. While it’s not an exhaustive adventure, it’s a solid choice for newcomers eager to get a taste of the Big Easy’s neighborhoods, history, and spirit—all from the comfort of a climate-controlled bus with friendly guides. For travelers who appreciate a good overview without the hassle, this tour hits the right notes.