City Sightseeing New Orleans HOHO Bus Tour & Bookable Extras

Taking a tour around a city like New Orleans can be both exciting and overwhelming. The City Sightseeing New Orleans HOHO Bus Tour promises an easy, flexible way to see the highlights, and from what we’ve gathered, it’s a solid option for first-timers or anyone wanting to maximize their time without missing the essentials.

This tour has some standout perks — like entertaining guides who bring the city’s stories to life and the chance to see many key landmarks from the open-top deck, which really enhances the experience. But, as with all city tours, there are some considerations. For example, the buses run every 30 minutes and last about 1.5 hours per loop, so if punctuality or a tightly packed schedule isn’t your thing, you might want to plan accordingly.

This tour seems best suited for travelers who want a broad introduction to New Orleans without the hassle of navigating on their own. Whether you’re here for a quick visit or have a few days to explore, the flexibility and variety of stops make it a practical choice that can fit different itineraries.

Key Points

• Flexible 1-3 day options for sightseeing according to your schedule
• Live commentary offers a more engaging experience compared to audio guides
• Stops at major attractions like Jackson Square, the French Market, Garden District, and French Quarter
• Guided walking tours included in 2 and 3-day passes add extra value
• Wheelchair accessible buses show inclusivity, but pets and smoking are not permitted
• The tour runs from roughly 9:30 am to 5:30 pm, with buses every 30 minutes

You can check availability for your dates here:

Why Choose the City Sightseeing New Orleans HOHO Bus Tour?

This tour stands out because it combines convenience with the opportunity to see many of the city’s highlights in a relaxed way. For many travelers, especially those new to New Orleans, the appeal is clear: you get to hop on and off near key sights, listen to a lively guide, and tailor your day at your own pace.

We loved the way the guides keep things engaging — these aren’t just voice-overs but live guides who add personality and local insights. Multiple reviews praise the guides for being knowledgeable, fun, and taking the time to ensure everyone feels safe and included. One reviewer even mentions that the guides spent extra time with passengers, which shows a real commitment to good service.

The open-top bus design is a big bonus when it comes to panoramic views. Imagine sitting back with a cool breeze while listening to stories about the city’s history and culture, then hopping off at a stop that catches your interest. Stops near attractions like Jackson Square, the French Market, and the Garden District mean you can easily explore on foot after your ride.

A Closer Look at the Route & Stops

The route is thoughtfully curated, covering all the major sights and some lesser-known gems. Starting at Jackson Square, you get the chance to see the iconic St. Louis Cathedral and maybe enjoy a beignet or coffee at a nearby café. The French Market, loaded with local produce and souvenirs, is a popular spot for browsing or grabbing a quick snack, and it’s right on the route.

The bus takes you through the vibrant French Quarter, along Royal Street, famous for antiques and art galleries, and then up to the Garden District, which boasts charming antebellum homes and leafy streets. The route also includes stops at the National WWII Museum, which is a must-visit for history buffs and offers a more in-depth look into the city’s past.

Other notable stops include Bourbon Street, lively at night but interesting during the day for its architecture and history, as well as Magazine Street, packed with shops and eateries. For a taste of local culture, the route also features music clubs on Frenchmen Street, which is great for evening entertainment if you’re planning to extend your exploration.

The Guided Walking Tours: Extra Value for Your Ticket

The Garden District Guided Walking Tour and the French Quarter Tour are included in the 2 and 3-day tickets, which adds a nice touch. These are scheduled at convenient times, like 11 am to 3 pm, and meet right at the stops, making it easy to join.

Participants find these tours particularly valuable because guides share fun facts and personal stories that enhance the experience beyond what you can get from a bus alone. One reviewer noted that the guides were “super” and gave lots of interesting info, which made their trip memorable.

If you’re a history or architecture lover, these walks are a perfect way to get a more detailed look at the neighborhoods, but even casual travelers will appreciate the deeper context these guides bring.

What You’re Getting — And What You’re Not

For $51 per person, the value of this tour really depends on your sightseeing style. The ticket includes live commentary, multiple stops, and optional guided walks. It’s a way to cover a lot of ground quickly without the stress of planning every detail.

However, attractions and food are not included, so if you want to visit specific sites like museums or enjoy meals at famed restaurants, you’ll need to budget extra. Also, hotel transfers aren’t part of the package, so you’ll need to figure out how to get to the stops, especially if your accommodation isn’t centrally located.

One of the best aspects, according to reviews, is the consistent scheduling and buses running every 30 minutes. That means you’re not waiting too long between rides, and you can plan your day around the route. The overall duration of each loop is about 1.5 hours, which allows you to see a lot but also leaves room for exploring at stops.

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The Experience & Atmosphere

Reviewers consistently mention the good energy of the guides, who are described as friendly, knowledgeable, and engaging. Many appreciate the live commentary as opposed to pre-recorded audio, feeling it makes the tour more lively and authentic.

The open-top buses offer great views, especially on clear days, and the stops are conveniently placed near major attractions, making it super easy to get on and off. Some users mention that the buses are wheelchair accessible, which is important for travelers with mobility needs, though pets and smoking aren’t allowed onboard.

One aspect that some find challenging is hearing the guide clearly — a common issue with busy city routes and open-air buses — but overall, the guides are praised for their friendliness and knowledge.

The Practicalities

Starting around 9:30 am and ending at 5:30 pm, the tour fits well into a typical sightseeing day. Buses depart every 30 minutes, so you can choose to stay on longer or hop off when something catches your eye.

Tickets are valid for 1, 2, or 3 days, giving you flexibility depending on how much you want to explore. The Garden District Guided Tour is included in the longer passes, adding extra value, and you can join these walks on any day your bus ticket is active.

Vouchers are easy to use — both mobile and printed are accepted — and you can redeem them at any stop. If you’re unsure about timing, remember the last departure from any stop is at 4 pm, with the final tour ending at 5:30 pm.

Authentic Voices: What Travelers Say

From enthusiastic first-timers to seasoned visitors, reviews show broad satisfaction. Many praise the knowledgeable guides, fun storytelling, and scenic views. One reviewer happily mentions, “Great trip! Covers so much and the tour guides are very knowledgeable,” highlighting how comprehensive the experience is.

Several mention that the guided tours add a layer of depth, making the city’s neighborhoods come alive. Others note the buses are comfortable, though some say that hearing the guide can be tricky on windy days or noisy streets.

Pricing has been debated — some think $51 is a bit high — but most agree that the convenience and the ability to customize your day outweigh the cost. It’s especially useful for those unfamiliar with the city or travelers on a tight schedule.

This hop-on hop-off tour offers a well-rounded way to see New Orleans without feeling overwhelmed. It’s especially good if you value live guides, panoramic views, and flexible touring options. The inclusion of guided walks adds a layer of value that can turn a basic sightseeing trip into a more enriching experience.

If you’re someone who wants to get a quick yet rundown of the city, this could be your best bet. It’s not a full-depth tour of every attraction, but it hits the major highlights with enough detail to give you context and inspiration for further exploration.

However, if you’re on a very tight budget, or prefer private or specialized tours, you might find this a little pricey — but the easy schedule and the social vibe won’t disappoint.

This tour is a practical, enjoyable option for first-timers, casual explorers, or those looking for a stress-free way to enjoy New Orleans’ vibrant neighborhoods. Just remember to check the schedule, and consider whether the included guided walks align with your interests.

How long does each bus loop take?
Each loop lasts about 1.5 hours, giving you a good overview without feeling rushed.

Can I hop on and off at any stop?
Yes, you can hop on and off as many times as you like during your ticket validity, making it flexible to explore at your own pace.

Are the buses wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the buses are wheelchair accessible, ensuring inclusivity for travelers with mobility needs.

What is included in the ticket price?
Your ticket covers the hop-on hop-off bus ride, live English guides, stops near major sights, and guided walking tours in the Garden District (2 and 3-day passes) and French Quarter (3-day only).

Are food and attraction tickets included?
No, food, drinks, and entrance fees to attractions are not included, so plan for extra expenses if desired.

What’s the latest I can hop off before the tour ends?
The last stops are around 4 pm, with the final tour ending at 5:30 pm, so plan accordingly if you want to maximize your day.

Can I use a mobile voucher?
Absolutely, both mobile and printed vouchers are accepted and can be redeemed at any stop along the route.

Do I need to book in advance?
It’s recommended, especially during busy seasons, but you can also purchase tickets on the day, subject to availability.

Is this tour suitable for families?
While not specifically marketed as family-focused, the lively guides and flexible stops make it generally kid-friendly, provided you keep an eye on the schedule.

What should I bring?
Bring your ID or passport, some cash for extras, and your ticket. Remember, pets and smoking are not permitted onboard.

In the end, this New Orleans hop-on hop-off bus tour is a solid way to get a snapshot of the city’s vibrant streets, history, and culture. Whether you want a quick overview or a more extended exploration with guided walks, it’s worth considering for your trip.

You can check availability for your dates here: