New Orleans Bourbon Street Bar Crawl w/ Shots & Souvenir Cup

If you’re planning a trip to the Big Easy, chances are Bourbon Street will be on your radar. Known for its vibrant nightlife, legendary bars, and electric atmosphere, Bourbon Street offers a party experience like no other. Recently, I came across a popular bar crawl that promises an authentic, lively night out—guided by locals, with plenty of shots, drink deals, and a souvenir cup to take home. While I haven’t personally done this tour, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary suggest it’s a seriously fun option for those wanting to dive into the heart of NOLA’s nightlife.

What really stands out about this experience are two things: first, the way it combines classic Bourbon Street sights with a lively, interactive atmosphere, and second, the personal touch of knowledgeable guides who keep the energy high and the party safe. On the flip side, a possible consideration is the fixed nature of drink offerings—bars decide what drinks you’ll get, which might be a bit limiting if you’re expecting to choose your own cocktails. This tour is a great fit for travelers who love a social, spirited night out, especially if they want to get a taste of multiple venues with ease.

Key Points

• All-Inclusive Experience: Includes four stops, welcome shots, and a souvenir cup for discounts after the tour.
• Local Guides: Expert guides who keep the energy up and ensure everyone has a good time.
• Flexible Vibe: Stops range from afternoon live music to nightclubs, catering to diverse moods.
• Value for Money: At $28 per person, it offers a lot of entertainment and drinks in a compact two-hour window.
• Easy Access: Meeting point near public transportation, with a ride-share-friendly location.
• Highly Rated: Consistently positive reviews praising guides and overall vibe.

What to Expect from the Tour

This bourbon street experience kicks off at the famous Coyote Ugly Saloon, right next to the Mississippi River. Arriving here, you’ll receive your Crawl Cup, which is more than a souvenir. It’s your key to getting great drink deals across the stops, even after the tour ends. Plus, your journey starts with a welcome shot, setting the tone for a night full of fun.

First Stop: Coyote Ugly Saloon

The tour begins with a lively check-in, where you’ll meet your guide and other party-goers. Many reviews highlight how engaging and personable guides like Jason make the experience memorable. It’s common to play drinking games at this initial venue, which helps break the ice among the group. The bar’s lively atmosphere and the chance to start with a shot make it a perfect warm-up.

Moving Through the French Quarter

From Coyote Ugly, the group takes a casual walk through the iconic French Quarter, with storytelling about the area’s architecture and history. This part of the tour is a bit more relaxed, giving everyone a chance to soak in the sights and vibe. The streets are lively, and yes, you’re encouraged to fill your cup for street drinking, which is legal and adds an authentic Bourbon Street feel.

The walk takes about 10 minutes, and guides often share interesting tidbits, making the experience more than just drinking. Some reviews mention how the guides’ stories add a layer of depth to what might otherwise be just a night of partying.

The Main Event: Bourbon Street

Once on Bourbon Street, the tour really hits its stride. The venues are carefully chosen to capture the eclectic, lively spirit of the street, with some offering live music, karaoke, balconies, or even nightclub vibes for evening crawls. The duration here is around 1 hour and 20 minutes, giving plenty of time to mingle, enjoy drink specials, and maybe catch some street performers or musicians.

Many reviews point out how the guide keeps the energy high, playing drinking games and managing the group safely. The inclusion of multiple shots at different stops, some free, keeps the momentum going. As one reviewer put it, “Shots at every bar were included,” which adds to the value, especially considering the price.

End Point and After-Party Options

The crawl ends near Orleans St, just a block from iconic spots like Jackson Square and St Louis Cathedral. From here, the night can continue as you wish—many find themselves at nearby venues, nightlife spots, or grabbing late-night bites. The tour offers a flexible ending point, and the lively atmosphere persists long after the official conclusion.

Is This Tour Worth It?

Considering the reviews and the included features, this tour seems to offer excellent value. For just $28, you’ll get a guided experience through some of the most famous bars in New Orleans, with multiple shots, drink deals, and a souvenir cup to remember the night. The social aspect is front and center, with many reviewers praising their guides, especially Jason, for making the night fun and safe.

The two-hour duration is perfect if you’re looking for an energetic taste of Bourbon Street without committing to a full night’s bar-hopping. Plus, the fact that most travelers book it about 27 days in advance indicates it’s popular and likely well-organized.

What We Love

• The personalized guidance from locals who know the scene inside out.
• The mix of venues, from chill live-music spots to dance clubs, catering to different moods.
• The inclusion of shots and drink specials, which makes it easy to focus on having fun rather than worrying about costs.
• The souvenir cup, which adds a tangible memory of the experience and provides ongoing drink discounts.

What Could Be Better

• Drinks are not customizable; bars decide what you get, which might frustrate those hoping for their favorite cocktails.
• The fixed route and set stops mean that if you’re looking for a completely personalized night out, this may feel a bit structured.
• The tour is designed for a group, so if you’re a very private or quiet person, you might not get the full experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This bar crawl is particularly suited for those who want a fun, social night out with a lively group atmosphere. It’s perfect for first-time visitors who want to see the best of Bourbon Street without the hassle of planning each stop. It also works well for birthdays, bachelor or bachelorette parties, or anyone looking to kick off a night in New Orleans in a spirited way.

While families or those seeking a quieter, more refined experience might find this too loud or energetic, it’s an excellent choice for party lovers and anyone eager to meet new friends in a festive environment.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people under 21?
This tour features alcohol and is designed for adults, so it’s best suited for those 21 and over.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts around 2 hours, giving enough time to enjoy multiple bars and the vibe without feeling rushed.

Can I choose my drinks?
No, drinks are decided by the bars and are included as part of the experience. You might find the drinks offered are not your favorite, but they’re part of the fun.

Is it easy to get to the meeting point?
Yes, the starting location is near public transportation, including the Streetcar, and is drop-off friendly via rideshare or taxi.

What’s included in the price?
The tour includes four stops, welcome shots, drink specials, a souvenir cup, and a professional guide. Entry fees are covered, and the experience is all about the group fun.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, cancellations are free if made 24 hours in advance. Less notice means no refund.

What’s the group size?
The tour is capped at 25 travelers, making it intimate enough for everyone to be involved but lively enough for a group atmosphere.

Is the tour suitable for daytime or nighttime?
Both options are available; daytime features live bands, while evening turns into a DJ/nightclub setup. Check the schedule to pick your vibe.

Will I get tired walking?
The walk from Coyote Ugly to Bourbon Street is about 10 minutes, and guides often keep the energy up with engaging stories and games, making it manageable even for those who prefer shorter walks.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a fun, social, and well-organized way to experience Bourbon Street, this guided bar crawl is a solid pick. It offers a lively atmosphere, terrific guides, and plenty of chances to make new friends while enjoying the best of New Orleans nightlife. For just $28, you’re getting a good mix of drinks, entertainment, and memorable moments, especially valuable if you want to avoid the hassle of planning each stop yourself.

While it’s not a personalized or quiet experience, it’s undeniably a great option for those who want to jump into the party scene and live it up. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, starting your night, or just want an easy way to explore Bourbon Street’s best spots, this tour could be the highlight of your trip.

In summary, this tour’s success lies in its lively guides, inclusive atmosphere, and the chance to experience Bourbon Street in a fun, safe, and social way. It’s best for energetic travelers who want a hassle-free night of drinks, games, and good vibes. Just remember, it’s a group experience, so go with an open mind and a ready-to-party attitude!