New Orleans City Tour and Steamboat Natchez Harbor Jazz Cruise

If you’re planning a trip to New Orleans, chances are you’re looking for ways to soak up the city’s distinctive vibe—its music, architecture, and stories. One popular option is a combined experience that offers a narrated city tour followed by a classic Mississippi River cruise on the Steamboat Natchez. For folks curious about what this package really delivers, we’ve looked at the details, reviews, and what you can expect from start to finish.

What immediately catches our attention is how this experience provides a comprehensive snapshot of New Orleans in one day—covering key landmarks and offering a relaxing, musical cruise along the Mississippi. And with an overall rating of 4.0 from over 400 reviews, it’s clear that many travelers find value in this mix. We especially appreciate the fact that guides are often described as knowledgeable and personable, making the experience more engaging. Plus, the chance to enjoy live jazz aboard the boat adds that authentic New Orleans touch.

On the flip side, some travelers mention logistical hiccups, like timing issues or missed opportunities, which can be frustrating during a busy trip. The experience’s value often hinges on expectations around timing and comfort with a guided group. Overall, it’s best suited for those who want a structured, yet relaxed way to get a feel for the city without stress—families, first-timers, or anyone wanting a taste of both land and water.

Key Points

• Balanced experience combining historic sights and river scenery.
• Guides praised for their knowledge and personable style.
• Two-hour cruise with live jazz offers a relaxing, musical vibe.
• Stops include iconic landmarks like Jackson Square and City Park.
• Some reviews mention logistical issues, so plan accordingly.
• Great for first-timers wanting a rundown.

What to Expect from the Tour

This experience kicks off in the heart of the French Quarter, specifically at the Gray Line “Lighthouse” ticket office on Toulouse Street. It’s a short walk from most downtown hotels, which makes it convenient for travelers. The day is divided into two main parts: an approximately 3-hour narrated motorcoach tour and a 2-hour Mississippi River cruise.

The Land-based Tour: Exploring Historic New Orleans

The city tour is quite inclusive, stopping at several iconic spots in the French Quarter and beyond. You’ll start on Toulouse Street, where your guide begins to weave stories about the city’s colorful past. As you wind through the French Quarter, expect to see buildings with French and Spanish influences, voodoo shops, and lush Creole courtyards—each corner telling a story.

Jackson Square is a major highlight, home to the famous St. Louis Cathedral and the historic Cabildo and Presbytere museums. You’ll learn about the Baroness Pontalba and her role in creating the first apartment buildings in the U.S.—a fascinating detail for architecture buffs. A quick stop at St. Louis Cemetery #3 gives you a chance to admire elaborate above-ground tombs, though some reviews suggest you might prefer to stay on the bus if you’re not up for walking.

Next, the tour takes you to City Park, a lush oasis with a sculpture garden and a charming café where you can purchase beignets (own expense). The park is also home to the Audubon Zoo and the Garden District, where you’ll pass by grand mansions, some of which have hosted Mardi Gras royalty. The St. Charles Avenue streetcar makes for a picturesque drive along historic streets, with some travelers calling out the beauty of the architecture and the stately live oak trees.

The Cruise: A Mississippi River Classic

After exploring land, you’ll board the Steamboat NATCHEZ (or her sister vessel if she’s unavailable), for a two-hour cruise along the Mississippi. The boat has multiple decks—choose between indoor cabins and open-air decks for the best views. The cruise offers a soundtrack of live jazz, often seasonal, which adds a real New Orleans flavor to the experience.

The narration from the captain covers the port’s bustling activity and historical sites like the Chalmette Battlefield, where Jean Lafitte fought alongside Andrew Jackson during the Battle of New Orleans. During the cruise, you’ll pass by sights like Tulane and Loyola Universities and enjoy unobstructed views of the shoreline.

Optional Creole lunch is available for an extra $13.50 per adult, showcasing local favorites like fish, red beans and rice, and bread pudding. Many reviews mention that the live jazz and the relaxing river views make this part of the experience special, though some note the weather can be windy or cold, which might affect your enjoyment.

In-Depth Look at Each Stop

French Quarter and Jackson Square

This is where the magic begins—narrow streets, historic buildings, and a lively atmosphere. The French Quarter’s charm is undeniable, with its mix of lively bars, boutique shops, and centuries-old architecture. Jackson Square is a picture-perfect spot, often crowded but full of energy, with street performers and artists.

St. Louis Cemetery No. 3

A short walk through this cemetery reveals ornate tombs and a palpable sense of history. Some reviewers appreciate the chance to see the above-ground graves, a uniquely New Orleans tradition, but others might prefer to skip if they’re not interested in cemetery visits. Your guide will explain the significance of the burial practices, which adds context to this historic site.

City Park and Museum Stops

City Park offers a peaceful respite from the city’s hustle—great for photos and a quick stroll. The sculpture garden is free, and you can grab beignets at Café du Monde nearby, though they’re at your own expense. The park’s natural beauty makes it a favorite for many travelers, especially those who enjoy outdoor spaces.

Garden District and St. Charles Avenue

Driving through the Garden District gives you a glimpse of the city’s antebellum architecture—mansions and historic homes that seem to stretch forever. The streetcar ride along St. Charles is a highlight for many, showcasing lush trees and elegant homes, perfect for photo ops.

Mississippi River Cruise

This is the heart of the experience for many—gliding along the mighty Mississippi, enjoying live jazz, and hearing stories about the city’s river commerce and battles. The calliope music and Captain’s narration evoke a bygone era, making you feel like you’ve stepped into a classic Southern story.

Many reviews praise the peacefulness of the cruise, with travelers remarking how it’s a relaxing break from the busy city streets. Some mention that the atmosphere is lively yet laid-back, especially with the live jazz filling the air.

Value for Money and Practical Considerations

At $88 per person, this package offers a lot. You’re getting a rundown of New Orleans—landmarks, history, and scenic Mississippi views—within a manageable timeframe. The inclusion of the live jazz cruise is a real plus, adding entertainment and atmosphere that many find authentic and memorable.

However, some reviews mention logistical issues, like being dropped off blocks away from the boat, and the need to coordinate timing carefully. The cruise’s weather dependency is another factor—if it’s windy or cold, it might lessen your enjoyment. The optional lunch costs extra, but many felt it was worth it to sample local dishes.

Group size is naturally limited to around 25 travelers, which helps keep things intimate and manageable. Guides are generally praised for their knowledge and friendliness, making the experience engaging rather than just a sightseeing checklist.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for first-time visitors who want a broad introduction to New Orleans without multiple bookings or complicated logistics. It’s also suitable for those who enjoy live music, scenic views, and historic landmarks in a relaxed way. Families with older children might also enjoy this, especially if they’re interested in music and culture.

If you’re a history buff or someone who prefers more in-depth or niche experiences, you might find this tour somewhat broad or surface-level. Nevertheless, for a well-rounded, enjoyable day that balances sightseeing with leisure, it’s a solid choice.

Final Thoughts

In essence, the combination of a guided city tour and a Mississippi River cruise offers a snapshot of what makes New Orleans special. With knowledgeable guides, beautiful sights, and live jazz, it captures the spirit of the city in a manageable timeframe. While it’s not without its minor logistical flaws, most travelers find it worth the price, especially given the value of experiencing both land and water in one day.

If you’re after a convenient, engaging overview that doesn’t skimp on atmosphere, this tour is worth considering. Just plan ahead for the timing and weather, and you’ll likely come away with a good sense of what makes New Orleans so unique.

FAQs

Is the tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Yes, the tour is accessible for most, but advance notice is recommended to arrange wheelchair-friendly transportation. Some stops may involve walking on uneven sidewalks.

Where does the tour start and end?
All activities begin at the Gray Line “Lighthouse” Ticket Office at Toulouse Street & the Mississippi River, and the tour concludes at the same point.

Can I park nearby?
Yes, there are public parking lots on Decatur Street, with some requiring prepayment. The closest lot is Jax Lot # P401 on 500 Decatur St.

Is there a dress code?
Casual attire is perfectly fine. Wear comfortable shoes for walking and consider weather-appropriate clothing, especially if it’s hot or rainy.

Can I bring my camera or phone?
Absolutely. You’ll want to capture the sights, especially on the cruise deck with Mississippi views and live jazz.

What if the boat isn’t in port on the day I book?
If the boat isn’t available due to maintenance or inspections, the cruise will be on her sister vessel, the Riverboat CITY of NEW ORLEANS, ensuring you still get to enjoy the experience.

In the end, whether you’re looking to get an intro to New Orleans or just enjoy a relaxing day on the river with some great music, this tour offers a practical, enjoyable way to experience a lot in a day. Just remember to check the weather, plan your timing, and enjoy the soulful sounds of jazz and the stories of the city.