New Orleans: Dew Drop Inn Guided Tour with Live Blues Show

Exploring the Dew Drop Inn: A Deep Dive into a Legendary NOLA Venue

If you’re drawn to the sound of blues, jazz, and rock & roll, the Dew Drop Inn tour in New Orleans offers a rich window into one of the city’s most iconic music spots. This experience doesn’t just take you through the walls of a historic venue; it immerses you in the stories of the artists, the struggles against segregation, and the role the Dew Drop Inn played in shaping American music.

What makes this tour particularly appealing? First, you’ll get exclusive access to original artifacts and rare photographs that tell the story of a venue that hosted legends like Little Richard and Ray Charles. Second, the live blues show at the end brings the history to life through music, connecting you directly to the sound that made the Dew Drop Inn famous.

On the flip side, a notable consideration is that the tour lasts only 1.5 hours, so if you’re craving an in-depth, longer experience, you might find it somewhat quick. Also, transportation isn’t included, so you’ll need to plan how to get there. This tour is most suited for those interested in music history, cultural stories, and authentic New Orleans vibes—perfect for music lovers, history buffs, or anyone curious about the city’s roots.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Historic Venue: Guided tour of the Dew Drop Inn, a site that helped shape blues, jazz, and rock & roll.
• Legendary Performers: Learn about artists like Little Richard, Ray Charles, Etta James, and Tina Turner who played there.
• Cultural Significance: Discover the venue’s role as a welcoming space fighting segregation and hosting diverse communities.
• Archival Access: View original artifacts and photographs, gaining insights into the venue’s past.
• Music Connection: Experience a live blues performance that highlights the venue’s musical influence.
• Local Cuisine: Enjoy an all-you-can-eat buffet featuring classic New Orleans dishes, adding a flavor of the city to your visit.

A Full Look at What You Can Expect from the Dew Drop Inn Tour

This experience begins with a guided history tour inside the Dew Drop Inn, where knowledgeable guides share stories that bring the venue’s past vividly to life. You’ll walk through the space that was once a hub for some of the greatest musicians of the 50s and 60s, and get access to original artifacts and rare photographs that aren’t usually on public display. These items serve as tangible links to the past, illustrating how the venue fought against segregation and became a beacon for both straight and queer communities.

The oral history collection, created in partnership with Tulane University, adds depth to the visit. Listening to recordings of musicians and patrons who experienced the Dew Drop firsthand gives the tour a human touch that’s truly special. This isn’t just a walk through a building; it’s an encounter with the stories of those who lived the music and culture.

Once the historic part concludes, the experience shifts gears to live music. The jazz show features performances that celebrate the artists who played at the Dew Drop, like Ray Charles and Little Richard. The band, led by Gerald French, and vocalist Mikhala Iversen, captivate the audience with tunes that echo the venue’s heyday. According to reviews, the band’s performance is “extraordinary,” and the music truly captures the spirit of New Orleans.

Adding to the experience, the buffet lunch offers a chance to indulge in classic New Orleans cuisine. While specific dishes aren’t detailed, you might expect staples like gumbo, jambalaya, or crawfish étouffée—comforting, flavorful, and a true taste of local culture. This all-you-can-eat setup means you can fill up and enjoy the flavors of the city without worrying about extra costs.

The Logistics: Timing, Cost, and Accessibility

The full experience is about 1.5 hours long, usually scheduled in the afternoon. The price is $78 per person, which covers the guided tour, artifacts access, the live blues show, and the buffet lunch. Considering the depth of history and the quality of the performance, many reviewers feel this represents good value—especially if you’re a music fan or a history enthusiast.

Transportation isn’t included, so plan accordingly—public transit, Uber, or walking may be your best options depending on where you’re staying. The experience is wheelchair accessible, which is a nice touch for inclusivity, and photography is allowed (though flash is prohibited inside the venue).

Authentic Reviews and Real Travelers’ Perspectives

Multiple reviewers have praised the tour for its knowledgeable guides and stunning performances. One traveler from September 2025 mentions that “the band was extraordinary,” and appreciated the combination of historical insight with great music. Another from June 2025 highlighted that “the tour, the band, and the food was excellent,” and praised the staff for being friendly and accommodating.

The comments underscore that this tour isn’t just about the visuals; it’s about engaging stories, heartfelt music, and a genuine connection to New Orleans’ musical roots. The inclusion of artifacts and video collections helps bring history to life, making it a memorable experience for those who value authenticity and storytelling.

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Who Will Love This Experience?

This tour is ideal for music lovers eager to learn about the venues that fostered legendary careers. It’s perfect for anyone interested in African-American history, civil rights, and cultural stories that shaped the city. The combination of a historical walk, live blues, and local cuisine makes it suitable for those who want a well-rounded, immersive experience without spending a whole day.

If you’re traveling with children or looking for family-friendly options, consider that this is more suited for older teens and adults, given the historical and musical focus. The relaxed pace and engaging storytelling make it accessible, but the tour’s content is best appreciated by those with an interest in music history.

The Sum Up: Is This Tour Right for You?

For travelers wanting a combination of culture, music, and history, the Dew Drop Inn tour hits many marks. It offers a chance to step into a storied venue that played a vital role in shaping American music, all while enjoying live blues and some of the best local food. The artifacts, recordings, and performances make it a compelling experience, especially if you’re passionate about music or civil rights history.

The tour’s relatively short duration makes it a great addition to a busy city itinerary—offering a deep dive without a huge time commitment. While transportation isn’t included, the accessible venue and flexible scheduling add to its appeal. It’s especially suited for those who want to connect with New Orleans’ musical soul in an intimate, personal way.

If you’re looking for an authentic, educational, and lively experience that celebrates the city’s musical legends, this tour is definitely worth considering.

FAQ

Is transportation to the Dew Drop Inn included?
No, transportation is not included. You will need to plan how to get there, whether via Uber, public transit, or walking.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 1.5 hours, usually scheduled in the afternoon.

What’s included in the price?
The ticket covers the guided history tour, access to artifacts and photographs, a live blues performance, and a buffet lunch featuring classic New Orleans cuisine.

Can I take photos during the tour?
Yes, photography is allowed, but flash photography is not permitted inside the venue.

Is the tour suitable for children?
It’s best suited for older teens and adults interested in music and history. The content isn’t geared toward young children and may not hold their interest.

What kind of music is performed during the show?
The show features blues that connect to the roots of jazz, blues, and rock & roll, celebrating the artists who played at the Dew Drop Inn.

Are there any dietary restrictions I should know about?
The lunch is a buffet of classic New Orleans cuisine; specific dietary options aren’t detailed, so if you have allergies or restrictions, consider arriving early to ask or bring snacks.

How do reviews describe the guides and staff?
Reviewers praise the guides for their knowledge and the staff for their friendliness and willingness to go above and beyond.

Can I expect a quiet, contemplative experience?
While the tour is informative and respectful, the live music performance adds an energetic vibe, making it lively but still meaningful.

Is this experience wheelchair accessible?
Yes, it is wheelchair accessible, ensuring everyone can enjoy the tour.

In all, if the idea of walking through a storied music venue with a live blues backdrop sounds appealing, and you’re keen to learn about New Orleans’ cultural tapestry, this tour offers a well-balanced, memorable slice of the city’s soul.

You can check availability for your dates here: