New Orleans: Early Evening Cocktail History Tour

If you’re heading to the Big Easy and want a taste (literally and figuratively) of its cocktail scene, this New Orleans: Early Evening Cocktail History Tour might be just what you’re looking for. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, what travelers rave about gives a pretty clear picture: a lively, informative, and tasty evening soaking up the city’s drink traditions.

What stands out first? The rich mix of historical stories and carefully curated drinks. Plus, the tour’s focus on pre-Prohibition cocktails and their origins makes it a treasure hunt for those interested in the roots of classic mixed drinks. On the downside, some might find the price point of $95 per person a tad steep if they’re not into history or cocktails, but many agree the quality and experience justify it.

This tour feels best suited for adults who appreciate both a good story and a good drink, especially if you’re curious about cocktail origins or want a fun way to explore the French Quarter in the early evening. It’s not a family-friendly outing by design, but for those looking for a relaxed, educational, and delicious experience, it hits many marks.

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Key Points

• Historical focus: Learn the background of cocktails like the Sazerac and absinthe.
• Variety of drinks: Sample four different craft cocktails, including some that predate Prohibition.
• Lively guides: Enjoy knowledgeable hosts who make history engaging.
• Beautiful venues: Visit stylish, high-end bars with great atmospheres.
• Evening vibe: Perfect for kicking off a night out in New Orleans.
• Accessibility: The tour is wheelchair accessible and suitable for adults 21+.

This tour is designed to combine storytelling with tasting. It lasts about three hours and kicks off in the evening, making it a perfect way to unwind after a day of sightseeing or as a fun start to a night out. You’ll meet your guide at Patrick’s Bar Vin at 730 Bienville St, in the heart of the French Quarter—an ideal spot to start your cocktail adventure.

The Itinerary

The experience begins in a luxurious wine bar’s tropical courtyard, where you’ll sip on a homemade rum punch. This first drink sets the tone—relaxed, flavorful, and a bit of a preview of what’s to come. It’s a friendly way to warm up and get introduced to your guide, who will weave stories about New Orleans’ cocktail history along the way.

Next, you’ll head to 3rd Block Depot, a modern bar housed in an old 19th-century icehouse. Here, you’ll be given a choice between two historic drinks: the Sazerac or the Brandy Crusta. The Sazerac, often considered one of America’s oldest cocktails, was created in 19th-century Creole New Orleans and was originally touted as medicine—so it’s fitting you get the inside scoop on its medicinal roots. Alternatively, the Brandy Crusta offers a taste of pre-Civil War elegance, with its distinctive lemon twist and ornate presentation.

From there, your journey continues to Peychaud’s Bar, an award-winning spot known for inventing drinks just before Prohibition. Here, you’ll sample a Pimm’s Cup or the Ojen Frappé, both refreshingly crafted and fun to try while soaking up the bar’s vibrant atmosphere. Expect the bartenders to serve up drinks with flair, and your guide to share the stories behind these inventive concoctions.

Finally, the tour concludes at Bourbon ‘O’ Bar, where you’ll enjoy the Roffignac highball—a lesser-known but beloved drink named after a French-born mayor of New Orleans. The bar also features local food options, and if you’re around at 8 pm, you can listen to a live jazz band, adding that signature New Orleans vibe to your evening.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour fee covers your guide, four cocktails, and gratuities for the bartenders. It’s a good value considering you’re sampling drinks with history and atmosphere in some of the city’s best bars. However, food is not included, so it’s wise to eat beforehand or plan to grab a bite afterward. Also, transportation to and from the starting point isn’t provided, and gratuities for the guide are optional but appreciated.

The consistent praise centers around the knowledgeable guides, with Beth and Mike getting particular shoutouts. Their stories make history lively rather than dry, and their personable approach makes the experience enjoyable. As one reviewer put it, “Beth was a joy as a tour guide. She had tons of very interesting information and she was tons of fun.”

Many mention that the bars are beautiful, comfortable, and full of character. One reviewer noted, “The drinks were delicious and the bars, although not the same as described in the activity details, had a good atmosphere and unique decor.” This suggests that while venues might change or update, the quality and vibe remain high.

The drinks themselves get glowing reviews—the cocktails are crafted with care and often taste even better than they look. A few reviews mention trying drinks they’d never had before, which is great if you’re looking to expand your palate.

What Could Be Better?

On occasion, some reviewers mention that the descriptions of the stops could be more precise, as the actual venues sometimes differ slightly from those advertised. For example, Josie noted, “The quality of the tour was great however the description did not match what we all did,” but still enjoyed the experience overall. Also, since the tour is focused on alcohol, it’s not suitable for those wanting a family-friendly or food-focused outing, which is worth keeping in mind.

Considering the reviews and what you get—four historic cocktails, engaging storytelling, and visits to some of the best bars in the French Quarter—the $95 price feels reasonable for a memorable, educational evening. It’s especially appealing if you enjoy learning about local culture through drinks or want a relaxed way to soak up some history without it feeling like a stuffy museum visit.

The length of three hours strikes a good balance: enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed, but not so long that you’re worn out. Plus, the wheelchair accessibility makes it a good choice for more travelers.

This experience suits adults who are curious about cocktail history and enjoy socializing in stylish venues. It’s perfect for those new to New Orleans or seasoned visitors wanting a relaxed, intimate overview of the city’s drink culture. If you love high-quality cocktails, engaging storytelling, and discovering hidden gems in the French Quarter, this tour is a solid pick.

It’s not geared for families or anyone under 21, but if you’re traveling with friends or a partner who appreciates a well-made drink and lively history, you’ll likely find it both fun and informative.

This Early Evening Cocktail History Tour offers a fantastic way to combine learning and leisure during your time in New Orleans. With knowledgeable guides, a focus on iconic and lesser-known drinks, and visits to some of the city’s best bars, it’s a well-rounded experience that appeals to anyone who enjoys a good story with their drink.

While it might be a bit pricier than some bar-hopping nights, the depth of history and quality of the cocktails make it worthwhile. Expect a friendly, relaxed atmosphere, where each stop adds a layer to the city’s colorful drinking legacy. Whether you’re a cocktail novice or a seasoned enthusiast, you’ll likely walk away with new knowledge—and maybe a new favorite drink.

Is the tour suitable for non-drinkers?
No, since it involves sampling four cocktails and is strictly for those 21 and over, this tour isn’t suitable if you don’t consume alcohol.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for about three hours, making it a perfect early evening activity or a way to start your night in the French Quarter.

Are the bars accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, so it should accommodate most mobility needs comfortably.

Is food included in the tour?
No, food isn’t included, so plan to eat beforehand or after the tour. The focus is on cocktails and their stories.

Do we need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to reserve because the tour is popular. You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering some flexibility.

Can I join if I only want to learn about the cocktails, not necessarily taste them?
Since the tour is centered on sampling drinks, it’s best suited for those interested in tasting the cocktails. If you prefer just learning about them, you might want to consider a different experience.

What’s the meeting point?
You’ll meet your guide at Patrick’s Bar Vin, located at 730 Bienville St in the French Quarter.

In all, this tour offers a friendly, engaging way to explore New Orleans’s cocktail scene—perfect for those looking to combine culture, history, and a few well-crafted drinks in a lively setting.