New Orleans French Quarter- At your own pace. Downloadable audiovisual tour.

Discover the French Quarter on your own terms with this self-guided audiovisual tour

If you’re planning a trip to New Orleans and want a flexible way to explore the iconic French Quarter, this downloadable app tour might be just what you need. Priced at $14.99 per person, it promises a personalized experience that skips the crowds and rigid schedules of traditional guided tours. From historic landmarks to legendary bars, this tour covers plenty of ground, all at your own pace.

What we particularly like about this experience is its affordability and convenience—you only need your smartphone, and you’re free to wander as long as you like. Plus, you get to choose when to start, which is perfect if you prefer a relaxed, unhurried day. The main drawback? Since it’s entirely self-guided, you’ll miss out on the insights of a live guide and the social aspect some travelers enjoy. Still, if independence and flexibility are your priorities, this tour suits a variety of travelers, especially those who love to explore without feeling rushed.

Key Points:
– Flexible Timing: You can start and stop whenever you want, fitting the tour into your schedule.
– Cost-effective: At under $15, it offers a budget-friendly alternative to traditional guided tours.
– Highlights the French Quarter: Includes major sites like Jackson Square, St. Louis Cathedral, and local favorites like Marie Laveau House of Voodoo.
– Self-paced exploration: Perfect for those who enjoy wandering and taking their time.
– Audio-guided: Provides context and history through a downloadable app, making it easy to follow along as you explore.
– Private experience: Only your group will participate, ensuring a personalized adventure.

Exploring the French Quarter through your own lens

This tour offers an opportunity to see the French Quarter without the constraints of a group or fixed schedule. You get to take in the sights at your own speed, which means more time to absorb the lively atmosphere, snap photos, or grab a bite along the way. It feels more like a leisurely stroll with a knowledgeable companion guiding you through the city’s most famous spots.

The tour’s app is designed to be user-friendly, guiding you to key locations with interesting facts and stories. This approach is particularly appealing if you prefer absorbing history and culture at your comfort level, rather than being herded from one landmark to another.

In-depth look at the itinerary

The journey begins at St. Louis Cathedral, a true icon overlooking the Mississippi River. While the tour doesn’t include admission, the cathedral’s striking façade and its location in the heart of the quarter make it a must-see. It’s a spot that instantly transports you into the spiritual and historical core of New Orleans.

Next, the app takes you to Faulkner House Books, where William Faulkner once lived. This stop invites you to imagine the literary giant soaking in the French Quarter’s unique energy. The building shares its history with William Spratling, and the stories of their mischief—like BB gun antics and bathtub gin brewing—add a playful touch to the visit. We loved how this stop humanizes the literary legend and gives a glimpse into 1920s bohemia.

Following that, you’ll visit the Old Absinthe House, a building dating back to 1806. It served as a trading spot for food, tobacco, and spirits, and today, it’s a popular bar with a storied past. Although it’s a quick stop, it’s a chance to soak in the vibe of an historic watering hole.

The tour then moves on to New Orleans Musical Legends Park, a tribute to the city’s musical heritage. It’s a peaceful spot that showcases the city’s jazz roots, and if you love music, you’ll appreciate the homage to the legends who made New Orleans famous.

You’ll also pass by Pat O’Brien’s, arguably the most famous bar in the city, with its colorful history and signature drinks. It’s a fun snapshot of local nightlife and adds some lively energy to the tour.

Finally, the Marie Laveau House of Voodoo provides insight into the mystical side of New Orleans. Owned by the legendary Voodoo Queen, this stop offers an intriguing look into the city’s spiritual traditions, with no admission fee required.

The tour wraps up at Café du Monde, a beloved spot for beignets and café au lait. It’s the perfect place to relax after your exploration and soak in the lively French Quarter atmosphere.

What travelers are saying

The one review available is glowing, calling the experience “fantastic” and praising the ability to discover the French Quarter at their own pace. The reviewer appreciated avoiding the pushy nature of group tours, which allowed them to “stop, eat, and enjoy the ambiance without being rushed.” This kind of freedom is exactly what many travelers seek when exploring a city as vibrant and layered as New Orleans.

Since the tour is self-guided, it’s especially suitable for travelers who enjoy being in control of their day. The price point also adds to its appeal—at just under $15, it’s a good deal, particularly if you want an immersive experience without the expense of a guided group.

Practical considerations

This tour is delivered via a mobile app, which makes it incredibly accessible, as long as you remember to download it before you set out. It’s a private experience, so you won’t be with a large group—great for those who prefer more intimacy or are traveling solo.

It involves some walking, so moderate physical fitness is recommended. Since it’s entirely self-guided, you won’t have a guide to answer questions in real-time, but the app provides plenty of context. Also, since you pick your own start time, it’s flexible for those arriving in New Orleans or with unpredictable schedules.

The tour’s duration is approximately 3 days and 20 hours, but in reality, you’ll likely spread it out over multiple days, stopping as desired. This makes it a good addition to a longer trip, or a way to make your first day in the city more relaxed.

Final thoughts: Is it worth it?

If you’re someone who likes to explore at your own pace, appreciates history and local lore, and prefers the comfort of your own schedule, this self-guided French Quarter tour is a solid choice. Its affordability gives you the flexibility to decide how much time to spend at each spot, and with the app guiding you, it feels like having a personal historian in your pocket.

Though it lacks the social or guided element, many travelers find that the freedom to stop, wander, and enjoy the ambiance outweighs this. The positive review about the experience being “fantastic” speaks volumes about its potential to provide a memorable, personalized adventure.

For those who want a convenient, flexible way to see the highlights of the French Quarter without breaking the bank, this tour offers a good balance. Its focus on key sites paired with the ability to go at your own pace makes it ideal for independent travelers or those who simply want to explore at leisure.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
Since the tour is self-guided and involves walking through the French Quarter, it might be suitable for families with older children who enjoy wandering and exploring at their own pace. However, it doesn’t specifically cater to children, so parental discretion is advised.

Do I need a tour guide or group to take this tour?
No, this is a private, self-guided experience that only your group will participate in. You’ll use your smartphone to navigate and learn about each site.

Are admission fees included?
No, the tour does not include admission to sites like St. Louis Cathedral. You can decide whether to enter or just admire the exterior.

How long does the tour take?
The listed duration is about 3 days and 20 hours, but realistically, you’ll probably spread it out over multiple days, taking your time to enjoy each stop.

Do I need a special app or device?
You only need a smartphone to download and run the audiovisual app. It’s designed to be user-friendly and easy to follow.

Can I start the tour whenever I want?
Yes, one of the key features is the flexibility to choose your departure time, making it easy to fit into your schedule.

In the end, this self-guided French Quarter tour offers a relaxed, budget-friendly way to soak in New Orleans’ vibrant history and culture. Its independence and affordability make it a solid pick for travelers who want the freedom to explore on their own terms—just remember to download the app beforehand and take your time enjoying the city’s unique charm.