New Orleans French Quarter Cocktail Tour

Discover the French Quarter’s Cocktail Scene with a Guided Tour

If you’re looking to experience New Orleans beyond the usual tourist spots, a French Quarter Cocktail Tour might just be your next favorite activity. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, it’s designed for those who want to sip local drinks, hear interesting stories, and see a side of the city that most visitors miss. It’s a three-hour journey through the neighborhood’s lively bars, colorful architecture, and hidden corners, all led by a knowledgeable guide.

We love that this tour combines drinks, culture, and music, giving you a taste of NOLA’s famous nightlife with a local’s touch. Plus, the fact that it includes two classic cocktails or local beers and a quick bite makes it a well-rounded experience. On the flip side, a potential consideration is that this is an adults-only walking tour, so it’s not suitable for families or travelers with mobility issues. Still, if you’re into craft cocktails and lively atmospheres, this tour is perfect for groups, bachelor or bachelorette parties, or anyone wanting a fun, relaxed evening in the French Quarter.

Key Points

• Expert local guides enhance the experience with fascinating stories and humor.
• Visit hidden gems and avoid the typical tourist traps.
• Enjoy iconic NOLA cocktails at carefully chosen bars known for their craft.
• Walking through the French Quarter lets you see architecture and street life up close.
• The tour includes a quick local bite and live music venues, giving a true taste of New Orleans.
• The small group size (limited to 10) keeps it intimate and engaging.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the French Quarter Cocktail Tour

What to Expect on This Tour

This isn’t just a bar crawl — it’s a curated experience that mixes history, local flavor, and lively music in a small group setting. Starting at the intersection of St Ann & N Rampart St., you’ll meet your guide, who will lead you through neighborhood gems that often fly under the radar of typical travelers.

Over three hours, you’ll visit three different bars and experience some of the best bartenders the city has to offer. Each stop has been selected for its unique character, craft cocktails, and connection to NOLA’s vibrant culture. This isn’t about mass-produced drinks — the focus is on high-end, handcrafted cocktails that showcase local ingredients and bartending skills.

Along the way, you’ll learn about the fascinating stories behind each drink, gaining insights into how these cocktails became woven into New Orleans’ identity. Your guide’s mix of professionalism and humor — as praised by a recent review — makes the experience both fun and informative.

The Bars and Food Stops

Each venue has its own vibe. Without revealing too much, we can say they range from cozy, secret hideaways to lively music venues. Expect to sample two iconic cocktails or local beers, with tips included for the bartenders. The tour also includes a quick bite— a chance to taste some classic NOLA flavors, complementing the drinks and giving a bit of sustenance for the walk.

The Music and Atmosphere

Music is woven into the experience, with stops often including live performances. One reviewer mentioned the good music and the professional, humorous guide making the evening especially enjoyable. You’ll be walking through streets that buzz with evening energy, all while sipping drinks and soaking in the sights.

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What Makes This Tour Stand Out

What sets this experience apart is the focus on local, high-quality drinks and avoiding the typical tourist traps. The guides are knowledgeable, and the bars are hand-picked to showcase the city’s historic cocktail culture. Plus, the small group size means more personalized attention and a chance to ask questions or share laughs.

Price and Value

At $95 per person, you’re paying for three hours of entertainment, drinks, food, and insider knowledge. For those interested in craft cocktails and the local scene, this price feels reasonable. Many reviews highlight the delicious drinks and friendly guides as real highlights, making it a good deal for a fun, relaxed evening.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This tour is best suited for adults who enjoy drinks, music, and a bit of history or storytelling. It’s particularly good for groups celebrating special occasions like birthdays or bachelor/bachelorette parties. If you’re someone who appreciates craft cocktails and lively atmospheres, you’ll likely find this experience a highlight of your trip.

Practical Tips

• Bring a valid ID — it’s a 21+ tour.
• Wear comfortable shoes since you’ll be walking around for a few hours.
• The tour departs rain or shine, so check the weather forecast and dress accordingly.
• Meeting point is manageable, but keep in mind you’ll end nearer the French Market, so plan your evening accordingly.
• No hotel pick-up or drop-off is included, so plan your transportation to the meeting spot.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a relaxed, engaging way to experience the French Quarter’s nightlife, this cocktail tour hits the mark. It offers a blend of history, music, and expertly crafted drinks within a small-group setting, making it ideal for those wanting an authentic and less touristy experience.

While it’s not suited for families or anyone with mobility issues, it’s a great option for adults looking to enjoy some of New Orleans’ finest bars without feeling lost in the crowd. The combination of knowledgeable guides, delicious drinks, and a chance to see some local gems makes it a worthwhile addition to any NOLA itinerary.

If you’re curious about the city’s cocktail culture and want a fun, lively evening, this tour will give you the inside scoop, plenty of good stories, and some memorable sips. Just remember to bring your ID, wear comfy shoes, and get ready for a good time.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families with children?
No, this is an adults-only tour as it’s for those 21 and over, and involves walking and drinking.

What is included in the price?
You get 3 hours of guided exploration, entry into various music venues, a quick bite, and two classic cocktails or local beers with tips for the bartenders.

Do I need to reserve in advance?
Yes, booking is recommended, especially since it’s a small group experience limited to 10 participants. You can reserve now and pay later.

Where do we meet?
The meeting point is at the intersection of St Ann & N Rampart St, at the Arch Armstrong.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

Is transportation included?
No, you need to arrange your own transportation to and from the meeting point.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes are a must since you’ll be walking around the French Quarter, and dress for the weather — rain or shine.

Is this tour available in languages other than English?
No, the tour is offered in English only.

For anyone wanting a lively, authentic taste of New Orleans’ cocktail scene, this tour offers a fantastic mix of drinks, stories, and local flavor. It’s a great way to connect with the city’s nightlife, learn its history, and enjoy good music in a relaxed setting. Just go prepared for a fun evening and plenty of memorable sips.

You can check availability for your dates here: