Self-Guided Tour of New Orleans Historic French Quarter

A Practical Look at the Self-Guided Tour of New Orleans’ French Quarter

If you’re dreaming of wandering through the vibrant streets of New Orleans’ famous French Quarter but prefer the flexibility of exploring on your own, this self-guided tour from VoiceMap might be just what you need. It’s an affordable way to soak in the district’s sights without the pressure of a scheduled group or a hefty price tag.

What really catches the eye here are the unlimited access to the tour — you can use it before, during, and even after your trip, including a virtual option to explore from home. Plus, the tour covers some of the district’s most iconic landmarks, like St. Louis Cathedral and the French Market, giving you a thorough overview of the area’s history and culture.

However, not everyone will find this suitable if you’re expecting a detailed, guided experience with a live guide, or if entrance fees to specific sites are part of your plan, as they’re not included. It’s a DIY adventure, so it’s best for those comfortable with navigating on their own and using an app. If you’re a history buff or someone who appreciates local stories but prefers to set your own pace, this could work well for you.

This tour could be a great fit if you want affordable, flexible access to New Orleans’ French Quarter highlights, especially if you enjoy exploring at your own speed and don’t mind doing your own planning along the way.

Key Points

• Affordable at just $9.99, offering lifetime access to the tour.
• Flexible schedule: use it before, during, and after your trip, including at home.
• Comprehensive coverage of key landmarks like St. Louis Cathedral and Pirates Alley.
• Self-guided means you control your pace, but you’ll need to navigate on your own.
• No included tickets for attractions or museums, so plan accordingly.
• Suitable for travelers comfortable with using an app and exploring independently.

What You Can Expect from the Tour

This tour is essentially a walking guide designed to give you a rich sense of the French Quarter’s vibe without the need for a live guide. It’s ideal if you’re the sort of traveler who enjoys discovering a city at your own pace, taking time to absorb the sights and stories without rushing.

Starting Point and First Impressions

Your adventure kicks off at Execution of Jean Baptiste Baudrau II on St. Peter Street, right along the Mississippi River. From here, you’ll get to enjoy Washington Artillery Park, an ideal spot to start soaking in the city’s military and civic history. While not a formal stop, it sets a peaceful tone for your exploration.

Highlights of the Itinerary

One of the most impressive stops is St. Louis Cathedral, the oldest cathedral in the U.S. — a true architectural marvel that embodies centuries of history. You’ll have the chance to admire its stunning facade and imagine the countless ceremonies and events that have taken place there.

Next, you’ll walk through Pirates Alley, a name that sparks curiosity and a sense of adventure. Although not a designated stop, it adds a layer of storytelling, especially if you’re intrigued by the pirate Jean Lafitte, who is connected to the area’s history. The tour mentions Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar nearby, a legendary spot tied to pirate lore, which many find charming.

Passing by The LaBranche House and The Court of Two Sisters offers glimpses of the district’s preserved architecture and culinary tradition. While these aren’t stops, their presence enriches the streetscape and provides photo-worthy moments.

Cultural and Historic Landmarks

The Old Ursuline Convent Museum is highlighted as a key stop, being the oldest building in the Quarter. If you’re interested, you can explore its grounds and learn about its role in local history, although admission isn’t included, making it an optional activity.

Throughout the walk, you’ll pass numerous historic mansions, jazz clubs like Fritzel’s European Jazz Pub, and cultural spots like Cafe Lafitte in Exile, a historic gay bar dating back to the 1930s. These add layers of local flavor and showcase the neighborhood’s diverse and evolving character.

Atmosphere and Vibe

Walking through Bourbon Street and passing by establishments like Bourbon Vieux gives you a sense of the lively nightlife that the French Quarter is famous for, though this tour focuses more on history than on the party scene. The overall vibe is one of vibrant history mixed with stories of pirates, jazz, and Creole cuisine.

Practical Aspects

With a duration of roughly 1 hour to 1 hour 15 minutes, the tour is manageable even for those with busy schedules. Keep in mind, since it’s self-guided, you’ll need a compatible device, headphones, and a bit of self-motivation to follow along. The app’s offline access is a plus, especially if you’re concerned about data usage or spotty service.

In terms of reviews, many appreciate the value for money and the flexibility, although some mention that it’s more about the narrative than detailed historical insights. It’s a casual way to get an overview, but if you’re seeking in-depth guided knowledge, you might want additional tours.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This self-guided tour is perfect for budget travelers who want to explore at their own pace and enjoy a flexible schedule. It’s also well-suited for those who prefer a socially distanced experience or who like to plan their day around specific interests. History buffs who enjoy listening to stories and learning about pirate legends and colonial architecture will find it particularly appealing.

However, if you’re looking for an interactive, guided experience with a guide explaining the stories live, this might not fulfill that need. Also, since tickets to attractions like the Old Ursuline Convent aren’t included, you’ll want to budget extra if you plan to go inside.

Final Thoughts: Is It Worth It?

For just under ten dollars, this tour offers a cost-effective way to explore the French Quarter without rigid schedules or large groups. The app’s unlimited access makes it easy to revisit parts of the district and explore at your own pace, which can be especially useful if you want a flexible, self-directed experience.

While it’s not perfect — it’s more of a narrated walk than a detailed guided tour, and you’ll need to arrange your own tickets for some attractions — it provides a solid framework for understanding the neighborhood’s highlights. The mixture of landmarks, stories, and local flavor makes it a good option for travelers who are comfortable with self-navigation and eager to learn about New Orleans’ unique past.

In summary, if you’re someone who enjoys exploring at your own pace, loves history, and wants a budget-friendly way to see the French Quarter, this could be a worthwhile addition to your trip.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for families or children?
While the tour doesn’t specifically mention being family-focused, the historical and visual nature of the walk can be interesting for older kids, especially those curious about pirates and historic buildings. Keep in mind, it’s self-guided, so supervision is recommended.

Do I need to download the app before my trip?
Yes, once you book, you’ll receive instructions and a unique code to download the VoiceMap app, which will provide offline access to the tour.

Are entrance fees to attractions included?
No, tickets for sites like the Old Ursuline Convent Museum are not included. You’ll need to purchase those separately if you wish to go inside.

How long does the tour take?
The walking part typically lasts about an hour, but you can take longer if you stop to explore certain sites or take photos.

Can I use this tour at home?
Absolutely. The tour offers a virtual option, so you can explore the French Quarter from your living room if you’re curious beforehand.

Is the tour available year-round?
Yes, it’s available from January 2024 through October 2026, and operates daily.

What’s the starting point?
It begins at the execution site of Jean Baptiste Baudrau II on St. Peter Street and ends at the French Market.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
Since it’s a walking tour through a historic district, it’s best suited for those able to walk moderate distances on possibly uneven surfaces.

Do I need to bring my own headphones?
Yes, a smartphone and headphones are required to listen to the tour.

What makes this tour different from guided group tours?
You set your own pace, explore on your own terms, and can revisit sections as often as you like. It’s more about self-exploration than real-time storytelling with a guide.

If you’re ready to explore New Orleans’ French Quarter at your own pace, this self-guided tour offers a budget-friendly and flexible way to uncover its stories and sights. Just remember to plan ahead for entrance fees if you want to go inside some landmarks, and enjoy wandering through one of America’s most colorful neighborhoods.