New Orleans: VIP Bar and Club Crawl Tour with Free Shots

This experience made our article of The 15 Most Popular Drinking Tours In New Orleans.

Discovering the New Orleans VIP Bar and Club Crawl Tour

Our review of the New Orleans VIP Bar and Club Crawl aims to give you an honest look at what promises to be an energetic night out in the French Quarter. Offered by Crawl New Orleans, this three-hour experience is designed to let you enjoy the city’s legendary nightlife without the hassle of lines or waiting around. It’s perfect for travelers eager to socialize, sample local drinks, and see some of the best bars and clubs in town, all under the guidance of an entertaining and knowledgeable guide.

What we love about this tour are two things: first, the VIP treatment—getting skip-the-line access to popular venues truly saves a lot of time and frustration. Second, the social aspect—playing drinking games and meeting fellow travelers from around the world makes it a lively, inclusive experience. A potential downside, however, is that if you’re not a fan of nightlife or drinking, this tour might not be your best fit. Also, it’s strictly for those 21 and over, so no minors allowed.

This experience is ideal for groups of friends, solo travelers looking to connect, or anyone wanting a fun, guided introduction to New Orleans’ vibrant nightlife scene. If you’re after a memorable night out with a sociable crowd and VIP perks, this tour should go on your list.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Includes VIP Access: Skip long lines at top French Quarter venues.
• All About Socializing: Play drinking games and meet international travelers.
• Free Shots & Drink Specials: Enjoy complimentary drinks at each stop.
• Professional Guide: Led by a licensed guide who keeps the party flowing.
• Duration & Flexibility: Three hours of nighttime fun, with options to cancel up to 24 hours in advance.
• Cost-Effective: At $59, it offers a lively, all-in-one nightlife experience.

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

The VIP Bar and Club Crawl in New Orleans is crafted for those wanting to experience the city’s famed nightlife in a way that combines fun, convenience, and social connection. Let’s break down what this tour involves and why it might just be your best night out in the French Quarter.

Meeting Point and Check-In

Your night begins at a centrally located spot—inside the large purple check-in table where you’ll sign your waiver (important to do before arrival). The meeting point is straightforward, and the tour operator emphasizes clarity with instructions. Since the tour doesn’t include hotel pickup, planning your transportation to the meeting site is something to consider, especially if you’re staying outside the immediate French Quarter.

The Role of the Guide

A licensed party guide leads the group, keeping things lively and organized. Based on reviews, guides like Jason earn high praise—called “pleasant and fun,” which sets the tone for the entire night. Having a personable guide who keeps the energy high and navigates the logistics contributes significantly to the experience’s value.

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The Venues You’ll Visit

You’ll hop through 4 of the best venues in town—top-rated bars, balconies, and nightclubs where the party really kicks off. Each stop offers exclusive drink specials and free shots, which means your wallet will thank you. Skipping lines is a huge perk, especially in a busy city like New Orleans, where nightlife can be crowded.

While the tour doesn’t specify exact venues, the emphasis on “top-rated” spots indicates you’ll be visiting popular, well-loved locations—think lively bars with authentic local flavor, alongside some more upscale clubs with balconies and outdoor spaces.

The Party Games and Social Vibe

One highlight is the inclusion of drinking games, like flip cup, which the tour promotes as a way to loosen up and connect. Several reviews praised the social atmosphere, with travelers mentioning the fun of “drinks and the turn-up together,” and that guides like Jason create a pleasant, engaging environment.

Free Shots and Drink Specials

Each venue features exclusive drink deals and free shots, giving you a good bang for your buck. This aspect makes the tour not just a party, but a cost-effective way to sample what New Orleans has to offer without breaking the bank. Travelers appreciated the value, noting that for $59, they received a lively experience with drinks included.

Experience Duration and Pacing

At just three hours, the tour is designed for an energetic evening without feeling too long or rushed. It’s typically available in the evening, aligning well with most travelers’ plans for a night of partying. The short duration also means it’s suitable for those on a tight schedule or looking for a lively pre-night-out activity.

Authenticity and Real-World Feedback

From reviews, we gather the tour is largely well-received: “The tour guy was awesome,” says Betty, though she notes the drinks could be better. Others, like Charia, rave about her guide, Jason, calling him “pleasant and fun,” and say the tour is “definitely worth the money”.

However, not all feedback is glowing. One traveler experienced issues with the first bar not knowing the tour was happening, and the guide disappearing after the first stop. This highlights that, like any guided experience, the quality can vary depending on the guide and venue coordination. Still, most reviews suggest that a knowledgeable guide and good planning make all the difference.

What You Need to Know: Practical Details

Pricing and Value: At $59, this tour offers a lively night out, drinks included, and VIP access. Considering the cost of individual drinks and cover charges, this is a reasonable deal for a guided, all-in-one experience.

Who Should Consider It: This experience is best suited for travelers 21 and over who enjoy social drinking, meeting new people, and want to do so in a lively, safe environment with a guide to keep things moving. It’s less appropriate for those seeking a more relaxed or cultural experience.

What To Bring: Just your ID or passport—nothing fancy needed. The tour does not specify dress code beyond no sleeveless shirts, so casual attire is fine, but packing a little extra cash for souvenirs or additional drinks might be wise.

Cancellation Policy: You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, offering flexibility if your plans change.

In-Depth Itinerary Breakdown

While exact stops aren’t detailed, the focus is on top-rated venues—bars with balconies and lively nightclubs. You’ll start at the check-in point, then be guided through four venues where you’ll enjoy exclusive drink specials and free shots. The experience is structured to maximize social interaction and fun, with plenty of opportunities to play drinking games and mingle.

The skip-the-line VIP access ensures you avoid the long queues often associated with popular nightlife spots in New Orleans. This can significantly enhance your evening, especially during peak times or busy weekends.

Why Is This Valuable?

Getting VIP treatment means more time enjoying the atmosphere rather than waiting outside. Plus, the inclusion of drinking games and social elements fosters camaraderie, which can lead to new friends and memorable stories.

Potential Drawbacks

The main concern might be the inconsistency in tour guide or venue coordination, as evidenced by a review where the guide disappeared after the first stop. Also, if you prefer more subdued or culturally focused experiences, this lively, party-heavy tour might not suit you.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour?

This VIP bar crawl is a fantastic way to experience New Orleans’ legendary nightlife in a lively, social setting. If you’re someone who enjoys meeting people, playing party games, and sampling drinks with a group, you’ll likely find this tour a highlight of your trip. The VIP access and free shots add value, making it a good choice for budget-conscious travelers looking for a spirited night out.

However, if you prefer a quieter, more cultural or historical experience, this tour might feel a bit too lively or commercial. It’s best suited for those who want to embrace the city’s party reputation and are ready for a night of dancing, drinking, and socializing with a friendly guide leading the way.

Overall, for the price, this tour offers solid value and the chance to enjoy New Orleans’ vibrant nightlife in a carefree, guided environment.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for people under 21?
No, only guests 21 and over are allowed, as alcohol consumption is part of the experience.

Does the tour include transportation?
No, it does not provide hotel pickup or drop-off; you need to make your own way to the meeting point.

What should I bring?
Just your ID or passport to verify your age.

Are drinks included in the price?
Yes, you’ll receive free shots and enjoy exclusive drink specials at each venue.

How long is the tour?
It’s a 3-hour experience, usually held in the evening.

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

What if I don’t drink alcohol?
This tour is geared toward those who want to drink and socialize; non-drinkers might find it less suitable.

Will I get to visit specific venues?
The tour visits 4 top-rated bars and nightclubs, but exact locations are not specified.

Is this tour good for solo travelers?
Absolutely—many reviews mention meeting new friends and having a fun social atmosphere.

What is the guide’s role?
The guide leads the group, ensures smooth transitions between venues, and keeps the party lively and organized.

In essence, if you’re after a fun, social night out that combines convenience with authentic local vibes, this VIP bar crawl in New Orleans is worth considering. Just remember, it’s all about enjoying the moment, meeting new people, and soaking up the city’s festive spirit.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby