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- The 15 Best Tours & Things To Do in New Orleans
- 1. New Orleans: High Speed 16 Passenger Airboat Ride
- 2. New Orleans Small-Group City Tour by Van
- 3. New Orleans French Quarter and More Carriage Ride
- 4. Small-Group Manchac Swamp Kayak Tour
- 5. New Orleans Swamp Tour Boat Adventure with Transportation
- 6. French Quarters Best Food Tour: Signature Flavors of New Orleans
- 7. New Orleans: Sightseeing Bus Tour
- 8. New Orleans Zipline Swamp Tour
- 9. New Orleans Cemetery Walking Tour
- 10. New Orleans: Evening Steamboat Jazz Cruise + Optional Dinner
- 11. New Orleans Cocktail and Food History Tour
- 12. Honey Island Swamp Boat Tour
- 13. New Orleans: Daytime Steamboat Jazz Cruise + Optional Lunch
- 14. New Orleans True Murder Tour: Sinister Criminal Intentions
- 15. New Orleans Donut and Beignet Adventure by Underground Donut Tour
- How to Choose the Right Tour for You
- Final Thoughts
The 15 Best Tours & Things To Do in New Orleans
New Orleans isn’t just a city—it’s an experience, a place where every corner invites you to discover something new. Its lively streets, soulful jazz, and mouthwatering cuisine are complemented by an array of tours that suit all interests and energy levels.
Whether you want to glide through the wetlands on an airboat, learn about the city’s architecture on a small-group van tour, or indulge in authentic Creole flavors, New Orleans has it all.
We’re especially fond of the High Speed 16 Passenger Airboat Ride, which offers a truly adrenaline-pumping way to see Louisiana’s wildlife up close.
If you’re looking for a well-rounded experience, the Small-Group City Tour by Van hits the sweet spot—combining culture, history, and local insights in just a few hours. No matter your pace, you’ll find something memorable in this list, from haunting cemeteries to savory food tours. Let’s dive into the best of what New Orleans has to offer.
1. New Orleans: High Speed 16 Passenger Airboat Ride
Rated 4.8/5 with over 2,173 reviews, this airboat tour is perfect for thrill-seekers and nature lovers alike. For around $90, you’ll spend four hours speeding through the swamp with a small group on a high-powered vessel. The guide shares fascinating insights about Cajun wetlands and their role in local life.
Expect to see alligators, raccoons, wild pigs, and more, all within a pristine landscape that feels worlds away from the city.
The ride offers a rush and a rare chance to observe swamp wildlife in their natural habitat, making it a memorable adventure. It’s ideal for families or those wanting an active, hands-on experience outside the city.
Guests consistently rate this tour highly, praising the expert guidance and the thrill of seeing wildlife up close. If you’re craving an adrenaline-fueled excursion that also educates, this is hard to beat. Bottom line: It’s a wild ride worth every penny for adventure junkies.
2. New Orleans Small-Group City Tour by Van
With a perfect 5.0/5 from nearly 1,000 reviews, this half-day tour offers a balanced overview of New Orleans’ architecture, neighborhoods, and history for just $62. The tour team keeps the group intimate—fewer than 15 people—which means personalized attention and access to areas larger buses can’t reach.
The itinerary includes stops at the historic French Quarter, the elegant Garden District, and notable sites like the WWII Museum and city parks.
Guests love the guide’s storytelling skills—“Oz was incredibly knowledgeable,” and “we felt like we could lead our own tour.” The tour includes hotel pickup and drop-off, making logistics easy. It’s a fantastic choice if you want a comprehensive, personal introduction to the city’s sights and stories, all in just a few hours.
Bottom line: Perfect for first-timers wanting an authentic, relaxed experience with insightful commentary.
3. New Orleans French Quarter and More Carriage Ride
Rated 5.0/5 with nearly 955 reviews, this hour-long carriage ride is a charming way to explore the French Quarter’s storied streets. For $60, you’ll sit back as your guide shares legends about landmarks like the St. Louis Cathedral, Napoleon House, and the French Market.
The ride provides a relaxed, intimate atmosphere—limited to eight passengers—which ensures a comfortable and personal experience. Along the way, you’ll learn about the city’s architectural styles, historic fires, and battle of New Orleans.
Guests highlight the informative narration and the opportunity to see the city’s historic architecture up close. It’s a peaceful and scenic way to soak in the French Quarter’s ambiance. Bottom line: Ideal for those who prefer a leisurely, storytelling tour with a historic touch.
4. Small-Group Manchac Swamp Kayak Tour
Rated 5.0/5 from close to 950 reviews, this kayaking adventure is perfect for nature enthusiasts and beginners alike. For just $90, you’ll paddle through the lush cypress forests of the Manchac and Maurepas swamps, guided by an expert who shares insights about local flora and fauna.
No prior experience is necessary—your guide teaches paddling techniques before launching. Observing alligators, herons, and turtles in their habitat makes this a truly immersive experience.
Guests praise the guides’ knowledge and the serenity of paddling through untouched landscapes. It’s a great way to combine exercise with wildlife watching. Bottom line: An excellent choice if you want an active, nature-focused day in Louisiana.
5. New Orleans Swamp Tour Boat Adventure with Transportation
Rated 5.0/5, this two-hour boat tour costs around $60 and includes round-trip transportation. The guide narrates stories of Indian burial mounds, Cajun cemeteries, and local legends while you cruise the Barataria Swamps.
Keep an eye out for alligators, snakes, and turtles—wildlife sightings are common and exhilarating. This tour is ideal for those who want a comprehensive, guided experience without the hassle of driving.
Guests mention the knowledgeable guides and the chance to see some baby alligators. It’s an accessible way to explore Louisiana’s wetlands and learn about their cultural significance. Bottom line: A convenient, informative swamp experience for all ages.
6. French Quarters Best Food Tour: Signature Flavors of New Orleans
Rated 5.0/5 with nearly 880 reviews, this culinary walking tour is a foodie’s dream. For $75, you’ll visit iconic eateries, taste classic dishes like po-boys, muffaletta, and Creole specialties, and learn about the city’s culinary traditions.
The tour’s pace is leisurely, and all tastings are included, making it a hearty lunch on its own. Your guide shares stories behind each dish, blending food, history, and local legends.
Guests rave about the variety and quality of food, as well as the engaging guides. It’s ideal for those wanting an authentic taste of New Orleans’ cooking scene while exploring historic landmarks. Bottom line: A satisfying, flavorful tour for hungry travelers.
7. New Orleans: Sightseeing Bus Tour
Rated 4.8/5 from over 1,500 reviews, this bus tour offers an efficient way to see multiple neighborhoods including the Garden District, Treme, and the 9th Ward. Priced at $59 and lasting 2.5 hours, it’s perfect if you want to cover a lot of ground quickly. The narrated journey highlights local culture, architecture, and history, with stops to try beignets and visit historic cemeteries.
Guests appreciate the comfort and the rundown of the city. It’s a good option for travelers short on time or those who prefer a guided bus experience. Bottom line: A practical, broad-strokes tour ideal for first visits.
8. New Orleans Zipline Swamp Tour
Rated 5.0/5, this zipline adventure costs $89 and lasts about 1 hour and 15 minutes. Set near Lake Ponchartrain, you’ll soar through the treetops on five ziplines, cross suspension bridges, and enjoy stunning views of the Maurepas Swamp. Guides ensure safety and fun for all levels, and wildlife sightings like alligators and birds are common.
Guests highlight the thrill and scenery, especially the bird-watching opportunities from above. It’s suited for active travelers seeking an adrenaline rush and a different perspective on Louisiana’s wetlands. Bottom line: A high-energy, scenic activity for adventure-minded visitors.
9. New Orleans Cemetery Walking Tour
Rated 5.0/5, this cemetery tour costs $30 and lasts about 2 hours. Led by a licensed guide, you’ll explore above-ground tombs and uncover stories of celebrity graves and historic funerary practices. The tour includes visits to famous cemeteries and insights into local culture and spiritual beliefs.
Guests praise the knowledgeable narration and the insider access that’s not possible alone. It’s perfect for those interested in the city’s mournful beauty and mysterious legends. Bottom line: An engaging, educational walk through New Orleans’ unique cemeteries.
10. New Orleans: Evening Steamboat Jazz Cruise + Optional Dinner
Rated 4.4/5 from over 4,100 reviews, this Mississippi River cruise runs about 2 hours for $44. It features live jazz music by the Dukes of Dixieland, with options to upgrade to a dinner buffet. The cruise offers fantastic photo opportunities and a chance to see the city skyline at sunset, all with engaging narration.
Guests enjoy the musical ambiance and the relaxed atmosphere. It’s a lovely way to experience New Orleans from the river without the exertion of walking. Bottom line: Romantic, musical, and scenic—perfect for a mellow evening.
11. New Orleans Cocktail and Food History Tour
Rated 5.0/5, this food and drink tour costs about $160 for 4 hours of tasting and storytelling. You’ll visit six locations, sampling up to eight dishes and four cocktails that showcase NOLA’s culinary heritage. Your guide shares stories behind each classic cocktail and local delicacy, blending history with flavor.
Guests note the quality of the food and insights into local cuisine. It’s ideal for those wanting a deep dive into New Orleans’ flavors while exploring historic districts. Bottom line: A comprehensive, delicious experience for food and drink lovers.
12. Honey Island Swamp Boat Tour
Rated 5.0/5, this two-hour boat tour costs $34 and is a relaxed trip through Honey Island Swamp near Slidell. Your captain shares tales of swamp pirates, Bigfoot, and prehistoric creatures while you spot wildlife like otters, birds, and alligators. The tour begins at the West Pearl River, with moss-draped cypresses and lush scenery.
Guests appreciate the peaceful environment and the informative narration. It’s a perfect day trip for wildlife lovers or families looking for an easy, scenic excursion. Bottom line: An affordable, wildlife-rich boat tour with a local flavor.
13. New Orleans: Daytime Steamboat Jazz Cruise + Optional Lunch
Rated 4.4/5, this two-hour cruise offers lively jazz music and scenic views of the Mississippi River. For an additional fee, enjoy a Creole lunch served onboard. It’s a relaxing and musical way to appreciate New Orleans from the water, with live narration and photo opportunities.
Guests love the atmosphere and the chance to combine sightseeing with local music. It’s an ideal choice for those wanting a leisurely, cultural experience. Bottom line: A peaceful river cruise with plenty of musical charm.
14. New Orleans True Murder Tour: Sinister Criminal Intentions
Rated 5.0/5, this adults-only evening tour costs $37. It takes you through French Quarter streets to hear about infamous crimes, including the Lalaurie Mansion and Trunk Murders. The guide shares grisly tales from police reports and headlines, making it a thrilling alternative to ghost tours.
Guests say, “Dane was an entertaining storyteller,” and the stories are “not for the faint of heart.” It’s perfect for those interested in dark history and true crime stories with a creepy edge. Bottom line: A fascinating, chilling look at New Orleans’ darker side.
15. New Orleans Donut and Beignet Adventure by Underground Donut Tour
Rated 5.0/5 from nearly 700 reviews, this sweet tour is a delightful way to explore the Garden District and Magazine Street. For $70, you’ll visit artisanal donut and beignet shops, sampling a variety of toppings and flavors. Your guide shares local culinary secrets as you walk leisurely through beautiful neighborhoods.
Guests praise the quality of the treats and the informative commentary. It’s perfect for those with a sweet tooth and an interest in local food culture. Bottom line: A delicious, relaxed way to indulge and see some of New Orleans’ best bakeries.
How to Choose the Right Tour for You
When selecting your ideal New Orleans experience, consider your interests, budget, and physical activity level. If you’re after wildlife and adventure, the High Speed Airboat Ride or the Swamp Boat Tour are excellent options. For those who want to dive into history and culture, the Small-Group Van Tour or the French Quarter Carriage Ride provide rich narratives in a relaxed setting.
Food lovers should not miss the Signature Flavors Food Tour or the Donut & Beignet Tour, which combine tasting with sightseeing. For a scenic experience, the Mississippi River cruises offer a blend of music and views, while the True Crime Tour caters to those intrigued by the city’s darker stories.
Always book early, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot on these popular tours. Think about what excites you most—wildlife, history, food, or music—and pick accordingly.
Final Thoughts
New Orleans offers a diverse array of tours that showcase its natural beauty, historic sites, and mouthwatering cuisine. Whether you prefer adrenaline and wildlife sightings, cultural insights, or savory bites, you’ll find a tour that fits your style and pace. The small-group van tour and the airboat ride are standout options for their combination of depth and excitement.
We recommend booking early, especially for guided experiences with limited group sizes or popular time slots. No matter which tour you choose, your visit to New Orleans will be packed with memorable moments—so get out there and explore all the city has to offer.