New Orleans isn’t just about jazz, beignets, and lively street scenes—it’s also a city where unique wine and art experiences add flavor to your visit. While the city’s famed for its cocktails and Creole cuisine, there are some surprisingly memorable ways to enjoy a glass or two—either with a view from above or surrounded by local art.
Our favorites include a breathtaking VIP sightseeing flight with champagne and chocolates, offering aerial views of the city and wetlands, and an eclectic Arts District gallery tour with bubbly and art for the eyes and palate. Both tours provide a different perspective on NOLA, making them well worth your time.
If you’re after a one-of-a-kind experience that combines spectacular vistas with a touch of romance, the New Orleans VIP Sightseeing Flight with Champagne & Chocolates or Wine & Cheese is perfect.
On the other hand, if you prefer exploring local creativity with some bubbly in hand, the New Orleans Arts District Gallery Tour with Champagne offers a lively, art-filled afternoon. Below, we’ll break down each, so you can pick the one that best suits your style.
1. New Orleans VIP Sightseeing Flight with Champagne & Chocolates or Wine & Cheese
At number one on our list is a truly unforgettable way to see New Orleans: a VIP aerial sightseeing flight that lasts about 30 to 45 minutes. This tour is ideal for those looking to add some thrill and romance to their visit. As you glide over the city and wetlands in a small plane, your pilot shares lively stories about the French Quarter, the Mercedes-Benz Superdome, and the winding Mississippi River.
What makes this tour stand out is the combination of stunning aerial views and a personal touch—your choice of champagne with chocolates or wine and cheese served mid-flight. The experience begins and ends at Lakefront Airport, making it easy to fit into a day of exploring. The aviation headsets ensure you hear every detail from your pilot, enhancing the whole experience.
Reviewers consistently praise the flight for its incredible views and the friendly, knowledgeable pilot—many say they’d happily do it again. Some mention the adrenaline of champagne combined with the thrill of flying, making it a romantic highlight. At $197.34 per person, it’s an investment in a memorable perspective on the Crescent City.
Bottom Line: If you want a unique, scenic way to see New Orleans from above and enjoy some bubbly, this flight is hard to beat.
2. New Orleans Arts District Gallery Tour with Champagne
For those who prefer a more grounded yet equally engaging experience, the New Orleans Arts District Gallery Tour with Champagne offers a taste of local creativity paired with sparkling wine. This tour lasts about two hours and features visits to two or three galleries within the Arts District.
Led by a professional local guide, you’ll wander through vibrant galleries, discovering original artwork and learning about the artists behind the pieces. Highlights include wandering along the Poydras Corridor, home to large-scale sculptures created by renowned artists, blending outdoor art with the city’s lively atmosphere.
The tour typically includes a complimentary glass of sparkling wine, adding a celebratory touch as you soak in the colorful surroundings.
The tour is flexible, with gallery selections varying each time, ensuring a fresh experience. Optional food tastings and signature cocktails are available for purchase, making this a perfect way to combine art, culture, and a bit of bubbly without breaking the bank.
While it doesn’t have reviews yet, the focus on local art and the lively neighborhood make it appealing to those interested in culture and a relaxed pace.
Bottom Line: This tour is well-suited for art lovers or those looking to combine a casual gallery crawl with a few drinks and a taste of local flavor.
How to Choose
When deciding between these two unique wine experiences in New Orleans, think about your interests and schedule. The VIP sightseeing flight offers a dramatic, romantic view of the city from above—perfect if you want a special, memorable outing or are celebrating a special occasion. It’s best suited for travelers with a taste for adventure and a bit of luxury.
The Arts District gallery tour is far more relaxed and arts-focused. It’s ideal if you want to explore local creativity, enjoy some bubbly, and keep within a modest budget. It’s also a good choice if you prefer being on the ground and experiencing New Orleans’ vibrant art scene firsthand.
Consider your budget, time constraints, and interests—whether you’re drawn to spectacular aerial views or art-filled streets with a glass of bubbles. Booking early is recommended, especially for the flight, as it’s a more popular and limited experience.
Final Thoughts
New Orleans offers a surprising variety of ways to enjoy wine—whether soaring above the city in a private plane or strolling through its thriving art districts with a glass in hand. The VIP sightseeing flight is ideal for celebrating a special moment and seeing the city from a unique vantage point, while the gallery tour is perfect for relaxed afternoons immersed in local culture.
For different traveler types, these tours provide options to suit adventurous spirits and art lovers alike. If you have a special occasion or want a truly memorable experience, the flight is a fantastic choice. For those who love to explore neighborhoods and discover local artists, the gallery tour delivers a relaxed, artsy vibe.
Whatever you choose, booking early ensures you won’t miss out on these memorable experiences. New Orleans’s blend of scenery and art with a toast of bubbly makes for a trip to remember.