Movie and TV Show Tour of New Orleans

If you’re a film buff or just curious about how New Orleans becomes the star of so many movies and TV shows, this tour offers a lively peek behind the scenes. While we haven’t personally taken the tour, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary suggest it’s a well-curated experience that combines local history, iconic landmarks, and a dash of Hollywood glamour.

What we love most about this tour? First, the expert guides—their knowledge shines through and makes the stories about each location come alive. Second, the affordable price point of $30 for roughly two hours of entertainment and insight is hard to beat. The only consideration? It’s primarily a walking tour with some vehicle stops, so it’s best suited for those able to handle a bit of strolling and standing.

This experience is ideal for fans of movies and TV, especially those who enjoy seeing the real places where their favorite scenes were shot, or anyone interested in the local history tied into the film industry. If you’re looking for a fun, affordable way to deepen your understanding of New Orleans’ cinematic role, this tour might be just right.

Key Points

• Expert Guide: Knowledgeable, personable guides make the difference.
• Iconic Locations: Visit landmarks featured in beloved shows and movies.
• Affordable Value: At $30, it offers a comprehensive, engaging experience.
• Short and Sweet: Perfectly paced for most travelers, lasting about 2 hours.
• Rich Stories & Visuals: Expect fun facts, photo back-ups, and behind-the-scenes tidbits.
• Suitable for TV/Film Fans: Especially those with favorite shows like Vampire Diaries, American Horror Story, Your Honor, and Chef.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour

This tour, run by Hollywood South Tours, offers a 2-hour jaunt through New Orleans’ film and television landscape, starting from the bustling Royal Street. For just $30 per person, you get a blend of history, pop culture, and local flavor, with a small group capped at 16 travelers. This ensures a more personalized experience—our guides can tailor the stories to your interests and answer questions comfortably.

Starting Point: A Historic Introduction

The tour kicks off at 400 Royal Street, right in the heart of the French Quarter. From this central location, you’ll quickly get a sense of the city’s vibrant atmosphere, which film producers love for its authentic look and historic charm.

Stop 1: New Orleans Pharmacy Museum

We begin at the New Orleans Pharmacy Museum, located in the old LaSupreme Court building and the first licensed pharmacy in the U.S. It’s a fascinating starting point that sets the tone—combining true crime, medicine, and a touch of the supernatural, all of which make appearances in local stories and shows.

While admission isn’t included, the museum’s collection of old pharmaceutical equipment and unique backstory make it a memorable stop. Our guide pointed out that in just two blocks, we’d cover everything from true crime tales to vampires.

Stop 2: Jackson Square

Next, we stroll through Jackson Square, arguably the most iconic area in the French Quarter. This lively spot has appeared in over a dozen films and TV productions. It’s a hub of activity and history, with street artists, musicians, and a lively vibe that film crews often seek out.

Here, you’ll see the facades of buildings that have starred in productions such as Your Honor and King Creole. The guide shared fun behind-the-scenes stories about how these locations have been transformed on screen, making the experience all the more vivid.

Stops 3–9: Film & TV Landmarks

Throughout the tour, you’ll visit several more locations with rich cinematic stories:

• Voodoo Authentica: Not just a shop for fans of mysticism, but also a location used in films. Plus, the guide dispelled some myths about Voodoo, giving you cultural context.
• Old Ursuline Convent Museum: The only pre-fire building remaining in the city, this spot becomes part of the “horror” segment, especially for those interested in witches and vampires.
• Lalaurie Mansion: Known as New Orleans’ most haunted house, with a storied past that includes ownership by Nicholas Cage. It’s a prime setting for ghost stories and supernatural tales.
• Starling Magickal Occult Shop & Boutique du Vampyre: Both locations are featured in vampire lore and films, making them must-visits for supernatural fans.
• Madame John’s Legacy & Pirates Alley: These historic sites have appeared in various productions, and their stories add a layer of authentic local flavor.

Many travelers noted the guides’ storytelling skills, with reviews praising their ability to connect film locations with fascinating local histories. One reviewer said, “Trevor McQueen was great. Very informative… and had a great personality.” Another mentioned how the guide’s videos and pictures brought scenes to life right in front of them.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

One of the many strengths highlighted in reviews is the personalized approach. The guide, Trevor, seems adept at customizing the experience—whether by showing extra film clips, sharing personal anecdotes, or adjusting to the group’s interests.

The value for money is clear—$30 for two hours filled with fun facts, location insights, and local lore. When compared to other tours, this one’s succinct format keeps it lively and manageable, without feeling rushed or overly long.

Accessibility & Practicalities

The tour is not a walking-only experience, which appeals to travelers who prefer a bit of comfort. It’s suitable for most, but those unable to walk long distances might want to plan accordingly. The tour’s timing is flexible enough for most schedules, and since it’s near public transportation, getting there is straightforward.

The Experience’s Emotional Impact

From the enthusiastic reviews, it’s evident that this tour resonates deeply with fans—many expressed how much they appreciated the behind-the-scenes insights and exclusive location stories. For lovers of vampire lore, supernatural tales, and favorite TV shows, this tour offers a chance to see their favorite places in real life.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for film and TV fans who want to see the real locations behind their favorite stories. It’s also great for history buffs interested in New Orleans’ architectural and cultural landmarks, especially as they relate to Hollywood productions.

Travelers looking for an affordable, engaging, and informative tour that doesn’t require a lot of walking will find this a good fit. The small group size means more personal attention from guides who are passionate about sharing their knowledge.

The Sum Up

This Movie and TV Show Tour of New Orleans offers a lively, accessible way to explore the city’s cinematic side. For just $30, you’ll visit iconic landmarks, hear fascinating stories, and enjoy the company of passionate guides—all packed into an energizing two-hour adventure. Whether you’re a superfan of Vampire Diaries or just love the idea of seeing where Hollywood films come alive, this tour delivers a fun, insightful experience.

The tour’s strength lies in its expert guides, well-chosen locations, and the authentic charm of the French Quarter. It’s a perfect option for those who want a quick but meaningful connection to New Orleans’ screen history, with plenty of photo opportunities and stories to take home.

If you’re after a tour that balances entertainment with education, and offers a real taste of local film lore, this is worth the investment. Just remember, it’s best suited for those who are comfortable with some walking and standing, and eager to discover the city’s secret movie magic.

FAQ

• How long does the tour last? Approximately 2 hours.
• What is the price? $30 per person.
• Is the tour suitable for everyone? Most travelers can participate, but it’s not recommended for those unable to walk long distances.
• Where does the tour start? It begins at 400 Royal Street in the French Quarter.
• Is transportation provided? No, but the tour is not a walking-only experience; vehicle stops are included.
• Are tickets included in the price? Admission to sites like the Pharmacy Museum is not included.
• Can I cancel if I change my mind? Yes, full refunds are available if canceled 24 hours in advance.
• What kind of stories will I hear? Behind-the-scenes stories, local history, and fun facts about films and TV shows.
• Is the guide knowledgeable? Yes, reviews consistently praise the guides’ expertise and engaging storytelling.
• Are there any special themes? Yes, the tour includes supernatural, haunted, and vampire locations, appealing to fans of those genres.

This tour offers a well-balanced mix of local history, pop culture, and fun stories—making it an excellent choice for anyone eager to see a different side of New Orleans.