New Orleans Bourbon Street Bar Crawl w/ Shots & Souvenir Cup

When it comes to experiencing New Orleans’ legendary nightlife, few activities match the fun, camaraderie, and authentic vibe of a guided Bourbon Street bar crawl. While we haven’t personally taken this exact tour, the buzz from numerous happy participants paints a compelling picture.

This experience promises a lively two-hour jaunt through the heart of the French Quarter, led by local guides who know all the hidden corners and classic spots, making it a prime way to get a genuine taste of the Big Easy’s nightlife.

What immediately catches our eye is the inclusive nature of the experience—multiple welcome shots, a souvenir “Crawl Cup” for exclusive drink deals, and stops at iconic venues. We also appreciate the flexibility of the tour vibe—whether you prefer mellow tunes with some live music or a full-on party with DJs and dancing, this crawl adapts to your mood.

One small consideration: with a set itinerary and bar-selected drinks, some travelers might find their beverage options somewhat limited, especially if they prefer more control over their drinks.

This tour seems best suited for party-goers, first-time visitors eager to explore Bourbon Street, or anyone wanting a lively, social way to experience New Orleans’ famous nightlife without the hassle of planning each stop. If you love meeting new people and enjoying local culture, this is a great choice.

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

Key Points

• Authentic Local Guides: Led by knowledgeable guides who are passionate about New Orleans.
• Inclusive Drinks: Multiple welcome shots and a souvenir cup for ongoing drink specials.
• Flexible Atmosphere: Options for daytime mellow vibes or nighttime party energy.
• Convenient Meeting Point: Near the French Quarter, easy to access via rideshare or public transportation.
• Fun & Social: Drinking games, group interaction, and a lively crowd enhance the experience.
• Great Value: For just $28, you get 2 hours of guided fun, multiple stops, and plenty of drink deals.

The Itinerary: What To Expect

Meeting at Coyote Ugly Saloon

The tour kicks off at the famous Coyote Ugly Saloon, which is not only iconic but also strategically located right next to the Mississippi River. Here, you’ll receive your Crawl Cup, your first welcome shot, and meet your guide and fellow travelers. The choice of this lively venue is perfect—the energy is contagious, and the staff are known for their fun antics, setting the tone for an evening of merriment. Plus, the location makes it easy to hop in a rideshare or catch the Streetcar from nearby stations.

Walking Through the French Quarter

After the initial introductions, you’ll take a leisurely walk through the historic French Quarter, soaking in the distinct architecture and vibrant street life. A good guide will share stories about the area’s unique buildings and what makes New Orleans so visually compelling.

This part of the tour is also an opportunity to fill your Crawl Cup — a smart way to unlock drink specials across the bars you visit later. The walk is brief but packed with local flavor, giving you a taste of the city’s charm before diving into Bourbon Street itself.

The Main Event: Bourbon Street

Finally, you arrive on Bourbon Street, a stretch famous worldwide for its lively, eclectic scene. The venues visited are carefully selected to reflect the street’s diverse vibe, whether it’s lively live music venues, karaoke bars, or nightclubs. The tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 20 minutes, during which you’ll encounter an energetic mix of live bands, DJs, drink specials, and the chance to dance or just sit back and people-watch.

Many reviews highlight the entertainment value—some mention the lively music at daytime stops and the nightclub atmosphere in the evening. With multiple stops, the tour offers a chance to sample the local cocktails, enjoy the free shots, and partake in drinking games with new friends.

What’s Included: Making the Most of Your Ticket

For just $28 per person, this tour packs a lot of value. You get:

• A 2-hour guided crawl through the French Quarter and Bourbon Street
• Access to 4 stops at bars, pubs, and live music venues
• A Crawl Cup for special drink deals
• Multiple welcome shots at different venues
• Participation in fun drinking games
• Professionally led by a guide who keeps the energy high
• Any associated entry fees, including night tours

The included shots and drink specials are especially appealing for those wanting to maximize their dollar while soaking up the local party scene. The souvenir adds a fun keepsake to remember your experience, and the guide’s local expertise ensures you’re hitting the best spots.

Practical Details: What You Need to Know

Meeting Point and Accessibility

Start your adventure at Coyote Ugly Saloon on N Peters Street, a location that’s convenient for rideshare drop-offs and public transportation via the Streetcar. The tour concludes near Orleans Street, close to Jackson Square and St. Louis Cathedral, meaning you’re right in the thick of the action at the end.

Duration and Group Size

The tour lasts around 2 hours, making it easy to fit into a busy day or evening. Groups are limited to 25 travelers, ensuring a lively but intimate atmosphere. Most travelers can participate, and the tour is designed to cater to a variety of ages and interests, though it clearly targets those looking for fun and socializing.

Booking and Cancellation

Booking is usually done about 27 days in advance, and the process is straightforward with a mobile ticket. The tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start, providing some peace of mind if your plans change last minute.

What to Wear and Bring

Comfortable shoes are a must, given the walking involved. Bring your ID, some cash for tips if you wish, and perhaps a small bag for essentials. Since drinks are included at each stop, no need to worry about carrying cash for drinks unless you want to buy extra.

Authentic Traveler Experiences

From glowing reviews, it’s clear that the guides play a pivotal role. Many describe Jason as an “amazing” and “fun” host who keeps the group entertained with friendly banter and engaging games. One reviewer notes, “Jason was the best tour guide on Bourbon Street—thoughtful, protective, and entertaining,” capturing the importance of a good guide in creating a memorable experience.

Participants love the variety of venues and the opportunity to socialize and dance. For example, one reviewer shared, “We had an absolute blast for my birthday. Jason kept us entertained the entire time.” Others highlight the quality of entertainment, especially the live music at daytime stops and the DJ vibe at night.

The Food and Drink

While the tour primarily focuses on drinks, some reviews mention the delicious drinks and shots offered, which are part of the fun. The drink deals you get with your Crawl Cup are a highlight, letting you enjoy the local cocktails without breaking the bank.

However, some caution that drinks are whatever the bars decide to serve—so while you may not get to choose your specific drink, the variety and quality are generally well-received.

The Value Proposition

At $28 for two hours of guided entertainment, drinks, and access to several iconic venues, this tour offers strong value. It’s especially appealing for visitors who want a structured introduction to Bourbon Street without the hassle of planning every stop themselves. Plus, the inclusion of shots and drink specials means you’re likely to get your money’s worth and a lively night out.

For those who love a social, energetic atmosphere and don’t mind walking and dancing, this tour delivers a memorable slice of New Orleans nightlife. It’s best suited for fun-seekers, first-timers, or groups celebrating special occasions—like birthdays or bachelorette parties—who want a safe, guided way to enjoy the city’s famous party scene.

The Sum Up: Who Should Consider This Tour?

This Bourbon Street bar crawl is a fantastic choice for those looking to dive into New Orleans’ legendary nightlife in a fun, organized way. The guides, especially those like Jason, are praised for making the experience lively and memorable. The inclusion of drinks, a souvenir cup, and multiple stops makes it a great VALUE—perfect for travelers who want to maximize their social time without the stress of navigating alone.

While it’s not a quiet or romantic experience, it’s ideal for party lovers, first-time visitors eager to explore, and groups celebrating special moments. If you’re after a relaxed, low-key evening, this might not be your scene. But if you’re ready to dance, drink, and meet new friends, this tour will deliver.

FAQs

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, it’s recommended to book about 27 days ahead, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at Coyote Ugly Saloon on N Peters Street and ends near Orleans Street, close to Jackson Square and the Cathedral.

Are drinks included?
You get multiple welcome shots, and the Crawl Cup provides access to drink specials across the venues. Drinks are served by the bars, and you might not have full control over your choice.

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
While primarily focused on drinks and socializing, non-drinkers can still enjoy the lively atmosphere and music. However, participation in drinking games is part of the experience.

How long does the tour last?
The guided crawl lasts approximately 2 hours, with stops at four different venues.

What is the group size?
A maximum of 25 travelers helps ensure a lively but manageable experience.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if you cancel more than 24 hours in advance.

In essence, this Bourbon Street bar crawl offers a lively, well-organized way to experience the heart of New Orleans’ nightlife. Whether you enjoy music, dancing, or just soaking in the vibrant street scene, it’s a good way to create lasting memories in the Big Easy.