New Orleans is a city that practically invented the art of having a good time with a drink in hand. Its mix of historic bars, lively music venues, and colorful characters makes it perfect for drinking tours that go beyond the usual bar-hopping.
Whether you’re into spooky stories, jazz tunes, true crime, or celebrity sights, New Orleans offers a variety of experiences that combine history, culture, and a healthy splash of fun.
For example, the Ghost Tour and Haunted Pub Crawl Party is a favorite for its spirited combination of ghost stories and bar visits, while the Steamboat Natchez VIP Jazz Dinner Cruise offers a relaxing, music-filled evening on the river.
If you’re craving something a bit more risqué, the New Orleans Lewd Spirits Haunted Tour blends adults-only stories with bar stops, giving you a taste of the city’s darker side. For those who love live music, the Frenchmen Street VIP Pub Crawl offers a chance to explore little-known clubs with VIP treatment.
No matter your style, these tours let you enjoy New Orleans’ liquid culture safely, socially, and with plenty of local color.
Quick Overview
Our list features a wide range of drinking tours in New Orleans, including ghost and haunted pub crawls, jazz river cruises, true crime pub adventures, celebrity neighborhood tours, and even seafood bar crawls. Some include VIP access, free shots, or private tours, making them ideal for different kinds of travelers.
Whether you want spooky stories at historic bars or dance the night away on Frenchmen Street, there’s something here for everyone. Now, let’s dig into the details of each experience.
- Quick Overview
- 1. Ghost Tour and Haunted Pub Crawl Party
- 2. Steamboat Natchez VIP Jazz Dinner Cruise with Private Tour and Open Bar Option
- 3. New Orleans Lewd Spirits Haunted Tour with Bar Stops
- 4. Frenchmen Street VIP Live Music Pub Crawl in New Orleans
- 5. New Orleans: Haunted Pub Crawl
- 6. True Crime Pub Crawl in New Orleans
- 7. New Orleans: True Crime Pub Crawl
- 8. New Orleans Haunted Pub Crawl
- 9. New Orleans Small-Group History Tour Pub Crawl of The Irish Channel
- 10. New Orleans Bourbon Street Bar Crawl w/ Shots & Souvenir Cup
- 11. New Orleans VIP Bar and Club Crawl
- 12. New Orleans: Ghost and Haunted Pub Crawl Tour with Free Shot
- 13. New Orleans Seafood Bar Crawl
- 14. Nola Culture City / Music & Celebrities Combo Tour with Bar stop
- 15. New Orleans: VIP Bar and Club Crawl Tour with Free Shots
- How to Choose the Right Drinking Tour in New Orleans
- Final Thoughts
1. Ghost Tour and Haunted Pub Crawl Party
At number 1, this tour combines ghost hunting and drinking in a way that’s hard to beat. It’s a 1 hour 45-minute walk through the French Quarter, visiting haunted bars like Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop, where you can sip a cocktail on the very spot of old murders and ghost sightings.
What makes this tour stand out is its insider access — you actually go inside the bars, which is rare for ghost tours. The guide’s storytelling blends spooky tales with local legends, making for a party with a haunting twist.
The stops include the Old U.S Mint, Lalaurie Mansion, and America’s oldest haunted bar, Lafitte’s. Guests rave about the lively guide Clarissa and the unique experience of drinking in haunted venues while hearing chilling stories.
A highlight is the chance to get inside historic establishments and enjoy a cocktail. The price of $25 makes it an affordable way to combine history, ghost stories, and nightlife.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who want a spooky night out with drinks, this tour balances fun and fright with a social atmosphere.
2. Steamboat Natchez VIP Jazz Dinner Cruise with Private Tour and Open Bar Option
Number 2 on our list offers a luxurious way to experience New Orleans — aboard the iconic Steamboat Natchez. For around $190, you get early boarding, front-row seats, and an exclusive private tour of the boat, including insights into its historic fixtures.
Enjoy a gourmet Louisiana buffet while listening to the Dukes of Dixieland jazz band, with an option to upgrade to an open bar featuring cocktails, beer, and wine.
Guests love the personalized service and the chance to see the sunset over the Mississippi River, which makes for spectacular photos. The tour is great for music lovers and foodies who want a relaxed yet memorable evening. The complimentary champagne cocktail at boarding sets the tone for a refined night, and the souvenir photo and jazz CD add a special touch.
Bottom Line: This cruise is ideal for couples or groups seeking a classy, music-filled dinner with river views — a true taste of New Orleans’ jazzy soul.
3. New Orleans Lewd Spirits Haunted Tour with Bar Stops
At number 3, this adults-only tour is a risqué walk through some of the city’s most seedy and haunted spots. Over 2 hours, your guide shares tales of murder, adultery, and mayhem, visiting former brothels, haunted bars, and locations linked to true crime and legends.
The tour’s highlight is stopping at historic bars like May Baily’s, where the madam still haunts the halls, and learning about notorious figures from New Orleans’ darker past.
What makes this tour special is its mix of history, ghost stories, and bar stops, with the option to purchase drinks at three historic venues. The tour attracts those interested in murder mysteries and ghostly legends, with rave reviews about Carlo’s storytelling. The $37 price offers a value-packed experience for lovers of adult-themed ghost stories and bar culture.
Bottom Line: Perfect for travelers who enjoy a little risqué history and spooky tales with a side of drinks.
4. Frenchmen Street VIP Live Music Pub Crawl in New Orleans
Number 4 is a 3-hour VIP tour of Frenchmen Street, the city’s top live music hub. It’s a chance to skip the crowds and visit some of the best live music venues like The Spotted Cat and Snug Harbor. The tour includes VIP access, a included New Orleans-style cocktail, and insights into the street’s colorful history.
Guests rave about the small group size and the variety of musical styles encountered. The guide shares stories of Frenchmen Street’s evolution into a music hotspot, and you get to enjoy multiple sets of live music. This tour appeals to music lovers wanting to experience local culture without the fuss of large crowds.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those who prioritize live music and want an insider’s look at Frenchmen Street’s vibrant scene.
5. New Orleans: Haunted Pub Crawl
Ranking fifth, this 2-hour pub crawl explores haunted spots in the French Quarter, with stops at historic bars, including one of America’s oldest. The tour emphasizes spirited stories of legends, murders, and ghost sightings, all with a drink in hand. The route is flexible, depending on local events, and features classic spots like Finnegan’s Easy, where you can enjoy 2-for-1 hurricanes after the tour.
The tour is perfect for those interested in ghost lore mixed with a fun bar crawl. The reviews mention the engaging guides and the lively atmosphere of the haunted bars. Price at $32 makes it a cost-effective way to combine paranormal tales with nightlife.
Bottom Line: Great for those who want a spooky night out with a casual bar crawl in the historic French Quarter.
6. True Crime Pub Crawl in New Orleans
Number 6 offers a 2-hour journey into true crime stories tied to New Orleans. This tour visits bars linked to notorious crimes, including the story of Zack and Addy, and lessons about the city’s darker side. The guide shares detailed accounts of murders, hate crimes, and scandals, bringing history alive through entertaining storytelling.
Guests love the personal touches, with many mentioning D.J. and Gomez’s engaging styles. The tour includes stops at Jimani Lounge, where a grisly hate crime took place, and the historic May Baily’s. For $29.60, it offers an intriguing blend of crime stories and bar visits perfect for true crime enthusiasts.
Bottom Line: Ideal for those fascinated by dark stories and wanting to learn about New Orleans’ notorious characters.
7. New Orleans: True Crime Pub Crawl
Number 7 is a 2-hour tour focusing specifically on infamous criminals and their hangouts. It’s a great way for true crime lovers to explore the city’s most notorious tales while enjoying drinks at local watering holes. The guide’s lively narration makes history accessible and engaging, with stops in key crime-related locations.
This tour is best for travelers who want a short, intense peek into New Orleans’ criminal past. The reviews highlight the guide’s entertaining and informative style. The price of $37 makes it a great value for a deep dive into the city’s darker side.
Bottom Line: Perfect for those who enjoy murder mysteries and lively storytelling.
8. New Orleans Haunted Pub Crawl
Ranking eighth, this 2-hour tour combines haunted locations with a pub crawl in the French Quarter. It features stops at Finnegan’s Easy and the iconic haunted bar that was once a vampire haunt. The tour includes haunted stories and drink deals, with the option to continue the party after the tour.
Guests enjoy the spirited atmosphere and the chance to mix ghost stories with drinks. The tour’s flexible timing and the mix of history and nightlife make it an appealing choice for casual ghost hunters. The price at $30 is competitive for the experience offered.
Bottom Line: Great for those who want a spirited ghost and pub experience, especially if you enjoy a post-tour party vibe.
9. New Orleans Small-Group History Tour Pub Crawl of The Irish Channel
Number 9 offers a small-group experience exploring New Orleans’ Irish Channel with an expert guide. For about $25, you visit local pubs while hearing tales of pirates, war heroes, and vampires. The tour features two ticket options: Happy Hour with four draft beers or Dry Run to pay as you go.
Guests like the personalized attention and the chance to mingle in authentic neighborhood bars. The guide shares stories about the city’s hidden neighborhoods and fun facts about local legends. It’s perfect for those who want a relaxed, informal way to learn and drink like a local.
Bottom Line: Excellent for small groups seeking a personalized experience with local flavor and history.
10. New Orleans Bourbon Street Bar Crawl w/ Shots & Souvenir Cup
Number 10 is a lively 2-hour tour of Bourbon Street, starting at Coyote Ugly. It includes a Crawl Cup, a welcome shot, and visits to iconic bars. The tour emphasizes fun and interactive gameplay, with plenty of shots and a souvenir cup for discounts at various venues.
Guests rave about the friendly guide Jason and the lively atmosphere. It’s ideal for party-minded travelers who want to dive into Bourbon’s famous nightlife with a bit of structure and lots of drinks. The price of $28 is reasonable given the included shots and souvenirs.
Bottom Line: Perfect for first-time visitors wanting a fun, energetic night on Bourbon Street.
11. New Orleans VIP Bar and Club Crawl
Number 11 offers a luxury experience with skip-the-line VIP access to top bars and clubs. The 3 to 7 hours of party are organized by a professional host, and the tour includes drinks, games, and party atmospheres designed to connect travelers.
Guests mention the exclusive venues and the seamless experience. This tour is best suited for nightlife lovers and those wanting a carefree night with minimal waiting. The $62.94 price reflects the premium access and VIP treatment.
Bottom Line: Ideal for travelers who want the best nightlife experience without the hassle.
12. New Orleans: Ghost and Haunted Pub Crawl Tour with Free Shot
Ranking twelfth, this 2-hour tour blends ghost stories with pub crawling, including a free shot at the Bar Rambler. It covers haunted bars like Lafitte’s Pirate Bar and the Andrew Jackson Hotel, with a lively guide sharing spooky tales.
Guests appreciate the mix of paranormal stories and drinks, making it a fun way to explore the French Quarter after dark. The $18 price makes it one of the most affordable options on the list.
Bottom Line: Perfect for budget-conscious travelers who want a haunted night with a free shot to kick off the fun.
13. New Orleans Seafood Bar Crawl
Number 13 focuses on food lovers. For about $15, you get to sample seafood at different spots in Treme, hearing about the neighborhood’s cultural significance while sipping drinks. Stops include Sweet Lorraine’s Jazz Club and Kermit’s Treme Speakeasy.
It’s a shorter but flavorful tour that combines culinary delights with a bit of local music and history. Guests mention the passionate guide and the delicious seafood. It’s ideal for those who want a tasty, cultural experience without a lengthy commitment.
Bottom Line: Best suited for seafood fans wanting a food-focused tour with drinks and music.
14. Nola Culture City / Music & Celebrities Combo Tour with Bar stop
Number 14 offers a 3.5-hour cultural journey through New Orleans, visiting neighborhoods associated with famous musicians and celebrities. The tour includes stops at studio B, the site of Hurricane Katrina’s aftermath, and historic homes of Lil Wayne and Drake. It’s a rich experience blending culture, music, and celebrity sights, with a bar stop included.
Guests mention the insightful guide and the chance to see famous landmarks and hear stories about the city’s evolution. It’s great for those interested in the pop culture side of New Orleans. The $75 price reflects the comprehensive scope of the tour.
Bottom Line: Perfect for culture and music fans wanting a deep dive into New Orleans’ celebrity history.
15. New Orleans: VIP Bar and Club Crawl Tour with Free Shots
Finally, this 3-hour VIP tour offers skip-the-line access to top clubs and bars, with free shots and drinking games. It’s designed for those who want a lively, social night with minimal waiting and maximum fun. Guides organize games and introduce you to other travelers for a fully interactive experience.
Guests appreciate the organized atmosphere and the free shots at each venue. It’s especially good for group travelers and those new to the nightlife scene. The $59 price provides value for the VIP treatment and drinks included.
Bottom Line: Best for those wanting an energetic, social night with VIP perks.
How to Choose the Right Drinking Tour in New Orleans
Choosing the right tour depends on your interests, budget, and energy level. If you’re into ghost stories and haunted bars, the Ghost Tour and Haunted Pub Crawl Party offers a spooky, social night.
For a more relaxing experience, consider the Steamboat Natchez Jazz Dinner Cruise, which combines live music, gourmet food, and river views.
If you love music and lively nightlife, the Frenchmen Street VIP Pub Crawl is a prime choice.
For those interested in true crime or dark tales, Tours like the True Crime Pub Crawl and Ghost and Haunted Pub Crawl provide a thrilling twist.
Budget travelers may prefer the Haunted Pub Crawl or seafood-focused options, while party-goers should consider the Bourbon Street Bar Crawl.
Book early, especially during peak seasons, to secure your spot on these popular experiences.
Final Thoughts
From ghostly pub crawls to river jazz cruises, New Orleans offers more than just a drink — it offers a chance to connect with its stories, music, and characters in a lively, authentic way. The variety of tours ensures there’s something for every taste and budget, whether you’re a history lover, a music enthusiast, or just looking to have a good time.
If you’re planning your trip, consider your interests and how much time you want to spend. A quick pub crawl might suit a busy schedule, while a full river cruise or VIP night out provides a more immersive experience. Remember, these tours fill up fast, so booking ahead is always a smart move. Whatever you choose, you’ll find plenty of reasons to raise a glass in New Orleans.