New Orleans: 2-Hour French Quarter History and Voodoo Tour

Steeped in a rich cultural tapestry, New Orleans’ French Quarter is a captivating destination. The 2-Hour French Quarter History and Voodoo Tour guides visitors through this vibrant neighborhood, delving into its fascinating past. Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour explores landmarks like Congo Square and the home of voodoo priestess Marie Laveau, uncovering the impact of slavery and indigenous tribes. With engaging storytelling, the tour promises to provide a memorable experience for anyone seeking to understand New Orleans’ unique heritage. What secrets lie hidden among the French Quarter’s historic streets?

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Good To Know

A 2-hour walking tour of New Orleans’ French Quarter, led by knowledgeable guides covering key landmarks, history, voodoo, and influential cultural figures.
Tour includes exploration of jazz, bluegrass, and court cases, culminating at the iconic Jackson Square.
Participants 21+ receive a souvenir cup and 2-for-1 Hurricane drinks, and the tour is wheelchair accessible.
Highlights include visiting historical sites like Congo Square and the former home of voodoo priestess Marie Laveau.
Guided tour provides insights into the significance of Congo Square, the slave trade’s effects, and the influence of indigenous tribes.

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Tour Overview

Offering a comprehensive exploration of New Orleans’ French Quarter, this 2-hour walking tour immerses visitors in the historic district’s rich heritage.

Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour covers key landmarks like Congo Square, Jackson Square, and the former home of Voodoo Priestess Marie Laveau.

Participants will explore the city’s captivating history, learning about voodoo, the slave trade, and the influential figures who shaped the French Quarter’s cultural landscape.

Participants will explore New Orleans’ captivating history, learning about voodoo, the slave trade, and influential figures who shaped the French Quarter’s culture.

From jazz and bluegrass to significant court cases, the tour provides a well-rounded perspective on New Orleans’ multifaceted past, culminating at the iconic Jackson Square.

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Pricing and Inclusions

This French Quarter tour is priced from $22.00 per person. The 2-hour walking tour includes a live guide who provides engaging historical commentary in English. Plus, participants 21 and older receive a souvenir cup and 2-for-1 Hurricane drinks at The Voodoo Lounge. While hotel pickup and drop-off are not included, the tour is wheelchair accessible. Gratuities are also not covered. To ensure a seamless experience, guests are advised to arrive 10-15 minutes early and wear comfortable walking shoes, as the tour takes place rain or shine.

| Tour Details | Inclusions | Exclusions |

| — | — | — |

| Duration | Licensed guide | Hotel pickup/drop-off |

| Meeting time | Souvenir cup | Gratuities |

| Accessibility | 2-for-1 Hurricane drinks (21+) | Video recording |

| Weather | | |

| Photography | | |

Highlights of the French Quarter

The French Quarter tour takes guests on an immersive journey through the neighborhood’s rich history and cultural heritage.

Explorers discover historical sites like Congo Square, where enslaved Africans gathered to preserve their traditions. The tour also visits Jackson Square, home to the iconic St. Louis Cathedral, and the former residence of voodoo priestess Marie Laveau.

Explorers uncover the rich history of Congo Square, where enslaved Africans preserved their traditions, and visit the former home of voodoo priestess Marie Laveau.

Along the way, guests learn about the slave trade, indigenous peoples, and the influential women who shaped the French Quarter.

The tour culminates at Jackson Square, allowing participants to admire the beautiful architecture and soak in the vibrant atmosphere.

Voodoo, Slavery, and Indigenous History

As the tour explores the French Quarter, it delves into the complex histories of voodoo, slavery, and the indigenous peoples who’ve shaped New Orleans’ cultural landscape.

Guests learn about the significance of Congo Square, where enslaved Africans gathered to practice their traditional rituals.

The tour also examines the life of Voodoo Priestess Marie Laveau and her influential role in the community.

Plus, the guide shares insights into the city’s dark past with the slave trade and its impact on the region’s diverse population, including the indigenous Chitimacha and Choctaw tribes.

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Jazz, Music, and Female Pioneers

Alongside the rich histories of voodoo and slavery, the French Quarter tour also delves into the vibrant musical heritage of New Orleans. Visitors learn about the origins of jazz, bluegrass, and country music, and how these genres have been influenced by the city’s diverse cultures. The tour also highlights the pivotal roles of female pioneers in shaping New Orleans’ musical landscape.

| Musical Genres | Notable Pioneers |

| — | — |

| Jazz | Cornet player and singer Lil Hardin Armstrong |

| Bluegrass | Mandolinist and singer Jeanette Kimball |

| Country | Guitarist and singer Patsy Cline |

These engaging stories provide an immersive experience, allowing participants to appreciate the deep musical roots that have defined New Orleans’ cultural identity.

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Louisiana Politics and Court Cases

While exploring the French Quarter, the tour also delves into Louisiana’s political history and significant court cases.

Guests learn about the historic Supreme Court building and hear tales of influential Louisiana politicians. The tour covers pivotal court cases that shaped the state, from landmark civil rights rulings to high-profile trials.

Guides share stories of political scandals, corruption, and the lasting impact of these events on New Orleans and Louisiana. By the end of the tour, participants gain a deeper understanding of the complex and captivating political landscape that has defined the region.

Participant Experiences and Reviews

Travelers have overwhelmingly praised the engaging storytelling and extensive knowledge of the tour guides.

With an average rating of 4.8/5 from 59 reviews, participants highlight the guides’ ability to bring the history and culture of New Orleans to life.

Participants highlight the guides’ ability to bring the history and culture of New Orleans to life, with an average rating of 4.8/5 from 59 reviews.

Reviewers note guides like Wolfy, Angela, and Erin delivered "vibrant and insightful" experiences, providing "extensive information" and answering all questions.

The tours leave visitors feeling they’ve gained a deeper understanding of the city’s voodoo, jazz, and political legacies.

Important Practical Information

Visitors should arrive 10-15 minutes early to check in for the tour.

The 2-hour French Quarter History and Voodoo Tour takes place rain or shine, so participants should wear comfortable walking shoes. A bathroom break is included during the tour.

Videography isn’t allowed, but guests can take photos. The tour is wheelchair accessible.

While hotel pickup and drop-off aren’t included, participants can enjoy a souvenir cup and 2-for-1 Hurricane drinks at The Voodoo Lounge after the tour, if they’re 21 or older.

Gratuities for the licensed guide aren’t included in the tour price.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will the Tour Guide Take Photos of Participants?

No, the tour guide does not take photos of participants. The tour information indicates that video recording is not allowed during the activity, but it does not mention the guide providing photography services.

Is the Tour Suitable for Children?

The tour appears suitable for children, as it is wheelchair accessible and allows for free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. However, the tour does not explicitly mention if it’s child-friendly or has any special provisions for younger participants.

Can We Bring Our Own Drinks on the Tour?

The tour does not allow participants to bring their own drinks. However, the tour includes 2-for-1 Hurricane drinks at The Voodoo Lounge for participants aged 21 and over as part of the tour experience.

Is the Meeting Point Wheelchair Accessible?

The meeting point for the tour is wheelchair accessible, as the tour is described as "Wheelchair accessible" in the Tour Overview and Pricing section. Participants can rest assured they’ll be able to access the starting location of the tour.

Are There Any Discounts for Seniors or Students?

The tour does not offer any discounts for seniors or students. The price is a flat $22 per person, regardless of age or student status. Participants must pay the full price to join the 2-hour tour.

The Sum Up

The 2-Hour French Quarter History and Voodoo Tour provides an immersive exploration of New Orleans’ rich cultural heritage. Participants can expect to discover the neighborhood’s storied past, from its voodoo traditions to the legacies of slavery and indigenous tribes. With engaging storytelling and visits to key landmarks, the tour offers a memorable experience for those seeking to understand the unique essence of this vibrant city.