New Orleans Cocktail History Walking Tour in the French Quarter

The New Orleans Cocktail History Walking Tour offers a unique opportunity to take in the rich cocktail culture of the French Quarter. Led by knowledgeable locals, participants embark on a journey through time, exploring iconic bars and discovering the fascinating history behind each expertly crafted cocktail. From the intriguing past of absinthe to the iconic venues that have shaped the city’s drinking traditions, this tour promises an unforgettable experience for cocktail enthusiasts. With wheelchair accessibility and a well-curated itinerary, the tour invites visitors to delve deeper into the captivating world of New Orleans’ cocktail heritage.

This experience made our article of Which New Orleans Historical Tours To Choose? Our Best 16 Picks.

Key Points

• Immersive walking tour of the French Quarter highlighting New Orleans’ rich cocktail history and culture.
• Guided experience featuring four cocktail tastings at historic bars and a visit to the New Orleans Pharmacy Museum.
• Knowledgeable local guide providing insights into the controversial history of absinthe and other cocktail-related stories.
• Tour is wheelchair accessible and allows for experiencing cocktail culture before evening activities.
• Highly rated tour based on 558 reviews, with positive feedback on the mix of historical information and cocktail tastings.

Tour Overview and Details

The New Orleans Cocktail History Walking Tour offers participants an immersive experience in the French Quarter.

The tour includes four cocktails at four historic bars, guided by an expert local who shares insights on cocktail history and culture. Covering approximately 1 mile, the tour is wheelchair accessible and has a minimum age of 21. Guests may encounter dress codes at some bars.

The tour begins at Tiki Tolteca with a cocktail in an intimate courtyard, followed by stops at SoBou, Peychauds Bar, and Bourbon "O" Jazz Bar, where the Roffignac cocktail is featured.

The tour also includes a visit to the New Orleans Pharmacy Museum.

Itinerary Highlights

Beginning at Tiki Tolteca, the tour offers guests an intimate cocktail experience in the lush courtyard. The tour then visits several iconic New Orleans establishments, including:

Bar	Cocktail
SoBou	Classic Sazerac
Peychauds Bar	Historical cocktails
Bourbon "O" Jazz Bar	Roffignac cocktail

Along the way, the expert guide shares insights on the controversial history of absinthe and the significance of the New Orleans Pharmacy Museum. The itinerary provides a well-rounded exploration of the city’s rich cocktail culture and heritage.

Meeting and Pickup Information

The meeting point for the New Orleans Cocktail History Walking Tour is Patrick’s Bar Vin, located at 730 Bienville Street in the heart of the French Quarter.

From there, the tour takes guests through the historic district, stopping at various bars and venues along the way.

The tour concludes at the Bourbon O Bar, located at 730 Bourbon Street.

The walking tour starts promptly at 5:00 PM, ensuring guests have ample time to experience the city’s rich cocktail culture and history before the evening festivities begin.

Customer Reviews and Experiences

Rated 4.9 based on 558 reviews, the New Orleans Cocktail History Walking Tour consistently receives overwhelmingly positive feedback from travelers.

Guests highlight the knowledgeable and engaging guides who share insights into the city’s rich cocktail culture and history. Many enjoy the mix of historical information and hands-on cocktail tasting at iconic venues.

Suggestions for improvement include more consistent cocktail presentation and a slightly slower pace when covering historical details.

Booking and Pricing Information

The New Orleans Cocktail History Walking Tour is priced at $75.00 per person.

Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the experience.

The tour accommodates a maximum group size of 20 travelers.

All cocktails served during the tour are vegan-friendly, and food is available for purchase at some stops.

The tour begins at 5:00 PM, with the meeting point at Patrick’s Bar Vin and the end point at Bourbon O Bar.

Guests can expect an engaging exploration of the city’s rich cocktail history, guided by knowledgeable local experts.

Cocktail History and Culture in the French Quarter

New Orleans has a rich and storied history when it comes to cocktail culture. This walking tour takes guests on a journey through the city’s most iconic bars and watering holes, uncovering the fascinating history behind famous cocktails like the Sazerac and Roffignac.

Along the way, the expert local guide shares insights into the unique role absinthe played in the city’s drinking culture, and how it influenced the evolution of cocktails.

With stops at historic venues like the New Orleans Pharmacy Museum, travelers gain a deeper appreciation for the city’s cocktail heritage and its enduring influence on mixology worldwide.

Notable Venues and Absinthe’s Controversial History

Travelers on the New Orleans Cocktail History Tour make several notable stops, including the Tiki Tolteca, SoBou, and Peychauds Bar.

At the Tiki Tolteca, guests enjoy a cocktail in an intimate courtyard, setting the stage for the tour’s exploration of the city’s cocktail culture.

The tour then visits SoBou for a classic Sazerac, a quintessential New Orleans drink.

At Peychauds Bar, guests learn about the history of historical cocktails.

The tour also includes a visit to the New Orleans Pharmacy Museum, where the controversial history of absinthe is revealed.

Iconic venues like these provide a unique glimpse into New Orleans’ storied cocktail heritage.

Accessibility and Dress Code Considerations

While the tour’s itinerary highlights the rich history and vibrant culture of New Orleans’ cocktail scene, it also takes into account practical considerations for guests.

The tour is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for travelers with mobility challenges. However, some of the bars along the route have dress codes, with men discouraged from wearing tank tops. Guests are advised to dress in smart casual attire to ensure a seamless experience.

The tour’s duration of approximately 1 mile is manageable for most participants, providing a balance between exploration and comfort.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Minimum Group Size for the Tour?

The tour has a maximum group size of 20 travelers, but there is no minimum group size specified. The walking tour can accommodate groups of varying sizes, from solo travelers to small groups.

Can Non-Alcoholic Beverages Be Substituted for Cocktails?

Non-alcoholic beverages cannot be substituted for the cocktails on this tour. However, guests under 21 are welcome to join the tour and partake in the historical and cultural aspects, without consuming alcohol.

Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?

Photography is generally allowed during the tour, though guests are advised to be respectful of other participants and any restrictions at the venues visited. Guests should check with the tour guide for specific photography guidelines.

Are Gratuities Included in the Tour Price?

Gratuities are not included in the tour price and are at the discretion of the participants. Tour guides typically expect a standard 15-20% gratuity for their services.

Is the Tour Suitable for Children Under 21?

No, this tour is not suitable for children under 21. As the tour includes four cocktail tastings at historic bars, the minimum age requirement is 21 years old. The tour is designed for adult participants only.

The Sum Up

The New Orleans Cocktail History Walking Tour offers an immersive experience into the city’s rich cocktail culture. Guided by knowledgeable locals, participants enjoy expertly crafted cocktails at historic bars while learning about the fascinating history of each drink, including absinthe’s intriguing past. The wheelchair-accessible tour covers a mile in the French Quarter, making it a memorable evening for cocktail enthusiasts.