New Orleans: Early Evening Cocktail History Tour

New Orleans’ cocktail culture is legendary, and the "Early Evening Cocktail History Tour" offers a chance to dive into it. Led by knowledgeable local guides, you will explore iconic drinks, learn about the city’s Prohibition history, and enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the French Quarter. With stops at carefully selected bars and a lively jazz performance, this 3-hour tour promises an engaging and memorable experience for cocktail enthusiasts. What secrets of New Orleans’ storied drinking scene will be revealed?

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

Key Points

• This 3-hour New Orleans cocktail history tour includes 4 stops at iconic bars and a focus on iconic cocktails like the Sazerac and Pimm’s Cup.
• The tour is led by knowledgeable local guides and provides interactive elements to learn about the history of absinthe and Prohibition.
• Participants will have the opportunity to interact with local bartenders who specialize in specific cocktails and share insights on the city’s cocktail culture.
• The tour concludes at Bourbon O Bar with a Roffignac highball and live jazz music, providing an engaging atmosphere to experience New Orleans’ cocktail heritage.
• The tour is wheelchair accessible, conducted in English, and has a cancellation policy allowing for full refunds up to 24 hours in advance.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Tour Overview

The New Orleans: Early Evening Cocktail History Tour is a 3-hour excursion that takes participants on a journey through the city’s rich cocktail heritage.

Explore New Orleans’ captivating cocktail heritage on a 3-hour tour through the city’s rich mixology history.

Priced at $75 per person, the tour offers a wheelchair-accessible experience in English.

With a 5-star rating based on 50 reviews, the tour features four cocktail stops and a knowledgeable local guide.

Travelers can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

The tour experience is interactive, informative, and relaxed, allowing guests to learn about absinthe, the origins of the Sazerac, and cocktails predating Prohibition.

Itinerary Highlights

The tour begins at 730 Bienville St, New Orleans, LA 70130. Guests explore a luxurious wine bar courtyard, where they enjoy a homemade rum punch. Next, they visit 3rd Block Depot for a classic Sazerac and 1852 Brandy Crusta. At Peychauds Bar, they sip creative cocktails like Pimms Cup and Ojen Frappé. The final stop is Bourbon O Bar, where they savor a Roffignac highball and listen to a live jazz band starting at 8 PM. In total, the tour includes 4 cocktails.

| Stop | Cocktail |

| — | — |

| First | Homemade rum punch |

| Second | Sazerac, Brandy Crusta |

| Third | Pimms Cup, Ojen Frappé |

| Final | Roffignac highball |

Tour Experience

Knowledgeable local guides lead this informative, relaxed, and well-designed tour. Guests learn about the origins of iconic cocktails like the Sazerac and Pimms Cup.

The interactive experience allows visitors to discover absinthe’s history and how cocktails predated Prohibition. Stops at carefully selected bars and a lively courtyard create an engaging atmosphere.

The tour concludes at Bourbon O Bar, where guests enjoy a Roffignac highball while listening to live jazz starting at 8 PM.

With a focus on cocktail culture and New Orleans heritage, this tour provides an authentic taste of the city’s vibrant nightlife.

Participant Information

To participate in the New Orleans: Early Evening Cocktail History Tour, guests must be 21 years of age or older and may be asked to present a valid passport or ID card.

The tour experience is designed for mature, responsible participants. Gratuities for servers and bartenders are included, but tips for the knowledgeable guide are optional.

Here’s what participants should know:

• Wear comfortable walking shoes as the tour involves multiple stops.

• Bring a camera to capture the historic bars and scenic backdrops.

• Stay hydrated by bringing a water bottle.

• Be prepared to learn about the rich cocktail history of New Orleans.

• Arrive promptly at the starting location to ensure a timely departure.

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Customer Reviews

Guests who’ve experienced the New Orleans: Early Evening Cocktail History Tour have provided overwhelmingly positive reviews.

One guest, Daniel Vincent, praised the guide Cat for her promptness and depth of knowledge.

Another guest, Chris, highlighted guide Beth‘s friendliness and local connections, which enhanced the overall experience.

Similarly, John commended the guide for being excellent, knowledgeable, and humorous.

The tour’s interactive elements, such as learning about absinthe and the origins of classic cocktails, also received praise from participants.

Cocktail History Lesson

Although the tour takes guests to several unique cocktail establishments, the true highlight is the in-depth cocktail history lesson provided by the knowledgeable guides.

Guests learn about:

• The origins of absinthe and its role in classic cocktails

• The fascinating history behind the Sazerac, one of New Orleans’ most iconic drinks

• How Prohibition impacted the evolution of cocktail culture

• The influence of early bartenders and their innovative recipes

• The significance of local ingredients and their integration into modern mixology

This educational component elevates the tour, transforming it into a captivating exploration of New Orleans’ rich cocktail heritage.

Local Bartender Insights

As guests progress through the tour, they have the opportunity to interact with local bartenders and learn firsthand insights into the city’s cocktail culture. The bartenders share their expertise on classic cocktails, local ingredients, and the history behind New Orleans’ renowned drinking establishments. This engaging exchange allows participants to gain a deeper appreciation for the art of mixology and the unique flavor profiles that define the city’s signature drinks.

| Bartender | Specialty | Insight | Signature Drink |

|———–|———–|———|——————|

| Sam | Absinthe | Explains the revival of this once-banned spirit | Ojen Frappé |

| Sophia | Sazerac | Discusses the origins of this iconic New Orleans cocktail | Sazerac |

| Elijah | Pimm’s Cup | Shares the evolution of this refreshing summertime staple | Pimm’s Cup |

| Isabelle | Roffignac | Highlights the unique history and ingredients of this lesser-known local favorite | Roffignac Highball |

Scenic Stroll Through French Quarter

The tour’s scenic stroll through the French Quarter takes participants on a captivating journey, immersing them in the vibrant ambiance that has defined this historic neighborhood for centuries.

Guests marvel at the:

• Ornate balconies adorned with wrought-iron railings

• Pastel-colored buildings with intricate architectural details

• Bustling streets lined with lively music and tempting aromas

• Charming courtyards and hidden alleyways

• Iconic landmarks like Jackson Square and the St. Louis Cathedral

This walking portion of the tour allows visitors to soak in the essence of New Orleans, setting the stage for the upcoming cocktail tasting experience.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Is the Dress Code for the Tour?

The tour does not specify a dress code. Participants should wear comfortable, weather-appropriate attire and shoes, as the tour involves walking to multiple cocktail bars. Smart casual or business casual attire is generally appropriate.

Are There Any Dietary Restrictions or Food Allergies to Consider?

The tour does not mention any specific dietary restrictions or food allergies. However, guests should notify the tour operator in advance of any special needs to ensure the best possible experience.

Can I Purchase Additional Cocktails Beyond the 4 Included?

Yes, participants can purchase additional cocktails beyond the 4 included on the tour. The tour price covers the 4 cocktails, but guests are welcome to order more drinks at their own expense during the stops.

Is There an Opportunity to Use Restrooms During the Tour?

Yes, there are restroom breaks during the tour. Participants have the opportunity to use restrooms at the various cocktail stops throughout the 3-hour experience.

Can I Bring My Own Camera or Should I Rely on the Guide’s Photos?

Guests are welcome to bring their own cameras to capture the experience. The guide may also take photos during the tour, but there’s no obligation to rely solely on those. Guests can feel free to take their own pictures throughout the experience.

The Sum Up

This captivating cocktail tour offers a unique opportunity to explore New Orleans’ rich drinking history. Led by knowledgeable guides, you will visit iconic bars, sample renowned libations, and enjoy the city’s vibrant culture. Whether you’re a cocktail enthusiast or simply seeking a memorable experience, this tour promises an engaging and informative journey through the alluring world of New Orleans’ early evening cocktail scene.

You can check availability for your dates here: