French Quarter Live Music & Jazz Tours
Immerse yourself in the soulful sounds of New Orleans with expertly guided live music and jazz tours through the iconic French Quarter.
The French Quarter of New Orleans is synonymous with music. It's the birthplace of jazz, and walking its gas-lit streets is like stepping into a living, breathing symphony. For centuries, this vibrant district has been a haven for musicians, fostering a unique soundscape that draws visitors from around the globe. From the early days of brass bands marching down Bourbon Street to the intimate club performances in the Marigny, the music here is more than entertainment; it's the heartbeat of the city, a potent expression of its rich history and diverse culture. Live Music & Jazz Tours in the French Quarter offer a curated journey through this legendary musical heritage. These excursions go beyond simply pointing out famous venues; they delve into the stories behind the melodies, introducing you to the pioneers and present-day artists who keep the tradition alive. You'll gain insights into the evolution of jazz, its African roots, and its influence on other genres. Whether you're a seasoned jazz aficionado or simply looking to experience the quintessential New Orleans sound, these tours provide an intimate and informative perspective, often including opportunities to catch live performances at legendary spots. Imagine strolling through Jackson Square as street musicians serenade you, then ducking into a historic club to hear a live set that sends shivers down your spine. These tours are designed to immerse you in the authentic atmosphere of the French Quarter, connecting you with its musical soul in a way that independent exploration might miss. They highlight the venues that have witnessed jazz history unfold and introduce you to the vibrant present of the New Orleans music scene, ensuring a truly memorable sonic adventure.
Featured Live Music & Jazz Tours Tours
Discover our top picks for live music & jazz tours in French Quarter
Experience the real French Quarter at Shrimp Boil Cabaret Step away from the tourist crowds and join us for a private dinner party celebrating the flavors and sounds of the Quarter. The Shrimp is sourced from local shrimping families at their boat docks a few hours before your shrimp boil to choose the largest, freshest, wild-caught local shrimp available. Mister Gregory, "The Shrimp Boil King of New Orleans" grew up in the Gulf South shrimping and boiling and advocating for wild-caught Gulf Shrimp and the "eat it to save it" culinary approach. Please join us for live local music and a lovely dinner party, make some new friends and eat the very best shrimp in the world.
Best in the French Quarter! Celebrating 15 Years! Most economical, Family and Veteran Owned. The oldest Food Tour in New Orleans, 5000 plus 5 star reviews ! Simply the Best Food Tour in New Orleans! We have your table reserved. Unlike other companies that serve you standing up on the side walk. Unlike other Food Tours, Tastebud Food Tours never cancels a Tour because of low bookings. We value your vacation and time. You will get the best with Tastebud Tours. Compare and SAVE! Likely to sell out! Tastebud Food Tours is proud that our tours have earned earning Trip Advisors prestigious Hall of Fame Award and Travelers Choice for 15 years! #1 Eat your way through the French Quarter on this 3-hour New Orleans food tour. Taste classic dishes like Gumbo, Jambalaya , pralines and other Creole specialties. Learn about the city's culinary history, which is strongly influenced by Louisiana’s French heritage and the vibrant Creole population. Rain or Shine, Book now!
Delve into the history of the French Quarter on a 2-hour walking tour with a knowledgeable guide who shares the legends and landmarks of this fascinating city. At a relaxed pace, take in the Mississippi River, French Market, St Louis Cathedral, the Cabildo, the Presbytere, Jackson Square and more. Visit historic buildings and secluded courtyards, see famous literary and silver screen locations, and learn about Creole culture. Your entertaining guide provides a deep understanding of the forces that shaped the Big Easy.
Experience the oldest food tour in New Orleans with over 5000 5-star reviews! We are a family and veteran owned business. We have your table reserved, unlike other companies that serve you standing up on the side walk. We never cancel a tour because of low bookings - we value your vacation and time. Eat your way through the French Quarter on this 3-hour New Orleans food tour. Taste classic dishes like pralines, jambalaya, gumbo, and other Creole specialties. Learn about the city's culinary history, which is strongly influenced by Louisiana’s French heritage and the vibrant Creole population. Have fun! This tour operates rain or shine.
Savor tasty cocktails in the French Quarter of New Orleans on a walking tour with an expert local guide. Visit hidden gems enjoyed by locals for centuries, learning from your fun and knowledgeable guide about the historic venues you see and legendary cocktails you sip. Discover the origins of the Daiquiri, learn the truth about absinthe, and sample a Sazerac concocted from a 19th-century recipe. Each stop features a classic cocktail, mixed by renowned bartenders who add a signature twist. It's a perfect tour for cocktail and culture enthusiasts!
Get the best of both worlds. A rich 3 hour bicycle tour, provides you with the sights, sounds and early history of New Orleans. Starting on the Creole side of town in the French Quarter, From there venture on to the American side of the city, known as the Garden District with it's beautiful 19th century opulent mansions and remarkable stories. This tour is for a maximum of 12 people.. On this tour visit: Banks of the Mississippi, French Quarter, Lafayette Cemetery #1, The Lower Garden District, The Mansions of the Garden District and more.
We couldn't decide if we loved ghost stories or true crime stories more, so we decided to do them both! You can almost feel the history (and the spirits) as you walk through this 300 year old neighborhood and former Native American gathering place on the Mississippi River. THIS is the sacred ground where centuries of unforgettable, intense characters have lived, loved, fought, celebrated, made music, and taken their last breaths. Energy like that does not fade away; in fact, it intensifies when we tell their stories as we walk through their streets. We will share with you the stories of hauntings, murders, rituals, restless spirits, mischievous ghosts, and some things we just can't explain. Even skeptics love this tour, because everyone loves a good story! The tour is 1.5 - 2 hours and covers about a mile in the world-famous French Quarter. Come after dinner and end in time for a night out on the town!
Learn about the unique French and Spanish architecture of New Orleans as well as the history of the French Quarter.
Get ready to move and groove in the birthplace of jazz as you explore the storied streets of New Orleans with this self-guided walking tour. Discover rich history and culture as you stroll through the French Quarter. Stop for beignets at Cafe du Monde, hear a spine-chilling (and accurate) tale of horror at the LaLaurie Mansion, and visit the city’s lively Bourbon Street, where there’s never a dull moment! Along the way, you’ll learn about the origins of Cajun and Creole, get to know jazz legends like Louis Armstrong, and so much more. After booking, check your email/text to download the separate Audio Tour Guide App by Action while connected to WiFi or mobile data. Enter the password, download the tour, and enjoy it offline. Follow the audio instructions and route from the designated starting point. Buy once, use for one year! Ideal for extended visits and return trips over the next 12 months. This isn't an entrance ticket. Check opening hours before your visit.
History ✦ Famous Places ✦ Epic Lives ✦ Hilarious Scandal Share a local's love for 300 years of our city's history, and learn the stories of those famous locales you've always read about. Hear about famous French Quarter figures who led epic lives, such as a pirate, a voodoo queen, and Baroness. We bring the private tour experience to every tour we host, by limiting the experience to small groups, and personalizing every tour for you. The early native settlers called the area Bulbancha -- "the land of many tongues" -- and used as a trading post. From there, on to the early French & Spanish colonies, all the way to the jazz age, and the birthplace of modern music! We go beyond just names and dates, and share a connection to our city, and its famous stories, that you'll never forget.
Discover the rich tapestry of New Orleans’ French Quarter at your own pace. Wander through iconic sites like Jackson Square and the St. Louis Cathedral, while also uncovering hidden treasures such as Pirate’s Alley and serene Creole courtyards. This tour offers an engaging blend of popular landmarks and lesser-known spots, enriched by vivid storytelling about the city's history and cultural icons. The French Quarter is a sensory delight with its unique architecture, lively music scene, and culinary delights, perfect for any traveler looking to immerse themselves in the vibrant character of this historic neighborhood. — Explore New Orleans’ oldest neighborhood filled with history and culture — Visit major landmarks and discover hidden gems at your leisure — Enjoy rich narratives about legendary figures and ghostly tales — Perfect for travelers of all interests wanting to experience local life
We will begin our journey with a pedal through the Bywater and Marigny neighborhoods, filled with beautiful architecture and locals-only hidden gems. You’ll enter St Vincent de Paul Cemetery, where your learn about our fascinating funerary customs. You'll then cruise through the historic French Quarter. Your guide will tell you stories of New Orleans and its most famous characters, as well as giving their personal recommendations for places to visit during your stay. You’ll see Jackson Square, St. Louis Cathedral, Frenchmen St, and more while enjoying a leisurely ride through the oldest, most vibrant Creole neighborhoods of the city. Paved Paradise Tours is a small, owner-operated company that provides a truly local perspective. When you ride with us you are riding with one of the owners, ensuring that your experience is of the highest quality. See the city through the eyes of someone who loves what they do, loves the City of New Orleans, and wants you to love it too.
Soul of NOLA will take you on a private walking tour of the French Quarter/ Vieux Carré, and just inside the adjacent Treme neighborhood. These neighborhoods were originally settled by Creoles and Free People of Color, they are some of our oldest and are steeped in vibrant cultural history. We will bring this fascinating past to life by sharing the stories of the people that walked these streets & made its colorful history. We'll discuss the varied architecture, and the significance of the French Quarter’s location. In the Treme we’ll talk about music and how New Orleans became the birthplace of jazz. Wear your walking shoes! Walking is the best way to explore the French Quarter. Tailored to your tastes, as are all our excursions. We’ll be walking up to 2 miles, breaks as needed. Let us know if we need to adjust, we’re flexible!
We will be touring all around the Historic French Quarter and 2 historic surrounding neighborhoods of the Marigny and Treme. We will talk about the rich cultures, people and traditions of these neighborhoods that date back to the 1700's. From our beginnings as a Native American trading post to a raughty French penal colony to the rich African culture of music and Mardi Gras revelry, we will cover it all! 300 years of Creole history from a 6th generation New Orleanian! We start at the Mississippi river and take our time strolling through the French Quarter and chronologically move from the Quarter to the Treme and Marigny. Stops such as Jackson square, Congo square, St. Augustine Church and Frenchmen street and on to the French Market. Mid tour we will grab a bite to eat at a local restaurant and continue on to the most historically significant stops in the French quarter and surrounding neighborhoods.
Step into the heart of New Orleans and uncover the legends of voodoo, jazz, and Creole heritage. Stroll past iconic French Quarter landmarks, then unwind on a scenic Mississippi River cruise with live jazz and skyline views. A soulful journey awaits. Highlights: • Visit the vibrant French Quarter with a 5-Star Guide who brings history to life • Cruise the mighty Mississippi to live jazz and expert narration on board • Explore voodoo legends, jazz roots, and iconic sights of New Orleans • Discover top local spots with personalized tips for food, music, and fun • Enjoy a relaxing jazz cruise with no planning stress—tickets are included Experience the soul of New Orleans on this private walking tour through its most historic streets and along the Mississippi River. With a Licensed Private Guide from Rosotravel, enjoy personal stories, hidden gems, and a relaxing jazz cruise. See the city’s past come to life—book your spot today!
Why Choose Live Music & Jazz Tours in French Quarter?
Authentic Local Insights
Gain unparalleled understanding of the music's history and cultural significance from knowledgeable guides.
Curated Experiences
Discover iconic venues and hidden gems often missed by casual visitors, with planned stops for performances.
Intimate Group Settings
Enjoy a more personal experience with smaller groups, allowing for better interaction and clearer sound.
Historical Context
Learn about the evolution of jazz and its roots in New Orleans' unique cultural melting pot.
Direct Connection to Music
Experience live performances and feel the vibrant energy that defines the French Quarter's music scene.
Explore Key Districts
Tours often cover both the famous French Quarter and the thriving music hub of the Marigny.
Types of Live Music & Jazz Tours in French Quarter
Walking Tours & Venue Visits
These tours combine guided strolls through historic neighborhoods with visits to renowned jazz clubs and music venues. Guides share stories of legendary musicians and the history of jazz in New Orleans, often including cover charges or a drink at one or more establishments.
Jazz History & Storytelling
Focused on the rich narrative of jazz, these tours delve deep into the origins, evolution, and cultural impact of the genre. While live music might be part of the experience, the emphasis is on the historical context and the stories behind the music and its creators.
Late Night Music & Bar Crawls
Designed for those who want to experience New Orleans' nightlife, these tours guide you to various live music bars and clubs, particularly in the French Quarter and the adjacent Marigny district. Expect a lively atmosphere and opportunities to sample different musical styles and local drinks.
What to Expect on French Quarter Live Music & Jazz Tours
Duration
Most tours range from 2 to 4 hours, depending on the itinerary and the number of venues visited.
Weather
New Orleans can be hot and humid. Tours often involve walking outdoors, so dress accordingly. Evenings can be more pleasant. Check the forecast before your tour.
Group Size
Group sizes vary significantly. Some are intimate walking tours with fewer than 10 people, while others can be larger, especially those focused on bar crawls. Smaller groups usually offer a more personalized experience.
What's Included
Typically includes a knowledgeable guide and the history of jazz and New Orleans music. Some tours may include cover charges for venues, a welcome drink, or discounts at bars. Always check the specific tour details.
Meeting Point
Meeting points are usually in central, easily accessible locations within the French Quarter, such as Jackson Square or a specific historic hotel. Exact locations are provided upon booking.
Costs
Prices typically start around $30 per person for basic walking tours and can go up to $75 or more for tours that include multiple venue entries, drinks, or special performances. Food and additional drinks are usually not included.
Expert Tips for the Best Experience
Book in advance, especially during peak season or festival weekends, as popular tours fill up quickly.
Wear comfortable shoes. You'll be doing a lot of walking on potentially uneven historic streets.
Consider a tour that includes a visit to Frenchmen Street, known for its authentic and diverse live music scene.
Don't be afraid to ask your guide questions. They are often a wealth of knowledge about local music and culture.
Check if your tour includes cover charges or drinks. If not, budget for these if you plan to enter multiple venues.
Tipping your guide is customary and appreciated, similar to tipping in restaurants or bars.
Be open to different music styles. While jazz is central, New Orleans offers blues, funk, and R&B in its clubs.
Hydrate, especially during warmer months. Carry a water bottle, and utilize opportunities to purchase drinks during the tour.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q:What's the best way to experience live music in the French Quarter?
A: Joining a guided live music or jazz tour is an excellent way to discover the most authentic venues and learn about the rich history. These tours often provide insider knowledge and can lead you to performances you might otherwise miss.
Q:Do these tours include actual live music performances?
A: Many tours are designed to incorporate live music. They might lead you to venues with ongoing performances or include a scheduled stop for a set. Always check the tour description to confirm if live music is a guaranteed part of the itinerary.
Q:Is it possible to see both famous and lesser-known music spots?
A: Yes, many tours aim to balance iconic establishments with local favorites. You'll get to see the famous clubs that have made New Orleans a music mecca, alongside smaller, intimate venues cherished by locals.
Q:What kind of music can I expect to hear?
A: The focus is primarily on jazz in its various forms, from traditional New Orleans jazz to contemporary styles. However, you might also encounter blues, R&B, funk, and brass band music, all integral to the city's sound.
Q:Are drinks included in the tour price?
A: Some tours may offer a welcome drink or have arrangements for drink specials at certain venues. However, it's common for food and most alcoholic beverages to be an additional cost. Review the tour inclusions carefully.
Q:Can children join these music tours?
A: While the French Quarter is family-friendly, music tours, especially those involving late-night venues or bars, may have age restrictions or are best suited for adults. Check the specific tour's age policy before booking.
Q:What if I'm not a big jazz fan?
A: These tours are a fantastic introduction to jazz and its foundational role in New Orleans music. Even if you're not a dedicated jazz enthusiast, you'll likely appreciate the history, the vibrant atmosphere, and the sheer talent on display.
Q:How far in advance should I book a music tour?
A: It's wise to book at least a few days in advance, particularly if you're traveling during a busy period or a festival. This ensures you get a spot on your preferred date and time.
Why Visit French Quarter?
Experience the vibrant living history and unique Creole culture found only in the French Quarter.
Wander cobblestone streets lined with historic architecture, a true New Orleans gem.
Enjoy world-class live music and culinary delights, central to the French Quarter experience.
Immerse yourself in a rich tapestry of art, history, and Mardi Gras traditions.
Discover hidden courtyards and local haunts, offering an authentic taste of New Orleans.
Feel the soul of the South in this iconic and unforgettable neighborhood.
Best Time to Visit
Weather
The French Quarter experiences a humid subtropical climate, characterized by hot, muggy summers and mild winters. Spring and fall offer the most pleasant weather with moderate temperatures and lower humidity.
Best Months
February through May are ideal months to visit the French Quarter, offering beautiful spring weather perfect for exploring, coinciding with Mardi Gras festivities and the New Orleans Jazz & Heritage Festival.
Peak Season
Peak season typically runs from February through May, encompassing Mardi Gras and spring. Expect warm, pleasant weather but also larger crowds and higher accommodation prices.
Off Season
The off-season generally falls during the summer months (June-August) and late fall/early winter (November-January, excluding holidays). Summers are very hot and humid, while winter is mild but can be cooler and wetter.
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Plan Your French Quarter Trip
Transportation Tips
Getting around the French Quarter is best done on foot to truly soak in the atmosphere and discover its hidden gems. Most attractions are within walking distance. Taxis and rideshares are readily available for longer distances or late nights, offering convenience. Streetcars, like the iconic St. Charles line, are a scenic and affordable option for exploring beyond the immediate Quarter, though they don't run directly through it. Consider a pedicab for short, leisurely trips or to avoid walking too far. Parking is notoriously difficult and expensive, so leaving your car at a hotel or off-site garage is highly recommended when getting around French Quarter.
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Where to Stay
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Best Hotel Deals in French Quarter
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