Experience voodoo, Mardi Gras, Creole traditions, and NOLA's unique spirit!

Immerse yourself in New Orleans' unique culture - a magical blend unlike anywhere else! Cultural tours explore voodoo history (Marie Laveau, rituals, misconceptions), Mardi Gras traditions (krewe culture, bead throws, second-lines), Creole heritage, jazz funerals (celebration of life!), cemetery customs, street car culture, and local traditions. Visit voodoo shops, learn about Creole vs. Cajun identities, attend cultural events, explore African American heritage, and understand "joie de vivre" (joy of living) philosophy. Tours include mask-making workshops (Mardi Gras), voodoo museum visits, cultural performances, and authentic experiences beyond tourist shows. It's NOLA's soul!
Discover our top picks for cultural tours in New Orleans

Discover the Soul of New Orleans: Black History That Can’t Be Erased. Walk through the untold story of New Orleans — from Indigenous Bulbancha to the Haitian Revolution, from the Mississippi River slave markets to the rhythms of Congo Square. Discover how Black resilience shaped the music, food, spirit, and soul of this city. You'll explore historic sites like Treme, Jackson Square, and the Lower 9th Ward, witnessing the triumphs and struggles that built the real New Orleans. Learn how young heroes like Ruby Bridges and Leona Tate carried the torch of Civil Rights, and how Hurricane Katrina exposed deep-rooted injustices still felt today. This tour honors the culture, courage, and survival that mainstream history often overlooks. Step into a journey that connects the past to the present — and feel the heartbeat of a people who refused to be erased.

Dig into the rich and varied flavors that make New Orleans one of the USA’s top foodie destinations. From the most famous local haunts to some delectable hidden gems, you’ll leave with not only a full stomach and a smile, but a greater understanding of how New Orleans food, culture and history all go hand-in-hand.

Immerse yourself in the mystical heart of New Orleans with our authentic Voodoo & French Quarter Cultural Experience. This captivating walking tour reveals the true stories behind New Orleans' most fascinating spiritual traditions while exploring the historic French Quarter's hidden cultural treasures. What You'll Discover: Authentic Voodoo History: Learn about Marie Laveau, the Voodoo Queen of New Orleans, and her lasting legacy French Quarter Cultural Heritage: Explore the unique blend of French, Spanish, African, and Caribbean influences Mystical Traditions: Understand the real practices and beliefs behind New Orleans voodoo Historic Architecture: Discover ornate Creole cottages and Spanish colonial buildings Cultural Storytelling: Hear authentic tales from expert guides with deep local knowledge Sacred Sites: Visit locations significant to New Orleans' spiritual history

Step into the vibrant soul of New Orleans with the Treme Second Line Experience, an unforgettable journey into the heart of the city’s culture. Unlike traditional tours, this isn’t just a sightseeing event—it’s a celebration of life, music, and community! March alongside a live brass band as they fill the streets with the iconic sounds of New Orleans. Feel the energy of dancers adorned in colorful attire and connect with locals who welcome you like family. Rooted in the rich traditions of African American fraternal societies and neighborhood gatherings from the 19th century, this experience showcases the living history and joy of Second Line parades. Get ready to let the good times roll!

We want to share with you the New Orleans that made us who we are, as we bike through the historic and colorful neighborhoods of the Marigny, By water and St Roch. It's not just the beauty of the streets, it's the stories they tell us, and we share with you. The street parades, the music, the food, the culture of inclusiveness, the creativity we can all be part of and the art we are surrounded by is no fluke, it is the product of the 300 years of history and culture that came before us. and these are what we will talk about at the many stops along the way. Our tours are for any age, we cater our stories to each groups interests. The rifing is easy on flat and quiet streets, We bike slow, we bike happy, we wave to traffic and we stop to talk. That is what we would be doing if our company did not exist, so that is what we do since it does. Feel Free to ask us anything, we are always here for you with advice for your trip, both before and after your tour. Thanks, Jeff and Danny

Step off the beaten path and immerse yourself in the true essence of New Orleans that most tourists miss. I’ll take you to hidden food and art spots beyond the typical tourist areas, allowing you to experience the heart of the city. “The city of New Orleans is divided into 17 wards,” and we’ll explore the real art, history, and vibrant street culture found in these iconic neighborhoods—capturing it all with style and flair on my iPhone! You’ll enjoy unlimited photos, edits, and fun IG Boomerangs to take your memories to the next level! During our tour, we’ll snap unique shots of authentic New Orleans moments, street vibes, and everyday life. I’ll also teach you how to edit your photos so they look as stunning as professional shots—with a distinct New Orleans flavor. Just know you’ll leave with both digital and tangible memories of your adventure. To see some of the spots we’ll explore and follow the experience, connect with us on Instagram and Facebook: @TremeLuxuryExperience.

Embark on a journey with 2nd Line Tours to experience New Orleans' vibrant rhythms and rich cultural history. Our unique tour immerses you in the city's cultural tapestry, blending soulful melodies of jazz, rock ‘n’ roll, hip hop, and bounce. Discover the heartbeat of New Orleans, from the spirit of Creole, Afro, and Indigenous communities to the civil rights movement's struggles and triumphs. Explore historic neighborhoods like Treme, the Garden District, and Central City, and visit iconic sites such as Congo Square, where African rhythms still pulse beneath modern New Orleans. Immerse yourself in New Orleans’ legendary music scene, from the birthplace of jazz to the sounds of rap and bounce. Trace the evolution of musical genres that shaped the city’s identity and explore iconic venues like the historic Dew Drop Inn. Join us on a journey of discovery and celebration, uncovering the soul of New Orleans, one beat at a time. Book your adventure with 2nd Line Tours today!

Want to see the weirdest and most unique spot in New Orleans? Learn about a very special carnival tradition that has become a feature of what locals call "Downtown Mardi Gras". This is Beanlandia, the home of the Krewe of Red Beans! You'll learn about our parade, see amazing costumes created using beans, and you'll walk away with a better understanding of why we love living in New Orleans/Nola Culture that is off-the-typical-tourist trail.

Rethink the drink with a tour of the vibrant French Quarter cocktail scene and a guide who will help you experience the nightlife neighborhood like a local! Enjoy iconic cocktails at 3 bars (and 1 food stop for a bite) while you learn the captivating history of how these drinks became part of the fabric of our city's fascinating story. Avoid the tourist traps while you discover some of the best bartenders in the city, hand-picked for the best variety of New Orleans' historic cocktail culture. GREAT for groups, bachelor/bachelorette parties and birthday trips! - Visit neighborhood gems loved by locals- includes 3 drinks/cocktails! - Walk the French Quarter learning architecture & history - Hear the stories of iconic New Orleans cocktails: rum running, sugar production, prohibition and the impact it all had on the city - Includes a quick bite, tasting iconic NOLA flavors - Safely explore the Quarter with 5 star tour guide Michelle

Explore the vibrant heart of New Orleans on this all-day VIP tour, designed for those looking to experience the city's highlights and unique Creole culture. Visit iconic neighborhoods like the Garden District and Tremé, renowned for their rich history and local culture. Discover hidden gems such as the Anne Rice House and the beautiful Audubon Park, while enjoying local eateries, shops, and bars. The tour also includes a scenic lunch stop at Restaurant des Families, nestled among ancient oaks, where you can savor the flavors of the Bayou. - All-day VIP tour showcasing New Orleans' rich culture and history - Explore the Garden District, Audubon Park, and Tremé neighborhoods - Visit historical sites, including the Anne Rice House and Katrina Memorial - Lunch at Restaurant des Families(cost not included)
Learn truth about voodoo beyond Hollywood stereotypes!
Understand carnival culture beyond bead-throwing!
Experience celebration of life with brass band processions!
Unique culture mixing French, Spanish, African, Caribbean!
Learn voodoo history visiting Marie Laveau tomb and shops.
Learn carnival traditions with parade tours (season only).
Explore Creole heritage, food, music, and traditions.
Witness or learn about traditional New Orleans funeral.
Tours: 2-4 hours. Mardi Gras parades: 4-6 hours. Cultural experiences vary.
Learn real voodoo history - not horror movie version!
Understand krewe traditions, king cakes, and carnival beyond debauchery.
Brass band leads somber march, then breaks into celebration - unique tradition!
Join spontaneous parade following brass band through streets!
Understand how diverse influences created unique NOLA culture.
Voodoo tours educational - separate fact from fiction about practice.
Mardi Gras (Feb-March) insane crowds but incredible! Book hotels year ahead.
King cake (Mardi Gras season) has baby inside - finder hosts next party!
Second-line parades Sundays in different neighborhoods - free to join!
Marie Laveau tomb visited by believers leaving XXX marks and offerings.
New Orleans Voodoo Museum ($7) small but educational.
Respect voodoo as actual religion - not all spooky entertainment.
Cultural tours offer authentic NOLA beyond party stereotypes.
A: Voodoo (or Vodou) is religion brought by enslaved Africans mixing with Catholicism. Marie Laveau (1800s voodoo queen) is legendary. It's actual spiritual practice, not Hollywood horror! Tours explain real history. Voodoo shops sell gris-gris, potions. Educational and fascinating!
A: Mardi Gras ("Fat Tuesday") is carnival season ending on Shrove Tuesday before Lent. Parades by krewes (social clubs), bead throwing, king cakes, parties! February-March depending on Easter. It's HUGE in New Orleans - million+ visitors. Book hotels year ahead!
A: Yes but challenging! Hotels expensive ($300-500/night) and book year ahead. Crowds insane. However, it's bucket-list experience! Family-friendly parades daytime, adult party at night. If going, plan WAY ahead. Otherwise, visit off-season for easier time!
A: Jazz funeral is New Orleans tradition - brass band escorts deceased to cemetery playing somber music, then breaks into joyful celebration after burial! It's "celebrating life" philosophy. You might see one (follow respectfully). Unique to NOLA. Beautiful tradition!
A: Voodoo/cemetery: $30-50 (2-3 hours). Cultural walking: $50-75. Mardi Gras parade tours: $75-120. Jazz funeral education: $40-60. Many affordable cultural experiences. Budget: Free second-lines and street culture!
A: Yes, voodoo is practiced religion! Not common but real practitioners exist. Most "voodoo" is tourism - shops sell charms, dolls. Marie Laveau was real historical figure. Tours separate authentic practice from tourist kitsch. Respectful approach important!
A: Mardi Gras date changes (47 days before Easter) - usually February-March. Carnival season starts January 6 (Epiphany). Main parades last 2 weeks before Mardi Gras day. King cake season: January-March. Check dates - varies yearly!
A: Yes! Second-line parades Sunday afternoons in different neighborhoods. Follow brass band, dance with crowd, wave handkerchief/umbrella! Free to join. Check schedules online. It's joyful, spontaneous, and quintessentially New Orleans. Embrace it!
Iconic French Quarter and historic architecture
World-famous jazz music and culture
Authentic Creole and Cajun cuisine
Rich history and cultural heritage
Mardi Gras celebrations and festivals
Perfect blend of music and culture
New Orleans enjoys a subtropical climate with hot, humid summers and mild winters. Average temperatures range from 50°F (10°C) in winter to 90°F (32°C) in summer.
February to May and October to December offer the best weather with mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and perfect conditions for sightseeing.
June to August brings peak tourist season with hot, humid weather, larger crowds, and higher prices.
January and September offer lower prices and fewer crowds, though with occasional hurricanes.
Explore comprehensive guides to plan your perfect trip, including food tours, cultural experiences, and more.
Taste gumbo, beignets, po-boys, and authentic Creole-Cajun cuisine!
Explore historic Vieux Carré with wrought-iron balconies and Bourbon Street!
Explore French colonial heritage, Civil War, and unique NOLA history!
Experience birthplace of jazz with live music, historic clubs, and NOLA soul!
Explore Louisiana bayous with alligators, cypress trees, and wetland wildlife!
Public transportation includes streetcars and buses. Walking is perfect for exploring the French Quarter, and ride-sharing services are widely available.
Rent a car for maximum flexibility and explore at your own pace on Expedia USA.
Find the perfect accommodation for your New Orleans adventure. From luxury resorts to cozy hotels, we've got you covered.
Discover top-rated hotels with exclusive rates and special offers on Trivago USA.