New Orleans Guide

New Orleans Cultural Tours

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

72+ tours
From $50
3-5 hours
New Orleans Cultural Tours

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!

Featured Cultural Tours Tours

Discover our top picks for cultural tours in New Orleans

Soul of New Orleans City Tour: Enslavement to Modern Day Culture
From $55
Free Cancellation

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.

4.9(389)
2h 45m
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New Orleans French Quarter Food Walk: Cajun, Creole and Culture
From $81.1
Free Cancellation🔥Likely to Sell Out

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.

4.9(1,216)
2h 30m
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New Orleans French Quarter, Voodoo and Culture Walking Tour
💸Special Offer
$34.99From $27.99
Free Cancellation🔥Likely to Sell Out

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

4.7(2,953)
2h
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New Orleans Culture Second Line Tour in NOLA
From $30

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!

4.8(73)
2h 30m
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New Orleans Creole History and Culture Ride
From $55
Free Cancellation

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

5.0(49)
3h
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Nola Culture Street Art & Mural Walk Tour
From $20
👤Private Tour

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.

4.9(46)
1h 20m
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Private New Orleans Music and Culture Tour with Bar Stop
From $75
Free Cancellation

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!

5.0(10)
3h 30m
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Private Cultural Tour: The Krewe of Red Beans
From $30
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

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.

1h
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New Orleans French Quarter Cocktail & Culture Tour (4pm Wed-Sat)
From $95
Free Cancellation🔥Likely to Sell Out

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

5.0(1)
3h
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New Orleans Favorites and Creole Culture VIP Tour
From $350
Free Cancellation👤Private TourNew

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)

7h
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Why Choose Cultural Tours in New Orleans?

Voodoo History

Learn truth about voodoo beyond Hollywood stereotypes!

Mardi Gras Traditions

Understand carnival culture beyond bead-throwing!

Jazz Funerals

Experience celebration of life with brass band processions!

Creole Heritage

Unique culture mixing French, Spanish, African, Caribbean!

Types of Cultural Tours in New Orleans

Voodoo & Cemetery Tour

Learn voodoo history visiting Marie Laveau tomb and shops.

2-3 hoursVoodoo historyCemeteryCulturalFascinating

Mardi Gras Experience

Learn carnival traditions with parade tours (season only).

3-4 hoursParade viewingTraditionsBeadsFestive

Creole Cultural Tour

Explore Creole heritage, food, music, and traditions.

3-4 hoursCultural sitesFood tastingsMusicComprehensive

Jazz Funeral Experience

Witness or learn about traditional New Orleans funeral.

2-3 hoursCultural educationBrass bandUniqueMoving

What to Expect on Your New Orleans Cultural Tours

Duration

Tours: 2-4 hours. Mardi Gras parades: 4-6 hours. Cultural experiences vary.

Voodoo Education

Learn real voodoo history - not horror movie version!

Mardi Gras Culture

Understand krewe traditions, king cakes, and carnival beyond debauchery.

Jazz Funerals

Brass band leads somber march, then breaks into celebration - unique tradition!

Second-Lines

Join spontaneous parade following brass band through streets!

Cultural Heritage

Understand how diverse influences created unique NOLA culture.

Expert Tips for the Best Experience

1

Voodoo tours educational - separate fact from fiction about practice.

2

Mardi Gras (Feb-March) insane crowds but incredible! Book hotels year ahead.

3

King cake (Mardi Gras season) has baby inside - finder hosts next party!

4

Second-line parades Sundays in different neighborhoods - free to join!

5

Marie Laveau tomb visited by believers leaving XXX marks and offerings.

6

New Orleans Voodoo Museum ($7) small but educational.

7

Respect voodoo as actual religion - not all spooky entertainment.

8

Cultural tours offer authentic NOLA beyond party stereotypes.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:What is voodoo in New Orleans?

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!

Q:What is Mardi Gras?

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!

Q:Can you visit New Orleans during Mardi Gras?

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!

Q:What is a jazz funeral?

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!

Q:How much do cultural tours cost?

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!

Q:Is voodoo real in New Orleans?

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!

Q:When is Mardi Gras?

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!

Q:Can you participate in second-lines?

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!

Don't Miss the Perfect New Orleans Experience

Book your cultural tours today - 72+ tours with instant confirmation & best price guarantee!

Why Visit New Orleans?

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

Best Time to Visit

Weather

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.

Best Months

February to May and October to December offer the best weather with mild temperatures, fewer crowds, and perfect conditions for sightseeing.

Peak Season

June to August brings peak tourist season with hot, humid weather, larger crowds, and higher prices.

Off Season

January and September offer lower prices and fewer crowds, though with occasional hurricanes.

Plan Your New Orleans Trip

Transportation Tips

Public transportation includes streetcars and buses. Walking is perfect for exploring the French Quarter, and ride-sharing services are widely available.

Car Rental Deals in New Orleans

Rent a car for maximum flexibility and explore at your own pace on Expedia USA.

Where to Stay

Find the perfect accommodation for your New Orleans adventure. From luxury resorts to cozy hotels, we've got you covered.

Best Hotel Deals in New Orleans

Discover top-rated hotels with exclusive rates and special offers on Trivago USA.

Ready to Explore New Orleans?

Discover the best tours and activities in New Orleans with AI-powered recommendations tailored just for you.