New Orleans Guide

New Orleans Historical Tours

Explore French colonial heritage, Civil War, and unique NOLA history!

64+ tours
From $40
3-5 hours
New Orleans Historical Tours

Discover New Orleans' fascinating 300-year history! Historical tours explore French colonial founding (1718), Spanish rule period, Louisiana Purchase, Civil War significance, Reconstruction, devastating Hurricane Katrina (2005), and resilient recovery. Visit historic sites like Cabildo museum (Louisiana Purchase signed here!), old Ursuline Convent (oldest building in Mississippi Valley), Garden District mansions, above-ground cemeteries ("Cities of the Dead"), plantations on River Road, and Civil War forts. Learn about Creole culture, voodoo queen Marie Laveau, pirate Jean Lafitte, and how multicultural influences created unique NOLA identity. It's complex, colorful American history!

Featured Historical Tours Tours

Discover our top picks for historical tours in New Orleans

Paddlewheeler Creole Queen Historic Mississippi River Cruise
From $47
Free Cancellation

Take a 2 hour, 30 minute cruise down the great Mississippi River aboard the Paddlewheeler Creole Queen. Enjoy a narrated tour with a licensed historian describing 300-years of New Orleans history; from the founding of the city by the LeMoyne Brothers to the tragedy of Hurricane Katrina. During your cruise the vessel will dock at Chalmette Battlefield for a 1-hour excursion. Enjoy a guided tour and talk by a National Park Ranger about the battle of New Orleans, while taking in the sweet breeze and delicate waves along the river. Delight in a cash bar and/or a satisfying Creole lunch option available on the boat while viewing the famous French Quarter and Port of New Orleans from the river .

4.4(1,931)
2h 30m
View Details
French Quarter Historical Sights and Stories Walking Tour
From $35
Free Cancellation

This tour of New Orleans' oldest and most vibrant neighborhood has history, culture, architecture, and all the great stories that help you really understand what this city is all about! We keep our group size at 12 or fewer guests to make in a fun, personal experience.

4.9(2,696)
2h
View Details
New Orleans Historic Cemetery Walking Tour
💸Special Offer
$29.99From $23.99
Free Cancellation🔥Likely to Sell Out

Join us on a journey through three of New Orleans’ hallowed cemeteries. On this tour, your master storyteller will lead you through the maze of above-ground tombs in St. Patrick # 1, St. Patrick Cemetery #2, and the Katrina Memorial at Charity Hospital Cemetery. From burial customs and traditions- to the history of the Masons and Catholics in New Orleans- to the deaths of the thousands buried in the graveyard behind the Katrina Memorial, this tour will leave you with feelings of trepidation and excitement, as well as with a reverence for our city’s incredible history. This is a narrated 1.5 to 2 hour walking tour. You may bring your own beverages!

4.9(171)
2h
View Details
Historic French Quarter Segway Tour
From $79
Free CancellationNew

Navigate the vibrant streets of New Orleans on a Segway tour that brings the city’s rich history and culture to life. Offered daily, this exhilarating experience takes you through iconic neighborhoods with certified guides who share captivating stories. Choose from options including the French Quarter Historic Segway Tour and the Haunted Segway Tour for a unique perspective on this lively city. Each tour includes a training session, ensuring you’re comfortable before hitting the road. With a maximum of 100 minutes for the general tour and 2 hours for the historic and haunted options, you’ll have plenty of time to soak in the sights and sounds of New Orleans. - Daily Segway tours - 3 tours to choose from. - Tours include training and are suitable for all experience levels - Led by certified guides with in-depth knowledge of New Orleans history and culture

5.0(13)
2h
View Details
After-Dark Historical Night Tour of St. Louis Cemetery No. 1
From $41
Free Cancellation

A New Orleans First - After-Dark St. Louis Cemetery No. 1 Night Tour! Become immersed in the deep cultural traditions and mysterious beauty of the New Orleans' oldest extant cemetery. Follow your expert guide through the shadows of the past as you encounter the final resting places of famed residents like Voodoo Queen Marie Laveau and civil rights legend Homer Plessy. Walk among the elegant Greek Revival architecture and marvel at the stately society tombs of New Orleans’ crème de la crème. This is not a ghost tour. It’s a reverent walk through history, culture, and tradition, where every tomb tells a story of New Orleans' past. Ideal for curious minds, history lovers, and anyone seeking a memorable New Orleans experience in a whole new light - under a canopy of stars and lanterns. Our 45-minute walking tours depart every Saturday (some Fridays) from the historic Basin St. Station Visitor Center (501 Basin Street) from 7:45pm, 8:00pm, 8:15pm, 8:45pm, 9:00pm, 9:15pm.

4.9(110)
45 min
View Details
New Orleans Historical and Haunted Walking Tour
💸Special Offer
$22.5From $18
Free Cancellation

This tour lets you exercise your legs while taking in beautiful views of the French Quarter. Experience the sights, sounds, and culture of New Orleans on this wonderful walking tour. You will hear stories about New Orleans ghosts, voodoo, and vampires. Guests will be allowed to stop in any bars along the tour route to purchase drinks. Guests will visit over fifteen locations during this French Quarter tour. The following locations have been labeled as guests favorites: The LaLaurie Mansion, The Beauregard Keyes House, The Old Ursuline Convent, Madame John’s Legacy, The Sultans Palace and Jackson Square where guests will see St Anthony’s Garden, The Cabildo, St. Louis Cathedral and the Presbytere in one stop alone! This tour will also visit celebrity homes and filming locations along the way. Learn about the spectacular architecture and the history of this gorgeous city so that you can better understand how it became so unique!

4.4(20)
1h
View Details
Self Guided Walking Tour of New Orleans' Historic Garden District
From $9.99
👤Private Tour

Experience the charm of New Orleans’ Garden District at your own pace with David, a licensed tour guide eager to share his passion for the city and its history with others. On this self-guided walking tour, you will stroll picturesque streets, discovering the fascinating stories behind mansions linked to Ann Rice and Nicolas Cage. Uncover the district's Civil War history, its role in slavery, and the survival tales of its stunning architecture. Delve into landmarks like Buckner Mansion and Sandra Bullock's Swiss Chalet. Discover the first home with indoor plumbing, the Walter Grinnan Robinson House, with its unique rain collection tank on the roof. Get unlimited use of this tour before your booking date and after it. You can use the virtual tour option at home, too. Once you have booked, you will receive instructions and a unique code to download the tour. The app displays directions to the starting point; when you’re in the right place, tap start.

4.5(11)
1h
View Details
Historic Garden District Walking Tour
From $35
Free Cancellation🔥Likely to Sell Out

Listed as a National Historic Landmark District the city of Lafayette became known as the American Sector but approaching the 1830's, it was known as the Garden District. Comprised of a close network of several plantations which were parceled, sold and broken into smaller lots in which various ethnic neighborhoods consisting of the American sector, the Irish Channel, and an elite Jewish community to name a few would call home. There was also very large African American & Creole neighborhoods adjacent to the others and together were all a part of the city of Lafayette.

5.0(74)
2h
View Details
New Orleans Historical Walking Tour
From $30
Free Cancellation🔥Likely to Sell Out

Embark on a tour of the French Quarter and step into a living history book. With the original grid of streets still intact and the beautifully preserved buildings, this iconic New Orleans neighborhood offers a vivid glimpse into the city's rich and colorful past. As you walk with us, jazz and blues serve as the soundtrack, resonating from tucked-away bars, intimate courtyards, and lively street musicians. Our guided tours offer a deep dive into the Quarter's storied history. Wander past the timeless façades with ornate ironwork balconies, and you'll be regaled with tales from when Spanish, French, Creole, and American influences converged to craft this unique enclave. Rich, cultural heritage and sheer aesthetic beauty coupled with intriguing and informative stories that only a local with ancestral ties can give you, this New Orleans History Tour promises a sensory-filled adventure that lingers long after you've left.

4.5(2)
1h 30m
View Details
Historical Treme Walking Tour
From $35
Free Cancellation🔥Likely to Sell Out

The Historical Treme Walking tour introduces the African American experience in New Orleans, our guests will witness the Free People of Color that lived and thrived in the neighborhood, in addition to the Italians that also lived in this historical neighborhood. The culture, traditions, history, and heritage displayed in the neighborhood are uniquely different than any other place in America.

5.0(6)
2h
View Details
Self-Guided Tour of New Orleans’ Historic French Quarter
From $9.99
👤Private Tour

Experience New Orleans’ French Quarter at your own pace with David Hedges, owner of Nola Tour Guy, a walking tour company. On this self-guided walking tour, discover a melting pot of history shaped by French, Spanish, and American influences. Begin at the Mississippi, unravelling tales of pirates like Jean Lafitte and the oldest cathedral in the U.S., St. Louis Cathedral. Stroll through Jackson Square, relishing Creole cuisine secrets and marvel at the historic Ursuline Convent. Make your way to the French Market, steeped in indigenous trading history. This tour unearths the essence of America's most intriguing neighbourhood, taking you on a captivating journey through time. Get unlimited use of this tour before your booking date and after it. You can use the virtual tour option at home, too. Once you have booked, you will receive instructions and a unique code to download the tour. The app displays directions to the starting point; when you’re in the right place, tap start.

1h
View Details
Historical Tour and Musical Show at Dew Drop Inn New Orleans
From $68
Free Cancellation

Step back in time with our guided tour & jazz show at a legendary New Orleans landmark of musical and cultural heritage. Discover the venue where Little Richard first performed Tutti Frutti and where Ray Charles laid his head many nights. Learn about the venue's historic fight against segregation and how the location became a welcoming space for both straight and queer communities, and blacks and whites alike, hosting famous musicians such as Etta James, James Brown, Sam Cooke, and Tina Turner. After the guided tour, transport through time with a live performance celebrating the iconic artists who graced the Dew Drop stage, from Ray Charles to Little Richard. This vibrant show connects the roots of jazz, blues, and rock & roll, delivering a one-of-a-kind experience that captures the soul of New Orleans' music history. Plus, a buffet lunch of classic New Orleans cuisine is included with your ticket. Book your experience today and step into the rich history of this iconic location.

5.0(1)
2h
View Details
Historic Carrollton Neighborhood Walking Tour
From $37
Free Cancellation🔥Likely to Sell Out

Discover the charming Carrollton neighborhood where history and architecture intersect with the St. Charles Streetcar Line and the mighty Mississippi River. This former resort destination has evolved over 200 years into a community rich with culture and colorful characters galore. Tales of lumber and brick yards, butchers, riverboat captains and dairies are woven together to complete a dynamic picture of this vibrant neighborhood. Emily Manger, @TheCarrolltonian, will define its architectural styles, introduce historic figures, and highlight captivating moments in time. Stories span from the cradle of Carrollton to modern times spotlighting luminaries that shaped New Orleans at large.

5.0(9)
2h
View Details
Audio Guided Historical Ghost Bus Tour of New Orleans
From $54.75
Free Cancellation🔥Likely to Sell Out

For those drawn to the dark side of this historic city known for its spiritual connections, horrific tragedies, and mysterious paranormal activity, this unique bus tour will be the highlight of your trip! You will visit locations of the city while exploring the dark history and lore of New Orleans. Find yourself on the verge of historic cemeteries, hear about unexplained phenomena and rituals of veiled purpose, and hear tales of ghosts, witches, vampires, and voodoo. The Ghost Bus Tour is A two-hour bus tour of historically haunted sites in New Orleans. There will be a few stops included in the tour to get out and explore but this is primarily a bus tour. - An automated tour with customized content that is GPS triggered. - An immersive experience with video, special effects, and custom lighting. The Ghost Bus Tour is not: - A ghost hunt (though we do offer the use of a ghost hunting app on tour). - A cemetery tour (we visit one, but don't go inside). - A drinking or bar hopping tour.

2.5(17)
2h
View Details
Private New Orleans Historical Sightseeing Tour with Hotel Pickup
From $480
Free Cancellation👤Private Tour

Discover New Orleans' heritage and the beauty of its period homes during this private historical tour for up to 10 travelers. Ride along the city’s stately streets, passing jewels of architectural styles in the French Quarter, Bayou St John and Garden District, and enjoy guided walking tours of St Louis Cemetery #3 and the Besthoff Sculpture Garden in City Park. You'll even make a stop for beignets and cafe au lait at the famous Cafe du Monde.

5.0(15)
4h
View Details

Ready to Explore New Orleans?

Browse all available tours and activities with instant booking & best price guarantee

Why Choose Historical Tours in New Orleans?

Unique History

French, Spanish, African, Caribbean fusion - totally unique!

Above-Ground Cemeteries

Historic "Cities of the Dead" with ornate tombs!

Hurricane Katrina

Learn about 2005 disaster and remarkable recovery.

Garden District

Antebellum mansions with lush gardens - gorgeous!

Types of Historical Tours in New Orleans

Cemetery Tour

Visit above-ground tombs at St. Louis Cemetery #1.

90 minutesHistoric tombsMarie LaveauArchitectureFascinating

Garden District Tour

Walk through mansion district on streetcar route.

2-3 hoursAntebellum homesStreetcar rideArchitectureBeautiful

Katrina Recovery Tour

Learn about hurricane impact and city resilience.

3 hoursKatrina sitesRecovery storiesEducationalMoving

Plantation Tour

Visit River Road plantations with complex histories.

4-5 hoursOak Alley/LauraPlantation groundsHistoryDay trip

What to Expect on Your New Orleans Historical Tours

Duration

Cemetery: 90 min. Garden District: 2-3 hours. Plantation: 4-5 hours. Walking: 3 hours.

St. Louis Cemetery

Above-ground tombs required (high water table) - Marie Laveau buried here!

Garden District Mansions

Antebellum homes on oak-lined streets - take historic streetcar!

Voodoo History

Learn about Marie Laveau and New Orleans voodoo traditions.

Katrina Impact

Understand hurricane's devastation and city's remarkable recovery.

Creole Culture

Learn about unique Creole identity mixing French, Spanish, African roots.

Expert Tips for the Best Experience

1

Cemetery tours required by law - can't visit alone (safety/vandalism prevention).

2

St. Louis Cemetery #1 most historic - Marie Laveau's tomb (leave offerings!).

3

Garden District accessible via St. Charles streetcar ($1.25) - historic ride itself!

4

Oak Alley or Laura Plantation best for history - both address slavery honestly.

5

Hurricane Katrina tours emotional but important for understanding New Orleans.

6

Cabildo museum ($6) shows Louisiana Purchase documents and NOLA history.

7

Many historic sites in French Quarter are FREE - explore independently.

8

Summer very hot and humid - morning tours more comfortable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:Why are New Orleans cemeteries above ground?

A: High water table makes underground burial impossible - coffins would float! Above-ground tombs (vaults) required. They're called "Cities of the Dead" for ornate architecture. St. Louis Cemetery #1 most famous. Tours required for entry ($25-35). Fascinating!

Q:Can you visit cemeteries alone?

A: NO! St. Louis Cemetery #1 requires licensed tour guide by law (vandalism/safety). Tours $25-35, 90 minutes. Other cemeteries (Lafayette, Metairie) can be visited alone. Historic cemetery tours worth it for stories and safety.

Q:Who was Marie Laveau?

A: Marie Laveau was legendary 19th-century voodoo queen of New Orleans. Her tomb in St. Louis Cemetery #1 is most visited - people leave offerings (XXX marks, coins, flowers). Mix of history and legend. Tours separate fact from fiction!

Q:What is the Garden District?

A: Garden District is upscale neighborhood with antebellum mansions, oak-lined streets, and lush gardens. Take St. Charles streetcar ($1.25) to reach it. Walk Magazine Street. Beautiful architecture - very different from French Quarter. 2-3 hours to explore.

Q:Are plantation tours worth it?

A: Yes for understanding Louisiana history! Oak Alley, Laura, and Whitney plantations address slavery honestly. They're educational about complex, difficult history. $25-30 entry. Not entertainment - serious history. 45 minutes from NOLA. Important for understanding South.

Q:How much do historical tours cost?

A: Cemetery: $25-35 (90 min). Garden District: $40-60 (2-3 hours). Katrina: $50-75. Plantation: $80-120 (includes transport, entry). Walking tours: $35-60. Many affordable options for history education!

Q:What happened during Hurricane Katrina?

A: August 2005, Hurricane Katrina devastated New Orleans - levees failed, 80% of city flooded, 1,800+ died. Lower Ninth Ward hit worst. Recovery took years. Tours explain impact, resilience, ongoing challenges. It's emotional but important history. NOLA rebuilt remarkably!

Q:When is the best time for historical tours?

A: Spring (March-May) and fall (Sept-Nov): Perfect weather for walking and plantation tours. Summer: Very hot/humid. Winter: Mild, fewer crowds. Historical sites accessible year-round. Morning tours beat afternoon heat!

Don't Miss the Perfect New Orleans Experience

Book your historical tours today - 64+ 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.