New Orleans Music Walking Tour
Active
2h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Explore the world’s richest musical city. Starting with Louis Armstrong Park and Congo Square, historic site of African slave gatherings, it is the only place in North America where pure West African religious ritual and musical traditions were performed. Congo Square is the wellspring of all New Orleans music and so many of world-famous songs.
Visit the building which housed Cosimo Matassa’s groundbreaking J&M Studios - the true birthplace of rock’n'roll. See the New Orleans Musicians Tomb. The first burial to take place was for Lloyd Washington of the Ink Spots on October 23, 2004. The Musicians Tomb was restored and is administered by Robert Florence of NOLA Historic Tours.
Learn about the Second Line & stroll down Basin Street to the remains of Storyville, fabled red light district whose parlors presented Buddy Bolden and Jelly Roll Morton.
Then move through the Tango Belt to May Bailey’s and the French Opera House, ending with the legendary Preservation Hall.
Available options
New Orleans Music Walking Tour
What's included
Local guide
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
Learn of the West African influence on New Orleans music through the Bamboula.
2
Stop 2
Learn of many New Orleans music styles from opera to the second line to opera!
3
Learn of many New Orleans music elements and the origins of the song "Basin Street Blues".
4
Stop 4
Learn about and hear recorded music from the early days of Jazz in the red light district Storyville!
5
Enter a replica of a Storyville parlour.
6
Stop 6
Learn of the French Opera and R&B traditions on New Orleans' most famous street!
7
Stop 7
End the tour where the past, present and future of New Orleans music converges - the legendary Preservation Hall!
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
3.3
7 reviews
5★
4
4★
0
3★
0
2★
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1★
3
Tripadvisor
4.3
7 reviews
5★
5
4★
1
3★
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1
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Service animals allowed
Public transportation options are available nearby
Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
Travelers should have at least a moderate level of physical fitness
Meeting point
Our guide will meet the traveler at the entrance to Rampart Treehouse, North Rampart Street at the corner of St. Ann Street.
About New Orleans
New Orleans is a vibrant city known for its rich cultural heritage, vibrant music scene, and unique Creole and Cajun cuisine. It's famous for its annual Mardi Gras festival, historic French Quarter, and the lively atmosphere of Bourbon Street.
Top Attractions
French Quarter
The heart of New Orleans, the French Quarter is known for its vibrant nightlife, historic architecture, and cultural landmarks.
Historical
Half day to full day
Free to explore, attractions vary
Garden District
A picturesque neighborhood known for its antebellum mansions, oak-lined streets, and historic cemeteries.
Historical
Half day
Free to explore, tours available
National WWII Museum
A world-class museum dedicated to the history of World War II, featuring immersive exhibits and personal stories.
Museum
2-3 hours
Moderate to expensive
City Park
A vast urban park featuring lush gardens, walking paths, and cultural attractions.
Nature
Half day
Free to enter, attractions vary
Frenchmen Street
A lively street known for its live music venues, art galleries, and vibrant nightlife.
Entertainment
Evening
Varies by venue
Must-Try Local Dishes
Gumbo
A rich and flavorful stew made with a dark roux, meat or seafood, and the 'holy trinity' of vegetables (onions, bell peppers, and celery).
Main Course
Can be made with chicken, sausage, or seafood, and may contain gluten and dairy.
Jambalaya
A one-pot dish made with rice, meat or seafood, and the 'holy trinity' of vegetables, seasoned with a variety of spices.
Main Course
Can be made with chicken, sausage, or seafood, and may contain gluten and dairy.
Beignets
A deep-fried pastry dusted with powdered sugar, often served with café au lait.
Dessert
Contains gluten and dairy.
Po' Boy
A classic New Orleans sandwich made with French bread, filled with fried seafood, meat, or vegetables, and topped with lettuce, tomatoes, and mayo.
Sandwich
Can be made with various fillings, and may contain gluten and dairy.
Popular Activities
Swamp tours
Kayaking
Biking
Spa treatments
Park picnics
Café hopping
Museum visits
Historic site tours
Best Time to Visit
February to April
This is the best time to visit New Orleans, with pleasant weather and major events like Mardi Gras. The city is lively, but also more crowded and expensive.
15-25°C
60-77°F
Practical Information
Language
- Official: English
- Widely spoken: French, Spanish, Vietnamese
- English: Widely spoken
Currency
United States Dollar (USD)
Time Zone
Central Time Zone (CT) (GMT-6)
Electricity
120VV, 60HzHz
Safety Information
Overall Safety Rating: Exercise caution
New Orleans is generally safe for tourists, but visitors should be aware of their surroundings and take precautions to avoid theft and other crimes.
Important Precautions:
- • Keep valuables secure and out of sight
- • Use licensed taxis and rideshare services
- • Be cautious of strangers offering services or assistance
Getting there
By air
- Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport • 15 miles (24 km) from downtown
By train
New Orleans Union Passenger Terminal
By bus
Greyhound Bus Station, Megabus Stop
Getting around
Public transport
The bus system is affordable and covers most of the city, but can be slow due to traffic.
Taxis
Available • Apps: Uber, Lyft
Rentals
Car, Bike, Scooter
Neighborhoods
French Quarter
Garden District
Warehouse District
Faubourg Marigny
Mid-City
Day trips
Plantation Country
30-40 miles (48-64 km) • Full day
Explore the historic plantations of Louisiana, with tours and exhibits showcasing the region's complex history.
Swamp and Bayou Tours
30-50 miles (48-80 km) • Half day to full day
Take a boat tour through the Louisiana swamps and bayous, with opportunities to see alligators, birds, and other wildlife.
Baton Rouge
80 miles (129 km) • Full day
Explore the capital of Louisiana, with its historic sites, museums, and universities.
Festivals
Mardi Gras • February or March (varies by year)
Jazz & Heritage Festival • Late April to early May (two weekends)
French Quarter Festival • April (four days)
Pro tips
- Visit during the off-peak season for fewer crowds and lower prices
- Explore the city's diverse neighborhoods, each with its own unique character and attractions
- Try local cuisine and support local businesses and restaurants
- Use public transportation, such as buses and streetcars, to get around the city and save money
- Be cautious of your surroundings and take precautions to avoid theft and other crimes
From $25
per person
Price varies by option
Secure booking
Free cancellation available
Instant confirmation
