New Orleans City Tour and Steamboat Natchez Harbor Jazz Cruise
Active
6h
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Instant confirmation
Mobile or paper ticket accepted
About this experience
Enjoy a fully narrated city tour of historic New Orleans, where you will visit the world famous French Quarter, Jackson Square, Audubon Park and even uncover the mysteries surrounding Voodoo. Then take to the waters for a cruise on the Mississippi River with the iconic Steamboat NATCHEZ. Enjoy an authentic riverboat experience of a leisurely, two-hour cruise on the mighty Mississippi. Come and discover New Orleans today!
The Steamboat NATCHEZ is taking some time off, but her sister vessel, the Riverboat CITY of NEW ORLEANS will be taking her place. You’ll get the same authentic riverboat experience of a leisurely, two-hour cruise on the mighty Mississippi, enjoying traditional live jazz, craft cocktails, and all the beautiful New Orleans sites, while also exploring the newly renovated riverboat. Make sure you check out all four decks – the top deck view is a sight to see!
Available options
10 AM City Tour + 2 PM Cruise
10 AM City Tour & 2 PM Cruise
11 AM Cruise + 2 PM City Tour
11 AM Start Time
What's included
2-hour paddle wheeler boat cruise (2:30PM)
Stop at Cafe du Monde for beignets (own expense)
3-hour narrated motorcoach tour (10AM)
Detailed itinerary
1
Stop 1
First enjoy a grand overview of New Orleans, dubbed ‘The City That Care Forgot,’ on this comprehensive sightseeing coach tour. Start in the world-famous French Quarter, a quaint, mysterious area where the sights and sounds abound.
2
Stop 2
Visit historic Jackson Square, home of the Cabildo and Presbytere museums, St. Louis Cathedral and learn about the Baroness Pontalba, who built the first apartment homes in America.
3
Stop 3
Walk around one of New Orleans' historic above ground cemeteries, circa 1854, and take photos of the elaborate tombs and statuary. Guests may choose to stay on the bus.
4
Stop 4
You will have a stop at picturesque City Park where stone footbridges cross lagoons and bayous in the shadows of centuries old oak trees. Explore the free 11 acre sculpture garden or purchase cafe au lait and beignets (cash only) at Cafe du Monde's newest location.
5
Stop 5
Pass by
Home to the Audubon Zoo, rated one of the top five zoos in the nation.
6
Stop 6
Pass by
Following the path of the St Charles Avenue streetcar, the oldest continuously operating passenger railway system in the world, pass stately mansions, the homes of former kings and queens of Mardi Gras and the beautiful Garden District.
7
Stop 7
Enjoy a Steam Calliope Concert daily. Tap your feet to Live Jazz (seasonal) on every cruise. This two-hour day cruise takes you back to a time when cotton was king and life was as slow and graceful as the current on the Mississippi River.
Enjoy the Captain's narration of the highlights of one of the world's busiest ports.
Tour the Historic Steam Engine Room and learn how steam powers the engines to turn the Paddlewheel and provide the energy for the delightful tunes of the calliope.
Cruise past the Chalmette Battlefield, where Jean Lafitte and his buccaneers joined forces with Andrew Jackson to defeat the British in the Battle of New Orleans. Enjoy a Creole lunch (additional cost-$13.50 per adult).
Tour Options:
• 9am City Tour & 11:30am Cruise
• 12pm City Tour & 2:30pm Cruise
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ITINERARY
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Sample Lunch Menu
Menu Subject to Change
Southern Fried Fish*Zesty cornmeal crusted and fried to a golden perfection
Red Beans and Rice New Orleans classic red beans with andouille sausage and served over Jazzmen® rice
Roast Beef Debris and GravyServed over mashed potatoes
Vegetarian Pasta Salad
Chef’s Daily Selection
Vegetable du Jour
Cole Slaw
House prepared creamy cole slaw
Cornucopia of Fresh Fruit
NATCHEZ Bread Pudding A New Orleans soufflé of La Louisiane French bread, eggs, cream, vanilla and cinnamon with a Callebaut® Belgian white chocolate sauce
La Louisiane Fresh Sliced French Bread
8
View Tulane University and Loyola University across from Audubon Park.
9
The Steamboat NATCHEZ is taking some time off, but her sister vessel will be taking her place. You’ll get the same authentic riverboat experience of a leisurely, two-hour cruise on the mighty Mississippi, enjoying traditional live jazz, craft cocktails and all the beautiful New Orleans sites, while also exploring the newly renovated riverboat.
What's not included
Gratuities
Lunch (own expense - based on availability)
Refreshments and souvenirs are available for purchase on boat
Available languages
Guide guide
EN
Reviews breakdown
Viator
4.2
369 reviews
5★
183
4★
124
3★
41
2★
9
1★
12
Tripadvisor
4.2
66 reviews
5★
36
4★
16
3★
7
2★
4
1★
3
Important information
Wheelchair accessible
Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
Public transportation options are available nearby
Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
Suitable for all physical fitness levels
In order to help preserve the French Quarter from vehicular traffic, it is requested that you please walk, if possible, to the convenient tour departure point - just a short stroll from most downtown hotels
Tour vehicles are equipped for wheelchair storage. If wheelchairs collapse and fold, they can be placed in the storage compartment on the bus. If the wheelchair is a scooter, then special arrangements need to be made with the supplier for a handicap-accessible bus. This must be arranged 48 hours prior to tour date. Contact details will be on your voucher
If you wish to take both paddle and wheel tours on the same day, you must book the 9am departure
Tour vehicles are equipped for wheelchair storage. If wheelchairs collapse and fold, they can be placed in the storage compartment on the coach. If the wheelchair is a scooter, then special arrangements need to be made with the supplier for a handicap-accessible bus. This must be arranged 48 hours prior to tour date. Contact details will be on your voucher.
Our riverboats is wheelchair accessible. However, access to the top & bottom decks on the NATCHEZ are by stairs only. Please call us with any questions before finalizing your plans if you have questions on access or personal equipment.
Cruise is suitable for wheelchairs, but restrooms stalls are not wide enough to accommodate and there are no elevators on board.
Please Note: Should the Steamboat NATCHEZ become unavailable for her yearly Coast Guard inspections and/or general maintenance, all cruises during this time will take place on her sister vessel - the newly renovated Riverboat CITY of NEW ORLEANS.
Meeting point
Tour departs from Toulouse St, New Orleans near the French Quarter. You must exchange this voucher for your ticket at the Gray Line window at the 'Lighthouse' ticket office located at Toulouse St and the Mississippi River (Steamboat Natchez Dock), just one block from Jackson Square in the French Quarter. Please note that both the New Orleans Steamboat Company and Gray Line New Orleans share the 'Lighthouse' ticket office - you must go to the 'Gray Line' window
Important notes
• You must exchange this voucher for your ticket at the Gray Line window at the 'Lighthouse' ticket office located at Toulouse St and the Mississippi River (Steamboat Natchez Dock), just one block from Jackson Square in the French Quarter.
Periodically, Steamboat NATCHEZ will be out of service for her yearly Coast Guard inspections and general maintenance. All cruises during this time will take place on her sister vessel - the Riverboat CITY of NEW ORLEANS
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
