New Orleans Garden District Architecture Tour

New Orleans , United States

New Orleans Garden District Architecture Tour

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(358 reviews)

For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.

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Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Discover the history of New Orleans through its architecture! On this 2-hour Garden District tour, you'll learn about 19th century New Orleans while admiring the exquisite mansions. Enjoy a leisurely stroll with a passionate, professional guide to explore the many building styles prevalent in this neighborhood, ranging from Greek Revival, Italianate, and Victorian. Hear the stories of the 19th century architects and families who made their mark on this historic area, and see the homes of former and current celebrities.

Also included in this tour is a short stop into Lafayette Cemetery where visitors learn about the fascinating local above-ground burial customs. Starting with a brief introduction to the history of New Orleans Cemeteries, visitors will be treated to a discussion of the various styles and types of tombs seen in this cemetery. Your group will be no more than 14 people allowing for a more intimate, personal experience.

Available options

The Garden District Tour

What's included

Licensed, Insured, Local Guide - with extensive knowledge of the area.

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

A small segment of the tour focuses on the unique burial customs in New Orleans. (Please note that entrance to the cemetery is permitted by the City of New Orleans, and it may be closed when services are being performed.)

A discussion about Commander's Palace includes the architecture of the building, the history of the owners, and highlights of the culinary experience awaiting guests.

This house was designed by Samuel Jameson in 1869 and it is an excellent example of New Orleans' iconic Italianate architecture. Learn about this incredible architecture style and how it relates to other styles in the neighborhood.

This house was built in two different eras and in two different styles! Learn how to tell the difference between these styles at the Women's Opera Guild House!

Learn the history of this late 19th century building from its start as a single family residence to its transformation to the library of the McGehee School!

Another incredible house designed by Irish born Samuel Jameson, this is an excellent example of Italianate style in the Garden District.

Learn about residents' favorite recreational activities at the turn of the century. This simple building housed the largest skating rink in the country at the time it was built - 1884.

Stop 8

Spend two hours admiring the beautiful antebellum mansions and learn the history of the area at the time that the homes were being built. Hear the stories of the people who designed the houses, and the people who lived in them.

What's not included

Transportation to/from attractions

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

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64 reviews

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Tripadvisor 5.0

294 reviews

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Important information

Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller

Service animals allowed

Public transportation options are available nearby

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Subject to favorable weather conditions. If canceled due to poor weather, you will be given the option of an alternative date or full refund.

Comfortable walking shoes are recommended

Meeting point

Centrally located departure location - one block from the St. Charles Streetcar or four blocks from the Magazine Bus.
Meetup spot is right next to a great coffee shop, so be sure to show up a few minutes early for a snack.
Tour departs from outside the main entrance of the Rink. Your guide will be holding a sign that says"New Orleans Architecture Tours".

Important notes

• Comfortable walking shoes are recommended

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