New Orleans , United States

Jewish History Tour of New Orleans

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(30 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

This tour takes a trip through the French Quarter with an emphasis on how Jews have contributed to the multi-ethnic gumbo known as New Orleans. The Jewish community has had an active presence in New Orleans since colonial times, contributing to our culture, business, and music. As you walk through the original city, you’ll learn about the earliest Jewish settlers, who could easily have lost their identity in a Catholic colony.

You’ll see where those who arrived in the 19th and 20th centuries lived and worked. You’ll learn how they contributed to the development and growth of the city, adding to the unique mingling of the old world and new that is New Orleans. Jews are among the strongest preservationists of the French Quarter and one of its most significant achievements, jazz. They are also having an impact on that other great New Orleans cultural contribution to the world, food.

Available options

Jewish History Tour of New Orleans

What's included

Licensed, insured, local guide with an extensive knowledge of the area

Detailed itinerary

Along the river, our walk around the Woldenberg Park includes a chance to see the Holocaust Memorial, the statue of Malcolm Woldenburg.

Stop 2

This stop includes an intro to the history of New Orleans and discussion of earliest days of colony with threat of inquisition.

This old building has a fascinating history, and was owned by a Jewish philanthropist.

Stop 4

From Dumaine to Pirates Alley, your guide will share stories of New Orleans' famous pirates, some of which were Jewish.

Stop 5

In front of our storied Jazz Hall, guests will hear about how Music was saved by Jewish preservationists.

Our last discussion includes Judah Benjamin, U.S. Senator and cabinet member of the Confederate government, and slavery in the state before the Civil War.

What's not included

Air-conditioned vehicle

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 5.0

8 reviews

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1★

Tripadvisor 4.8

22 reviews

5★

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1★

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

Meeting point

The Jewish History tour meets outside of the PJ's Coffee in the Canal Place Mall, 333 Canal Street. The coffee shop is accessible from both inside the mall, and from the mall entrance on the corner of Iberville and N. Peters Street on the back side of Canal Place.

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