Garden District Secrets and Scandals Tour

New Orleans , United States

Garden District Secrets and Scandals Tour

Active

(56 reviews)

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

Instant confirmation

Mobile or paper ticket accepted

About this experience

Small Groups ✦ History ✦ Architecture ✦ Scandal

See the gorgeous architecture and lush gardens of the Garden District, as we peer behind the curtain at the secrets and scandals that make it legendary.

We bring a private tour experience to every tour, by limiting it to small groups, and personalizing the tour for you.

Hear stories of gamblers, corrupt politicians, con artists, and a rock star who caused a scene. See filming locations, & celebrity homes, on the way.

Although the cemetery has been closed indefinitely to all tours by the city, we'll see tombs from the gate and discuss the place's history and burial methods.

We'll discuss architecture styles popular in the neighborhood's growth, and some unusual homes as well! We'll end at the largest home in the neighborhood -- also a main location from American Horror Story, Coven season.

Our focus is that you get more than a great two-hour experience, but connection points to our city, and its stories, that you'll never forget.

Available options

Garden District Secrets and Scandals Tour

What's included

English guide

Detailed itinerary

Stop 1

Cemetery is presently closed by the city, so we'll talk about its history and see the tombs from the gate. First, take a walk through New Orleans' historic Lafayette Cemetery and learn about the founding of our city, our unique burial practices, famous locals interred here, and our strong French and Catholic influence. You'll even discover the film locations of Hollywood blockbusters such as Interview with the Vampire and Double Jeopardy, both of which had iconic scenes filmed here!

Stop 2

After your refreshing break our group will venture out into the gorgeous Garden District where you might even catch a glimpse of a celebrity! The beautiful antebellum homes will take your breath away, and the stories that accompany them are always entertaining and sometimes even shocking. This tour is a wonderful change of pace from the French Quarter crowds, and will give you a fun and interactive historical experience you will never forget.

We will see the Women's Guild of the New Orleans Opera, used as a production office for Jaime Foxx movie Django Unchained, directed by Quinten Tarantino.

Stop 4 Pass by

End near Magazine Street, New Orleans' best uptown street for shopping, food, art galleries, and more!

Available languages

Guide guide

Reviews breakdown

Viator 4.9

15 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

1★

Tripadvisor 4.9

41 reviews

5★

4★

3★

2★

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

Suitable for all physical fitness levels

Meeting point

Wait at the corner of Washington Ave and Coliseum St. -- by the cemetery wall.

Please arrive 10 minutes before start, and stand in that location, so the guide knows you are there for the tour. Do not approach other tours in progress.

Do NOT rely putting the approximate street address into Google!

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