Savvy travelers can efficiently explore the best of New Orleans in just two hours. Several excellent guided experiences cut through the tourist fluff and deliver authentic insights into America’s most European city. The standout walking tours cover the historic French Quarter and culturally rich Treme neighborhood – they’re informative, well-paced, and loaded with local character. I’m particularly impressed with the haunted history walks and criminal history tours, which bring fascinating stories to life through skilled storytelling and careful research. Lake Pontchartrain’s private sailing tours offer a peaceful alternative to city walks, with unbeatable sunset views. These experiences maintain high standards with knowledgeable guides and good accessibility. Our tested recommendations showcase the city’s most worthwhile two-hour tours.
Key Points
- New Orleans offers a diverse range of 2-hour tours, including city bus tours, historical walking tours, unique sailing experiences, themed tours, and specialty walking tours.
- The tours highlight the city’s rich history, culture, and notorious past, providing engaging and immersive experiences for visitors.
- Accessibility features, such as wheelchair accommodation and proximity to public transport, ensure inclusivity for all participants.
- Knowledgeable and engaging guides are a hallmark of the tours, contributing to high customer satisfaction and positive word-of-mouth recommendations.
- The tours play a vital role in preserving and sharing the cultural and historical significance of New Orleans, offering unique insights into the city’s past.
New Orleans City and Cemetery 2-Hour Bus Tour
This 2-hour bus tour provides a comprehensive introduction to the vibrant city of New Orleans.
With over 1,700 reviews and a 91% traveler recommendation, the tour has earned a Badge of Excellence.
Aboard an air-conditioned bus, guests will explore the French Quarter, Garden District, Treme, and 9th Ward, while an expert guide shares in-depth commentary on the city’s history, culture, and architecture.
The tour also includes a walking tour of a historic cemetery and a beignet break.
Pickup is available at most French Quarter and Business District hotels, and the tour accommodates collapsible wheelchairs and service animals.
With a maximum of 28 travelers and gratuities included, this tour offers an engaging and informative New Orleans experience.
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New Orleans: 2-Hour Historical Walking Tour
Situated in the heart of the Vieux Carré (French Quarter), the New Orleans: 2-Hour Historical Walking Tour offers visitors a captivating exploration of the city’s rich history and iconic landmarks.
Priced at an affordable $26.25 per person, this tour takes participants on a journey through the city’s haunted past, including the Sultans Palace and LaLaurie Mansion.
Guests will also discover the beauty of Jackson Square and other local sights, while learning about the National Historic Landmarks, such as the St. Louis Cathedral and The Cabildo.
Although the tour has received mixed reviews, its value for money is highly praised, making it a compelling option for those seeking an insightful and budget-friendly way to experience New Orleans.
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Private New Orleans 2-Hour Sail Aboard a Luxury Yacht
For those seeking a unique and captivating way to experience the beauty of New Orleans, the Private New Orleans 2-Hour Sail Aboard a Luxury Yacht offers an unparalleled opportunity.
This private sail aboard a 47-foot Beneteau sailboat departs from the Lake Shore district, providing stunning views of the Lake Pontchartrain Causeway and the city skyline.
With a 100% recommendation rate and high-quality amenities like local craft beer, white wine, and snacks, this tour promises an unforgettable experience.
Guests can relax in the spacious lounge below deck or take in the sights from the comfort of the sailboat.
Led by the knowledgeable Captain Doug, this exclusive tour is a must-try for those looking to discover New Orleans from a new perspective.
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New Orleans: 2-Hour Walking Ghost Tour
Discover New Orleans’ haunted history on the New Orleans: 2-Hour Walking Ghost Tour.
This 2-hour walking tour allows you to explore the city’s most haunted locations with a local guide. For $37 per person, you’ll visit famous sites like the LaLaurie Mansion and hear stories of mysterious deaths and tragic history.
The tour is wheelchair accessible and departs from the Unique NOLA Tours store.
While the overall rating is 2/5 based on one review citing host connection issues and group members being left behind, the tour promises to take you to hidden gems known only to locals.
Reserve your spot now and pay later, with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance.
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New Orleans City 2 Hour Private Walking Tour
Embark on an immersive exploration of New Orleans’ highlights during the New Orleans City 2 Hour Private Walking Tour.
For $245, this private tour invites you and your group of up to 12 to discover the French Quarter’s most iconic sights, led by a local English-speaking guide.
The tour is wheelchair and stroller accessible, and service animals are welcome.
With a perfect 5-star rating from previous travelers, you’re guaranteed an informative and memorable experience.
Explore at your own pace, with flexibility to cancel up to 24 hours in advance.
Savor the views, but leave the food, drinks, and tips to your guide.
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New Orleans: 2-Hour Sinister Criminal Intentions Murder Tour
Curious to explore New Orleans’ grim past? The 2-Hour Sinister Criminal Intentions Murder Tour offers an immersive experience into the city’s notorious crimes and infamous figures.
Led by knowledgeable guides, you’ll explore significant locations in the French Quarter associated with gruesome murders. Learn about chilling cases like the Katrina Cannibals and the dark history of Madame LaLaurie.
Though the subject matter is mature, the small group size and engaging storytelling make this tour a must-try for true crime enthusiasts. At $37 per person, it provides excellent value.
Dress appropriately, as the tour runs rain or shine. Gratuities for the guides are optional.
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For those seeking a more lighthearted exploration of New Orleans’ vibrant history, the Saints and Sinners Walking Tour promises an engaging and informative 2-hour experience.
Rated 4.7 out of 105 reviews, the tour explores the city’s “saints and sinners” through the lens of the French Quarter.
Led by knowledgeable and entertaining guides, the small-group tour offers an immersive look at New Orleans’ unique stories and characters.
Highlights include engaging with the city’s colorful past, from voodoo practitioners to notorious criminals.
With alcoholic drinks available for purchase and a wheelchair-accessible route, the Saints and Sinners tour provides an entertaining and accessible way to discover the essence of this historic city.
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New Orleans Insider 2-Hour Walking Tour
Priced from $41.25 per person, the New Orleans Insider 2-Hour Walking Tour provides an immersive exploration of the city’s rich history and vibrant culture.
During the 2-hour journey, visitors will discover over 15 historic landmarks, including the haunted streets of the French Quarter. Guests can experience local customs, sip signature drinks, and uncover secret sweet spots.
The tour also offers insights into the city’s unique architecture and the homes of celebrity residents.
With free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance and the option to reserve now and pay later, this tour offers excellent flexibility and value.
Wheelchair accessible and suitable for all ages, the New Orleans Insider 2-Hour Walking Tour is a must-do experience.
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Explore New Orleans Garden District: Private 2-hour Walking Tour
The Explore New Orleans Garden District: Private 2-hour Walking Tour offers visitors a captivating glimpse into the historic neighborhood’s renowned architecture and lush greenery.
Rated an impressive 4.8 out of 5 stars, this private tour provides an intimate experience led by friendly, knowledgeable guides. Priced from $175 per person, the tour allows guests ample time to photograph their favorite sites, including the iconic Lafayette Cemetery.
With wheelchair accessibility and moderate physical requirements, this experience caters to a wide range of visitors. Reviews praise the engaging and informative nature of the guides, highlighting memorable stories and an educational yet leisurely pace.
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2 Hour Guided Historical Walking Tour in Treme
Ideal for history buffs and culture enthusiasts, the 2 Hour Guided Historical Walking Tour in Treme promises an immersive exploration of one of New Orleans’ oldest and most storied neighborhoods.
Led by a licensed cultural ambassador and native of NOLA, the tour takes visitors on a journey through the Treme district, uncovering its rich history and vibrant community.
With a maximum of 28 travelers and a minimum of 2 guests required, the tour offers a personalized experience. Highlights include a visit to the BackStreet Cultural Museum and complimentary snacks, along with optional lunch or dinner.
Easily accessible by public transportation, the tour caters to visitors of all fitness levels, including those with wheelchairs or strollers.
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2-Hour Guided French Quarter Vampire Walking Tour
For those seeking a captivating glimpse into New Orleans’ darker past, the 2-Hour Guided French Quarter Vampire Walking Tour offers an immersive experience. Rated 5.0 out of 5, this walking tour takes participants through the French Quarter, led by seasoned vampire guides.
Guests will explore ancient legends, vampire blood-killings, apparitions, and eerie vanishings, while visiting the Old Ursuline Convent Museum and a haunted old tavern. The tour also includes the old St. Louis Cathedral and its mysteries.
With a maximum of 20 participants, the tour is wheelchair accessible and near public transportation. Customer reviews praise the knowledgeable guides and engaging storytelling, making this a must-do activity for those fascinated by New Orleans’ supernatural history.
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Guided 2 Hour Big Easy Butchers Walking Tour in New Orleans
Amid the vibrant streets of New Orleans, History Hoppers Of New Orleans offers the captivating Guided 2 Hour Big Easy Butchers Walking Tour.
This walking tour takes visitors on a journey through the city’s rich history, exploring the legacy of its butchers. With a maximum of 24 travelers, the tour departs from The Boondock Saint Bar and concludes at the Ursuline Convent.
Along the way, a local guide provides insights, and all fees, taxes, and gratuities are included. The tour is wheelchair accessible and near public transportation, making it accessible to most travelers.
With a perfect 5-star rating based on 4 reviews, this tour is a must-do for those seeking an immersive and educational New Orleans experience.
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The Sum Up
With a range of 2-hour tours covering the city’s history, architecture, and haunted sites, visitors to New Orleans can enjoy the unique culture and atmosphere of this vibrant destination. Whether it’s a bus tour, walking tour, or sailing experience, these compact outings provide an engaging and efficient way to explore the highlights of the Big Easy.