Glamorous Garden District Tour

The Glamorous Garden District Tour takes visitors on a captivating 2-hour journey through one of New Orleans’ most picturesque neighborhoods. Led by knowledgeable guides, the tour showcases the district’s iconic sites, from the grand mansions of the wealthy elite to the charming shotgun houses that define the city’s architectural heritage. As participants explore the district’s rich history and culture, they’ll discover why this enchanting area has long been a hub for artists, celebrities, and those seeking to enjoy the unique ambiance of the Big Easy. But the tour’s true allure lies in the stories waiting to be uncovered…

Key Points

• Explore the picturesque mansions, lush greenery, and captivating history of the Garden District on a 2-hour guided tour led by an English-speaking guide.
• Discover the iconic architecture, including grand antebellum homes, unique shotgun houses, and the Gothic-inspired Lafayette Cemetery.
• See the homes of famous celebrities like Anne Rice, Sandra Bullock, and John Goodman, as well as filming locations for movies and TV shows.
• Stroll down the charming Magazine Street, known for its eclectic mix of boutiques, art galleries, and Cajun/Creole cuisine.
• Rated 4.8/5 based on 25 reviews, with praise for the personalized experiences, knowledgeable guides, and value for money.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Tour Overview and Pricing

The Glamorous Garden District Tour offers visitors an in-depth exploration of New Orleans’ affluent Garden District neighborhood. Priced from $37.00 per person, the 2-hour tour is led by a live English-speaking guide.

Guests can take advantage of free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, as well as a reserve now, pay later option. The tour highlights iconic landmarks and filming locations, including the Lafayette Cemetery, Anne Rice’s residence, and Magazine Street.

With a solid 4.8/5 rating based on 25 reviews, the tour delivers excellent value for money and top-notch service and organization, though some note the importance of wearing comfortable footwear due to the extensive walking involved.

Tour Highlights

Atop the tour, guests explore New Orleans’ vibrant Garden District and the renowned Magazine Street.

The tour highlights include:

1. A visit to Lafayette Cemetery, where guests learn about the unique burial practices and architecture of this historic site.

2. Viewing the residences of famous figures like Anne Rice, Sandra Bullock, and John Goodman, as well as filming locations for movies such as The Curious Case of Benjamin Button and the Buckner Mansion from American Horror Story.

3. Strolling along Magazine Street, which historically separated the rich from the working class, and discovering the charming Irish Channel and the famous "shotgun houses" that characterize the neighborhood.

Historical Context

Founded in 1832, the Garden District was annexed by New Orleans in 1852. This historic neighborhood is bordered by St. Charles Avenue, First Street, Magazine Street, and Toledano Street, known for its picturesque mansions and large opulent lawns.

Area	Size
St. Charles Avenue	2 miles
First Street	0.5 miles
Magazine Street	6 miles
Toledano Street	0.3 miles

The affluent Garden District was intentionally separated from the working-class Irish Channel, with Magazine Street historically dividing the two communities. This preserved the exclusivity of the neighborhood, which remains a renowned destination for its grand antebellum architecture and celebrity residences.

Meeting Point and Important Information

The meeting point for the Glamorous Garden District Tour is 2800 St Charles Avenue, New Orleans, LA 70115.

Guests should plan to arrive 15 minutes prior to the tour’s start time to check-in. The tour occurs rain or shine, so it’s recommended to wear comfortable shoes suitable for extensive walking.

The tour highlights include:

1. Exploring the picturesque mansions and large opulent lawns of the historic Garden District.
2. Visiting the Lafayette Cemetery to learn about local burial practices.
3. Strolling along the iconic Magazine Street, which once separated the rich from the working class.

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Customer Reviews and Ratings

According to the customer reviews, the Glamorous Garden District Tour has an overall rating of 4.8 out of 5 based on 25 reviews. Reviewers praised the knowledgeable tour guides, who provided personalized experiences in small group sizes.

The tour’s value for money also received high marks, with a 4.7 out of 5 rating. Customers were particularly impressed with the tour’s organization and service, awarding it a perfect 5 out of 5.

However, some critiques mentioned the tour’s pace and sidewalk conditions, emphasizing the importance of wearing comfortable shoes.

Exploring the Garden District

New Orleans’ Garden District enchants visitors with its picturesque mansions, lush greenery, and captivating history.

As you explore this affluent neighborhood, you’ll be struck by the opulent homes that line the streets, each showcasing unique architectural styles.

The district is known for its:

1. Magnificent antebellum mansions, adorned with intricate ironwork and surrounded by verdant gardens.
2. Charming "shotgun" houses, a distinctive style of narrow, single-room homes that were once home to the working class.
3. Filming locations that have graced the silver screen, including the Buckner Mansion featured in American Horror Story.

Throughout your stroll, you’ll uncover the rich tapestry of New Orleans’ past, from the district’s founding in 1832 to its current status as a bastion of Southern elegance.

Discovering Magazine Street

Strolling along Magazine Street, visitors discover a thriving commercial district that historically separated the wealthy from the working class.

This lively stretch features an eclectic mix of boutiques, art galleries, antique shops, and restaurants. Ornate ironwork and colorful facades line the street, showcasing the unique architecture.

Visitors can browse locally-owned stores, browse one-of-a-kind artwork, and indulge in Cajun and Creole cuisine.

The Irish Channel neighborhood, famous for its "shotgun houses", is also located along Magazine Street, offering a glimpse into the area’s diverse cultural heritage.

With its vibrant energy and storied past, Magazine Street provides an immersive experience for those exploring the enchanting Garden District.

Experiencing New Orleans’ Architecture

The Garden District‘s grand mansions and ornate architectural details captivate visitors as they explore the neighborhood.

Admiring the district’s eclectic mix of Greek Revival, Italianate, and Queen Anne styles, guests are transported to the antebellum era.

Key highlights include:

1. The Buckner Mansion, a towering Italianate residence used as a filming location for American Horror Story.
2. The charming "shotgun houses" of the Irish Channel, known for their narrow, elongated floor plans.
3. The impressive Lafayette Cemetery, where intricate above-ground tombs and Gothic-inspired architecture offer a glimpse into New Orleans’ unique burial practices.

Together, these architectural wonders showcase the city’s rich history and diverse cultural influences.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Are the Tour Group Sizes?

The tour group sizes are small, allowing for a personalized experience. According to customer reviews, the small group sizes contribute to the positive feedback on the tours.

Do the Tours Operate on a Set Schedule?

The tours operate on a set schedule, with multiple departures throughout the day. Guests should check the tour provider’s website or contact them directly to confirm the available tour times for their desired date.

Are Children’s Tickets Available?

The tour does not explicitly offer children’s tickets. However, children are welcome to join the tour, and the price per person starts from $37.00. Advance reservations are recommended to ensure availability for all group sizes.

Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?

Photography is generally allowed during the tour, but participants are advised to be respectful and not disrupt the guide or other guests. Visitors should check with the tour operator for any specific photography guidelines or restrictions.

Can the Tour Be Customized for Special Interests?

The tour can be customized to accommodate special interests. Visitors can request additional stops or adjustments to the itinerary by communicating their preferences to the tour guide prior to the start of the tour.

Recap

The Glamorous Garden District Tour offers a unique opportunity to take in the rich history and charm of one of New Orleans’ most picturesque neighborhoods. With a high rating from previous guests, the tour promises an engaging experience, exploring iconic sites, architectural styles, and the vibrant Magazine Street. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local, this tour provides an insightful and captivating way to discover the essence of the Garden District.

You can check if your dates are available here: