The Scandalous Cocktail Hour Tour in New Orleans promises to take visitors on a captivating journey through the city’s notorious past. From the infamous pirate Jean Lafitte to the legendary Voodoo queen Marie Laveau, you will uncover the city’s scandalous history while sampling iconic local cocktails. Whether it’s the classic Sazerac or lesser-known libations, this tour offers a unique opportunity to take in New Orleans’ vibrant cocktail culture and gain a deeper appreciation for the skill and craftsmanship behind these timeless beverages. With its intriguing blend of history and libations, the Scandalous Cocktail Hour Tour is sure to leave a lasting impression on those seeking to explore the city’s darkly fascinating past.
Key Points
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Immersive walking tour exploring the scandalous history of New Orleans, including infamous characters, notorious pirates, and mobsters.
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Discover the origins and evolution of classic New Orleans cocktails like the Sazerac and Vieux Carré.
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Opportunity to visit locations that were once home to criminal elements and order drinks along the way.
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Learn about the city’s notorious red-light district, Storyville, and its connections to powerful figures like Al Capone.
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Experience the city’s vibrant cocktail culture and appreciate the craftsmanship behind these iconic libations.
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Contents
- Key Points
- Overview of the Tour
- Infamous and Scandalous Characters
- Generations of Pirates and Mobsters
- History of Famous Local Cocktails
- Option to Order Drinks
- Meeting Point and Departure Time
- Inclusions and Exclusions
- Cancellation Policy
- Frequently Asked Questions
- Can I Bring My Own Alcoholic Beverages on the Tour?
- Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?
- Is the Tour Suitable for Children?
- Can I Request a Private Tour for My Group?
- Are Restroom Stops Available During the Tour?
- Recap
- Our Top Picks in New Orleans
- More Tours in New Orleans
- More Tour Reviews in New Orleans
- Not for you? Here's more things to do in New Orleans we have recnetly reviewed
Overview of the Tour
The Scandalous Cocktail Hour Tour offers a 2.5-hour walking exploration of New Orleans, during which participants can learn about the city’s infamous and scandalous characters while discovering the history behind famous local cocktails.
Guests will visit locations that were once home to generations of pirates, mobsters, madams, and murderers, and hear stories that showcase the city’s scandalous past.
The tour also includes an optional opportunity to order drinks along the way, allowing participants to sample the very cocktails that have become synonymous with New Orleans’ vibrant culture.
With a local guide leading the way, this tour provides an immersive and informative experience for those seeking to uncover the dark and salacious history of the French Quarter.
You can also read our reviews of more tours and experiences in New Orleans.
Infamous and Scandalous Characters
As guests explore the historic French Quarter on the Scandalous Cocktail Hour Tour, they’ll uncover the stories of New Orleans’ most infamous and scandalous characters, from pirates and mobsters to madams and murderers. The tour guide regales visitors with tales of Jean Lafitte, the notorious pirate who ruled the Louisiana bayous. Guests also learn about the Axeman of New Orleans, a serial killer who terrorized the city in the 1910s, and Storyville, the infamous red-light district that thrived in the late 19th century. To add to the atmosphere, the tour makes stops at locations that played a central role in these captivating stories of vice and villainy.
| Infamous Character | Claim to Infamy |
|---|---|
| Jean Lafitte | Notorious pirate who ruled the Louisiana bayous |
| Axeman of New Orleans | Serial killer who terrorized the city in the 1910s |
| Storyville Madams | Operated in the infamous red-light district in the late 19th century |
| Al Capone | Powerful mobster who had ties to New Orleans |
| Marie Laveau | Voodoo queen of New Orleans in the 19th century |
Generations of Pirates and Mobsters
For generations, New Orleans had been a haven for pirates and mobsters who sought to exploit the city’s strategic location and lax law enforcement. Buccaneers like Jean Lafitte smuggled illicit goods through the port, amassing fortunes from their criminal exploits.
Later, Italian-American crime families like the Marcello clan built extensive bootlegging and gambling empires during Prohibition. They battled ruthlessly for control of the city’s lucrative underworld, leaving a trail of bodies in their wake.
Tour guests will see the locations where these notorious gangsters operated, learning how they evaded the law and maintained their stranglehold on New Orleans’ seedy underbelly for decades.
History of Famous Local Cocktails
Along the tour, guides explore the rich history behind New Orleans’ iconic cocktails, such as the Sazerac – touted as America’s oldest cocktail.
Originating in the early 1800s, the Sazerac was first created at the Sazerac Coffee House. This rye whiskey-based concoction, made with Peychaud’s bitters and a dash of absinthe, quickly became a local favorite.
Guests also learn about the history of the Vieux Carré, a potent mix of rye, cognac, sweet vermouth, and bitters that pays homage to the French Quarter.
Option to Order Drinks
Along With learning the storied histories of New Orleans’ most iconic cocktails, participants can sample these libations firsthand by ordering drinks at select establishments along the tour route. This provides a unique opportunity to fully take in the city’s vibrant cocktail culture.
Some key benefits of this drink option include:
- Experiencing the authentic flavors and nuances of classic cocktails like the Sazerac, Vieux Carré, and Ramos Gin Fizz.
- Gaining a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship and skill required to properly prepare these time-honored libations.
- Enhancing the overall tour experience by pairing the informative historical narratives with the chance to savor the very beverages that defined New Orleans’ spirited legacy.
Meeting Point and Departure Time
The Scandalous Cocktail Hour Tour departs nightly at 4:30 pm from the meeting point located at 718 St Peter in New Orleans’ French Quarter.
This walking tour takes guests on a 2.5-hour journey through the city’s infamous and scandalous past. Attendees will explore locations that were once home to generations of pirates, mobsters, madams, and murderers.
Along the way, they’ll learn the history of famous local cocktails like the Sazerac and have the option to order drinks.
The tour ends at various French Quarter locations, providing guests with the opportunity to further explore the area and continue their scandalous adventure.
Whether you’re a local or a visitor, this tour promises an immersive and captivating experience.
Inclusions and Exclusions
The Scandalous Cocktail Hour Tour includes a local guide, food and drinks, and gratuities. Hotel pickup and drop-off aren’t provided.
This walking tour offers:
- An opportunity to hear stories about the city’s infamous and scandalous characters, including pirates, mobsters, madams, and murderers.
- A chance to explore locations that have witnessed generations of such individuals and learn the history of famous local cocktails like the Sazerac.
- The option to order drinks along the way, allowing you to fully learn about the city’s notorious past.
This 2.5-hour experience operates in all weather conditions and can accommodate a maximum of 15 travelers.
Cancellation Policy
According to the cancellation policy, travelers can cancel their Scandalous Cocktail Hour Tour up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
However, no refunds will be issued for cancellations made less than 24 hours before the tour’s start time. This policy is in place to ensure the tour operator can adequately plan for the number of participants and make necessary arrangements.
Guests are encouraged to carefully consider their schedule and plans before booking the tour to avoid any last-minute changes. The cancellation policy is clearly outlined at the time of booking, allowing travelers to make an informed decision about their participation.
Adhering to this policy helps maintain the overall quality and organization of the Scandalous Cocktail Hour Tour experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I Bring My Own Alcoholic Beverages on the Tour?
No, you cannot bring your own alcoholic beverages on this tour. The tour includes the option to order drinks along the way, but outside alcoholic beverages are not permitted. All alcohol consumed must be purchased through the tour provider.
Is Photography Allowed During the Tour?
Photography is generally allowed during the tour, though participants should be respectful and avoid disrupting the experience for others. Guests are advised to check with the tour guide for any specific guidelines or restrictions on photography.
Is the Tour Suitable for Children?
The tour may not be suitable for children as it explores the city’s infamous and scandalous history, including locations associated with pirates, mobsters, and prostitution. Parental discretion is advised due to the adult nature of the content and activities.
Can I Request a Private Tour for My Group?
Yes, private tours can be requested for this walking tour. The tour company offers private group bookings, allowing customers to customize the experience for their group. Guests should inquire about availability and pricing when making a reservation.
Are Restroom Stops Available During the Tour?
The tour allows for restroom stops along the way. Guests can use facilities at various locations visited during the 2.5-hour walking tour of New Orleans. Restroom access is provided to ensure guest comfort throughout the experience.
Scandalous Cocktail Hour Tour
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Recap
The Scandalous Cocktail Hour Tour offers a captivating exploration of New Orleans’ infamous history. Guests can learn about the city’s notorious characters while discovering the origins of iconic local cocktails.
Along the way, they’ve the opportunity to savor these spirited libations, seeing the city’s vibrant cocktail culture and gaining a deeper appreciation for the skill and craftsmanship behind these timeless beverages.
