Self-Guided Tour of New Orleans’ Historic French Quarter

one hour – 1 h 15 min Private tour

Self-Guided Tour of New Orleans’ Historic French Quarter, photo 2 — Photos: the activity supplier, via Viator

About this activity

Step into 300 years of history on this self-guided audio walking tour through New Orleans' French Quarter, narrated by David Hedges.

Trace the neighborhood's journey from French colonial outpost through Spanish rule, American acquisition, and waves of Italian immigration, up to its rebirth as an artists' haven. Wander past Jackson Square and St. Louis Cathedral, the oldest cathedral in the US, duck into Pirates Alley, and hear the story behind Brennan's famous Bananas Foster. The tour ends at the bustling French Market, a trading hub since long before the French arrived. Created by local historian David Hedges of Nola Tour Guy, it offers well-researched, entertaining storytelling you can enjoy at your own pace.

Highlights:

Jackson Square and St. Louis Cathedral, the oldest cathedral in the US.
The Old Ursuline Convent, the oldest building in the French Quarter, dating to 1734.
Tales of pirates, Bananas Foster, and Jean Lafitte along atmospheric Pirates Alley.

Private and Luxury Private Sightseeing Tours Audio Guides Cultural Tours Historical Tours Walking Tours Carnival New Product

At a glance

Duration: one hour – 1 h 15 min
Confirmation: Instant confirmation
Ticket: Mobile or paper ticket accepted
Group: Your group only
People per booking: 1–15
Audio guide: English
Operated by: VoiceMap Audio Tours

Ages: Adults (6–99 years)

What is included

Included

Included: Lifetime access to this tour in English
Included: VoiceMap app for Android and iOS
Included: Offline access to audio, maps, and geodata

Not included

Not included: Tickets or entrance fees to any museums or other attractions en route (optional stops)
Not included: Smartphone and headphones
Not included: Transportation
Not included: Food and drink

Itinerary

Washington Artillery Park

Passing by

As you start your journey along the banks of the Mississippi, Washington Artillery Park unfolds, offering a serene introduction to the city's historical narrative. While not a designated stop, its significance is woven into the rich tapestry of New Orleans.
1850 House Museum and Store

Passing by

Pass by the 1850 House Museum & Gift Shop, a testament to the Quarter's preserved history. Though not a stop, its presence contributes to the allure of the area.
St. Louis Cathedral

Passing by

Witness the magnificence of St. Louis Cathedral, the oldest in the United States. Take a moment to absorb this iconic landmark's architectural grandeur and historical significance.
Stop 4

Passing by

Wander through Pirates Alley and catch a glimpse of Pirate's Alley Cafe. While not a designated stop, its location within this historic alley adds charm to your exploration.
Stop 5

10 min

Pass through Pirates Alley, a pathway steeped in tales of pirates and intrigue. Though not a designated stop, it contributes to the narrative of Jean Lafitte and the Quarter's buccaneer history.
Stop 6

Passing by

Pass by The LaBranche House, an architectural gem enriching the Quarter's ambience. While not a designated stop, its presence enhances the visual journey through the district.
Stop 7

Passing by

Pass by The Court of Two Sisters, an iconic establishment reflecting the French Quarter's culinary legacy. While not a stop, its historical charm adds flavor to your exploration.
Stop 8

Passing by

Pass by James H Cohen Antique Weapons & Rare Coins, a niche attraction within the Quarter's eclectic offerings. Though not a stop, it adds a touch of fascination to your route.
Stop 9

Passing by

Pass by Antoine's Restaurant, a culinary institution steeped in history. While not a designated stop, its presence underscores the French Quarter's gastronomic legacy.
Stop 10

Passing by

Wander through Bourbon Street and pass by Bourbon Vieux, capturing the vibrant essence of the Quarter's nightlife. Though not a designated stop, it adds to the dynamic atmosphere of the district.
Stop 11

Passing by

Pass by Xiques Mansion, a historical gem blending into the Quarter's architectural diversity. While not a designated stop, its presence contributes to the visual richness of the area.
Stop 12

Passing by

Pass by Gardette-LePretre Mansion, a mysterious and intriguing locale. Though not a stop, its history adds a layer of fascination to your stroll.
Fritzel's European Jazz Bar

Passing by

Catch a glimpse of Fritzel's European Jazz Pub, an establishment adding musical notes to your exploration. While not a stop, it encapsulates the Quarter's musical heritage.
Cafe Lafitte in Exile

Passing by

Pass by Cafe Lafitte in Exile, a historic gay bar dating back to the 1930s. While not a designated stop, its cultural significance is woven into the fabric of the French Quarter.
Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop Bar

Passing by

Pause at Lafitte's Blacksmith Shop Bar, a legendary locale with ties to Jean Lafitte. Learn about the pirate's pardon and soak in the ambience of this historic establishment.
Stop 16

Passing by

Pass by Homer A. Plessy Community School, blending modern education with the Quarter's historic roots. While not a stop, it represents the evolving nature of the district.
Historic BK House & Gardens

Passing by

Pass by BK Historic House and Gardens, an architectural gem within the Quarter's landscape. While not a designated stop, its historical charm contributes to the visual allure.
Old Ursuline Convent Museum

5 min Admission not included

Arrive at the Old Ursuline Convent Museum, the oldest structure in the French Quarter. If you like, take a moment to explore this historical landmark, delving into its rich history. This is an optional stop and entrance ($8) is not included.
Latrobe Park

Passing by

Pass by Latrobe Park, an urban oasis nestled within the French Quarter. While not a stop, its presence adds a touch of greenery to your exploration.

Meeting point and pickup

Everyone meets at the meeting point.

Meeting point

The tour starts on the river walk, accessible by foot from the French Quarter. Follow St. Peter Street until you hit the river, and then take a left.

End point

The tour ends at the French Market.

Using your ticket

VOICEMAP CODE

───

Please check your email at the address you provided when you made this booking. You've been sent an eight character code you'll need to redeem your tour.

\This code can be used by every member of your party. If you've booked for three people, for example, three people can download this tour using the same code.

DOWNLOAD INSTRUCTIONS

───

1. Once you've received your code, please follow these steps:

2. Install the VoiceMap Audio Tours mobile app

3. Create an account

4. Select Tour Codes from the menu, then select Enter Codes

5. Enter your code then select Download Now

PLEASE NOTE

───

You can download the tour at any time, before or after your booking date. It’s best to download the tour before you set off for the starting point.

This tour follows a set route and includes turn-by-turn directions. It works best if you start it in the right place and follow the directions from one location to the next.

When the download completes, you’ll see a screen with a photo of the starting point and directions to it. The red start button will become active when you are at the starting point.

Remember to bring your own headphones, unless you have booked a driving tour.

SUPPORT

───

For technical support and other queries, please email [email protected]