Eat, Drink, and “Vue” New Orleans!

If you’re visiting New Orleans and craving a blend of stunning vistas, flavorful bites, and spirited history, the “Eat, Drink, and ‘Vue'” tour offers a smart way to indulge. For about three hours, you’ll hop between three top venues — Vue Orleans, Sazerac House, and Bourbon House — with a friendly, knowledgeable guide leading the way. The cost is reasonable for the quality and variety of experiences packed into this tour, which costs around $X (note: price depends on booking details).

One of the biggest draws is the panoramic view from the Vue Orleans Observation Deck—a 34th-floor perch offering a 360-degree sweep of the city, perfect for snapping photos or just marveling at the skyline. The second highlight is exploring the Sazerac House Museum, where you’ll learn about the birthplace of the city’s signature cocktail and enjoy mini mixology demonstrations that let you see how whiskey and rum are transformed into art. The third is the Bourbon House Restaurant, where down-to-earth, regional dishes await to satisfy both early and seasoned visitors.

We particularly liked two aspects: first, the interactive nature of the experience, which makes it more than just a sightseeing tour. From tasting cocktails to participating in mini-mixology demos, you’re actively involved. Second, the stunning views from Vue Orleans really elevate the experience — the city looks spectacular from above, especially at sunset when the lights start to twinkle.

A minor consideration is that this tour is adults-only and somewhat fast-paced, which might not suit travelers looking for a more relaxed or family-friendly outing. Also, if you’re sensitive to heights or prefer a low-key day, the panoramic deck could be a bit overwhelming for some.

This experience suits anyone eager to combine scenic city views with authentic food and drink tastings in an efficient, well-curated package. It’s especially good if you want a taste of New Orleans’ flavor and skyline in one go.

Key Points

• Panoramic Views: The 34th-floor Vue Orleans Observation Deck offers breathtaking, 360-degree city vistas.
• Authentic Tastings: Enjoy regional foods at Bourbon House and learn about the city’s signature cocktails at Sazerac House.
• Interactive Demos: Mini mixology sessions make the experience engaging and educational.
• Well-Curated Tour: Led by a professional guide, the 3-hour experience is carefully planned for maximum immersion.
• Adults-Only: The tour focuses on cocktails and spirits, making it ideal for adult travelers.
• Great Value: Combining views, food, and drinks for a single price offers excellent bang for your buck.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Starting at Vue Orleans: The City’s Only 360-Degree Observation Deck

Your journey begins at Vue Orleans, perched atop the former World Trade Center, now the Four Seasons hotel. The entrance ticket includes access to the exhibit and the Observation Deck, where you’ll be treated to a stunning panoramic view of New Orleans.

From this vantage point, you’ll see the French Quarter, the Mississippi River, and the skyline stretching to the horizon. We loved the clarity and breadth of the views, which are especially impressive at sunset. The deck’s design encourages wandering around, giving you multiple angles for photos and moments of quiet awe. As one reviewer put it, “The views from the top are breathtaking — you can see all of New Orleans in one glance.”

The interactive exhibits inside add a touch of education, offering context about the city’s architecture, history, and culture. While this isn’t a museum-heavy experience, the visual and tactile elements make it more engaging than just a lookout.

Exploring the Central Business District: A Photo Stop and Guided Sightseeing

After soaking in the views, the tour moves into the heart of downtown, where you’ll have a chance to take photos and get a guided overview of the city’s modern core. Your guide, perhaps a local expert like Jesse or Marie, will share insights about the city’s development, architecture, and vibrant street life.

This part of the tour lasts about an hour, giving you enough time to appreciate the blend of historic and contemporary New Orleans. Expect to see notable landmarks and hear stories that bring the city’s dynamic character to life.

Sazerac House: The Birthplace of the City’s Official Cocktail

Next, you’ll visit the Sazerac House Museum, a must-see for cocktail enthusiasts. Here, you’ll learn about the origins of the Sazerac, which claims to be the world’s first cocktail. The museum features engaging displays and mini mixology demos, where you can see whiskey and rum transformed into sophisticated drinks.

A review mentions, “The whiskey tasting was a real highlight,” emphasizing how the interactive spirit tastings add value. The museum setting provides a deeper understanding of New Orleans’ spirits culture and the significance of the Sazerac in local life.

Authentic Food and Cocktails at Bourbon House

The final stop is the Bourbon House Restaurant, nestled near the French Quarter. Here, you’ll taste regional dishes and classic New Orleans cocktails. The menu features local flavors and ingredients, giving you a taste of the city’s culinary soul.

The food tastings are thoughtfully curated, showcasing authentic New Orleans cuisine. As one reviewer noted, “The regional food was flavorful and hearty — exactly what we hoped for.” The relaxed, lively atmosphere makes it a great place to wind down and reflect on your experience.

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Tour Logistics: What to Expect and Practical Tips

The entire tour lasts about 3 hours, including stops, tastings, and sightseeing. The meeting point is at the Vue Orleans box office just to the left of the Four Seasons hotel, with coordinates 29.949573516845703, -90.06368255615234.

The experience is guided in English and is wheelchair accessible, making it inclusive for a variety of travelers. You might find that the small group size enhances interaction and keeps the experience intimate.

The tour costs around $X, which we find to be a reasonable price given the combination of stunning views, interactive experiences, and authentic tastings. We believe the value is especially high for those wanting a curated, immersive experience rather than just a quick look at the city.

Authentic Insights from Other Travelers

Many past participants praise the spectacular views as a highlight: “The sunset from Vue Orleans is one of the best moments of our trip,” one review states. Others appreciated the educational aspect: “The mixology demos at Sazerac House made learning about spirits fun and engaging,” said a guest.

A small number of reviews mention that the tour’s adult-only focus could be limiting for families or those traveling with children. Also, since the experience is fast-paced, it’s better suited for travelers who prefer a lively, engaging outing rather than a leisurely day.

This “Eat, Drink, and ‘Vue'” experience is a fantastic choice for travelers who want a compact, curated glimpse of New Orleans’ skyline, culinary delights, and cocktail heritage. It’s especially well-suited for adults eager to savor regional flavors and learn about the city’s iconic cocktails in a lively, interactive setting.

If you’re after stunning views combined with authentic food and spirits, this tour hits the mark. It’s perfect for first-timers who want a taste of the city’s highlights in a few hours, or for those celebrating a special occasion — the views and tastings make for memorable moments.

While it’s not a comprehensive city tour, its carefully curated stops and engaging format provide a balanced, authentic snapshot of New Orleans’ unique charm. Just be prepared for a lively, adult-oriented experience that leaves you with a deeper appreciation for the city’s rich spirit and spectacular skyline.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, this is an adult-only experience focusing on cocktails and spirits, so it’s best suited for travelers aged 21 and over.

How long does the tour last?
The entire experience lasts about 3 hours, including all stops, tastings, and sightseeing.

Where do I meet for the tour?
You meet at the box office at the base of the stairs to Vue Orleans, just to the left of the Four Seasons hotel, with the coordinates 29.949573516845703, -90.06368255615234.

Is the tour wheelchair accessible?
Yes, the tour is wheelchair accessible, making it suitable for a range of mobility needs.

What is included in the cost?
Your ticket includes access to Vue Orleans, the Observation Deck, exhibits, a cocktail, spirits tastings at Sazerac House, and food tastings at Bourbon House.

Are there any cancellation policies?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing some flexibility if your plans change.

Is the tour walkable?
Yes, the tour primarily involves walking between venues, all within close proximity near the French Quarter and CBD.

What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothing suitable for walking and being outdoors — and don’t forget your camera!

Can I buy additional drinks or food?
Yes, at Bourbon House, additional menu items and drinks are available if you wish to extend your tasting experience.

Is this tour good for a first visit to New Orleans?
Absolutely. It offers iconic views, local flavors, and storytelling that give you a solid introduction to the city’s spirit and scenery.

This “Eat, Drink, and ‘Vue'” tour balances spectacular sights, authentic flavors, and engaging learning — a smart choice for anyone wanting a memorable taste of New Orleans in just a few hours.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby