New Orleans Garden District and Cemetery Bike Tour

Experience the Best of New Orleans’ Garden District and Cemetery on Two Wheels

If you’re looking to see a different side of New Orleans—away from the busy French Quarter—then a bike tour of the Garden District and St. Joseph Cemetery might just be your perfect option. For about $55, you’ll spend roughly 2 to 2.5 hours pedaling through lush streets lined with towering oaks, historic mansions, and vibrant neighborhoods, all led by a knowledgeable guide. This tour promises a lively mix of architecture, local stories, and cultural insights, making it an ideal way to maximize your time and see the city’s more elegant, residential side.

What we love most about this experience is how cycling covers more ground than a walking tour, yet remains relaxed and accessible. The inclusion of bike and helmet rentals makes it hassle-free, letting you focus on enjoying the scenery. Plus, the visit to St. Joseph’s Cemetery offers a fascinating peek into New Orleans’ unique funerary traditions, which many travelers find both educational and moving.

However, a key consideration is the physical aspect—since it’s a moderate physical activity, it’s best suited for those comfortable on a bike and prepared for some light exertion. Also, since the tour operates rain or shine, a little weather preparedness is wise, especially if you want to avoid getting caught in a downpour.

This tour is a fantastic match for history buffs, architecture enthusiasts, or anyone wanting a more authentic, less touristy experience of New Orleans. It’s especially popular among those who appreciate storytelling and local insights that go beyond guidebooks and selfies.

Key Points

• Comprehensive exploration: Cover more ground than walking, including neighborhoods, mansions, and cemeteries.
• Expert guides: Knowledgeable local guides share fascinating stories and historical context.
• All-inclusive rentals: Bikes, helmets, bottled water, and rain ponchos are provided, reducing hassle.
• Authentic experiences: Visit the iconic St. Joseph Cemetery and explore the Irish Channel neighborhood.
• Flexible scheduling: Tours run rain or shine, with a full refund available if canceled 24 hours in advance.
• Small groups: Maximum of 10 travelers ensures personalized attention and a friendly atmosphere.

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Point and Duration
The tour begins at 1735 Washington Ave, in the Uptown area, a short ride from the more tourist-heavy French Quarter. After a quick check-in, you’ll be fitted with a bike and helmet, then set off into a landscape of historic homes and shady streets. The entire experience lasts between two to two and a half hours, making it an excellent morning or afternoon activity that fits easily into your itinerary.

Stop 1: St. Joseph Cemetery
One of the tour’s highlights is the visit to St. Joseph’s Cemetery. Here, you’ll learn about the city’s distinctive funerary customs, which are unlike anything else you’ve seen—think above-ground tombs and elaborate mausoleums. A typical stop lasts around 20 minutes, providing an intimate look at the resting places of the city’s notable residents and a chance to understand how geography and climate influence burial practices in New Orleans.

What travelers say: Ian_C mentions, “We enjoyed the bike ride around the Garden District. It was fascinating to visit the local cemetery and learn about the internment practices unique to New Orleans due to its location being lower than sea level.” This stop often leaves visitors both intrigued and moved.

Stop 2: The Garden District
The heart of the tour is the exploration of the Garden District. This neighborhood is renowned for its stately mansions, lush gardens, and historic charm. Expect to see antebellum homes, some dating back over a century, each with its own story. Your guide will share insights into the architectural styles—Greek Revival, Italianate, and Victorian—and tell stories about the prominent families that once lived here.

Time spent here: Approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes. As one reviewer notes, “Nice way to learn about the history and cultural aspects of the neighborhood,” emphasizing how the guide’s commentary enhances the visual experience.

Stop 3: The Irish Channel
Next, you’ll cycle through the Irish Channel, a lively neighborhood just a few blocks from the Garden District. This area boasts a mix of shotgun houses, churches, and local flavor. It’s a quieter, more residential part of the city, and the perfect place to observe everyday life amidst historic architecture.

Expect: Around 30 minutes of riding and exploring, with plenty of photo opportunities and chances for questions. Linda_D says, “Our guide was very knowledgeable and friendly,” highlighting the personal touch guides bring.

Additional Perks
Throughout the tour, you’ll enjoy bottled water and a rain poncho if needed, ensuring comfort regardless of the weather. The small group size—up to 10 people—means the guide can tailor the experience and answer questions comfortably.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $55 per person, this experience packs a lot into a short window. For the cost, you get a guided tour led by a local, use of high-quality bikes and helmets, and access to some of the most beautiful and historically significant neighborhoods in New Orleans. Many reviews highlight the expertise and enthusiasm of guides like Tanya, Sara, Brian, and Justin, who make history come alive through storytelling.

Compared to other tours that focus solely on walking or bus rides, cycling offers a unique perspective—faster, more flexible, and intimate. You’ll cover vast areas that would take hours on foot, without feeling rushed, since the pace is relaxed and the terrain flat.

The cemetery visit alone is worth the price, especially since many travelers find it both educational and emotionally resonant. Plus, exploring neighborhoods that are less touristy than the French Quarter means you get a more authentic sense of local life and architecture.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This bike tour suits travelers who are comfortable on a bicycle and eager to see a broader swath of the city in a short time. It’s perfect for those interested in architecture, history, and local culture, and who want to avoid the crowds of more popular attractions. If you enjoy storytelling, engaging guides, and beautiful scenery, this tour will meet or exceed your expectations.

It’s also well-suited for families or groups with children who are of moderate physical fitness, as the tour is flat and leisurely. With small group sizes, it offers a friendly, personalized experience—ideal if you prefer a more intimate outing.

Practical Details and Tips

Meeting Point: 1735 Washington Ave, Uptown—just a short streetcar ride from the French Quarter.

Duration: Around 2 to 2.5 hours, making it easy to slot into a busy itinerary.

Inclusions: Bikes, helmets, bottled water, rain ponchos.
Not included: Gratuity (which is customary and appreciated).

Weather Policy: Tours operate rain or shine, with options to reschedule or refund in dangerous weather.

Group Size: Limited to 10 travelers, which fosters a relaxed atmosphere and personalized attention.

Booking Tip: Since the tour is booked an average of 14 days in advance, plan ahead to secure your spot, especially during peak seasons.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, as long as children are of moderate physical fitness and can comfortably ride a bike. Be sure to provide their heights so the guide can fit them with the right-sized bike.

What should I wear or bring?
Dress comfortably for moderate activity. Bring water, and if rain is forecast, a poncho is provided. Sunscreen and sunglasses are also helpful.

How much biking is involved?
Expect to cycle through neighborhoods with some stops. The ride is flat and easy, suitable for most people in decent shape.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, with free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour. In bad weather, the tour will be rescheduled or refunded.

Are helmets provided?
Yes, helmets are included in the rental.

What are the main highlights of the tour?
The cemetery visit, the beautiful homes in the Garden District, and the vibrant Irish Channel neighborhood are the key sights.

To sum it up, the New Orleans Garden District and Cemetery Bike Tour offers a well-rounded, authentic experience for those looking to explore beyond the typical tourist routes. It combines scenic views, fascinating stories, and the convenience of cycling—all with the comfort of small groups and expert guides. Whether you’re a history lover, architecture buff, or simply eager to see a quieter, more elegant side of New Orleans, this tour is a smart choice that delivers both value and memorable moments. It’s especially ideal for visitors wanting a quick, insightful glimpse into the city’s local soul, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions and capture great photos along the way.