New Orleans City Tour and Steamboat Natchez Harbor Jazz Cruise

Experience the Heart and Soul of New Orleans in a Day

If you’re looking for a way to get a solid overview of New Orleans’ most iconic neighborhoods and landmarks alongside a relaxing cruise on the mighty Mississippi, this tour offers just that. For around $88 per person, and lasting about 6.5 hours, you’ll start with a narrated motorcoach journey through the French Quarter, Jackson Square, and Garden District, then unwind aboard an authentic steamboat with live jazz and optional Creole dining. It’s a compact experience that blends history, culture, and music in a way that’s accessible and memorable.

What we love most about this experience is the detailed commentary from guides like Harris and Jim, who make history come alive with stories and local insights. We also appreciate the opportunity to see the city’s diverse architecture and lush parks firsthand, especially the Garden District’s mansions and the serene City Park. The highlight, of course, is the cruise along the Mississippi River, where the sound of live jazz and the gentle chug of the paddlewheel transport you to a bygone era.

A key consideration to keep in mind is timing. The drop-off point for the bus can sometimes be a bit of a walk from the cruise departure, which might be tight if you’re on a strict schedule. Also, while the cruise offers a relaxed, scenic experience, some guests noted variability in the buffet quality depending on their preferences and if seafood isn’t your thing, the menu might not excite you as much.

This tour suits travelers who want a comprehensive, value-packed day with a mix of sightseeing, local culture, and riverfront relaxation. If you’re eager to see the top highlights without booking multiple tickets, or if you love jazz and history, this experience will hit the spot. It is especially popular among first-time visitors eager for an authentic introduction.

Key Points

• Balanced Itinerary: Combines city sightseeing with a scenic Mississippi River cruise, covering major landmarks and neighborhoods.
• Guided Experience: Knowledgeable guides like Harris and Jim add depth with stories and local context.
• Authentic Atmosphere: Live jazz on the steamboat creates a charming, nostalgic ambiance.
• Flexible Options: Tour includes stops at Café du Monde and City Park, with optional Creole lunch available.
• Group Size: Limited to 25 travelers, ensuring a more personal experience.
• Value for Money: For $88, you get a full day of diverse activities, making it a good deal for first-timers and culture lovers.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting with a City Tour: Exploring New Orleans by Coach

The adventure begins in the French Quarter, where you board a comfortable motorcoach. Our guides, such as Harris and Jim, make a real difference—they are not just informative but personable, making the tour feel like a local’s recommendation rather than a scripted ride. You’ll glide past French and Spanish-inspired architecture, voodoo shops, and lush courtyards, gaining a sense of New Orleans’ layered past.

The stops include Jackson Square, where the iconic St. Louis Cathedral looms over the lively square, and the historic Cabildo and Presbytere museums. The guides share stories about Andrew Jackson and the Battle of New Orleans, grounding the city’s vibrant streets in their historic significance. Many reviews laud Harris for his storytelling, with one reviewer mentioning, “Harris was very knowledgeable and encouraged questions,” which can turn a simple sightseeing drive into a memorable learning experience.

Next, the tour visits St. Louis Cemetery No. 3, one of the city’s famous above-ground cemeteries. While crowds enjoy the elaborately decorated tombs and statues, some guests prefer to stay on the bus. It’s worth noting that the cemetery tour is brief—about 10 minutes—but packed with photo opportunities and a peek into local burial traditions that date back decades.

City Park offers a peaceful retreat with its lagoons and old oak trees draped in moss. Here, you might indulge in beignets from Café du Monde or just enjoy the scenery. The Sculpture Garden’s collection of modern art adds a contemporary touch, contrasting with the historic architecture seen earlier.

The Garden District and the Streetcar Ride

From City Park, you’ll pass along St. Charles Avenue, home of the historic streetcar—the oldest in continuous operation worldwide. The ride along this route reveals mansion-lined streets that once housed Mardi Gras royalty and wealthy New Orleanians. The Garden District is renowned for its antebellum mansions and picturesque streets, perfect for photo ops.

This segment is highly praised—guests often comment on the stately homes and lush gardens—and many mention the guides’ stories about the local history, adding a layer of storytelling that elevates the experience. One reviewer said, “Harris made the walk through the Garden District so fun and informative,” emphasizing how guides can transform sightseeing into storytelling.

The Mississippi River: Steamboat Natchez and Its Charm

After exploring the city, you’ll head to the riverfront for the two-hour paddlewheeler cruise aboard the Steamboat Natchez or its sister vessel if Natchez is unavailable. The cruise features live jazz, calliope music, and narration about key sights like the Chalmette Battlefield, where Jean Lafitte and Andrew Jackson joined forces. Passengers often comment on the relaxing atmosphere—the gentle chug of the engine, the views of the shoreline, and the sounds of jazz create a timeless scene.

Booking the lunch buffet (at an additional $13.50) allows you to sample Louisiana favorites like cornmeal-crusted fish and red beans and rice, with dessert options like bread pudding. Some reviews mention the buffet’s quality varies—if seafood isn’t your thing or you’re on a budget, you might prefer to skip this or just enjoy snacks on board.

The Overall Experience and Practicalities

The tour’s size is limited to 25 travelers, which makes for a more intimate and less rushed experience. This is especially appreciated for the cemetery visits and garden strolls, where guides like Harris and Jim can give more personalized attention.

Pricing at $88 offers solid value, considering you’re getting a comprehensive city tour plus the river cruise. Many reviews point out the guides’ knowledge and friendliness as a standout feature, making the day not just informative but also fun and engaging.

One drawback noted by a few is logistical—timing can be tight, especially if the bus drops you far from the cruise dock. For example, one guest mentioned being dropped 6 blocks away and having to run to catch the boat, which could be stressful if you’re not prepared.

Who Should Sign Up?

This experience is perfect for first-time visitors wanting a well-rounded introduction to New Orleans’ architecture, history, and music. It’s also ideal for those who appreciate live jazz and scenic river views without the hassle of booking separate tours. If you’re interested in a relaxed pace with knowledgeable guides, this tour offers a great balance of education and leisure.

The Final Verdict

This combo tour from Gray Line New Orleans provides a well-rounded slice of what makes the city special—historic neighborhoods, lush parks, and a timeless river cruise. For around $88, you get a detailed city overview, a scenic river cruise, and the chance to indulge in local flavors and music, making it a good value for most travelers.

While some may find the timing a bit tight or the buffet inconsistent, the guides’ enthusiasm and the experience’s authenticity shine through. It’s particularly suited to history buffs, music lovers, and first-timers eager for an authentic taste of New Orleans’ soul.

If you’re after a comprehensive, engaging, and relaxed day that covers the city’s top sights and the Mississippi River’s magic, this tour delivers. It offers just enough structure to see the highlights, combined with enough flexibility to soak in the atmosphere at your own pace.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, most travelers can participate, but note that some walking and standing are involved. Stroller or wheelchair access is available on the bus, but access to the upper decks of the boat is by stairs only.

What is included in the tour price?
You get a 3-hour narrated city tour, stops at key landmarks, and a 2-hour paddlewheeler cruise. Beignets at Café du Monde are at your own expense, and lunch on the boat costs extra if you choose to purchase it.

Where does the tour start and end?
All activities begin at the Gray Line “Lighthouse” Ticket Office at Toulouse Street in the French Quarter and conclude back at the starting point.

Can I see the cemetery and garden during the same tour?
Yes. The guide typically allows ample time for these stops, and many guests find the cemetery tour particularly memorable.

Is there parking nearby?
Yes, public parking lots are on Decatur Street, with the closest being Jax Lot #P401 on 500 Decatur St. Prepayment might be required.

Is the boat cruise weather-dependent?
Yes, the cruise requires good weather. If canceled, you’ll be offered a different date or a full refund.

Are drinks available on the boat?
Yes, there are bars onboard for guests 21 and over, offering beer, wine, and specialty drinks.

Are there restroom facilities on the boat?
Yes, restrooms are available on all decks, though access to the top and bottom decks is by stairs.

What should I wear?
Casual, comfortable clothing and shoes are best. During warmer months, light clothing, hats, and sunscreen are recommended.

What happens if the boat isn’t in port?
The tour may be canceled or replaced with her sister vessel. Refunds are available if the experience can’t be rescheduled.

This tour is a thoughtfully curated way to experience New Orleans’ landmarks, music, and river life, especially for those who want a manageable, enjoyable day with a good dose of local flavor.