Explore New Orleans: Self-Guided Audio Tour

Explore New Orleans: Self-Guided Audio Tour

Imagine wandering through the vibrant streets of New Orleans at your own pace, with a pocket-sized guide explaining the stories behind every corner. For just $15.90 per person, this self-guided tour offers a flexible way to see the city’s highlights in about 2 to 3 hours, fitting perfectly into a busy day or a leisurely afternoon. Starting at the National WWII Museum, you’ll meander through historic sites, cultural hotspots, and lively neighborhoods, with audio commentary giving you insights along the way.

What we love about this experience is its flexibility—you can pause and explore at your leisure, whether that’s grabbing a beignet, shopping for souvenirs, or soaking in the street performers. Plus, the detailed GPS map ensures you stay on track, making it accessible even if you’re new to the city. We also appreciate that this tour is designed to deepen your understanding of New Orleans’ colourful history and lively culture, with stories that range from inspiring to shocking.

A possible drawback is that the download instructions can be tricky for some travelers, as one reviewer noted, “The directions for downloading the walk are terrible.” If you’re not comfortable with technology or don’t download everything beforehand, that might cause some initial frustration. And, since the tour is only available in English, non-English speakers might need to look elsewhere for language options.

This tour is best suited for independent travelers who enjoy exploring at their own pace, are comfortable with a little tech setup, and want a rundown of New Orleans’ key sights without the cost of a guided group. It’s particularly appealing if you like a mix of history, culture, and lively neighborhood strolls.

Key Points

• Flexible and self-paced with a GPS map for easy navigation
• Affordable at $15.90 per person, offering great value for a multi-hour experience
• Highlights include the French Quarter, St. Louis Cathedral, Bourbon Street, and the Lalaurie Mansion
• Audio commentary provides rich stories, some shocking or amusing, to deepen your visit
• Note the download process can be complicated, so preparation is key
• Tour duration is approximately 2 to 3 hours, perfect for fitting into a day

A Deep Dive into the Experience

What’s Included and What’s Not

This tour provides audio files and a GPS map for an entirely self-guided experience. You’ll need to download everything before you start, as no physical guide or transportation is included. Admission to sites like the WWII Museum, Aquarium, and St. Louis Cathedral is not included, so budget for those separately. The tour is designed to be flexible, allowing you to start and end wherever suits your schedule, with the recommended start point being the National WWII Museum.

The Itinerary: What You’ll See

Stop 1: The National WWII Museum

Starting here, you’ll find exhibits like a Higgins boat (famous for Normandy landings), a British Spitfire aircraft, and a German Sherman tank. While admission isn’t included, the museum is well worth a visit if you’re interested in history, and it provides a compelling start to understanding the context of the city and its global impact.

Stop 2: Audubon Aquarium

Next, the tour takes you to one of America’s top aquariums, home to over 10,000 animals from across the Americas. Highlights include the Mississippi River exhibit, the Amazon rainforest (with piranhas), and the Gulf of Mexico display, including Life beneath an Oil Rig, which has gained importance post-BP spill. This stop is perfect for families or anyone interested in marine life, though again, admission is separate.

Stop 3: Southern Food and Beverage Museum

Here, the focus shifts to the city’s legendary cuisine. Exhibits dedicated to Elvis’ love of food and hands-on courses like beer and wine making make this a tasty stop. Food lovers will enjoy the chance to learn about Southern flavors and culinary traditions, making it more than just a sightseeing stop.

Stop 4: St. Louis Cathedral

Dominating Jackson Square, this is the oldest Roman Catholic cathedral in the US, completed in 1850. The iconic white steeples and rich history make it a must-see landmark, with the surrounding square often lively with street artists and performers.

Stop 5: Lalaurie Mansion

A more sobering stop, this mansion is infamous for its dark past involving Madame LaLaurie’s brutal treatment of slaves. The house was damaged after a fire exposed the horrors inside, and its history of cruelty still lingers. Visitors should be aware that the building has been used as a school and library since its restoration, but the story remains a stark reminder of slavery’s dark legacy.

Stop 6: Bourbon Street

No visit to New Orleans is complete without a stroll down Bourbon Street. While the street is a magnet for travelers and known for its bars, live music, and lively vibe, it also offers a glimpse into the city’s famous nightlife. It’s free to walk, and the energy is contagious, especially after dark.

Stop 7: Preservation Hall

Ending with a musical note, Preservation Hall embodies traditional jazz and is dedicated to keeping this genre alive. The Jazz Band performances are renowned, and tickets often sell out—so plan ahead if you want to catch a show.

What Travelers Say

One reviewer emphasized the informative nature of the tour, stating, “The information provided was very informative, and the maps helped a lot.” However, they also reported some frustration with the download instructions, suggesting it’s easier to start at a specific point rather than trying to follow the suggested “anywhere” approach.

Another reviewer simply said, “Everything works and they gave good information,” affirming that the audio content and GPS map deliver on their promise. These comments confirm that, despite some technical hiccups, the content is solid and helps uncover the stories behind the sights.

Practical Considerations

Since this is a self-guided tour, you’ll need to download files beforehand and have a compatible device. It’s best suited for travelers who are comfortable with technology and prefer the freedom to explore at their own pace. The duration of 2–3 hours makes it an excellent way to see many of the highlights without feeling rushed.

Transportation costs aren’t included, so consider how you’ll get to each stop—most are within walking distance in the French Quarter, but public transit or rideshare may be necessary for some locations. No food or drinks are included, so plan to stop for lunch or snacks along the way.

Who Will Benefit Most?

This tour is ideal for independent explorers who want to craft their own experience without the pressure of a guided group. If you’re interested in history, culture, and lively city streets, and don’t mind a little technical setup, you’ll find this a good value. It’s especially helpful if you’re on a budget but still want a thoughtful overview of New Orleans’ most iconic sites.

Travelers who appreciate narrative stories—from the inspiring to the disturbing—will find that the audio guide brings the city’s character alive. However, those seeking guided commentary, small group intimacy, or multilingual options might prefer other formats.

The Sum Up

This self-guided audio tour of New Orleans offers a flexible, budget-friendly way to explore the city’s key attractions, from historic landmarks to lively streets. It’s perfect for independent travelers who enjoy customizing their day and learning about the city’s stories at their own pace. While some users have encountered technical challenges, the content’s quality and variety make it worth the effort for those eager to discover New Orleans beyond the typical tourist spots.

If your goal is to explore history, music, and local culture, and you’re comfortable with downloading apps and maps, this tour will serve you well. It’s especially suited for travelers on a budget who value authentic stories over guided crowds. Just prepare ahead of time to avoid download frustrations, and you’re set for a memorable journey through one of America’s most colorful cities.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for children?
While it’s mainly a walking tour suitable for most ages, some stories, like that of the Lalaurie Mansion, are dark. Consider your children’s comfort with mature themes.

Do I need to pay admission fees for the attractions?
Yes, admission to the WWII Museum, Aquarium, and other sites is not included. You should budget separately for these.

How long does the tour take?
The self-guided audio tour lasts about 2 to 3 hours, but you can pause and take breaks along the way.

Can I start the tour anywhere?
You can, but one reviewer suggests starting specifically at the National WWII Museum for a smoother experience, as instructions for starting anywhere can be confusing.

Is the tour available in languages other than English?
No, currently, the tour is only offered in English.

What should I bring?
Bring a charged smartphone or MP3 device, headphones, and your downloaded audio files and map. Comfortable walking shoes are recommended.

Are there any group size restrictions?
The tour is designed for up to 50 travelers, but since it’s self-guided, you can explore on your own or with a small group.

Can I do this tour if I don’t have internet access?
Yes, once downloaded, the files and map work offline, but ensure everything is set up ahead of time.

Is this tour a good value?
Absolutely. At just $15.90, it offers a rundown of New Orleans’ main sights with the flexibility to explore at your own pace.

What if I want a guided tour instead?
If you prefer a guided experience, look into other options that include guides or group tours, but be prepared for higher prices and scheduled times.

This detailed, practical review aims to help you decide if this self-guided tour matches your travel style—and to ensure you get the most out of your time in New Orleans. Happy exploring!