Discover the Heart of New Orleans with Mardi Gras Mambo Tours: Sip, Savor SecondLine
If you’re looking to dive into the true spirit of New Orleans beyond the typical tourist spots, the Mardi Gras Mambo Tours: Sip, Savor SecondLine offers a well-rounded taste of the city’s mystic charm. This 4-hour tour, priced at $199 per person, takes you through two iconic local experiences: a visit to Mardi Gras World and a tour and tasting at Seven Three Distillery. Starting at noon, the tour is designed for those who want to experience authentic NOLA culture, lively spirits, and creative festivities in a relaxed, private setting.
What makes this tour stand out? First, the guided visit to Mardi Gras World, where you get to see the enormous floats and costumes that make Mardi Gras famous. Second, the distillery tour and open bar at Seven Three, where you sample local spirits and learn about the city’s Prohibition-era history. We particularly appreciate the personalized touch and the fact that kids are welcomed—though those who want to drink must be 21, of course. And if you’re craving a little something extra, you can add charcuterie options—perfect for a small celebration or business gathering.
One possible consideration is the limited duration—just four hours. If you’re eager to explore more aspects of NOLA’s vibrant scene, this tour provides a focused, yet immersive snapshot. It’s ideal for culture seekers, first-time visitors, or groups looking for a lively, engaging activity that’s both educational and fun.
Key Points

- Well-rounded experience combining Mardi Gras traditions with local spirits.
- Private tour ensures a personalized experience and flexibility.
- Includes guided tours and tastings at Mardi Gras World and Seven Three Distillery.
- Family-friendly, with adults needing to be 21+ for alcohol.
- Optional charcuterie available for added value and sharing.
- Great for groups, corporate events, or anyone looking to enjoy NOLA’s festive spirit authentically.
A Closer Look at Mardi Gras Mambo Tours: Sip, Savor SecondLine

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The Itinerary: What’s on the Menu?
This tour is designed to give you a curated taste of New Orleans’ vivid cultural and culinary scene in a manageable four-hour window. It begins at Mardi Gras World, where you are greeted with a classic hurricane cocktail—a fun nod to the city’s signature drink. Here, a knowledgeable guide takes you through the massive workshop where floats are built and decorated, revealing the artistry and effort behind Mardi Gras celebrations. The atmosphere is lively, colorful, and surprisingly intimate despite the scale of the floats.
The second stop, Seven Three Distilling Co., transports you to a different aspect of NOLA’s heritage. You’ll tour the distillery, learning about gin, whiskey, vodka, and moonshine, all crafted locally. What stands out is the Prohibition-era theme, which adds a historical flavor to your tasting experience. As you sample these spirits, your guide shares stories that connect the drinks to New Orleans’ resilience and ingenuity. The open bar setup encourages a relaxed, social vibe, making it a genuine taste of local life.
The Experience: What You’ll See and Feel
The guided tour of Mardi Gras World isn’t just about floats; it’s a showcase of the creative passion that fuels New Orleans’ most famous celebration. Expect to see gigantic masks, intricate costumes, and floats that seem larger-than-life. The tour is quick but offers enough detail to give you a sense of the artistry and tradition behind Mardi Gras—a spectacle that the city is proud of.
At Seven Three Distillery, the focus is on local spirits and history. You’ll learn about the city’s prohibition past, and the guides’ engaging storytelling makes the visit lively and memorable. The open bar lets you taste a variety of drinks, which many reviewers praise for the value and quality. One reviewer mentioned that the tour was “totally worth it,” emphasizing the good food, drinks, and culture packed into just a few hours.
What We Love About This Tour
Two of the most appreciated features are the knowledgeable guides and the balance of fun and education. Several reviews highlight the guides’ ability to make everyone feel comfortable and included—whether you’re into Mardi Gras or just curious about local spirits. The flexibility of a private tour also means your group can enjoy the experience at your own pace.
The option to add charcuterie is a thoughtful touch, especially for groups or small celebrations. Freshly made, these selections can elevate a casual tasting into a meaningful gathering. This added detail shows the tour hosts’ attention to detail and desire to provide a complete experience.
Potential Drawbacks
The main consideration is that this experience is limited to two stops and just four hours. If you’re craving a deeper exploration of New Orleans’ neighborhoods or music scene, this may feel a bit condensed. Also, since alcohol is involved, participants must be 21 or older, which makes it unsuitable for families with young children—though kids are still welcomed to join the fun.
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Who Will Love This Tour?
This experience is perfect for first-timers wanting a quick yet meaningful glimpse of NOLA’s culture. It’s also ideal for groups, corporate outings, or couples who want a lively, guided activity that combines history, craftsmanship, and spirits. If you love a mix of arts, history, and a fun social atmosphere, this tour checks all those boxes.
The Bottom Line: Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re seeking a convenient, insightful way to experience Mardi Gras traditions and local spirits, this tour offers excellent value. The guided visits are engaging yet not overwhelming, making it suitable for those new to the city or short on time. The private setting enhances the experience, providing flexibility and intimacy that larger group tours often lack.
For anyone curious about the history behind New Orleans’ legendary celebrations or wanting to sample local spirits in a lively environment, Mardi Gras Mambo Tours: Sip, Savor SecondLine is a solid pick. It’s especially appealing for culture lovers, social groups, or corporate teams looking to enjoy a curated, fun, and authentic taste of New Orleans.
Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation provided between stops?
Yes, shuttle services are included, making it easy to move from Mardi Gras World to the distillery without the hassle of public transportation or walking.
How long is each stop?
Each stop lasts approximately one hour and five minutes, giving enough time to explore, learn, and taste without feeling rushed.
Is this tour suitable for children?
Kids are welcome, but adults must be over 21 to participate in alcohol tastings. The tour is family-friendly in terms of atmosphere and activity, just not for drinking.
Can I cancel the tour if my plans change?
Yes, cancellation is free if you do so at least 24 hours in advance. It’s a straightforward process, offering peace of mind if your schedule shifts.
What is included in the price?
Your booking covers the guided tours, admission to Mardi Gras World and Seven Three Distillery, and the open bar at the distillery. Charcuterie options are available for an extra charge.
Are guides knowledgeable?
Yes, multiple reviews praise the guides for their engagement, friendliness, and storytelling skills, making the experience lively and informative.
Is the tour private?
Yes, this is a private tour/activity, meaning only your group participates, which enhances comfort and flexibility.
Are there any physical requirements or limitations?
There are no specific physical limitations mentioned, but as with most walking and standing tours, comfortable shoes are recommended.
What type of spirits are sampled?
Guests can try gin, whiskey, vodka, and moonshine, all crafted locally at Seven Three Distilling.
What’s the best time to book?
The tour is popular and on average booked 143 days in advance. Booking early is advisable if you want to secure your preferred date.
To sum it up, Mardi Gras Mambo Tours’ Sip, Savor SecondLine offers a lively, engaging, and culturally rich way to experience New Orleans. It combines iconic Mardi Gras artistry with local spirits in a private setting, making it a fantastic choice for those wanting a taste of the city’s festive soul. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just eager to learn about NOLA’s unique traditions, this tour promises fun, flavor, and a genuine look into the city’s heart.
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