New Orleans: 2 or 3 Day Hop-On Hop-Off Bus with Walking Tour

If you’re heading to New Orleans, you’ll find this hop-on hop-off bus tour a practical way to see the city at your own pace. For $47 per person, you can choose between a 2- or 3-day pass, giving you plenty of time to soak up the vibrant neighborhoods, historic sights, and lively streets. The tour includes stops at key spots like Jackson Square, the Garden District, and the French Quarter, combined with guided walking tours that deepen your understanding beyond what a simple bus ride can offer.

What we really love about this experience is how flexible and convenient it is. You’re free to hop off at any stop, explore at your leisure, and then hop back on the next bus—no need to wait for a scheduled tour or follow an rigid itinerary. Plus, the live guides—like Mary and Colin—bring a wealth of knowledge and personal stories, making the city’s history come alive. The included walking tours of the Garden District and, with the 3-day option, the French Quarter, add an intimate touch to your sightseeing. And if you enjoy snagging deals, the discounts at attractions, restaurants, and shops are a nice bonus.

One thing to keep in mind: the bus operates every 25 minutes and the last full tour departs around 4 pm, so planning your day around the schedule is wise. Also, there’s no restroom on the bus, which is typical for city sightseeing tours, but worth noting for travelers with specific needs. This tour suits those who want a comprehensive, flexible introduction to New Orleans without breaking the bank, especially if you appreciate guided walks and the chance to explore neighborhoods on foot.

Key Points

• Flexibility and Convenience: Hop on and off at any of the 19 stops, creating your own itinerary.
• Guided Walking Tours: Included in both options, with detailed explorations of the Garden District and French Quarter.
• Vivid Commentary: Live guides provide engaging insights into New Orleans’ history and culture.
• Cost-Effective: Good value for the price, especially considering the multiple days and walking tours included.
• Great for First-Timers: Perfect for getting an overview without missing out on local gems.
• Limited Restroom Access: No facilities on the bus, so plan accordingly.

When considering a city tour, especially in a city as lively and sprawling as New Orleans, the goal is to find a way to experience as much as possible without feeling rushed or overwhelmed. This hop-on hop-off bus tour strikes that balance. It offers a broad overview of the city’s highlights, combined with the depth of guided walks, making it ideal for first-time visitors or anyone wanting to maximize their time.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Itinerary and Stops: What to Expect

The route covers 19 stops across the city, including iconic spots like Jackson Square, the French Market, Magazine Street, and the Louisiana Superdome. Each stop is strategically placed to give you quick access to neighborhoods, museums, and entertainment districts.

• Jackson Square is the heart of the French Quarter—think street performers, artists, and the lively atmosphere captured in countless photos. It’s a natural starting point for your exploration.
• French Market offers a taste of local crafts and food vendors, perfect for souvenir shopping or trying a quick snack.
• Garden District stands out for its beautifully preserved antebellum homes and lush streets. The included guided walk here is a highlight, providing historical context and stories behind the stunning architecture.
• St. Charles Avenue and Magazine Street are great for strolling and shopping, with vibrant shops and cafes.
• The National WWII Museum provides a serious dose of history, accessible via a convenient stop.

The Walking Tours: Deepening Your Experience

The Garden District walk is especially well-reviewed, with guides like Colin sharing insights into the architecture and history of the area. One reviewer praised the guide’s passion and knowledge, calling it “a great way to see the city” and “worth it.”

The French Quarter walk, included in the 3-day pass, offers a more intimate look at New Orleans’ most famous neighborhood, with guides explaining architecture, politics, and local stories. Reviewers appreciated the personalized attention and the chance to pause for shade and questions.

The Guides: Knowledge and Personality

The quality of guides makes or breaks city tours, and this one seems to shine in that regard. Multiple reviews commend the guides for being “exceptionally knowledgeable,” personable, and entertaining. For example, a reviewer from Ireland noted that the guides offered different perspectives, enriching the experience.

However, one comment pointed out that guide performance varies—”one guide was not as energetic or engaging,” reminding us that individual guides’ style may influence your tour.

The Bus Experience: Comfort and Practicality

The buses are open-top, offering great views, especially on the upper deck. They depart every 25 minutes, which means you rarely have to wait long. The buses are wheelchair accessible and stroller-friendly, making this tour inclusive for most travelers.

The ride itself lasts about 1.5 hours, giving a manageable overview without tiring out your legs. Keep in mind, there are no restrooms on the bus, so bring water and plan your bathroom breaks accordingly.

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The Price and Value

For $47, the value is solid. With 2 or 3 days of unlimited hopping, you can explore neighborhoods, enjoy scenic views, and participate in guided walks without rushing. Many reviews highlight how this tour saves money compared to Uber or taxis, especially since it includes discounts at various attractions.

One reviewer mentioned, “It is expensive to get around this city, and this was a great way to do it cost-effectively.” Considering the cost of individual taxis or guided tours, this pass offers a flexible, budget-friendly alternative.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is perfect for first-time visitors eager to get a broad sense of the city. It suits travelers wanting flexibility and the ability to see top sights without feeling rushed. If you enjoy guided storytelling combined with the freedom to explore, the included walking tours will be a bonus.

However, if you’re looking for an intimate, in-depth tour of specific sites or have mobility issues, you might want to supplement with more specialized experiences. Also, those who prefer guided transportation with restroom access might find this limited, as buses lack facilities.

Final Thoughts

This New Orleans hop-on hop-off bus plus walking tour offers a lively, flexible way to see the city’s main attractions, learn about its history from passionate guides, and explore neighborhoods at your own pace. Its combination of convenience, affordability, and engaging storytelling makes it a solid choice, especially if you want an overview that can be customized daily.

For travelers who enjoy combining bus rides with walking and storytelling, this tour provides a balanced, enjoyable introduction. It’s particularly well-suited for first-timers, families, and anyone wanting a practical way to navigate New Orleans’ vibrant streets without the hassle of planning every detail.

How many stops are there on the route?
There are 19 stops along the route, covering major neighborhoods, museums, and attractions like Jackson Square, the French Market, and Magazine Street.

Can I hop off and on at any stop?
Yes, you can hop off and back on at any of the stops, giving you the freedom to explore specific areas more thoroughly.

How often do the buses run?
Buses depart approximately every 25 minutes, so you won’t have to wait long to catch the next one.

Does the tour include guided walks?
Yes, the 2-day pass includes a guided walk of the Garden District, and the 3-day pass adds a guided tour of the French Quarter.

Are the buses accessible for wheelchairs and strollers?
Absolutely, the buses are wheelchair accessible and stroller friendly, making them suitable for most travelers.

Is there a restroom on the bus?
No, there are no restrooms onboard, so bring water and be prepared for restroom breaks during stops.

This honest, detailed review should help you decide if this tour matches your travel style. Whether you’re after a flexible, guided overview or a chance to explore neighborhoods at your own pace, this experience offers a practical and enjoyable way to get to know New Orleans.

You can check availability for your dates here: