New Orleans Award Winning Cocktail Tour of the French Quarter

A Taste of NOLA’s Liquid Heritage: The French Quarter Cocktail Tour

Imagine strolling through the lively streets of the French Quarter, a place where every corner echoes with history, music, and stories of legendary drinks. For just $20 per person, you can join a 1 hour 30-minute walking tour that takes you behind the scenes of New Orleans’ most iconic bars and their storied cocktails. Led by engaging guides, this tour explores over a century’s worth of cocktail craftsmanship, from the famous Sazerac to the Hurricane.

What sets this experience apart? First, it’s a family-owned tour with 15 years of accolades, including a TripAdvisor Hall of Fame Award and multiple Travelers’ Choice wins. Second, the guides aren’t just drinkers—they’re storytellers, sharing captivating tales of NOLA’s drinking culture and the origins of each cocktail. The only thing you need to prepare for is your appetite for stories and a desire to taste.

On the flip side, keep in mind that alcoholic beverages are not included in the ticket price—you’ll want to budget a little extra for your drinks at each stop. Also, since it’s a walking tour, comfortable shoes are a must, especially in the lively, sometimes crowded streets. This tour is best suited for adults 21+ who enjoy history, storytelling, and a good drink — or two.

If you’re looking for an authentic, engaging introduction to NOLA’s cocktail scene, especially with a focus on local history and legendary bars, this tour is a solid choice.

Key Points

• Authentic storytelling about NOLA’s legendary cocktails and bar history
• Flexible: Purchase to-go cups and enjoy your drinks on the street
• Family-owned and award-winning, with over 5,000 five-star reviews
• Ideal for adults interested in history, culture, and cocktails
• Includes visits to historic restaurants and the chance to sample the famous Sazerac
• Operates in all weather conditions, so dress appropriately

A Detailed Review of the French Quarter Cocktail Tour

The Starting Point: A Historic Heartbeat

Your journey begins at 400 Royal Street, a prime location in the heart of the French Quarter. From the moment you gather with your small group—limited to 16 people—you’re set for an intimate exploration of New Orleans’ famous drinking spots. The tour operates most days at 3:00 pm, just when the afternoon light makes the city glow, perfect for sightseeing and snapping photos.

Exploring Antoine’s Restaurant: The Oldest Family-Run Establishment

The first stop, Antoine’s Restaurant, has been serving since 1840, making it the oldest family-run restaurant in the United States. Here, we get a taste of NOLA’s early days when cotton was king and French gentlemen settled disputes with pistols or coffee under the oaks. The guide shares stories about how Antoine’s set the standard for fine dining and cocktails—an important foundation for the city’s culinary culture.

While there’s no charge to enter, this stop is more about setting the scene than sampling drinks. The allure lies in its history and atmosphere, a reminder of the city’s long-standing traditions. We loved the way this stop connects the city’s past to what we’re about to experience on the tour—an authentic snippet of history that’s still alive today.

The Court of Two Sisters: A Hidden Oasis with Haunted Tales

Next, the tour visits the Court of Two Sisters, a lush, wisteria-covered courtyard that’s been a fixture for over 200 years. It’s the only place in town with a daily jazz brunch, but today, you’ll just enjoy its soothing fountains and historic charm.

Here, guides share tales of haunted legends and the restaurant’s storied past, creating a sense of mystique. You’ll have the opportunity to order the house specialty beverage in a collectible to-go cup—a fun way to continue your experience while strolling the vibrant streets. Several reviewers noted their guides, like Kim, made the history come alive, making this stop a highlight.

The Creole Flavors at New Orleans Creole Cookery

Your third stop is New Orleans Creole Cookery, a contemporary take on traditional Creole cooking. Launched by the Tusa family (famous for their culinary roots), this restaurant offers a lively, modern setting that stays true to local flavors.

You’ll learn about Gumbo and Shrimp Creole—dishes that are emblematic of NOLA’s culinary identity—and have the chance to try a VooDoo Cocktail at the Oyster Bar. The guide shares stories about Creole cuisine’s evolution, making this an enriching culinary and cultural experience. One reviewer called it a must-do for truly experiencing NOLA’s food traditions.

The Flexibility of the Tour: To-Go Cups and Free Time

One of the biggest perks? You can purchase cocktails at each stop, then carry them in to-go cups as you stroll the streets. This flexibility lets you savor your drinks while enjoying the sights and sounds of the French Quarter—an advantage that many travelers appreciated, especially since drinks are not included in the ticket price.

The Guide’s Role: Knowledgeable, Engaging, and Friendly

Across multiple reviews, guides like Kim and Charlie are praised for their deep knowledge and friendly demeanor. Whether sharing ghost stories, explaining cocktail recipes, or just making everyone feel relaxed, guides elevate the experience beyond just a walk and some drinks.

The Practicalities: Duration, Cost, and Comfort

For $20, you get a well-curated tour including stories, historical insights, and recommendations. Expect to spend about 90 minutes walking, with plenty of opportunities to ask questions or pause for photos. The tour operates rain or shine, so dress comfortably—think layered clothing and sturdy shoes.

The group size keeps things intimate, making it easier to engage with your guide and ask questions. Keep in mind that alcoholic beverages are purchased separately, so plan to budget a few extra dollars per stop if you plan to indulge.

Authentic Experiences and Authenticity

What many travelers loved was the authenticity of stories and the historic bars visited. While some reviewers initially expected a mixologist-led tour, they found the dive bars and historic sites equally compelling. The tour’s focus on local legends and traditional venues offers a genuine taste of NOLA’s spirit—more than just a bar crawl.

Possible Downsides

A few reviewers noted they expected a more mixologist-style experience—focused on cocktail crafting—rather than visiting dive bars. If your primary goal is to learn cocktail-making techniques, this might not exactly fit. However, if you enjoy hearing stories and learning about the city’s drinking culture, you’ll find this tour very satisfying.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for adults 21 and over who love history, storytelling, and a lively atmosphere. It’s ideal for travelers who want a relaxed, informative walk through the French Quarter, with plenty of opportunities to sample classic cocktails. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate local traditions and want to hear stories behind legendary drinks from passionate guides.

It’s less suited for travelers with mobility issues, as it involves walking in potentially warm or rainy weather. Food isn’t included, so if you’re hungry, plan to grab a bite before or after the tour.

The Sum Up

This award-winning French Quarter cocktail tour offers a balanced mix of history, culture, and fun. For just $20, you gain access to historic sites, engaging stories, and the chance to taste some of New Orleans’ most famous drinks. It’s a smart choice for curious travelers who want to get a sense of NOLA’s lively spirit without the fuss of a full dinner or a more expensive tour.

The guides’ knowledge and friendliness shine through, making the experience feel personal and memorable. The opportunity to purchase drinks to-go and enjoy them while exploring the city streets adds a practical, relaxed vibe that many travelers find appealing.

If you’re a history buff, a cocktail enthusiast, or just someone eager to absorb the essence of New Orleans, this tour hits all the right notes. It’s a fine way to add some liquid history to your trip and leave with stories to tell long after your visit.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for all ages?
No, it’s designed for adults 21+ due to alcohol consumption.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes, including stops at three historic venues.

Do I need to prepare anything?
Just bring comfortable shoes and a curiosity for NOLA’s cocktail stories.

Are drinks included in the price?
No, drinks are purchased separately at each stop, but you can take them to-go in a convenient cup.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably for walking; the tour operates in all weather conditions, so consider rain gear if needed.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour.

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
While you can enjoy the stories and sites, the main focus is on cocktails, so it’s best suited for those who enjoy a drink or are of legal drinking age.

How many people will be on the tour?
The group size is limited to 16 travelers, ensuring a personal and engaging experience.

Where does the tour end?
It concludes at Laura’s Candies, 331 Chartres St, giving you options to continue exploring or grab a sweet treat.