New Orleans: Guided Bourbon Street Bar Crawl with Shots

Discover New Orleans’ Nightlife: A Guided Bourbon Street Bar Crawl with Shots

Exploring Bourbon Street with a knowledgeable guide, for just $35, offers a lively taste of New Orleans’ legendary party scene in a manageable two-hour tour. Starting at Coyote Ugly Saloon, you’ll meet other travelers, pick up your souvenir cup, and dive into a night filled with energetic bars, live music, and fun stories from your guide.

What we love about this experience is how it balances authentic local flavor with the convenience of a guided group. You get to enjoy some welcome shots to break the ice—ideal for solo travelers or small groups—and then move through a variety of venues that showcase the city’s musical heartbeat, from DJ nights to local bands. Plus, the special drink deals you can access with your souvenir cup make it a great value.

One potential thing to keep in mind is that this tour is not suitable for those under 21 or anyone with limited mobility, given the bar-hopping nature and some venues’ limited wheelchair accessibility. Still, if you’re looking to experience New Orleans’ nightlife in a friendly, social setting, this crawl offers a fun, safe way to do so. It’s perfect for those wanting a lively introduction to the city’s famous party scene, especially if you enjoy meeting new people and experiencing local music firsthand.

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Key Points

Vibrant Atmosphere: Visit top bars on Bourbon Street with lively live music and energetic crowds.
Cost-Effective: Use your souvenir cup to access special drinks deals, saving money during your night out.
Inclusive Experience: Perfect for solo travelers or small groups looking for a guided, social night.
Authentic Insight: Your guide shares stories about Bourbon Street’s history and culture, enriching your experience.
Short & Manageable: Just 2 hours allows you to enjoy the highlights without feeling overwhelmed.
Age Restriction: Must be 21+ to participate, so plan accordingly.

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The Complete Experience: What to Expect on Your Bourbon Street Crawl

Meeting Your Guide and Starting at Coyote Ugly Saloon

Your adventure begins inside the iconic Coyote Ugly Saloon, easily recognizable by its large purple table. Here, you’ll meet your guide and the rest of the group, all eager to experience the vibrant spirit of Bourbon Street together.

The first order of business is to down a welcome shot, a fun way to break the ice and start the night with a communal toast. From here, you’ll be handed your souvenir cup, which will serve as your ticket to drink specials across multiple venues. The guide will brief you on how to use your cup for discounts, ensuring you make the most of your night without overspending.

Exploring Bourbon Street’s Bars and Venues

As you head down Bourbon Street, the energy shifts from the initial meet-and-greet. Each stop is carefully selected to showcase different aspects of New Orleans’ entertainment scene. Some bars feature balconies overlooking the street, perfect for catching the bustling atmosphere from above, while others boast live bands that fill the rooms with jazz, blues, or rock beats.

Your guide, often sharing insightful anecdotes, will point out notable spots and tell stories about the street’s colorful history. You might visit a karaoke bar where you can belt out your favorite tunes or participate in fun drinking games that capture the city’s festive spirit.

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The Music and Atmosphere

One of the highlights of this tour is the live music at various venues. Whether it’s a band playing jazz standards or a DJ spinning tunes, you’ll find yourself tapping your feet and moving to the beat. Several reviews mention the lively vibe and friendly crowds, making it impossible not to get caught up in the fun.

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Special Drinks and Deals

Thanks to your souvenir cup, you’ll have access to special drinks deals at each stop. This not only helps you save money but also encourages trying some local specialties. Be sure to ask your guide about the best values—many venues offer discounted shots, cocktails, or beers when you present your cup.

The Fun of Drinking Games and Shared Experiences

The tour also offers opportunities for participating in drinking games, which are a great way to break the ice and bond with your fellow crawlers. One reviewer noted that the group had a blast, thanks to the fun and friendly atmosphere created by the guide and the lively environment.

Closing the Night

After roughly two hours, the tour concludes back at Coyote Ugly or nearby. Many guests feel that the experience provided a fantastic glimpse into Bourbon Street’s lively nightlife, with enough variety to satisfy different tastes.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour price of $35 per person covers the walking tour, your local guide, a souvenir cup, and welcome shots. However, additional drinks are available for purchase at each venue, so budget accordingly if you plan to indulge more.

Since the tour runs mostly in the evening and operates rain or shine, be prepared for the weather with appropriate clothing and comfortable shoes. The experience is designed to be fun and social, so dressing comfortably is key.

Practical Tips for Your Bourbon Street Crawl

Bring your ID or passport, as proof of age is required.
Wear comfortable shoes—you’ll be walking and standing quite a bit.
Arrive on time at Coyote Ugly Saloon to meet your guide and group.
Plan for some extra spending if you want to buy additional drinks or souvenirs.
Be aware of accessibility limitations; some venues might not be wheelchair accessible.
Participants must be 21 or older—so this isn’t suitable for minors.

Authentic Experience & Real Value

This tour offers a well-balanced blend of guided fun, local music, and authentic Bourbon Street sights. For only $35, you get to sample drinks, participate in drinking games, and enjoy live music, all while learning some fun stories about the neighborhood’s history.

The reviews highlight the value for money—one traveler from the US said, “Jason was awesome! The group had a blast,” emphasizing that the guide’s personality and the lively environment make all the difference. Another mentioned the good variety of pubs, which kept the experience fresh and engaging.

This experience is particularly suited for solo travelers, small groups, or couples wanting a social, lively night out. It’s ideal for those who enjoy music, drinks, and meeting new people in a safe, guided setting. If you’re looking for a fast-paced, fun introduction to Bourbon Street’s nightlife, this tour ticks all the boxes.

Final Thoughts: Who Will Love This Tour

If you’re after a cost-effective way to experience the best of Bourbon Street with a guide who shares stories and takes you to hand-picked venues, then this tour is a smart choice. It’s perfect for first-timers wanting a lively, safe, and social introduction to New Orleans’ iconic nightlife scene.

However, if you’re seeking a more in-depth or relaxed experience or have accessibility concerns, you might want to explore some of the other options. Still, for those who want good value, fun atmosphere, and a taste of the local music and party spirit, this guided crawl offers a memorable evening.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for people under 21?
No, participants must be 21 or older to join, as it involves drinking alcohol.

How long does the tour last?
The tour is approximately 2 hours, usually in the evening, giving you a lively snapshot of Bourbon Street’s nightlife.

What is included in the price?
The price covers the walking tour, your local guide, a souvenir cup, and welcome shots. Additional drinks are available for purchase.

Where do I meet the guide?
Inside Coyote Ugly Saloon, at the big purple table.

Can I buy more drinks during the tour?
Yes, you can purchase additional drinks at each venue—your souvenir cup offers special deals to help save money.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
Some venues may have limited accessibility, and non-folding wheelchairs are not allowed on this tour.

What should I wear?
Comfortable shoes and clothes are recommended, as you’ll be walking and standing for the duration.

Is the tour operated rain or shine?
Yes, the tour runs regardless of weather, so dress appropriately.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Would this tour be good for socializing?
Absolutely. The group setting, drinking games, and lively atmosphere make it great for meeting new people and having fun.

Final Word

The New Orleans: Guided Bourbon Street Bar Crawl with Shots provides a spirited, affordable, and well-organized way to enjoy one of the city’s most iconic streets. It’s an especially good pick for those eager to experience the lively music scene, meet fellow travelers, and get a taste of Bourbon Street’s famous party atmosphere—all in just two hours. If you value authentic local experiences, good value for money, and a friendly guide to navigate the city’s nightlife, this tour could be the highlight of your trip to New Orleans.