Pirate Pub Crawl in New Orleans

Experience the darker, more colorful side of New Orleans through a lively pirate-themed pub crawl. Led by a characterful guide, likely a salty pirate, this tour takes you through some of the most intriguing and often questionable bars in the French Quarter. For just $39 per person and lasting about an hour and a half, it’s a fantastic way to combine history, humor, and a bit of drinking in one memorable evening.

What we love about this experience is the storytelling — the guide is described as well-researched, entertaining, and capable of turning brutal history into a lively narrative. The second highlight is the variety of bars visited, each with its own character and signature drinks, giving us a taste of the local nightlife and quirkiest spots in the French Quarter.

A possible consideration is that drinks are not included, so expect to pay for your own beverages, which can add up depending on your appetite. Also, because of the adult-only 21+ policy, this tour isn’t suitable for families or younger travelers.

This pub crawl suits travelers who enjoy history and storytelling, have a good sense of humor, and don’t mind a bit of a raucous night out. Fans of unique local tales and lively bar atmospheres will find it especially engaging, as reviews suggest it’s perfect for those who want more than just a typical night on Bourbon Street.

Key Points

• Authentic storytelling: A well-informed guide shares brutal, fascinating stories of pirates, prostitutes, and dark deeds.
• Varied bar experience: Four different bars, each with its own vibe and signature drinks, provide a well-rounded taste of the French Quarter night scene.
• Accessible location: Starts at Pirates Alley, walking through Jackson Square, Pirates Alley, and Bourbon Street.
• Cost and duration: At $39, it offers good value for a guided, themed experience lasting about 90 minutes.
• Adults-only fun: Designed for guests over 21; perfect for those wanting a lively, adult night out.
• Flexible ending: The tour ends at Bourbon Street, but the group’s fun level influences how long you stay.

A Closer Look at the Pirate Pub Crawl Experience

Stepping into the French Quarter at night, you’ll immediately sense the area’s lively, slightly gritty atmosphere. The tour begins at 632 Pirates Alley, a fitting start for a pirate-themed adventure, and aims to take you through four distinct bars. Each stop promises a different ambiance, from the historic to the downright questionable, with a focus on storytelling that’s both educational and entertaining.

The Guide and the Stories

One of the standout features, according to reviews, is the guide—described as “very informed” and able to weave brutal historical tales with humor. When we think of pirate stories, we often picture swashbuckling adventure, but here you’ll hear about pirates, prostitutes, sword fights, torture, and the darker side of New Orleans’s past. The stories are intended to make you laugh and wince, making the experience feel authentic and memorable.

For instance, one reviewer mentions that the guide made even history haters enjoy the tour, which speaks to the storytelling skill involved. The stories are not sugar-coated; they reflect the brutal reality of the city’s darker history, transforming the night into a lively, educational experience.

The Bars Visited

The tour encompasses four bars, each offering a different flavor of New Orleans nightlife. Some spots may have signature drinks worth trying, adding an extra dimension to your evening. The variety means you’ll see everything from historic taverns to more modern, lively venues.

Walking through Jackson Square, Pirates Alley, and Bourbon Street, you get a real taste of the city’s vibrant, sometimes mysterious character. The tour provides not just drinks but also moments of stunning visual appeal—like the iconic views of the French Quarter at night.

What Travelers Say

A couple of reviews highlight just how engaging and fun this tour is. One reviewer calls it the “best history walking tour in NOLA”, emphasizing the research behind the stories and the fun atmosphere created by the guide. Another praises it as “a unique way to see the city” and notes that even those usually uninterested in history found it captivating.

Practicalities and Considerations

The tour is designed for adults over 21, so no children are permitted. It’s a group experience capped at 15 travelers, which helps keep the atmosphere intimate and lively. The company, Pirates of the Quarter Tours, offers a free cancellation policy—if weather interferes or plans change, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

You’ll need to purchase your drinks separately, so budget accordingly. The tour begins at 7:00 pm, making it a perfect start to an evening of exploring or bar hopping on your own afterward.

Why This Tour Offers Great Value

At $39, this pirate pub crawl offers a blend of entertainment, education, and local flavor that’s hard to match at this price point. The inclusion of a well-researched guide and a walk through some of the most iconic spots in the French Quarter makes it a worthwhile investment for travelers interested in storytelling and nightlife.

If you’re someone who appreciates authentic local tales or enjoys a lively, adult-oriented atmosphere, you’ll likely find this tour both fun and rewarding. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to see parts of the French Quarter you might not explore on your own.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is ideal for adults who love history with a humorous twist, enjoy group activities, and are looking for a night that combines storytelling with a bit of drinking. It’s perfect if you want a more authentic, less touristy experience of New Orleans’s famed nightlife.

Travelers who value guides with a knack for storytelling and enjoy exploring historic neighborhoods will find the tour’s stops interesting. If you’re traveling with a group or couple seeking a fun, social evening, this pirate-themed pub crawl could be a highlight of your visit.

FAQs

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
Since drinks are not included and the tour involves visiting bars, it’s best suited for those who enjoy alcohol. However, non-drinkers can still enjoy the storytelling and sights, but they should plan to skip the drinks.

What is the age requirement?
The tour is exclusively for adults over 21—with the adult theme and alcohol involved, it’s not appropriate for minors.

How long does the tour last?
It runs for approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes, making it a compact but lively experience without taking up your entire evening.

Are the drinks included?
No, drinks are not included in the price. You should budget for your beverages at each bar.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 632 Pirates Alley and ends at a bar on Bourbon Street, with the exact ending time depending on how much fun everyone is having.

Is there a cancellation policy?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, which adds a layer of flexibility for your plans.

In essence, the Pirate Pub Crawl in New Orleans offers a spirited, authentic look at the city’s darker history served with humor, engaging storytelling, and a variety of local bars. It’s a superb choice for travelers who want to combine education with entertainment, especially those curious about New Orleans’s less-glamorous past and lively nightlife scene. Whether you’re a history buff or just looking for a fun night out, this tour promises both laughs and memorable stories in one of America’s most vibrant neighborhoods.