Garden District Secrets and Scandals Tour

Explore the Garden District’s Hidden Stories and Stunning Homes

The Garden District Secrets and Scandals Tour offers a 2-hour walk through one of New Orleans’ most picturesque neighborhoods. Priced at $30 per person, this tour is perfect for those who want an engaging mix of architecture, history, and behind-the-scenes tales. The tour departs from 1332 Washington Ave and ends near 1422 Jackson Ave, with small groups limited to 15 guests, ensuring personalized attention and lively interaction.

One of the tour’s key strengths is its focus on little-known secrets and scandals behind the neighborhood’s grand homes. Guided by fun and knowledgeable guides, participants learn about gamblers, adventurers, corrupt politicians, and even which rock star was not invited back. The experience combines visual storytelling, like images of real characters and a fun Polaroid of your group, with fascinating historical anecdotes that bring the neighborhood to life.

While the tour includes a break at Rink Mall, a historic roller skating rink, it does not include admission to Lafayette Cemetery No.1, which is currently closed by the city. Still, the tour offers a comprehensive look at the architecture and celebrity homes of the Garden District—making it an ideal choice for those seeking both visual beauty and intriguing stories.

Key Points

• Duration: Approximately 2 hours with a lively, engaging pace
• Price: Only $30 per person with small group sizes for a personalized experience
• Highlights: Architecture, celebrity homes, filming locations, and secret scandals
• Stops: Lafayette Cemetery No.1 (view tombs from outside), Garden District homes, Women’s Guild of the New Orleans Opera
• Includes: An English-speaking guide; refreshment break at Rink Mall; fun extras like images and a group Polaroid

Starting at Lafayette Cemetery No.1 and Its Tales

The tour begins with a view of Lafayette Cemetery No.1, where the group discusses the city’s unique burial customs and notable locals interred there. Due to city restrictions, admission is not included, but the guide provides insight into the cemetery’s history, its French and Catholic influences, and its appearances in Hollywood films such as Interview with the Vampire and Double Jeopardy.

The outside view of the tombs sparks stories about the city’s founding and funeral traditions. This stop sets the tone for the tour—highlighting how history and storytelling intertwine in New Orleans.

Walking Through the Iconic Garden District Homes

Next, the tour moves into the Gorgeous Garden District, where the focus shifts to the architecture and celebrity homes. Visitors get a chance to admire the antebellum mansions and learn about their architectural styles that reflect the neighborhood’s growth.

Guides share tales of scandals, famous residents, and the history behind many unusual homes. The walk offers a refreshing escape from the typical French Quarter crowds and emphasizes visual splendor and historical intrigue. You might even catch a glimpse of a celebrity home, adding a touch of excitement.

Visiting the Women’s Guild of the New Orleans Opera

In a quick 5-minute stop, the group visits the Women’s Guild of the New Orleans Opera, a site used as a production office for Quentin Tarantino’s film Django Unchained. This brief visit ties into the neighborhood’s cinematic history, adding another layer to the tour’s storytelling.

Coffee, Refreshments, and a Historic Rink Break

Midway through, the tour pauses at Rink Mall, a historic roller skating rink turned shopping and dining hub. The break allows for food, drink, and restroom visits, giving guests a chance to relax and take in the lively atmosphere. This thoughtful pause is appreciated, especially for those who want a moment to recharge amid the walk.

Filming Locations and Celebrity Homes

The tour highlights various filming locations from movies and TV shows shot in the neighborhood. It also showcases the homes of movie stars and celebrities, giving a glimpse into the lives of the area’s most famous residents. The guide shares fun facts and stories behind the homes, making the experience both entertaining and informative.

Final Stop at the Largest Home and American Horror Story Location

The tour concludes at the largest home in the neighborhood, also known as a location from American Horror Story: Coven. Standing before this grand house, visitors appreciate the neighborhood’s architectural grandeur and its pop culture significance. The ending provides a perfect photo opportunity and a lasting memory of the neighborhood’s beauty and mystique.

Logistics and Accessibility

This small group tour, led by fun and knowledgeable guides, ensures an intimate experience. The meeting point at 1332 Washington Ave is easily accessible, with proximity to public transportation. The tour is suitable for most travelers, with service animals allowed and little physical strain. The maximum group size of 15 helps keep the experience personalized and engaging.

Why Choose the Garden District Secrets and Scandals Tour?

This tour stands out for its blend of stunning architecture, historical tales, and celebrity stories. The small group size fosters interaction, and the informative guides bring the neighborhood’s secrets to life. The refreshment break adds a relaxed element to the walk, and the focus on both well-known and hidden stories makes the experience truly unique.

While admission to Lafayette Cemetery No.1 is not included and the cemetery is currently closed, the rest of the tour offers plenty of visual and narrative richness. This tour is ideal for history enthusiasts, architecture lovers, and those interested in Hollywood connections or local scandals.

Final Thoughts on the Garden District Secrets and Scandals Tour

For only $30, this 2-hour guided walk delivers a rich mix of history, architecture, and storytelling in the beautiful Garden District. The small group setting ensures an engaging experience, and guides like Josh and Jackson earn praise for their knowledge, humor, and passion.

The tour’s highlighted stops, including the cinematic sites and celebrity homes, make it a memorable exploration for visitors wanting to see beyond the surface of New Orleans’ most elegant neighborhood. The break at Rink Mall and visual extras like photos enrich the experience.

This tour offers excellent value, a relaxed pace, and a chance to discover the secrets behind the scenic facades of the Garden District. It’s perfect for history buffs, architecture fans, and pop culture enthusiasts alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
Yes, the tour is appropriate for most travelers and is suitable for families, especially with small groups that allow for a relaxed, engaging experience.

Are tickets refundable?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start. Refunds are processed if canceled at least 24 hours in advance.

Does the tour include admission to Lafayette Cemetery No.1?
No, admission to Lafayette Cemetery No.1 is not included and the cemetery is currently closed by the city.

What is the tour’s duration?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours, with a break at Rink Mall included.

Who leads the tour?
The tour is guided by fun, knowledgeable guides who bring the neighborhood’s stories to life with humor and insight.

Can service animals join the tour?
Yes, service animals are allowed.

Where does the tour start and end?
It begins at 1332 Washington Ave and concludes near 1422 Jackson Ave.

Is transportation provided?
No, this is a walking tour; guests should wear comfortable shoes.

What makes this tour different from others in the area?
Its focus on hidden secrets, scandals, and Hollywood filming locations, combined with a small group setting and fun extras, sets it apart.

What can I expect to see during the tour?
You will see beautiful homes, learn stories of famous residents, explore film locations, and hear about local scandals, all within the gorgeous Garden District.