Exploring New Orleans becomes much easier and more enjoyable with the City Sightseeing HOHO Bus Tour, offering 1 to 3 days of flexible access to the city’s top sights. For $51 per person, you get a comfortable double-decker bus experience with live commentary in English, giving you a lively, informative way to see the city at your own pace. The tour’s unlimited hop-on hop-off service allows you to explore major attractions like the French Market, Bourbon Street, and the Garden District across multiple days, making it a smart choice for first-time visitors or those wanting a quick overview.

The route covers over 18 stops near key landmarks and neighborhoods, with guided walking tours of the Garden District (included in 2- and 3-day tickets) and the French Quarter (in the 3-day ticket), adding depth to your visit. The tour operates every 30 minutes, from 9:30 am to 4:00 pm, with buses lasting about 1.5 hours. While the buses are wheelchair accessible and accept both mobile and printed vouchers, note that attraction tickets, food, drinks, and hotel transfers are not included.

This tour works best for those who want a comprehensive yet flexible way to explore New Orleans without the hassle of organizing individual transport. The live guides, praised for their knowledgeable and engaging storytelling, help bring the city’s history, culture, and quirks to life. Travelers who value local insights, stunning views from the open-top deck, and the ability to customize their day find this option particularly appealing. However, keep in mind that attraction entry fees and meals are extra, and the tour ends at 5:30 pm each day.

Key Points

Flexible 1- to 3-day hop-on hop-off bus experience in New Orleans
Live English guides provide engaging commentary and local insights
Major landmarks like Jackson Square, French Market, and Bourbon Street featured
Stops near key attractions include Garden District, WWII Museum, and Lafayette Cemetery
Guided walking tours of Garden District (2 and 3-day tickets) and French Quarter (3-day tickets) included
Buses run every 30 minutes from 9:30 am to 4:00 pm, with the route lasting about 1.5 hours

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Discover the Route and Major Stops of the New Orleans HOHO Bus Tour

This tour covers over 18 stops, each near some of the city’s most iconic areas. Starting at Jackson Square and St. Louis Cathedral, the route takes you through the French Market, where you can browse local produce and souvenirs. The tour then visits Marigny and Bywater, known for music clubs and Crescent Park, offering a glimpse into the vibrant music scene.

Next, the bus stops at Treme, home to St. Augustine Church and the Tomb of the Unknown Slave, providing an insight into the city’s historical and cultural depth. Stops also include Canal Street and Royal Street, perfect for strolling and sightseeing, as well as Harrahs Casino and the Italian Piazza for entertainment and cuisine.

The Garden District, with its historic mansions and Lafayette Cemetery, is a highlight, especially since guided walking tours are included in 2- and 3-day tickets. The route also features stops at The National WWII Museum, Magazine Street shops, and the Arts District, allowing for diverse experiences from history to shopping.

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The Benefits of Guided Walks in the Garden District and French Quarter

The Garden District is accessible on the 2- and 3-day tickets, with guided walking tours departing at 11 am, noon, 1 pm, 2 pm, and 3 pm from Stop 12. These walks reveal historic mansions, lively oak trees, and famous residents’ homes, giving a deeper appreciation of the neighborhood’s charm. The Lafayette Cemetery nearby offers historic tombs and local character, best explored with the guide’s commentary.

The French Quarter tour, included in the 3-day pass, departs from Stop 1 at 700 Decatur Street and explores St. Louis Cathedral, Royal Street, and Bourbon Street. The guided walk provides context about French influence, architecture, and local stories, enriching your understanding of this iconic district. Both tours allow flexible participation, with you able to join on any day your bus ticket is valid.

Practical Details: Meeting Points, Timing, and Accessibility

The meeting points vary based on your ticket choice but generally include Stop 1 and the City Sightseeing Jackson Square Ticket Office. Buses run every 30 minutes between 9:30 am and 4:00 pm, with the last departure at 4 pm and the tour ending at 5:30 pm. This schedule offers plenty of flexibility for different plans and pacing.

Wheelchair accessibility is available on all buses, making the tour suitable for guests with mobility needs. For those bringing passports or ID cards, both mobile and printed vouchers are accepted, simplifying the check-in process. Cash is recommended for some purchases or tips, but the main tour booking is straightforward with digital or paper tickets.

Comparing the 1, 2, and 3-Day Pass Options

The 1-day ticket offers a solid overview of New Orleans’ key sights, but the 2- and 3-day passes provide added value with guided walking tours. The Garden District tour is included in the longer passes, giving travelers the chance to explore historic neighborhoods more thoroughly.

While the tour does not include attraction tickets, it grants easy access to neighborhoods and cultural sites. The extended tickets are ideal for visitors wanting to spread out their sightseeing or delve deeper into specific districts. For those on a tight schedule, the 1-day pass still offers a comprehensive introduction.

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Why This Tour Consistently Receives High Praise

Reviews highlight knowledgeable guides and engaging commentary as standout features, with many mentioning fun storytelling and local tips. The live guide experience is often preferred over audio-only options, making the tour more lively and interactive.

Travelers appreciate the route’s coverage of top sights, like Jackson Square, Bourbon Street, and the WWII Museum. The buses’ frequency — every 30 minutes — allows for a relaxed pace and flexibility, enabling guests to spend more time at their favorite stops. The guided walking tours further enhance the experience, providing deeper insights and historic context.

While some note that buses can be older and timing is tight at some stops, overall, the value for money is well regarded, especially given the local expertise and scenic views from the open-top deck.

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This Tour: Who Will Enjoy It Most?

This hop-on hop-off experience suits first-time visitors eager to get a broad sense of New Orleans’ diverse neighborhoods without the stress of planning individual transport. It’s ideal for history buffs, music lovers, and foodies alike, thanks to stops near famous markets, historic sites, and cultural districts.

Those who value guided storytelling over pre-recorded audio will find the live guides especially engaging, with reviews consistently praising their knowledge and personality. The tour’s flexibility makes it perfect for families, couples, or solo travelers looking to explore at their pace while enjoying the scenic views from the open-top deck.

However, guests should note that additional attraction tickets, meals, and hotel transfers are not included, and timing restrictions mean you’ll want to plan your day accordingly.

Final Thoughts on the City Sightseeing New Orleans HOHO Bus Tour

This tour offers a cost-effective, flexible way to see New Orleans, especially for first-time visitors or those with limited time. The live guides elevate the experience, making the sightseeing more personable and insightful. The included guided walks deepen the understanding of the historic neighborhoods, and the route’s coverage ensures you won’t miss key sights.

While the buses are accessible and run frequently, some may find the older vehicle fleet a minor drawback. The combination of convenience, local expertise, and scenic views from the open-top deck makes this tour a highly recommended choice for exploring the Crescent City.

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City Sightseeing New Orleans HOHO Bus Tour & Bookable Extras

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the bus tour last?
The bus tour duration is approximately 1.5 hours for a full loop.

Can I hop off at any stop?
Yes, the unlimited hop-on hop-off system allows you to disembark at any stop and re-board later.

Are the buses accessible for wheelchairs?
Yes, the buses are wheelchair accessible.

What is included in the 2- and 3-day tickets that is not in the 1-day ticket?
The Garden District Guided Walking Tour is included in the 2- and 3-day tickets, while the French Quarter Guided Walking Tour is included only in the 3-day ticket.

Do I need to print my voucher?
No, both mobile and printed vouchers are accepted.

What landmarks are on the route?
Major stops include Jackson Square, French Market, Bourbon Street, WWII Museum, Garden District, Lafayette Cemetery, and Riverfront.

Is the tour suitable for families?
Yes, the schedules and accessibility make it suitable for families, especially those wanting a relaxed way to explore.

What should I bring?
Bring passport or ID and cash if needed, as well as sun protection for the open-top deck.

Can I join the guided walking tours on any day?
Yes, you can join the Garden District or French Quarter guided walks on any day your bus ticket is valid.

Is food or drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included but are available at stops like the French Market and local restaurants.