New Orleans City Bike Tour

Discover the Best of New Orleans on a Guided Bike Tour

The New Orleans City Bike Tour offers a relaxed and informative way to see the city’s most iconic neighborhoods without the hassle of renting a car. Priced at $60.00 per person, this 3-hour 30-minute tour is perfect for those wanting a rundown of New Orleans’ vibrant streets and historic sites. The tour departs from 1735 Washington Ave at 9:30 am, with a maximum group size of 10 travelers, ensuring a personal experience.

This tour is owner-operated, which means you get personalized service and a guide with deep local knowledge. The bicycle use, bottled water, helmet, and rain poncho are included, making it a convenient and comfortable way to explore. An excellent choice for first-time visitors and those eager to learn about New Orleans’ unique neighborhoods, architecture, and culture.

Key Points

• Affordable and accessible: At $60, with all gear provided and a small group size.
• In-depth tour: Covers French Quarter, Garden District, historic cemeteries, and more.
• Educational and fun: Learn about the city’s history, architecture, music, and traditions from a knowledgeable guide.
• Well-paced ride: Biking at a comfortable speed, covering about 10 miles with stops at key locations.
• Weather-ready: Tour operates rain or shine; rain gear is available.
• Ideal for those wanting a comprehensive, active overview of New Orleans, especially on the first day.

Starting at the Heart of the French Quarter

The tour begins at 1735 Washington Ave, in the Garden District area, offering a smooth start to the exploration. From there, the guide leads you through one of the oldest neighborhoods in the country, where beautiful architecture and the sounds of local music immediately set the tone. The French Quarter is the first stop, where historic buildings and lively streets showcase the city’s vibrant culture.

This initial segment lasts about 1 hour and 30 minutes, allowing plenty of time to see Jackson Square, admire the St. Louis Cathedral, and soak in the colorful history of the area. Visitors can expect to see street performers and enjoy the lively atmosphere that makes New Orleans unique.

Admire the Architecture of St. Louis Cathedral

The St. Louis Cathedral is an imposing and beautiful structure, recognized as the oldest Catholic Church in America. The guide quickly points out its notable architecture and shares stories behind its history. With only 5 minutes at this stop, visitors get a glimpse of its grandeur and significance without long waits.

This stop offers a perfect photo opportunity and an understanding of the religious and cultural influence on New Orleans’ development. The guide’s commentary enhances this experience, emphasizing the cathedral’s role in the city’s spiritual life.

Jackson Square: Art, Street Performers, and Local Vibe

The tour then moves to Jackson Square, the center of Old New Orleans. Visitors have about 15 minutes here to walk around, explore local art stalls, and enjoy the street performers. The vibrant scene captures the creative spirit of the city and offers a chance to appreciate the historic surroundings.

This stop is particularly bustling and provides an excellent opportunity for photos and observing the local culture in action. The guide shares insights about the square’s historical importance and the artists who frequently showcase their work there.

Scenic Ride Past Balconies and Street Performers

Following Jackson Square, the tour cruises along Royal Street, famous for its balconies and galleries. As you pedal past some of the most beautiful balconies in the city, street performers entertain, creating an electric atmosphere. This segment lasts about 5 minutes, offering a visual feast of architecture and lively street life.

The guide points out notable balconies, galleries, and street performers, giving context to the Mardi Gras traditions and music scene that thrive along this corridor.

Visiting Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar and Pirate Lore

A highlight of this tour is the visit to Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar, one of the oldest bars in the US. In a quick 5-minute stop, the guide tells stories about pirate Jean Lafitte and how the bar was historically used to fence treasures. This spot combines history and legend, offering a taste of the pirate lore that pervades New Orleans.

The historic ambiance and tales about pirates and treasures give a fun and slightly mysterious feel to the tour, adding to the city’s adventurous character.

Exploring the Heart of the City’s Cultural Scene

The tour then passes by some of the best restaurants, shops, and art galleries in the city. The guide shares tips on must-visit spots, helping visitors plan their own explorations later. This brief stop emphasizes the diverse and colorful nature of the city’s cultural districts.

While not a formal stop, this segment offers valuable local insight into the city’s vibrant neighborhoods and their unique offerings.

Congo Square: Birthplace of Jazz

Next, the tour visits Congo Square, a 10-minute stop that highlights its significance in musical history. Known as the site where Jazz was born, visitors hear how African rhythms and traditions influenced the city’s music scene. The guide shares stories about famous musicians who originated from this area.

This stop deepens understanding of New Orleans’ musical roots and its ongoing influence on Jazz and blues. It’s an essential part of the city’s cultural identity.

The Lively Music District and Nightlife

Continuing along, the tour passes through the music district, where the best bands perform nightly. The guide points out top venues and hot spots to experience live music later in the day, making this segment both informative and practical for planning an evening out.

This immersive experience captures the musical spirit that defines New Orleans, with plenty of recommendations for local live music scenes.

Ride Along the Levee and the Mighty Mississippi

A calm, scenic part of the tour takes you atop the levee along the Mississippi River. Here, you observe passenger and cargo vessels passing by, highlighting the river’s importance to the city’s founding and prosperity. This passive ride offers beautiful views and a chance to appreciate the river’s role in New Orleans’ history.

The guide explains how the big muddy river shaped the city’s location and growth, emphasizing its ongoing significance.

Tour of the Garden District and Grand Homes

The Garden District is a major highlight, with about 1 hour dedicated to exploring its grand, historic homes. The guide describes the notable residents and the architectural styles of the beautiful mansions. Visitors enjoy looking at celebrity homes and learning about the people who lived there.

This neighborhood reflects the wealth and elegance of New Orleans, contrasting with the lively French Quarter. The walk-through offers plenty of photo opportunities and fascinating stories.

Lafayette Cemetery No.1 and Burial Traditions

The tour concludes at Lafayette Cemetery No.1, where a 5-minute stop allows the guide to share insights about unique burial customs. Visitors learn about famous personalities buried there and get a sense of the city’s creepy yet fascinating traditions, such as above-ground tombs.

Though brief, this stop provides a memorable glimpse into the funeral practices that set New Orleans apart from other cities.

Practical Details and Tour Logistics

The New Orleans City Bike Tour offers all necessary gear, including bicycles, helmets, bottled water, and rain ponchos if needed. The tour operates rain or shine, with the possibility of rescheduling or full refunds in case of dangerous weather. The meeting point is easily accessible near public transportation, making it convenient for most visitors.

The tour’s moderate physical intensity makes it suitable for those with average fitness levels. Travelers are asked to provide heights for children to ensure proper bike sizing, ensuring safety and comfort throughout.

The Experience from Guides and Reviews

Multiple reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides, with Justin, Tanya, Brian, and Sarah earning praise for their friendly demeanor and expertise. Guides are noted for sharing stories and tips that enhance the experience, including restaurant suggestions and local lore.

Some reviews mention that the tour went over time, reflecting the engaging and thorough nature of the guides. Others appreciate the casual pace and safety focus, making it accessible for families and casual riders alike.

The Tour’s Strengths and Considerations

This bike tour excels in offering a rundown of New Orleans, combining sightseeing, history, and culture with easy cycling. It’s highly recommended for those wanting a first-day orientation or a fun, active way to learn about the city.

A few reviews note road conditions—such as pot holes and cobblestones—which may pose minor challenges. The small group size ensures personalized attention, but it also means booking 21 days in advance is advisable due to high demand.

Final Thoughts on the New Orleans City Bike Tour

This 3 hour and 30-minute guided bike tour offers a well-rounded, engaging experience of New Orleans’ most iconic neighborhoods. With experienced guides, beautiful scenery, and a focused itinerary, it provides a valuable and enjoyable introduction to the city.

While it may not dive into exhaustive historical detail, it balances sightseeing with storytelling, making it perfect for casual cyclists and curious visitors. The value for money and personalized service stand out, especially given the all-inclusive gear and small groups.

For anyone seeking a fun, informative, and active way to explore New Orleans on their first day, this owner-operated tour is a highly recommended choice.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, provided that the guide has the child’s height to determine the correct bike size. The moderate pace and family-friendly stops make it appropriate for children.

What should I wear or bring?
Comfortable clothing suitable for biking, along with sunscreen and sunglasses. The tour provides helmets and ponchos if it rains, and bottled water is included.

How physically demanding is the tour?
The ride is at a comfortable pace, covering about 10 miles with some stops. It’s suitable for those with moderate physical fitness.

Can I cancel or reschedule if the weather is bad?
Yes, the tour operates rain or shine. If the weather is dangerous, you will be offered a reschedule or full refund.

Are tips included in the price?
No, gratuities are not included and are appreciated for guides who provide excellent service.

How far in advance should I book?
It’s recommended to book about 21 days in advance to secure a spot, especially during peak seasons.