New Orleans Homes of the Rich and Famous Tour of the Garden District

Discover the New Orleans Homes of the Rich and Famous Tour of the Garden District for $30 per person, offering a 2-hour walking experience that combines eye-catching architecture, celebrity sightings, and local stories. Starting at the gates of Lafayette Cemetery, this tour takes you through the elegant streets built in the 1800s, designed to rival the French Quarter’s splendor.

We appreciate that this tour is well-suited for those interested in historic homes, movie filming sites, and celebrity residences. With an average booking window of 17 days in advance, it offers a manageable pace with plenty of opportunities for photos and rest stops. The guide’s friendly and knowledgeable demeanor shines through, making this a popular choice for visitors seeking insight into New Orleans’ high-society neighborhoods.

Key Points

• 2-hour guided walking tour starting at Lafayette Cemetery in the Garden District
• Visit outside celebrity homes, including properties linked to Anne Rice and Nicolas Cage
• See historic homes from the Antebellum era along Prytania Street
• Learn about New Orleans’ history, architecture, and famous residents
• Group size limited to 28, ensuring a personalized experience
• Tour operates rain or shine, with a friendly local guide leading the way

Meeting Point at Lafayette Cemetery for the Garden District Tour

The tour begins at the gates of Lafayette Cemetery, where travelers meet their guide for the 2-hour walk through one of New Orleans’ most picturesque neighborhoods. This meeting point is easily accessible near Le Petit Bleu at 1427 Washington Ave, close to public transportation options.

Travelers should arrive prepared for a leisurely walk, with moderate physical activity required. The tour’s starting location provides a scenic introduction to the area’s historic charm, setting the tone for the homes and sites you’ll see throughout the walk.

Exploring the Architectural Marvels of the Garden District

As the guide leads you through the elegant streets of the Garden District, you’ll encounter some of the most iconic historic homes and lush gardens in New Orleans. The neighborhood was developed in the 1800s, and many of its properties reflect Antebellum architecture, featuring grand mansions, ornate ironwork, and expansive front lawns.

The tour emphasizes homes of the wealthy and famous, including former residences of Anne Rice, the renowned author, and the house where Jefferson Davis died. While the homes are viewed from the outside, their impressive facades and distinctive styles offer plenty of opportunities for photos and admiration.

Celebrity Homes and Movie Filming Sites

A notable highlight of this tour is the outside view of homes associated with celebrity residents like Nicholas Cage and Anne Rice. The guide shares stories about these figures and explains their connection to the neighborhood.

Plus, the Garden District has served as a filming location for several movies. Visitors will learn which sites appeared on-screen, adding a layer of cinematic interest to the walk. Though the homes are viewed externally, the storytelling enriches the experience with background details about Hollywood productions in the area.

Strolling Down Prytania Street

The tour includes a 15-minute segment along Prytania Street, a main thoroughfare lined with historic homes from the Antebellum period. This street offers a snapshot of classic Southern architecture with well-preserved mansions and charming gardens.

Walking along Prytania provides a different perspective on the neighborhood’s development and showcases some of the most picturesque properties in the district. The guide points out specific architectural features, giving insight into the design choices of the era.

The Pace and Group Size of the Tour

This small-group tour is designed for a relaxed pace, with plenty of rest stops and photo opportunities. While most reviews highlight the knowledge and friendliness of the guide, some note that the duration can extend beyond 2 hours if the group is chatty or the guide shares extra stories.

The maximum group size of 28 ensures personalized attention and allows for questions along the way. Travelers should be comfortable with moderate walking and wearing good shoes, especially since the tour covers a good amount of ground and involves walking on uneven sidewalks.

The Guide’s Role in Making the Tour Memorable

The success of this tour largely hinges on the guide’s storytelling ability. Multiple reviews praise guides like Jet and Bobby for their enthusiasm, local knowledge, and openness. They often share personal stories, past experiences with celebrities, and interesting facts about New Orleans’ history, making the experience lively and engaging.

Some reviews mention that the guide’s personal anecdotes sometimes overshadow general lore, which can be a plus or drawback depending on your preference. Regardless, a friendly guide with a wealth of local insights makes for an enjoyable walk.

Practical Tips and Considerations

Travelers should bring good walking shoes and be prepared for outdoor exposure, as most of the tour takes place outside. The tour operates rain or shine, so packing an umbrella or raincoat is recommended in wet weather.

Since the tour is about homes and neighborhoods viewed from the street, there are no food or drinks included, so plan accordingly. Also, the moderate physical effort required makes it accessible for most people with reasonable mobility.

Cancellation Policy and Booking Advice

Booking can be done up to 17 days in advance on average, with free cancellation available if canceled at least 24 hours before. This flexibility allows visitors to reserve confidently, knowing they can adjust plans if needed.

For those interested in exploring the Garden District and nearby historic sites, this tour offers a balanced combination of storytelling, sightseeing, and relaxed walking, making it an ideal addition to a New Orleans itinerary.

Why Choose This Tour? The Highlights and Limitations

This tour stands out for its affordable price, informative guides, and focus on celebrity homes, making it appealing for visitors interested in architecture, Hollywood connections, and local lore. The small group size ensures a more personal experience, and the leisurely pace allows for enjoying each stop without feeling rushed.

However, some reviews note that the tour length can extend beyond the scheduled two hours, especially if stories are shared generously. Plus, since the homes are viewed from the outside, those seeking interior access or in-depth historical lectures might find this format limited.

Overall, this tour offers a friendly, informative, and visually stunning exploration of the Garden District, perfect for visitors wanting a casual yet engaging introduction to New Orleans’ high-end neighborhoods.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Yes, the tour is primarily outdoors and involves walking at a moderate pace, making it suitable for most age groups. Travelers should have good walking shoes and be comfortable outdoors.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included in this tour. It focuses on outside views of homes and historical sites.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, booking is flexible with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance. Cancellations made less than 24 hours before the tour are non-refundable.

How accessible is the tour for people with mobility issues?
The tour involves moderate walking and some uneven sidewalk surfaces. Travelers with mobility concerns should consider this before booking.

What makes this tour different from other New Orleans city tours?
This tour emphasizes celebrity homes and historic architecture in the Garden District, with a small group size and personal storytelling that many other tours may not provide.

Who is the ideal traveler for this experience?
Anyone interested in architecture, celebrity history, or the charm of New Orleans’ historic neighborhoods will find this tour rewarding. It’s especially suited for those who prefer a relaxed pace and outdoor exploration.