New Orleans: Voodoo, Storyville, and Treme Walking Tour

Discover the fascinating layers of New Orleans through the Voodoo, Storyville, and Treme Walking Tour. Priced at $30 per person and lasting 2 hours, this guided experience offers an engaging journey into some of the city’s most iconic neighborhoods and cultural landmarks. Led by a knowledgeable guide, the tour begins at Backatown Coffee and visits key sites like Basin Street Station, Louis Armstrong Park, and Congo Square. With a supplier rating of 4.4, this tour strikes a balance between educational insight and immersive exploration, making it suitable for those interested in history, music, and local traditions.

While the tour does involve some walking and covers a diverse range of neighborhoods, it offers a compact and affordable way to get a broad sense of New Orleans’ Creole, African-American, and jazz roots. Travelers should wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for weather conditions, as some stops are outdoors. The experience stands out through its specific focus on Storyville’s red-light history, Voodoo’s connection to Roman Catholicism, and the neighborhoods featured in HBO’s Treme.

Key Points

• Affordable and concise: The tour costs $30 and lasts just 2 hours, making it easy to include in a busy schedule.
• Covers iconic sites: Stops include Basin Street Station, Louis Armstrong Park, Congo Square, and the site of Marie Laveau’s home.
• Focus on history and culture: Learn about Storyville’s red-light district, Voodoo practices and myths, and the War of the Pews.
• Includes a visit to the Iberville Housing Project: Discover its history and significance in the local landscape.
• Optional visit to the Backstreet Cultural Museum: A highlight for those interested in Mardi Gras Indian and Second Line traditions.
• Tour starts at Backatown Coffee: An accessible and familiar meeting point in the city.

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Starting Point at Backatown Coffee in the Heart of the City

The tour begins at Backatown Coffee, a lively spot that serves as a gateway into the historic districts. From here, the guide leads you through Storyville, New Orleans’ former decriminalized prostitution district, which played a significant role in shaping early jazz. The tour emphasizes Storyville’s legacy with its surviving buildings and its influence on talents like Jelly Roll Morton, King Oliver, and Sidney Bechet.

The walk into the Iberville Housing Project—known today as the Bienville Basin Apartments—allows insights into the area’s social history. This site provides context on urban development and New Urbanism trends in architecture, connecting past and present in the city’s evolving landscape.

Exploring the Legendary Neighborhoods of Voodoo and Congo Square

The tour takes a deep look into Voodoo, exploring its West African roots and its merger with Roman Catholicism in the context of slave-holding colonies. The guide offers a clear distinction between Voodoo myth and reality, helping to demystify this often-misunderstood religion. The biography of Marie Laveau, the most renowned Voodoo Queen in U.S. history, features prominently, with insights into her influence and the myths surrounding her.

Next, the tour visits Congo Square and Louis Armstrong Park, where African traditions and music have thrived for generations. These sites serve as cultural landmarks celebrating African-American heritage and musical innovation. The guide also points out Perseverance Hall, the Rabassa-de Pouilly House, and St. Augustine’s Catholic Church, enriching the narrative of cultural resilience.

The Significance of Basin Street Station and Louis Armstrong Park

Basin Street Station offers a glimpse into New Orleans’ jazz history. Once a transportation hub, it now symbolizes the city’s musical roots. The nearby Louis Armstrong Park honors Louis Armstrong, one of the jazz world’s giants, and the historic Congo Square where enslaved Africans gathered for drumming and dancing.

The tour explains the War of the Pews, an event at St. Augustine’s Church, highlighting the conflicts between different community groups and the ongoing fight for cultural and religious recognition. These sites help visitors understand how music, religion, and social struggles are intertwined in New Orleans’ history.

The 1891 Parish Prison Vendetta and Mardi Gras Indian Culture

As part of the narrative, the guide discusses the 1891 Parish Prison vendetta, an event rooted in local crime and justice history involving Sicilian convicts and the police. This story illustrates the complex social fabric of old New Orleans.

A visit to the Backstreet Cultural Museum is optional but highly recommended. This venue preserves Mardi Gras Indian traditions and Second Line culture, offering a vibrant visual and cultural experience that complements the tour’s historical focus.

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Visiting Marie Laveau’s Historic Site and the War of the Pews

The tour highlights the site of Marie Laveau’s home, a key location in Voodoo history. While not always open to the public, the guide provides a brief description of the aboveground St. Louis Cemetery if requested, sharing stories about Marie Laveau’s grave and her enduring legend.

The story of the War of the Pews unfolds at St. Augustine’s Catholic Church, illustrating conflicts over religious authority and community identity. These stories deepen understanding of religious and cultural tensions that have shaped the city.

Visit to the HBO Treme Filming Locations and Other Cultural Landmarks

The tour includes stops at sites from the HBO series Treme, immersing fans in the city’s portrayal in media. These locations connect pop culture with real historical neighborhoods.

Additional sites include Our Lady of Guadalupe Church and Congo Square / Louis Armstrong Park, both central to African-American and Creole culture. The guide shares stories behind these landmarks, emphasizing their ongoing cultural relevance.

Practical Details: Logistics, Pacing, and Recommendations

The tour involves a significant amount of walking, so comfortable shoes are essential. It typically runs in the morning or afternoon, offering flexible scheduling options. Group size is manageable, and the live English-speaking guide ensures personalized storytelling.

The tour provides a value-focused experience, balancing historical sites with cultural stories. Since transportation and food are not included, travelers should plan accordingly, especially if they wish to explore further after the tour.

Who Will Appreciate This Tour Most?

This experience is ideal for those interested in historical storytelling, jazz roots, and Voodoo traditions. It suits visitors wanting a balanced overview of New Orleans’ diverse neighborhoods without an overly long commitment. The focus on specific sites like Marie Laveau’s legacy and Storyville’s jazz history makes it perfect for culture enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

Final Thoughts on the Voodoo, Storyville, and Treme Walking Tour

This 2-hour guided walk offers an affordable, informative, and engaging look into New Orleans’ complex cultural tapestry. The expert guide, combined with carefully chosen stops, provides a well-rounded view of the city’s musical, religious, and social history.

While it requires some walking and weather awareness, the tour stands out for its specific focus on key neighborhoods and cultural landmarks. It’s a practical choice for those eager to understand the roots of New Orleans’ vibrant identity without a lengthy or costly excursion.

Anyone interested in the city’s jazz scene, Voodoo practices, or historic neighborhoods will find this tour both enlightening and enjoyable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
Yes, the 2-hour walking format and engaging storytelling make it suitable for families, though parents should ensure children are comfortable with walking.

Are food and drinks included?
No, food and drinks are not included, but the tour covers several sites where additional exploration is possible afterward.

Can I visit Marie Laveau’s grave?
The tour shows the site of Marie Laveau’s home, and a brief description of St. Louis Cemetery is available upon request, but direct access to her grave may require separate arrangements.

What should I wear?
Comfortable walking shoes are recommended, and travelers should check the weather to dress appropriately for outdoor stops.

Is transportation provided?
No, transportation to and from the tour is not included. The tour starts at Backatown Coffee, which is centrally located.

How far in advance should I book?
Booking can be done with free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, so it’s best to reserve early to secure a spot, especially during busy seasons.

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