
French Quarter Walking Tour: Jackson Square to Bourbon Street
Traveler rating
5.0/5
Based on 42 traveler reviews. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Quick answer
Is French Quarter Walking Tour: Jackson Square to Bourbon Street worth booking?
French Quarter Walking Tour: Jackson Square to Bourbon Street is a 2-hour experience in New Orleans, United States, from $39 per person. It scores 73 out of 100 on the Outty Ranking, which we label “Strongly Recommended”, based on a 5/5 rating across 42 reviews. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the start time. Same-day spots are currently showing.
- Outty Ranking
- 73 / 100
- Rating
- 5/5 (42)
- Duration
- 2 hours
- From
- $39 per person
Step beyond the crowds and the familiar Bourbon Street scene and experience the French Quarter through the stories that bring its streets to life. Walk beneath the balconies and past colorful Creole architecture as your local guide reveals the people, traditions, legends, and unexpected history behind the neighborhood. From the lively atmosphere of Jackson Square to the quiet passage of Pirates Alley, you'll discover places that are easy to walk past without knowing their stories. See St. Louis Cathedral, hear about literary legends including Tennessee Williams and William Faulkner, and explore the history behind Mardi Gras and other New Orleans traditions. And yes, we'll talk about Bourbon Street too—but you'll experience the French Quarter as much more than its famous nightlife. You'll leave with a deeper understanding of the history, culture, and stories that make this neighborhood unlike anywhere else.
What you get
About this experience
Step beyond the crowds and the familiar Bourbon Street scene and experience the French Quarter through the stories that bring its streets to life. Walk beneath the balconies and past colorful Creole architecture as your local guide reveals the people, traditions, legends, and unexpected history behind the neighborhood. From the lively atmosphere of Jackson Square to the quiet passage of Pirates Alley, you'll discover places that are easy to walk past without knowing their stories. See St. Louis Cathedral, hear about literary legends including Tennessee Williams and William Faulkner, and explore the history behind Mardi Gras and other New Orleans traditions. And yes, we'll talk about Bourbon Street too—but you'll experience the French Quarter as much more than its famous nightlife. You'll leave with a deeper understanding of the history, culture, and stories that make this neighborhood unlike anywhere else.
What's included
Included
- Expert Tour Guides with unique knowledge
Not included
- Gratuities
What you'll see and do
Jackson Square
Explore the heart of the French Quarter and learn about its history and importance to New Orleans.
5 minutes here
St. Louis Cathedral
Admire the iconic cathedral and learn about its history and role in New Orleans culture.
5 minutes here
Admire the historic buildings and their distinctive iron balconies overlooking Jackson Square.
5 minutes here
The Cabildo
See this historic building and hear about its connection to Louisiana's colonial history and the Louisiana Purchase.
5 minutes here
Pirates Alley
Explore this atmospheric passageway and hear stories of pirates, legends, and literary history.
Pass by without stopping
Old Ursuline Convent Museum
See one of the French Quarter's historic buildings and learn about its important place in New Orleans history (from outside)
5 minutes here
Royal Street
Take in the French Quarter's historic architecture and distinctive street atmosphere.
5 minutes here
See the French Quarter home associated with playwright Tennessee Williams.
5 minutes here
The Presbytere
Learn about the Presbytère and its connection to Mardi Gras and New Orleans history.
5 minutes here
Bourbon Street
Hear about Bourbon Street's famous nightlife, Mardi Gras traditions, and place in New Orleans culture. The tour discusses the street without physically visiting it.
5 minutes here
French Market
Finish your French Quarter tour at the historic French Market. Hear about its long history as a place of commerce and gathering in New Orleans and get a feel for this lively part of the city.
5 minutes here
See the former home of Nobel Prize-winning author William Faulkner and hear about his connection to New Orleans. (from outside)
5 minutes here
Where it starts and ends
Meeting point
New Orleans
This tour will commence at the statue of Andrew Jackson on a horse in the middle of Jackson Square. The guide will be standing in between the statue and the cathedral.
Hotel pickup
No pickup: everyone meets at the start point.
Ends at
We end at the Presbytere, where the guide will have tickets for you to enter for a self-guided visit to the museum's Mardi Gras and Hurricane Katrina exhibits.
Before you book
- Cancellation
- For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- Languages
- en
- Ticket
- Mobile Only
- Runs on
- Mon, Thu, Fri, Sun
- Group size
- Up to 15 travelers per booking
- Operated by
- Tours by Foot New Orleans
Know before you go
- Wheelchair accessible
- Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Transportation options are wheelchair accessible
- All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
Photos






What travelers are saying
Outty’s summary of the themes that recur across 42 traveler reviews. Written by us, not quoted from reviewers.
Knowledge and storytelling
9 mentionsReviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted.
The guide
7 mentionsTravelers single out the guide as the reason the experience works.
Pace and timing
2 mentionsSeveral reviewers comment on how the schedule is paced.
Traveler reviews
42 verified traveler reviews for French Quarter Walking Tour: Jackson Square to Bourbon Street. Ratings and reviews provided by Viator and Tripadvisor.
Our Tour Guide Matthew Exceeded All Expectations
My family and I toured the French Quarter with Matthew during our stay in New Orleans. We had him all to ourselves, which allowed us to pepper him with a myriad of questions. He was so knowledgeable about the history and folklore of the city. In addition, his mastery of the French language gave us the opportunity to learn more about the French language and culture in the region, given that we hail from Montreal, Quebec. Matthew was funny, engaging, and entertaining, even for our two teenagers. This tour was the highlight of our visit, and we highly recommend Matthew and your company to anyone eager to explore the French Quarter.
Response from the operator: Thank you! We're so glad Matthew made your French Quarter tour special and engaging for the whole family.
via Tripadvisor
You won’t regret this tour!
I’m so glad we took this tour on the first morning of our visit. Our guide, Daniel, is highly knowledgeable about local history. We got a great introduction to New Orleans founding and cultural background, architecture in the quarter and interesting characters. You’ll want to wear comfortable shoes, since you’ll be on your feet a couple of hours. And bring water and a fan. Before the tour, he sent us clear info on where to meet him and was available if we had questions after the tour. You won’t regret this tour!
Response from the operator: Thanks so much for the wonderful review! We're thrilled you kicked off your trip with Daniel—he’s a fantastic guide and full of local insight. Great tips on staying comfortable too. So glad you had a great start to your New Orleans adventure!
via Tripadvisor
Historical storytelling approach - highly recommended!
We did the French Quarter Walking Tour and learned so much! I am glad we did this tour early on in our vacation because it made every walk through the French Quarter more rich because of all we learned! ! Mathew was a wonderful guide, he had a storytelling approach that incorporated a wide range of historical facts! Again the tour was wonderful! Highly recommended!
Response from the operator: Thanks so much! We're glad you joined early in your trip—Mathew's storytelling really brings the French Quarter to life.
via Tripadvisor
Great guide covering the world-famous French Quarter
Matthew gave us a punchy, informed and interesting tour. We covered a wide area of the French Quarter, and the tour itself was a good mixture of history, legend and humor. Matthew was clearly interested in his tour topic. He kept the pace without rushing, and offered lots of opportunities to ask questions. Matthew was charming and personable.
Response from the operator: Thanks for the great feedback! We're thrilled you enjoyed the tour with Matthew—he has a real passion for the French Quarter and it shows. Glad you appreciated the mix of history, legend, and humor!
via Tripadvisor
Excellent tour; learned a lot!
Daniel was the guide. He was extremely knowledgeable and personable. He was careful to stop in places that you could get out of the sun if desired. With a degree in history, he was able to explain the history of New Orleans and tie it into the culture. Would absolutely recommend!
Response from the operator: Thank you for your review! We're glad you enjoyed the tour with Daniel and appreciated his knowledge and thoughtfulness. We appreciate your recommendation!
via Tripadvisor
Good to know
- Duration
- 2 hours
- Free cancellation
- Up to 24h before
- Minimum age to book
- All ages
- Availability
- Bookable today
- Runs on
- Mon, Thu, Fri, Sun
- Hotel pickup
- No pickup, meet at start point
- Booked in 30 days
- 15
- Verdict
- Strongly Recommended
Who runs this experience
Operated by Tours by Foot New Orleans, who run 3 experiences we rank across 1 city, with an average Outty Ranking of 71.2.
See everything Tours by Foot New Orleans runsWhy this scores 73
The Outty Ranking is a weighted composite. Here is how this experience performed on each component.
French Quarter Walking Tour: Jackson Square to Bourbon Street: questions travelers ask
Practical detail on this experience, plus the wider planning questions for New Orleans.
How much does French Quarter Walking Tour: Jackson Square to Bourbon Street cost?
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Prices start at $39 per person. The final price depends on the date, the time slot and the number of travelers, and peak weekends in New Orleans usually price higher than midweek mornings. Live pricing and remaining availability are confirmed on the booking screen before you pay.
How long does French Quarter Walking Tour: Jackson Square to Bourbon Street take?
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Plan for about 2 hours from start to finish, not counting travel to the meeting point. Most travelers leave another 30 minutes on either side so the rest of the day in New Orleans is not rushed.
Is French Quarter Walking Tour: Jackson Square to Bourbon Street worth it?
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It holds an Outty Ranking of 73 out of 100, which we label "Strongly Recommended". That score blends traveler sentiment (5/5 across 42 reviews), the depth of that review evidence, recent booking momentum, value for money against comparable most popular in New Orleans, and how flexible the cancellation terms are.
Can I cancel or reschedule French Quarter Walking Tour: Jackson Square to Bourbon Street?
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Yes. Cancel free up to 24 hours before the start time for a full refund. Inside that window the booking is non-refundable, and no-shows are not refunded.
Is French Quarter Walking Tour: Jackson Square to Bourbon Street suitable for kids and families?
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Yes, all ages are welcome. Families should still weigh the 2-hour running time, and strollers are easier on the earlier, quieter departures.
How far in advance should I book French Quarter Walking Tour: Jackson Square to Bourbon Street?
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Around 15 people booked this in the last 30 days, so popular slots go early. Two to three weeks ahead is comfortable in shoulder season, while summer weekends and holidays in New Orleans can sell out a month out. Same-day spots do open up when other travelers cancel, so it is worth checking if you are already in town.
What should I bring or wear?
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Bring photo ID, your booking confirmation on your phone, a refillable water bottle and comfortable shoes. Dress for the weather in New Orleans and add a light layer if any part of the 2-hour experience runs outdoors or after sunset.
Where does French Quarter Walking Tour: Jackson Square to Bourbon Street start and how do I get there?
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The exact meeting point and directions are on your voucher once you book, and they sit in central New Orleans within reach of public transport. Arrive 15 minutes early: late arrivals are treated as no-shows by most operators.
What are the best things to do in New Orleans?
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New Orleans runs on licensed guides, and it shows: the city requires certification for tour guides, so the floor is higher here than most US cities. Ghost and cemetery walks, French Quarter food crawls, plantation history day trips and swamp boat runs make up the bulk. We rank on whether the operator handles cemetery access properly, since St. Louis No. 1 needs an authorised guide. On Outty we rank every New Orleans experience on the same 0 to 100 scale, and alongside this one the highest scorers right now include New Orleans Swamp and Bayou Boat Tour with Transportation, New Orleans Garden District History Walking Tour, New Orleans Adults-Only True Crime and Ghost Walking Tour. The city page groups everything into most popular, highest reviewed, last minute and family-friendly so you can build a day around what actually delivers.
When is the best time to visit New Orleans?
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February to May and October to November. August is heat and storm season. Booking patterns follow the same curve: prices and queues climb in peak weeks, while shoulder season gives you better availability on the top-ranked experiences and more room to change plans.
How many days do you need in New Orleans?
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Three full days covers the headline sights without sprinting. A workable rhythm is one anchor experience each morning, such as this one, an unhurried afternoon in a single neighborhood, then a food or nightlife booking in the evening. Five days lets you add a day trip outside the city.
Do I book through Outty or through the operator?
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Outty ranks and explains the experiences, then hands you to Viator to complete the booking with the operator directly. The price is the same as booking on Viator yourself, and Outty earns an affiliate commission on the referral, which is how the rankings stay free to read.
What is included in French Quarter Walking Tour: Jackson Square to Bourbon Street?
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Included: Expert Tour Guides with unique knowledge. Not included: Gratuities. Always check the voucher for the final list before you travel.
Where is the meeting point for French Quarter Walking Tour: Jackson Square to Bourbon Street?
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This tour will commence at the statue of Andrew Jackson on a horse in the middle of Jackson Square. The guide will be standing in between the statue and the cathedral. Hotel pickup is not included, so plan your own transport and arrive 15 minutes early.
What languages is French Quarter Walking Tour: Jackson Square to Bourbon Street offered in?
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It runs in English. Pick your language when choosing a date and time, as not every departure runs in every language.
Will I get instant confirmation and a mobile ticket for French Quarter Walking Tour: Jackson Square to Bourbon Street?
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Confirmation is sent by the operator after booking, usually within 48 hours; if it is not confirmed you are not charged. Mobile tickets are accepted, so you can show the voucher on your phone.
Is French Quarter Walking Tour: Jackson Square to Bourbon Street wheelchair or stroller accessible?
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The operator notes: Wheelchair accessible; Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller; Transportation options are wheelchair accessible; and All areas and surfaces are wheelchair accessible. If accessibility is critical, contact the operator after booking to confirm arrangements for your date.
What happens to French Quarter Walking Tour: Jackson Square to Bourbon Street if the weather is bad?
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It generally runs rain or shine, so dress for the forecast in New Orleans. Standard cancellation terms apply: free cancellation up to 24 hours before the start.
What do travelers say about French Quarter Walking Tour: Jackson Square to Bourbon Street?
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Across 42 reviews averaging 5.0 out of 5, recurring themes include knowledge and storytelling, the guide. Reviewers describe the commentary as informative rather than scripted. One thing to know: Several reviewers comment on how the schedule is paced.
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