DoFrench Quarter

Walking tours

Plentiful but often pricey. Most cost $10-20 per person, but there are a couple of good, free walking tours. Or you can simply walk and see all of the landmarks since most are labeled and you can go in and read about it yourself. Park rangers from the Jean Lafitte National Park (see above) offer a free walking tour of the French Quarter that is very informative. Space is very limited, and spots on the tour are only given out on the day of the tour at 9AM. You should try to show up at least half an hour early to reserve a spot. You'll learn the real history of New Orleans, which is often as colorful as the tall stories.

Suggest a nearby place

Listing from Wikivoyage: New Orleans/French Quarter, CC BY-SA 4.0.

Updated 27 Sept 2026. Something wrong? Tell us.

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More in New Orleans

DoTheatreFrench Quarter
Preservation Hall
Established in 1961 to preserve Traditional New Orleans jazz. Talk about atmosphere! Listen to real jazz and nothing else (no booze, no bathrooms). You'll have to stand in line, and most people will stand through the set (accommodations will be made for those who can't stand that long; call +1 504-522-2841, or email [email protected] in advance). Sets each night from 5PM, Sa and Su from 2:30PM. Arrive at least 15 minutes before the set starts.
Mo-Su 17:00-22:00 · 45-minute set: front row $50, seated $40, standing room $25 for advance online purchase seats (cash purchase at the door is no longer available)
DoJazz barFrench Quarter
Palm Court Jazz Cafe
Those who prefer their old style New Orleans jazz in a somewhat more upscale atmosphere where dinner and drinks are served should be sure to visit this place in the lower Quarter. Some of the same musicians who play Preservation Hall play here on other nights, along with other top local classic style jazz greats. The owner's husband runs the Jazzology record company, featuring the world's largest independent label catalogue of trad jazz, so you can pick up CDs by your favorites from Bunk Johnson to current Dixielanders while you're here.
Wed-Sun 7-11PM · Wheelchair accessible
DoLive music venueMid-City and Esplanade Ridge
Chickie Wah Wah
Eclectic schedule of local artists. Music venue in a comfortable bar, easy parking as well as right on the Canal Streetcar line. The kitchen serves a limited menu significantly better than average bar food. +1 504 304-4714.
DoJazz barFrench Quarter
Maison Bourbon
Sometimes has decent bands (though as often doesn't), as many good local Dixieland players lacking a better gig for the moment often wind up here. As the doors are open to the street, you can listen a bit from outside, judge for yourself whether they have a band you'd enjoy, and walk on by or go on in as appropriate.