In past blog posts, I have recommended three museums and restaurants in the French Quarter. Being that this is about New Orleans, I could not pass up the opportunity to mention three walking tours.
Do You Believe in Ghosts?
St. Louis Cemetery in New Orleans is pretty creepy, even during daylight hours!
I am an admitted scaredy cat. So when my friend suggested we try out a ghost tour, I tried my best to not show fear. While there are plenty to choose from for a ghost tour, we made a compromise and decided on the Cemetery, Voodoo and French Quarter Walking Tour, as it offers daytime tours. The first stop was the oldest above-ground cemetery in New Orleans, St. Louis Cemetery #1. Trust me, this place is creepy even with the sun shining. If you take this tour, you will also learn about New Orleans’ connection to voodoo. Frankly, I could have done without that history lesson. However, hearing more about the history of the French Quarter architecture is worth the price of admission. Click here for tickets and more information.
Tell Me a Story
The next tour I recommend is a walking tour of the sights and sounds of the French Quarter. Over the years, I have taken quite a few of these tours, and a consistently good one is by Lucky Bean Tours. This two-hour tour covers the highlights of the Quarter, stopping at significant landmarks and even some little-known historical places for the true insider’s look at the Crescent City. What I really like about Lucky Bean is the use of storytelling to truly engage you throughout.
The Curious Case of the Garden District
The last walking tour on my top three includes first a ride via streetcar, taxi or Uber to the Garden District. The good news is that this tour is free, as this is a go-on-your-own tour to view some of the most extraordinary homes in the New Orleans area. The Garden District boasts residences of the famous (and some infamous). Tree-lined streets, cast-iron fences, antebellum architecture and glorious gardens recall a time of Southern grace and beauty. Be sure to visit the house where the movie “Benjamin Button” was filmed.
The walking tours listed here are just a sampling of how to see New Orleans on foot. Do yourself a favor and commit to one to experience this city at a slower pace!