Walking Tours

We've said it before, and we will keep saying it: This town was made for walking. Except maybe at the height of the summer months when heat and humidity -- especially humidity -- make you not want to do much of anything except sit gasping in the nearest shade, sipping cool drinks, fanning yourself.

New Orleans is simply one of the most beautiful and unique cities anywhere -- it is made to stroll through and marvel at. Each gorgeous building is more interesting than the last. Colorful characters abound. The French Quarter and the Garden District have their own distinct appearances, and both are easily manageable on foot.

You'll be hard-pressed to see any remaining Katrina damage in these parts (or most parts, thankfully, although there's still plenty, but you'll need to seek it out if that's your intent) -- it largely bypassed the Garden District and French Quarter. So put on some good walking shoes, breathe in that tropical breeze, and mosey. Go slow, take it (big) easy. Admire the varying iron lacework patterns. Peek through French Quarter gateways, where simple facades hide exquisite courtyards with fountains, brickwork, and thick foliage. Gawk at the mighty oaks, some dripping with swaying Spanish moss.

Stroll along St. John's Bayou, turning at any corner that strikes your fancy. If you're lucky you might have a street to yourself (or share it with a fleeting ghost?). Imagine it 100 years ago; it would have looked almost as it does now.

Our personalized walking tours of the French Quarter, Garden District, and the less-traveled Esplanade Ridge will give you a nice overview and answer most "That looks interesting -- what the heck is it?" kinds of queries. Formal professional walking tours cover more ground and considerably more detail.