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Find the perfect itinerary for you
New Orleans, the Big Easy, casts a spell that's hard to resist, and hop-on hop-off tours offer the ideal way to surrender to its charms. Foodies, solo travelers, music lovers, and families will all find their perfect stops along these well-planned routes with stops close to iconic attractions. With just two days, these tours help you maximize every moment in this captivating city, where every street corner promises a new discovery!
Music lovers
Solo travelers
Families with kids
Day 1
Morning (7am - 11am)
Breakfast: Start your day at Café Fleur De Lis, a bustling, casual spot known for generous portions and quick, counter-serve breakfasts. Located in the French Quarter, it’s perfect for a hearty Southern start with shrimp and grits, fluffy pancakes, and omelets.
Attraction: The Jazz Museum at the Old U.S. Mint
Housed in a historic 19th-century mint, this museum explores jazz's New Orleans roots through rare recordings, vintage instruments, and rotating exhibits.
Nearest stops:
- City Sightseeing: Marginy Bywater (Stop #3)
Highlights:
- Tour the original coin-making room, now filled with vintage recording equipment that once captured live jazz sets from the golden age.
- Catch live performances in the third-floor concert hall, where local musicians often riff on classics. It's an intimate venue with killer acoustics and serious soul.
- Explore Louis Armstrong’s personal collection, like his first cornet, handwritten letters, and archival photos – a rare peek into Satchmo's world.
Pro tip: Don’t miss the courtyard brass band sessions, especially during French Quarter Fest, where spontaneous jam circles often pop up with dancers joining in.
Suggested time to spend: 2 hours
Time to next stop: 15-minute walk to the French Quarter.
Afternoon (12pm - 3pm)
Lunch: Head to Central Grocery & Deli, a legendary lunch spot in the French Quarter, renowned for its iconic muffuletta and authentic old-world deli atmosphere. The vibe is classic, old-world Sicilian deli, with shelves of specialty foods and a bustling, casual atmosphere.
Attraction: French Quarter
The French Quarter blends colonial architecture, Creole culture, and nonstop street life. Cobblestone alleys and brass bands make it New Orleans’ most atmospheric neighborhood to explore.
Nearest stops:
- City Sightseeing: Jackson Square (Stop #1)
Highlights:
- Wander Royal Street for open-air jazz, antique shops, and wrought-iron balconies, and head upstairs at Rouses for people-watching.
- Tour the Cabildo, an 18th-century Spanish building beside Jackson Square, and explore historic exhibits like Napoleon’s death mask and rare colonial artifacts from New Orleans’ early days.
- Stop at Jackson Square to meet street artists, catch spontaneous music acts, and photograph the towering St. Louis Cathedral.
Pro tip: Visit the Pharmacy Museum’s leafy courtyard for a quiet breather. It’s a shady, serene corner tucked behind shelves of voodoo potions and Civil War-era surgical tools.
Suggested time to spend: 2 hours
Time to next stop: 7-minute walk to Steamboat Natchez.
Evening (4pm - 7pm)
Attraction: Steamboat Natchez
The Steamboat Natchez offers scenic river cruises along the Mississippi. Experience historic paddleboat charm, jazz music, and stunning views of New Orleans’ skyline and waterfront.
Nearest stops:
- City Sightseeing: Jackson Square (Stop #1)
Highlights:
- Step aboard for a classic river cruise featuring live jazz bands, and enjoy a relaxing ride with picturesque views of the French Quarter and nearby parks.
- Catch the Captain’s narration about New Orleans’ river history and steamboat culture and learn about the Mississippi’s importance to the city’s growth.
- Don’t miss the Natchez’s engine room tour. See the massive steam engines in action and hear about the engineering marvels that keep this historic vessel running.
Pro tip: Arrive early to grab a prime spot on the upper deck. It’s the best place to catch unobstructed views of the river and the skyline during your cruise.
Suggested time to spend: 2 hours
Late Night (8pm – 12am)
Dinner: Hit the Creole House Restaurant & Oyster Bar for a vintage, relaxed vibe in a historic building, serving up Cajun and Creole classics like po' boys, gumbo, and fresh oysters. Its approachable menu and great cocktails make it a favorite for visitors wanting authentic local flavors just a short stroll from the riverfront.
Day 2
Morning (7am - 11am)
Breakfast: Start your day with breakfast at Café Fleur De Lis, a bustling, casual spot in the French Quarter, famous for generous portions and quick, counter-serve breakfasts. Their menu includes Southern staples like shrimp and grits, fluffy pancakes, and omelets.
Attraction: Preservation Hall
Preservation Hall is a legendary jazz venue in the French Quarter, preserving New Orleans’ musical heritage. Experience intimate, live performances in a historic, no-frills setting.
Nearest stops:
- City Sightseeing: Jackson Square (Stop #1)
Highlights:
- Catch a world-class jazz performance in this intimate, candlelit venue. The Hall’s simple, rustic setting lets the music take center stage, creating an authentic New Orleans experience.
- The Preservation Hall Jazz Band is a must-see. Its members are New Orleans musicians dedicated to keeping the traditional jazz sound alive, offering an unforgettable live performance.
- Look for the mural outside, painted by local artists. It captures the essence of Preservation Hall’s history and the vibrant, soulful spirit of New Orleans jazz culture.
Pro tip: Sit in the front row to feel the energy of the musicians. This small and close setting lets you experience the rhythm up close.
Suggested time to spend: 2 hours
Time to next stop: 10-minute walk to Mahalia Jackson Theater.
Afternoon (12pm - 3pm)
Lunch: Take a lunch pause at Buffa's Bar & Restaurant is a beloved local institution known for its classic American and Cajun comfort food. Buffa’s offers a casual, welcoming vibe with regular live music and hearty lunch options like po’ boys, burgers, and daily specials.
Attractions: Mahalia Jackson Theater
Named after the gospel legend, Mahalia Jackson Theater hosts world-class performances. Located in Louis Armstrong Park, it’s a prime spot for concerts, ballet, and Broadway shows.
Nearest stops:
- City Sightseeing: TREME - Rampart & Ursulines Ave. (Stop #4)
Highlights:
- Catch a show in this acoustically renowned theater. From jazz concerts to Broadway performances, the venue’s sound system makes every note crisp, whether you’re in the front or back.
- Explore the theater’s stunning architecture. Its sleek, modern design contrasts with the historic charm of nearby Louis Armstrong Park.
- Check out the pre-show events at the theater’s outdoor plaza. Often hosting live music or dance performances, it sets the tone for a culturally rich night at the theater.
Pro tip: If attending a concert, head backstage for a brief tour of the theater’s rich history. See behind-the-scenes of the Mahalia Jackson Theater, where legends once performed.
Suggested time to spend: 3 hours
Time to next stop: 5-minute walk to Louis Armstrong Park.
Evening (4pm - 7pm)
Attraction: Louis Armstrong Park
Louis Armstrong Park celebrates New Orleans’ jazz legacy with serene paths, statues of musical legends, and the historic Congo Square. It’s a must-visit for culture and music lovers.
Nearest stops:
- City Sightseeing: TREME - Rampart & Ursulines Ave. (Stop #4)
Highlights:
- Stroll past the famous Louis Armstrong sculpture at the park’s entrance, where visitors can pause for photos and learn about Armstrong’s pivotal role in jazz history.
- Explore the Congo Square section of the park. This historic site, where enslaved people once gathered, is now a cultural hub for music, dance, and local festivals.
- Relax by the picturesque Lagoon, where you can rent a paddleboat or enjoy a peaceful walk along the water while soaking in the park’s natural beauty.
Pro tip: Check out the hidden bronze plaques along the park’s walkways. They honor legendary jazz figures and local artists.
Suggested time to spend: 1.5 hours
Late Night (8pm – 12am)
Dinner: Wrap up your musical day at Rampart Treehouse, a quirky, welcoming bar and eatery right on N Rampart Street, steps from the park. Known for its friendly vibe and eclectic menu. Think pizza, sandwiches, and creative cocktails. It’s a great low-key option for dinner, especially if you want to soak up local character and enjoy casual fare with drinks.
Day 1
Morning (7am - 11am)
Breakfast: Load up for the day at Bread and Butter Café, which stands out for its cozy atmosphere and consistently excellent coffee. The menu features comfort food and healthy options, making it a great choice for a relaxed breakfast with something for everyone. Its casual vibe and quick service are perfect for those eager to get to the museum early.
Attraction: The National WWII Museum
Step into history at the National WWII Museum, where powerful exhibits, immersive storytelling, and vintage warplanes bring America’s World War II journey vividly to life.
Nearest stops:
- City Sightseeing: The National WWII Museum (Stop #10)
Highlights:
- Wander through the “Road to Berlin” exhibit with bombed-out building sets, icy foxholes, and actual artifacts – feel the chill and chaos of war.
- Catch “Beyond All Boundaries,” the epic 4D film narrated by Tom Hanks. Expect seat rumbling, battle flashes, and goosebumps!
- Climb into the Boeing Center’s sky-high catwalks for a rare view of WWII planes mid-air. You're eye-level with a B-17 bomber!
Pro tip: Follow a real soldier’s journey through exhibits. Look for the “dog tag” kiosks in the Campaigns Pavilion to register for the tour!
Suggested time to spend: 3 hours
Time to next stop: 30-minute bus ride to St. Louis Cemetery No. 1.
Afternoon (12pm - 3pm)
Lunch: Dine at Cochon Butcher is a trendy, casual spot just a short walk from the museum, known for its inventive Cajun-inspired sandwiches, house-cured meats, and lively, modern vibe.
Attraction: St. Louis Cemetery No. 1
New Orleans' oldest cemetery, St. Louis No. 1, is famed for above-ground tombs, voodoo legends, and hauntingly beautiful architecture just steps from the French Quarter.
Nearest stops:
- City Sightseeing: BASIN ST. STATION (Stop #5)
Highlights:
- Visit Marie Laveau’s tomb, the city’s legendary “Voodoo Queen.” It's covered in offerings and triple Xs – locals still whisper wishes to her through the iron gates.
- Explore the “Cities of the Dead” layout. Tight, maze-like alleys of crumbling mausoleums make every turn feel cinematic, spooky, and oddly photogenic in the morning light.
- Peek at Nicholas Cage’s odd pyramid-shaped tomb (yes, that Nic Cage). It’s already built and gleams white among the aged stone – equal parts eerie and iconic.
Pro tip: Ask your guide to show you the Protestant tombs. They are in a unique spot and reveal an interesting story about religion and status in Creole-era New Orleans.
Suggested time to spend: 1 hour
Time to next stop: 10-minute walk to Louis Armstrong Park.
Evening (4pm - 7pm)
Attraction: Louis Armstrong Park
A soulful green space celebrating jazz roots, Louis Armstrong Park blends sculptures, lagoons, and history, with Congo Square pulsing as its vibrant cultural heartbeat.
Nearest stops:
- City Sightseeing: Jackson Square (Stop #1)
Highlights:
- Snap a photo by the massive Louis Armstrong arch at the entrance – it's the perfect jazz-meets-modern gateway into New Orleans’ musical legacy.
- Step into Congo Square, where enslaved Africans once gathered to drum, dance, and trade – this space still hosts weekend drum circles and joyful community jams.
- Stroll past hidden sculptures of jazz greats tucked into garden paths. Each statue includes a plaque, so bring curiosity and soak in the city's musical roots.
Pro tip: Walk the Lagoon Bridge as the water reflects sunset hues and old oaks – it’s the prettiest photo spot in the whole park.
Suggested time to spend: 1.5 hours
Late Night (8pm – 12am)
Dinner: End your day at the Public Service, located in the NOPSI Hotel, a chic, spacious setting for Southern-inspired cuisine and whiskey cocktails. The stylish ambiance, excellent beer and wine selection, and upscale yet approachable menu make it a standout for those seeking a more polished dinner experience near the park.
Day 2
Morning (7am - 11am)
Breakfast: Grab a quick bite at Joey K's is a classic Garden District joint beloved for its hearty New Orleans comfort food, casual vibe, and generous portions. It's a go-to for locals and visitors alike, with standout dishes like red beans and rice and fried catfish.
Attraction: Mardi Gras World
Mardi Gras World is a behind-the-scenes peek into New Orleans’ wildest tradition, where giant floats, glitter, and papier-mâché magic are made year-round.
Nearest stops:
- City Sightseeing: CONVENTION CENTER (Stop #16)
Highlights:
- Tour the massive float den where artists craft enormous heads, dragons, and parade beasts – visitors can watch painters and sculptors work in real time.
- Try on authentic Mardi Gras costumes in the photo booth zone – feathers, sequins, and a lot of sparkle make for wildly fun souvenir snapshots.
- See archived floats from past parades, including over-the-top celebrity tributes and political satire pieces. Each tells its own wacky, colorful story.
Pro tip: Don't miss the warehouse’s hidden “mini-museum” corner. It’s packed with vintage float pieces, old posters, and handmade Mardi Gras doubloons.
Suggested time to spend: 1.5-2 hours
Time to next stop: 40-minute bus ride to the French Quarter.
Afternoon (12pm - 3pm)
Lunch: Make a pitstop at Café Fleur De Lis, a small, bustling spot known for its quick service, generous portions, and classic Southern comfort food. The cozy, casual atmosphere and hearty lunch menu featuring everything from po' boys to omelets make it a favorite for locals and visitors alike.
Attraction: French Quarter
The French Quarter blends 300 years of history, jazz, cocktails, and Creole charm into cobbled streets lined with balconies, brass bands, and haunted courtyards.
Nearest stops:
- City Sightseeing: Jackson Square (Stop #1)
Highlights:
- Wander down Royal Street for art galleries, antique shops, and live street jazz – stop often, the music here feels like it’s chasing you around corners.
- Visit Jackson Square to see local artists painting live, tarot readers set up under umbrellas, and St. Louis Cathedral rising dramatically behind the palm trees.
- Stop by Lafitte’s Blacksmith Shop Bar on Bourbon – it’s candlelit, allegedly haunted, and one of the oldest bars in the U.S. (hint: order a Voodoo Daiquiri).
Pro tip: Step into the Pharmacy Museum courtyard – not just for the exhibits, but for its eerie old-world vibe. It’s quiet, strange, and wildly photogenic.
Suggested time to spend: 2-3 hours
Time to next stop: 10-minute walk to Steamboat Natchez.
Evening (4pm - 7pm)
Attraction: Steamboat Natchez
Steamboat Natchez offers old-school Mississippi River cruising with live jazz, paddlewheel views, and breezy decks perfect for soaking up New Orleans from the water.
Nearest stops:
- City Sightseeing: Jackson Square (Stop #1)
Highlights:
- Climb up to the paddlewheel deck to see the steam-powered blades churning the river – stand close and feel the mist for that full Mark Twain moment.
- Head into the engine room mid-cruise! It’s open to visitors and packed with rattling pipes, giant pistons, and the rhythmic hum of vintage steam machinery.
- Catch the live jazz set in the main salon, featuring local pros playing classic standards – grab a drink, sit back, and let the river roll by.
Pro tip: Skip indoor seating and head to the bow for unobstructed skyline views. Locals swear by this spot for photos, breezes, and that dreamy river soundtrack.
Suggested time to spend: 2 hours
Late Night (8pm – 12am)
Dinner: Craving a true taste of New Orleans? Mosey over to Oceana Grill, where the vibe is as laid-back as a Sunday on the bayou. Dive into Cajun and Creole classics like seafood platters, po’ boys, and gumbo, all in a lively, fun setting with a cozy courtyard.
Day 1
Morning (7am - 11am)
Breakfast: Start your day at Tartine, a beloved neighborhood bakery-café just minutes from Audubon Zoo. Known for its French-inspired breakfast menu, fresh pastries, and cozy, sunlit ambiance, it's perfect for those seeking a relaxed, European-style start to the day.
Attraction: Audubon Zoo
Audubon Zoo is a lush, animal-packed haven in Uptown New Orleans, mixing global wildlife, local flair, and splashy surprises across shady oak-lined paths.
Nearest stops:
- City Sightseeing: ST. CHARLES AVENUE (Stop #14)
Highlights:
- Check out the Louisiana Swamp Exhibit – alligators, Cajun cabins, and bayou critters recreate the real thing, right down to the cypress trees and backwoods soundtrack.
- Watch jaguars prowl behind glass at Jaguar Jungle, a Mayan-ruin-themed zone with temple replicas and howler monkeys leaping through tree-shaded walkways.
- Cool off at Cool Zoo, the splash park with lazy rivers and water cannons. It’s only open seasonally, so double-check dates before you pack swimsuits.
Pro tip: Ride the Swamp Train to spot backstage animal areas you can’t access on foot – it’s a chill loop and the best way to see the whole park fast.
Suggested time to spend: 3 hours
Time to next stop: 50-minute public transport ride to Storyland.
Afternoon (12pm - 3pm)
Lunch: Just a few blocks from Storyland, Rosedale is a true neighborhood treasure. Set in a converted police station (yes, the bathroom is a cell!), this spot boasts excellent Southern-inspired lunch plates and a charming outdoor patio.
Attraction: Storyland
Storyland is a whimsical, sculpture-filled play park in City Park where classic fairy tales come alive through larger-than-life scenes kids can actually climb into.
Nearest stops:
- City Sightseeing: TREME - Rampart & Ursulines Ave. (Stop #4)
Highlights:
- Visit the Jack & the Beanstalk slide – kids enter through the base of a giant vine and pop out near a castle in the clouds.
- Climb inside Captain Hook’s pirate ship and steer the wheel. It’s docked near the lagoon and comes with cannons, rigging, and an open call to adventure.
- Pose with the Three Little Pigs’ houses – brick, straw, and stick huts sit side by side, perfect for retelling the story or staging your own big bad photo shoot.
Pro tip: Pack a picnic and find a spot near the Cinderella pumpkin carriage area. It’s shaded, quieter than the main path, and great for mid-play snack breaks and photos.
Suggested time to spend: 2 hours
Time to next stop: 20-minute walk to City Park.
Evening (4pm - 7pm)
Attraction: City Park
City Park is a sprawling green paradise in New Orleans, filled with oak trees, museums, gardens, and lakeside activities. An ideal place to unwind or explore.
Nearest stops:
- City Sightseeing: TREME (Stop #4)
Highlights:
- Wander under the majestic, centuries-old oak trees in the Besthoff Sculpture Garden – an outdoor museum where nature and art blend beautifully, perfect for serene strolls.
- Rent a pedal boat on Big Lake and cruise past swans, giant water lilies, and serene shores – perfect for a relaxing afternoon on the water.
- Check out the New Orleans Museum of Art (NOMA) nearby – its collection spans over 40,000 works, from European paintings to contemporary sculptures and much more.
Pro tip: If you're up for a challenge, bike around the park’s perimeter – locals do it for the quiet paths, stunning oak trees, and panoramic lake views.
Suggested time to spend: 3 hours
Late Night (8pm – 12am)
Dinner: For those who believe dinner should be a full-flavored adventure, Toups Meatery is a carnivore’s paradise. This rustic, lively bistro is famous for its Cajun-inspired, meat-centric menu – think house-made charcuterie, cracklins, and bold cocktails.
Day 2
Morning (7am - 11am)
Breakfast: Fuel up at Jimmy J's Cafe, a colorful, funky spot beloved for its all-day breakfasts, hearty fare, and friendly service. With outdoor seating and a cozy vibe, it's perfect for fueling up on omelets, pancakes, or breakfast sandwiches before your aquarium visit.
Attraction: Audubon Aquarium of the Americas
Audubon Aquarium brings the Gulf and beyond to life with immersive tanks, touch pools, and underwater tunnels right on the Mississippi Riverfront in downtown New Orleans.
Nearest stops:
- City Sightseeing: RIVERFRONT | CREOLE QUEEN (Stop #18)
Highlights:
- Walk through the 30-foot tunnel in the Great Maya Reef exhibit – surrounded by sharks, stingrays, and vibrant coral, it’s like snorkeling without getting wet.
- Head to the Amazon Rainforest gallery where macaws, piranhas, and free-flying birds surround a misty jungle path – don’t miss the lush canopy view from the treetop walkway.
- Visit the stingray touchpool to feel silky-skinned rays glide under your fingertips – it’s safe, supervised, and surprisingly soothing once you get past the wiggle.
Pro tip: Ask staff where the “moon jellies” are. They’re easy to overlook, but watching them pulse under changing lights is oddly mesmerizing and great for slow-mo video.
Suggested time to spend: 2 to 2.5 hours
Time to next stop: 5-minute walk to Audubon Insectarium.
Afternoon (12pm - 3pm)
Lunch: The Rum House is a vibrant, family-friendly spot on Magazine Street, perfect for a relaxed lunch with Caribbean flair. Families love the mix-and-match tacos like jerk chicken, BBQ brisket, and chili-glazed shrimp, served on warm tortillas.
Attraction: Audubon Butterfly Garden and Insectarium
The Audubon Butterfly Garden and Insectarium is a bug-filled wonderland where butterflies flutter freely and creepy-crawlies shine in colorful, interactive displays and live environments.
Nearest stops:
- City Sightseeing: RIVERFRONT | CREOLE QUEEN (Stop #18)
Highlights:
- Check out Bug Appétit, where you can sample real edible insects like cricket cookies or spicy mealworms.
- Walk through the Butterfly Garden dome where hundreds of live butterflies land on flowers, pathways, and sometimes you. Just stay still and let the magic happen.
- Head to the underground exhibit where you’ll “shrink” to bug-size and wander through giant soil tunnels, ant chambers, and a beetle’s-eye view of the world.
Pro tip: Ask a staff member when the butterfly releases happen – they sometimes add new ones into the garden, and watching them take first flight is pretty magical.
Suggested time to spend: 1.5 hours
Time to next stop: 20-minute walk to French Quarter.
Evening (4pm - 7pm)
Attraction: French Quarter
The French Quarter is New Orleans’ oldest neighborhood, packed with colorful Creole townhouses, lively street music, voodoo lore, hidden courtyards, and round-the-clock character.
Nearest stops:
- City Sightseeing: Jackson Square (Stop #1)
Highlights:
- Stroll Royal Street for live jazz, vintage galleries, and antique shops. It’s less chaotic than Bourbon, but equally vibrant with charming iron balconies and surprise street performances.
- Visit Jackson Square to watch artists sketch, tarot readers set up, and brass bands jam. All framed by St. Louis Cathedral’s iconic white spires and palm trees.
- Step inside the Pharmacy Museum to see leech jars, voodoo potions, and 19th-century surgical tools. It’s spooky, informative, and tucked into an old apothecary shop.
Pro tip: Enter the Cabildo’s back courtyard. It’s free, often empty, and offers a shady oasis with a fountain, brick paths, and an unbeatable view of Jackson Square.
Suggested time to spend: 2 hours
Late Night (8pm – 12am)
Dinner: Call it a day with dinner at Muriel's Jackson Square. It’s a go-to for those seeking elegant Creole fare in a romantic, historic setting. With vegan options, creative cocktails, and a welcoming vibe for families and groups, Muriel's combines New Orleans tradition with contemporary touches.
Frequently asked questions about Hop-on Hop-off New Orleans Tours
What are the main stops on the hop-on hop-off route?
Stops include the French Quarter, Garden District, Arts District, Treme, Marigny, Jackson Square, French Market, and more covering all major neighborhoods and attractions in New Orleans.
Can I hop on and off at any stop during tour?
Yes, you can get on and off at any designated stop as many times as you like during your the New Orleans hop-on hop-off bus tour.
How much time does it take to complete the full bus loop without hopping off?
The full loop typically takes about 90 minutes if you remain on the bus without stopping. This gives you a comprehensive overview of the city’s main highlights before you decide where to get off and explore further.
What kind of commentary is provided during the tour?
Most New Orleans hop-on hop-off tours offer live commentary in English. The live guide provides engaging insights about the city’s history and culture as you pass by sights.
Is it more cost-effective to use the hop-on hop-off bus compared to Uber or taxis?
Yes, if you plan to visit several attractions, the hop-on hop-off bus is generally more cost-effective. Your ticket gives you unlimited rides for the day, plus sightseeing and commentary, whereas Uber and taxis charge per trip and do not offer guided tours.
How much walking is involved to get from the bus stops to the attractions?
While the bus stops are close to major attractions, some walking is usually required, typically a few minutes to reach each site. The amount of walking depends on your chosen stops and your itinerary.
I have just one day to spend in New Orleans. Can I cover major sights with such a short time?
Absolutely! With one day in New Orleans, you can see its key jazz sites, historical attractions and have room for more!
Do I need to book in advance for the New Orleans hop-on hop-off bus tour?
Booking in advance is recommended, especially during peak seasons or weekends, to guarantee your spot and sometimes to access online discounts.
