Historic New Orleans Bike Tour

Bike to the bayous of NOLA

From the lively, compact French Quarter to the surrounding Bayous, you'll follow the history of the Big Easy’s transformation into a modern city on this bike tour. Start pedaling in the iconic French Quarter before you wend your way through Faubourg Marigny, Esplanade Avenue, Mid-City, St. Louis Cemetery No. 3, City Park, Bayou St. John, and the Lafitte Greenway, arriving at Louis Armstrong Park and Congo Square to finish your tour.

Start in the heart of New Orleans, the bustling, musical, ever exciting French Quarter. Your guide will explain the centrality of these streets to the French settlers who shaped the city in the 18th century, replete with evidence of French (and Spanish) colonial influences, from stately architecture to the French street names.

You'll continue your exploration in the neighboring Faubourg Marigny, a bohemian enclave brimming with artistic flair and eclectic charm. Originally a plantation in the 18th century, the neighborhood was soon settled by a diverse range of cultures whose various influences can be seen in the Creole cottages, colorful shotgun houses, and eclectic, artistic atmospheres that suffuse this quarter.

Your ride continues along the picturesque Esplanade Avenue. Fall under the spell of the enchanting historic mansions and the lush green canopy provided by the live oak trees. This iconic street showcases the city's architectural splendor and leads to the next stop on this bike tour: the lush and verdant City Park.

From here, you’ll venture into the heart of Mid-City. This residential neighborhood brims with restaurants serving traditional southern fare, from shrimp gumbo to po’ boys. Watch the streetcars rumble down the historic Canal Streetcar Line as you pedal towards City Park. This lush expanse is one of the largest urban parks in the USA and forms the next stop on this day tour.

From here, you’ll visit St. Louis Cemetery No. 3, showcasing the ornate tombs and mausoleums that honor the city's diverse cultural heritage. Your route then follows the picturesque Bayou St. John, an historic bayou that was crucial to Native American and French traders who used this waterway to sustain the city.

Cycling on, you’ll discover the Lafitte Greenway, an urban park that forms a green corridor across the city and connects neighborhoods, making exploring NOLA by bike efficient and enjoyable. Conclude your ride at Louis Armstrong Park and Congo Square, a cultural hub that celebrates one of the city’s most famous residents, and the strong history of African-American music and culture that the Big Easy boasts.