There’s no getting around the fact that New Orleans gets steamy in the summer. However, if you’re willing to brave the heat, it’s a great time to visit. Summertime is full of great deals and incredible experiences, including unforgettable walking tours.

These tours let you experience the true soul of the city and are worth braving the infamous New Orleans heat.

1. French Quarter History & Architecture Tour

NOLA Historic Tours has several exciting excursions to choose from, including the French Quarter History and Architecture Tour. Stroll through the oldest neighborhood in New Orleans, and learn about Creole culture, secret courtyards, and legendary landmarks, like the St. Louis Cathedral and Jackson Square.

2. Garden District Walking Tour

Enjoy a scenic walk down oak-lined streets and view extravagant 19th-century homes in the New Orleans Garden District with NOLA Tours. Learn about the different architectural styles that comprise the neighborhood, like Victorian and Greek Revival. The tour also includes a discussion about Lafayette #1 Cemetery and the real reason New Orleans buries their dead above ground.

3. Tour Tremé

Check out this French Quarter Phantoms experience to discover the deep cultural roots of the Tremé neighborhood. The Tremé is America’s oldest African-American community and the inspiration for a popular American television drama. The neighborhood is also well-known for its jazz.

During the tour, you’ll hear about Congo Square, brass bands, and various social movements that shaped the city. Depending on when you take the tour, you might even catch a live rehearsal or experience an authentic second line parade.

4. Experience a Haunted History Night Tour

New Orleans isn’t just famous for its food, music, and history. It’s also considered one of the most haunted cities in the country.

The Big Easy features stories and legends of vampires, haunted hotels, unsolved mysteries, and paranormal occurrences. A haunted night tour isn’t just spookier, adding to the thrill; you also won’t have the sweltering sun to worry about. And, who knows, the chill of nearby spirits might even make the temperature drop a few degrees. 

5. Frenchmen Street Live Music Pub Crawl

What better way to soak in the ultimate music experience in New Orleans than with a local jazz musician as your guide? This music-centric tour takes you to numerous locations in the Frenchmen neighborhood, known for being one of the best live music spots in the city.

Enjoy a frozen cocktail as you boogie and groove your way through the clubs. You’ll learn about music legends as well as hidden gems that don’t typically make it onto the tourist brochures.

How to Beat the Heat During Your New Orleans Walking Tour

Here are a few tips to help downplay the summer heat while you ramp up the fun.

• Start early or go after sunset.
• Stay hydrated and drink, drink, drink (and no, alcohol doesn’t count — you need plenty of water and rehydration drinks, like sports drinks, to replenish electrolytes).
• Wear breathable clothes and comfortable shoes (this is not the time to worry about how cute your feet look, stay comfy).
• Apply sunscreen and bring it with you to reapply throughout the day.
• Wear a wide-brimmed hat and sunglasses.
• Keep a cooling towel or hand fan with you.
• After a day of touring, wind down and cool off in a comfortable, New Orleans vacation rental property stocked with all the amenities you need to stay the night in.

Walking tours in New Orleans offer an immersive, entertaining, and unforgettable way to discover the city. Book your New Orleans vacation rental as save.