Built on Water, Tested by Storm: New Orleans Water History Tour
See more
Discover the layered history of New Orleans and its ongoing relationship with water on this engaging 2-hour guided walking tour. Your expert guide will share stories that reveal how floods, engineering decisions, and resilience efforts have shaped the city’s landscape and culture.
From the Mississippi River's vital role in the city’s economy to the challenges posed by flooding, this tour offers a deep dive into New Orleans’ water-related history. Along the way, you'll explore historic sites, parks, and landmarks that highlight the city’s ongoing efforts toward sustainability and flood prevention.
By the end of the tour, you'll understand what makes New Orleans unique—how natural forces and human choices have created its vulnerabilities, and what the future might hold for this resilient city.
Frequently asked questions
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 2 hours.
What languages are available?
The tour is conducted in English.
What is the group size?
Groups are limited to up to 14 participants.
Is the tour suitable for children?
Yes. Infants and small children can ride in a pram or stroller, and the tour is suitable for all physical fitness levels.
What’s included in the tour?
An environmentally conscious guide, a licensed tour guide, and follow-up information if desired.
Are food and drinks included?
No, food and beverages are not included.
Free cancellation
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Reserve now
Check a date here, then finish booking with our partner. Payment options are confirmed at checkout.
Duration 2 hours
Check availability to see start times.
Live tour guide
English
Key facts
What's included
Included
- Follow-up information if desired
- Environmentalist guide
- Licensed tour guide
Not included
- Gratuities
- Food or beverages
Itinerary
-
Stop 1
New Orleans and the Mississippi River are deeply connected. The river powers tourism, trade, and the city's economy but also exposes it to catastrophic floods. We’ll explore this relationship in detail.
-
Stop 2
Visit a park named after Benjamin Latrobe, who built New Orleans' first water system.
-
Stop 3
See the transformed area along the Mississippi River that was once flood walls and industrial sites. Now a lush park with art and walkways, named after philanthropist Malcolm Woldenberg.
-
Stop 4
Explore Jackson Square, laid out in 1721, and learn about its history as the heart of the colonial capital of La Louisiane.
-
Stop 5
Discover the French Market, originating as a Native American trading post in 1791, and its evolution into a cultural hub with diverse vendors from around the world.
-
Stop 6
Learn about the original city and the ongoing struggle to control the Mississippi with levees, highlighting the persistent threat of flooding.
Meeting point & pickup
Meet at the starting point
This address brings you to the amphitheater. You'll see a semi-circle of concrete steps where your guide will meet you at the bottom. Expect a text message from your guide before the tour begins.
Open in Google MapsCancellation & confirmation
Free cancellation
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
- 100% refund if canceled at least 1 day in advance
- No refund if canceled within 24 hours
- Tour may be canceled due to bad weather or insufficient bookings
Instant confirmation
Your booking is confirmed immediately after checkout.
From $35.00 per person
- Free cancellation
- Secure checkout with our booking partner
