Explore the French Quarter: Walk Pirates Alley, Join a Bar Crawl, and Discover Hidden History
Discover the best things to do in the French Quarter of New Orleans. From the famous Pirate tour with Pirates of the Quarter to a French Quarter bar crawl through Pirates Alley, here’s your ultimate guide to history, nightlife, and adventure.
Introduction: The Heart of New Orleans
The French Quarter is the beating heart of New Orleans—a neighborhood steeped in music, mystery, and centuries of stories. From jazz pouring out of Bourbon Street bars to the aroma of fresh beignets at Café du Monde, the Quarter has something for everyone. But if you want a truly unique experience that blends history, adventure, and a touch of mischief, the Pirate Guided Walking Tour from The Pirates of the Quarter should be at the top of your list.
This guide highlights why the Pirate tour is a must-do and shows how you can round out your trip with a French Quarter bar crawl, time in Pirates Alley, and other unforgettable experiences.
1. The Regular Day Tour: Pirate Guided Walking Tour
The Regular day tour with Pirates of the Quarter is not your average history lesson. It’s an interactive, 2-hour stroll through the French Quarter where costumed guides bring pirate legends to life.
Why It’s Special
Authentic history: Learn about Jean and Pierre Lafitte, their smuggling empire, and their role in the Battle of New Orleans.
Expert guides: Storytellers balance humor, grit, and fascinating details that appeal to both history buffs and casual visitors.
Atmospheric stops: You’ll pass through Jackson Square, Royal Street, and the famed Pirates Alley, where legends of the Lafitte brothers linger.
This tour consistently earns five-star reviews and a TripAdvisor Travelers’ Choice Award for good reason—it’s educational, entertaining, and truly one of the most unique things to do in the French Quarter.
2. Explore Pirates Alley
Tucked behind St. Louis Cathedral, Pirates Alley is a short but legendary passageway. Once rumored to be a meeting place for smugglers, it’s now a favorite photo stop and cultural landmark. Walking through Pirates Alley on the Pirate tour gives you the full backstory, making this narrow street one of the most memorable stops in New Orleans.
3. Turn History Into Nightlife: A French Quarter Bar Crawl
After exploring pirate history during the day, it’s only fitting to continue your adventure with a French Quarter bar crawl. The same guides at Pirates of the Quarter offer a Pirate Pub Crawl that blends storytelling with New Orleans’ vibrant drinking culture.
What to Expect
Multiple stops: Enjoy local drinks in 4–5 bars along Bourbon Street, Royal Street, and Pirates Alley.
Unfiltered tales: Hear the wilder side of history, from sword fights to scandals, while sipping cocktails from historic bars.
True nightlife vibe: This is more than just a New Orleans bar crawl—it’s an immersive performance where you’ll laugh, drink, and experience the Quarter like a local pirate.
For adventurous adults, this is the perfect way to Crawl New Orleans with a mix of entertainment and nightlife.
4. Sample Itinerary: History + Crawl
To maximize your day, here’s how you can combine the best French Quarter experiences:
Time Activity Highlights
Morning Beignets at Café du Monde Classic New Orleans breakfast
Regular day tour with Pirates of the Quarter Pirate history, Pirate Alley, Jackson Square
Afternoon Shopping and gallery strolls on Royal Street Art, antiques, souvenirs
Evening French Quarter bar crawl / New Orleans bar crawl Pirate pub crawl, cocktails, nightlife
Late Night Jazz club on Frenchmen Street or Bourbon Street Live music and dancing
This mix of history, culture, and nightlife ensures you get the full French Quarter experience.
5. Other Things to Do in the French Quarter
While the Pirate tour and pub crawl are standout experiences, don’t miss these other attractions:
Jackson Square – street performers, local art, and the iconic St. Louis Cathedral.
Royal Street – perfect for antique shopping and boutique galleries.
Bourbon Street – neon lights, live music, and endless nightlife energy.
Frenchmen Street – a local favorite for authentic live jazz.
Conclusion: Make the Pirate Tour Your First Stop
Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a seasoned traveler, the French Quarter never disappoints. But if you want to do more than just sightsee, the Regular day tour Pirate Walking Tour is the key to unlocking the Quarter’s swashbuckling past. Pair it with a French Quarter bar crawl, explore Pirate Alley, and cap off the night with music and cocktails.
When it comes to things to do in the French Quarter, nothing blends history, adventure, and fun quite like Pirates of the Quarter. Ready to Crawl New Orleans like a pirate? Your adventure awaits.
👉 Book your Pirate Walking Tour or Pirate Pub Crawl today at Pirates of the Quarter and experience the French Quarter like never before.