History Nerds and Pirate Fans Agree: The Pirates of the Quarter Tour Is a Blast!

If you’ve ever dreamed of stepping back in time to the wild days of smugglers, sailors, and swashbucklers on the Gulf Coast, then it’s time to set your sights on New Orleans’ most legendary adventure — the Pirates of the Quarter Tour.

Honored with Tripadvisor’s Traveler’s Choice Award two years in a row and proudly wearing the Viator Badge of Excellence for the same span, this award-winning experience is far more than just a walking tour — it’s a journey into the golden age of piracy, legend, and New Orleans lore. Rated 5 stars for fun, history, and pirates, this tour has become a must-do for anyone visiting the Crescent City.

⚓ Where History Meets Adventure in the French Quarter

There’s no better place to uncover pirate history than New Orleans’ French Quarter, where whispers of smugglers and privateers still seem to echo through the narrow streets and weathered balconies. The Pirates of the Quarter Tour takes you beyond the postcards and party beads — into a world of true tales and untamed spirits.

Your guides? Real pirates. Not just storytellers in costumes, but passionate historians and entertainers who live and breathe the legends of Jean and Pierre Lafitte, the infamous privateers who shaped Louisiana’s destiny during the early 1800s.

You’ll hear how these cunning brothers balanced between outlaws and heroes — running smuggling operations through the swamps by day and helping General Andrew Jackson defend New Orleans during the Battle of New Orleans by night. Their daring deeds helped secure one of America’s most pivotal victories — and made them legends forever tied to this city.

🏴‍☠️ More Than a Tour — It’s a Show on the Streets

The moment you meet your pirate guide, you’ll realize this isn’t your average walking tour. Expect laughter, lively banter, and more than a few pirate “Arrr!” moments along the way.

Every corner of the French Quarter holds a secret, and your guide brings them to life with vivid storytelling, historical insights, and just the right dose of pirate mischief. From Jackson Square to the hidden alleys where contraband once changed hands, you’ll walk the same paths as the rogues and rebels who built New Orleans’ reputation for freedom and flair.

And don’t worry — the stories aren’t dry textbook recitations. This is interactive history at its best, crafted to delight both history nerds who crave authentic tales and pirate fans who just want to shout “Yo ho ho!” in the middle of the Quarter.

🌙 Two Award-Winning Tours — Choose Your Adventure

Whether you prefer daylight discoveries or nighttime mischief, Pirates of the Quarter has you covered:

☀️ The Regular Day Tour

Perfect for families, students, and anyone eager to explore the authentic pirate history of New Orleans. Learn how the Lafitte brothers built their empire, how they influenced the War of 1812, and how their smuggling operations connected with some of the city’s earliest businesses.

You’ll see landmarks that most visitors miss and uncover the truth behind the myths that Hollywood only scratches the surface of.

🌙 The Pirate Bar Crawl (Adults Only)

When the sun sets over Jackson Square, the pirates get a little rowdier. Join them for an adults-only romp through the French Quarter’s most iconic bars and taverns, where you’ll raise a glass and toast to the ghosts of the past.

It’s part history, part pub crawl, and all fun. Expect laughter, surprises, and plenty of local flavor — both in your drink and in the tales you’ll hear.

⭐ Rated 5 Stars for Fun, History, and Pirates!

Visitors from around the world agree — this is one of the most entertaining and educational tours in New Orleans.
With hundreds of glowing reviews across Tripadvisor, Viator, and Google, guests consistently rave about the perfect mix of:

• Authentic history — true stories backed by research and passion.

• Engaging entertainment — lively pirate guides who make you feel part of the adventure.

• French Quarter atmosphere — winding streets, mysterious courtyards, and centuries-old buildings that set the perfect scene.

• Interactive storytelling — no boring lectures here — just laughter, legends, and lively fun.

It’s no wonder the Pirates of the Quarter Tour continues to rack up accolades. Earning the Tripadvisor Traveler’s Choice Award and the Viator Badge of Excellence two years in a row means it ranks among the top 10% of attractions worldwide — a true testament to the quality of the experience.

⚜️ Why Pirates Still Matter in New Orleans

Pirates aren’t just a footnote in New Orleans history — they’re part of its soul. The city’s blend of cultures, independence, and love of revelry owes much to the smugglers and privateers who called the Gulf home.

The Lafitte brothers, along with their loyal crews, once controlled Barataria Bay — a swampy stronghold just south of the city. From there, they ran a complex trading and smuggling network that connected the Caribbean to the Mississippi River. Their story intertwines with themes of freedom, rebellion, and survival, making them as fascinating today as they were 200 years ago.

Taking this tour isn’t just about hearing stories — it’s about understanding how pirates helped shape New Orleans into the cultural powerhouse it is today.

📍 A Must-Do Experience for Every Visitor

If you’re planning your first trip to New Orleans — or even if you’ve been a dozen times — the Pirates of the Quarter Tour belongs on your must-do list. It’s consistently ranked among the best walking tours in the French Quarter, right up there with ghost tours and culinary adventures, but with one crucial difference:

It’s all true.

Every tale you hear is based on real events, real people, and real history — told with a flair only pirates can deliver.

So whether you’re a lifelong history buff, a fan of Pirates of the Caribbean, or just someone looking for an unforgettable evening in the French Quarter, this tour guarantees you’ll leave with a grin, a few new pirate phrases, and a deeper appreciation for New Orleans’ wilder side.

🗺️ Plan Your Adventure

The Pirates of the Quarter Tour departs daily from the heart of the French Quarter, near Jackson Square. Tours typically last 90 minutes, and private group bookings are available for special events, bachelor/bachelorette parties, and corporate outings.

Tickets sell out fast, especially on weekends and during festival season, so it’s best to book in advance.

🏴‍☠️ Join the Crew

There are plenty of tours in New Orleans — but only one that lets you walk in the footsteps of real pirates, laugh with living legends, and see history come alive right before your eyes.

History lovers call it fascinating. Pirate fans call it unforgettable. Everyone calls it fun.

Come see why the Pirates of the Quarter Tour has earned its place among the top-rated experiences in New Orleans — Tripadvisor Traveler’s Choice Award winner and Viator Badge of Excellence recipient, two years running.

Book your spot, grab your sense of adventure, and prepare to shout “Aye, matey!” in the heart of the French Quarter.