Lower Ninth Ward Tours
Hit hard by the floods of Hurricane Katrina in 2005, New Orleans’ Lower Ninth Ward neighborhood is still dotted with abandoned houses and empty lots. Despite these reminders of the disaster in this working-class and predominantly African-American neighborhood, the vibe in the area today is one of hope, inspiration, and resilience.
The Basics
Revitalization of the Lower Ninth Ward has been slow, but new construction is gradually allowing some residents to return, and there are places to visit. Top Lower Ninth Ward sites include the Fats Domino House and recording studio; Victorian-style “steamboat houses” that escaped some of the storm’s worst impacts; Jackson Barracks Military Museum; and Lower Ninth Ward Living Museum, featuring displays and oral histories from neighborhood residents. Many New Orleans city tours include a drive through the district.
Things to Know Before You Go
- A few abandoned homes still bear the markings of search-and-rescue teams, though these have largely been removed or covered up.
- The Lower Ninth Ward is a residential neighborhood, so remember to be respectful of resident property and privacy.
- One of the area's few commercial businesses or restaurants is Cafe Dauphine, serving Creole and Cajun home cooking.
How to Get There
The Lower Ninth Ward of New Orleans is in the easternmost downriver portion of New Orleans and is connected to downtown and the rest of the city by a bridge over the Industrial Canal. Join a group that offers walking or driving tours to dive into the differences in the landscape since Hurricane Katrina. Bicycle rentals for self-exploration are also available in the area.
When to Get There
The neighborhood has little activity or visibility at night and is best visited during daylight hours.
Nonprofit Helping the Lower Ninth Ward
The nonprofit organization Lowernine.org is dedicated to the recovery of the Lower Ninth Ward, which was both the hardest-hit and slowest to recover of all New Orleans neighborhoods after Hurricane Katrina. Partnering with local builders and volunteers, the project repairs and rebuilds area homes so that families displaced by the flooding can return. Visit www.lowernine.com to learn more.
Address: New Orleans, Louisiana, USA
5 Tours and Activities to Experience Lower Ninth Ward
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Three Hour City Tour of New Orleans
Although not your typical tour of New Orleans, this expedition through the Big Easy takes in some of the major points of interest, including the French Quarter, Treme, the Esplanade, the Garden District and the Metairie Cemetery. Relax in air-conditioned minibus comfort, and listen as a guide leads you through one of America's most historic cities.
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From
$36.00
From
$36.00
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
New Orleans Sightseeing City Tour
Maximize time in New Orleans with a sightseeing bus tour. Explore beyond the beauty of the French Quarter to see other neighborhoods including the Garden District, Treme, and the 9th Ward. Learn about city culture and history as you travel along Frenchmen Street, Esplanade Avenue, and more. Hotel pick-up and drop-off are included.
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From
$40.00
From
$40.00
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Social distancing enforced throughout experience
Private Chauffeured and Historian Guided City Tour of New Orleans
See the many faces of New Orleans on this 3-hour private tour. Your guide, a local historian, will lead you through the Lower Ninth Ward and the ever-evolving Warehouse/Arts District. Explore the scenic Garden District, known for its oak-lined streets, lush gardens, and impressive Victorian mansions. End your tour with a visit to the historic Lafayette Cemetery.
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From
$490.00
per group
From
$490.00
per group
Face masks required for travelers in public areas
Face masks required for guides in public areas
Hand sanitizer available to travelers and staff
City of New Orleans and Katrina Recovery Tour
Immerse yourself in the culture, history, and landscape of vibrant New Orleans on this half-day tour with a small group of 15 people or fewer. This experience combines elements from several disparate tours, including those focusing on architecture, the Garden District, historic cemeteries, the French Quarter, and recovery from Hurricane Katrina. Hotel pickup included.
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From
$52.00
From
$52.00
New Orleans Private Vehicle City Tour
Treat yourself to New Orleans 'your way' on a 3-hour private city tour! By luxury car or SUV, travel through the French Quarter, St Louis Cemetery No 1, the Garden District, the Ninth Ward and City Park. Absorb the sights and sounds of the city as you learn about its fascinating history from your personal chauffeur. On this highly flexible tour, you have the liberty to request stops for photo ops and to get a better look at a favorite location.
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From
$528.00
per group
From
$528.00
per group
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