Don't just visit New Orleans. Experience it!
You want more than crowded streets, tourist traps, and the same attractions everyone else has seen. You want the stories, flavors, people, music, wildlife, and hidden places that make New Orleans unlike anywhere else. It can be hard to know where to go, what’s worth your time, and which experiences are actually authentic. You can spend your entire trip following the crowd and still miss the places that locals know and love.
We’re your local guide, captain, and connection to the city that exists Beyond the French Quarter. We believe that the best parts of New Orleans are often found beyond the places everyone else is looking. We take you beyond the expected for authentic experiences, local connections and unique adventures.
From Bourbon Street to the bayou, we take you BEYOND!
tours & events
Beyond the French Quarter
$75 $60 Adult / $25 Child (under 16)
$1,500-private tour
Accommodates up to 28 guests
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Our Nature and Wildlife Tour takes you off the map and into one of southeast Louisiana’s most fragile and important landscapes. On this guided wetland excursion your guide will explain the mechanics and stakes of coastal restoration—why marshes are disappearing, how salinity and subsidence reshape shorelines, and which restoration techniques (living shorelines, replanting, and targeted sediment work) are being used to give this place a fighting chance. You’ll come away understanding how hurricanes, development, and changing river management have altered the delta. Expect to spot alligators basking along the banks, wading egrets and herons threading the shallows, and a lively cast of migratory songbirds and raptors that use the bayou as a seasonal highway. Guides point out feeding behavior, nesting sites, and the subtle cues that signal a healthy—versus stressed—wetland. This tour is aimed at curious visitors who want more than postcards: it’s an immersive look at how people, policy, and nature intersect in Louisiana’s coastal wetlands. - Timeframe: 1 hour 45 min tour - Slots: 10am, 2pm & 6pm - Restaurant Bar & Grill on-site: Enjoy the Wharf’s full-service bar and grill "Lucille's Landing" - Parking: Free parking is on-site at your convenience - Cruise accommodations: up to 28 guests - Restrooms: Available on board, on dock and in restaurant
$75 $60 Adult / $25 Child (under 16)
$1,500-private tour
Accommodates up to 28 guests
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Wings of the Wetlands, our Birding Tour glides into the hidden marshes of Bayou Bienvenue on a 1 hour 45 minute guided boat birding tour led by a licensed captain and an experienced bird guide. As you thread through waterways and open tidal flats around the bayou, your guide will point out habitat features, assist with identification, and share natural history and conservation notes. Expect excellent opportunities to see the bayou’s signature wading and water birds—great blue herons, great and snowy egrets, little blue and tricolored herons, roseate spoonbills, white and glossy ibises, anhingas, double-crested cormorants, wood storks and of course it's iconic Great Brown pelicans—alongside raptors like osprey, bald eagles and red-shouldered hawk. During migration seasons you may also encounter shorebirds and a variety of migrant songbirds and warblers that stop through the wetlands. Bring your camera and binoculars for close, respectful viewing and a memorable glimpse of Southeast Louisiana’s rich birdlife. This tour includes a complimentary bottle of water and a souvenir local bird guide booklet to help you keep track of sightings—perfect for first-time birders and seasoned spotters alike. - Timeframe: 1 hour 45 min tour - Slots: 8am; 12pm & 4pm - Restaurant Bar & Grill on-site: Enjoy the Wharf’s full-service bar and grill "Lucille's Landing" - Parking: Free parking is on-site at your convenience - Cruise accommodations: up to 28 guests - Restrooms: Available on board, on dock and in restaurant
$45 $30person
2 hour tour - Saturdays only
groups of min:4 - max: 20 guests
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Explore one of New Orleans’ most beautiful and historic neighborhoods on a guided walking tour through the Garden District. Stroll beneath towering live oaks and past grand antebellum mansions, elaborate Victorian homes, historic churches, and beautifully preserved gardens while learning how the neighborhood developed from a wealthy residential enclave into one of the city’s most recognizable communities. Your guide will bring the architecture to life, explaining the distinctive styles, craftsmanship, and stories behind the homes while revealing the people and events that helped shape the neighborhood. Beyond its architecture, the Garden District offers a fascinating window into New Orleans history and culture. Along the way, you’ll hear stories of prominent residents, old New Orleans families, immigrants, artists, musicians, and the traditions that continue to influence the city today. Designed for intimate groups of 4 to 12 guests, this walking tour provides a more personal experience, with plenty of opportunity to ask questions and explore the details that larger tours tend to march right past, because apparently humans built all these beautiful houses and then decided the best way to appreciate them was by walking around and talking about them.
$160 $140/person
Seasonal Seafood Experience
Crabs, Crawfish & Shrimp Heaven
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Experience an Authentic Cajun Seafood Boil like no other. First, you'll explore the scenic bayou that is the source of it all via a 30-person party boat for an hour as you learn the process and systems of securing the catch. Then, back at dock you learn how the live seafood is prepared by a master chef who grew up perfecting the art of boiling seafood the Louisiana way. This hands-on culinary event brings together a nature-based bayou tour, fresh Gulf seafood and bold local flavors while learning the time-honored traditions, techniques, spices, and stories behind how we boil shrimp, crawfish, crabs, and more that make a true New Orleans boil unforgettable. After the cooking comes the best part: gathering around the table, rolling up your sleeves, and diving into a feast piled high with perfectly seasoned seafood, corn, potatoes, and all the fixings. It’s an immersive, delicious taste of New Orleans culture you won’t find anywhere else. It’s part nature tour, part cooking lesson, part cultural experience, and all fun!
Discover the magic of areas swamps and bayous on a 3 hour guided kayak tour that places you right in the heart of one of Louisiana’s most enchanting landscapes. Choose from several options of swamps and bayous for a private guided tour through the winding waterways while you escape the city and immerse yourself in towering bald cypress trees draped in Spanish moss, serene bayous, and the natural beauty that defines South Louisiana. Round-trip transportation from the French Quarter is included, making the adventure effortless from start to finish.
$80 $65 Adult / $30 Child (under 16)
$1,600-private tour
Can accommodate up to 56 guests at a time
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More than a sightseeing cruise, this immersive educational boat tour explores one of the most important environmental restoration stories in Louisiana. Journey through Bayou Bienvenue and the Central Wetlands while learning how the construction of the Mississippi River Gulf Outlet (MRGO) transformed thousands of acres of thriving cypress forest into the iconic "Ghost Swamp," and how the closure of MRGO, large-scale coastal restoration initiatives, reforestation projects, and modern flood protection systems are helping shape the future of southeast Louisiana. Along the way, you'll discover how engineering, science, public policy, and community advocacy continue to influence one of America's most ambitious ecosystem restoration efforts.
$75 $65person (21+ only)
$1,100 - private tour
Accommodates up to 28 guests
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Evening on Bayou Bienvenue offers a side of New Orleans most visitors never see or hear where calm waters, fresh blooms, and active wildlife create the perfect backdrop for a laid-back cruise with just the right amount of energy. With a spacious 28-passenger capacity, there’s plenty of room for your entire group to spread out, relax, and enjoy the ride. As you glide through the bayou, keep an eye out for alligators with glowing red eyes caught in the boats' headlights. This experience is only 15 minutes from the French Quarter and downtown. As the sun dips, the experience shifts to full-on floating party. Our boats are equipped with a powerful sound system and vibrant party lighting, turning the bayou into your private celebration space. Before you board, stock up at our on-site bar and retail shop featuring local beers, seltzers, and other favorites to keep the good times going. It’s everything you love about New Orleans—just beyond the French Quarter.
Local Adventure
Beyond New Orleans
$1,250 /person Alligator Hunter
$250 / person Spectator
Accomodates up to 4 guests
Step into the wild side of Louisiana with an unforgettable alligator hunting adventure just 30 mins away from the hustle and bustle of the French Quarter. You'll explore remote bayous and waterways filled with incredible wildlife, background on the Canary Isalnders that settled these lands and mysterious stories. These marshes have witnessed pirates, battles, hurricanes, and shipwrecks, and locals still share eerie tales about what lies beneath the dark waters. First-time hunter or an avid outdoorsman, our guided alligator hunts deliver an exciting, safe, and authentic Louisiana experience. Choose your preferred hunting method, including baited hook or firearm, and get ready for the adrenaline rush of coming face-to-face with North America's most powerful predator. Our guides will be by your side from start to finish, teaching you about alligator behavior, the unique ecosystem of the Louisiana marsh, the Alligator harvesting program and the fascinating history of St. Bernard Parish. This is more than a hunt—it's a journey into one of the most legendary and mysterious places in Louisiana's bayou land.
$1,250 Fishing Charter & Filet Lesson
$2,500 Premium Fishing Charter
(premium includes charter, lesson, dinner & transpo)
Discover the bayous of Louisiana as you chase the prized Bayou Slam—Speckled Trout, Redfish (Red Drum), and Flounder. This one-of-a-kind charter combines world-class inshore fishing with the unforgettable flavors of Creole cuisine. Your adventure begins aboard a top-of-the-line bay boat, where the Captain will welcome you and guide your group on a search for the perfect catch. After the trip, the Captain and his crew will clean and prepare your fish for cooking. From the marina, you’ll be transported to one of the most authentic restaurants in New Orleans, where our chef will craft a custom lunch featuring your fresh catch prepared with local techniques, seasonings, and true South Louisiana flair. Relax with a cold beverage and enjoy a meal you’ll never forget. Why settle for a standard fishing charter when you can experience genuine South Louisiana culture from water to table?
$600 /person Hog Hunter
$150 / person Spectator
Accomodates up to 2 guests
Take to the backcountry of southeast Louisiana on a guided Wild Hog Hunting Adventure designed to combine the excitement of the hunt with a firsthand look at one of the region’s most persistent environmental problems. Guests will travel by land into the bayou and surrounding wetlands, where experienced guides will lead the group to established hunting stands in areas affected by invasive wild hogs. These destructive animals can cause significant damage to fragile coastal habitats by rooting through the soil, destroying native vegetation, consuming plant roots, and disturbing the ground in ways that can accelerate erosion and habitat loss. This experience offers more than a traditional hunting trip. Your guide will explain the role wild hogs play in Louisiana’s changing coastal environment, the challenges of managing their growing populations, and why controlling these invasive animals can be an important part of protecting wetlands and native habitat. The hunt is conducted in a small-group setting, giving guests an opportunity to experience the Louisiana bayou from a perspective few visitors ever see while participating in an effort that directly supports the health of the surrounding ecosystem. It’s part adventure, part conservation, and a rather practical way to deal with a pig that has apparently declared war on the marsh.
$1,500 Bowfishing Charter
$2,500 Rod/Reel & Bowfishing Charter
$4000 Premium Combo
(premium includes charters lesson, dinner & transpo)
Experience the thrill of Louisiana’s coast like never before. This charter blends classic afternoon fishing with the excitement of nighttime bowfishing under powerful deck lights—using the latest high-performance gear for both rod-and-reel action and bowfishing. Your trip begins in the afternoon as you target speckled trout and other coastal species with Captain Pip. You’ll enjoy top-tier equipment, a selection of beverages, premium cigars, and all the essentials—including bug spray and sunscreen—to keep you comfortable on the water. As the sun goes down, the real adventure begins. The rods get packed away, the lights come on, and the bows come out. Glide through the shallow waters of the bayou in a custom triple engine 24 foot hybrid boat outfitted with high output bluetooth speakers as you hunt for redfish and flounder with specialized bowfishing setups. The glowing lights reveal the movement beneath the surface, creating an unforgettable night-time experience. Afternoon rod-and-reel fishing for speckled trout + coastal species Nighttime bowfishing for redfish and flounder under high-intensity lights Latest fishing and bowfishing gear included Selection of beverages & premium cigars Bug spray and comfort essentials provided Accommodates up to 6 guests Door-to-door transportation available upon request
$99 /person 1 hour bayou tour
Saturdays only
Accomodates up to 4 guests
Experience Bayou Bienvenue from a whole new perspective on a thrilling airboat ride through the waterways and wetlands of southeast Louisiana. This 45-minute to 1-hour guided adventure takes you deep into the bayou and surrounding marshes, where the power and speed of an airboat provide an exciting way to explore a landscape that is often inaccessible by conventional boats. Along the way, your guide will point out native wildlife, unique wetland habitats, historic waterways, and the remarkable natural environment that surrounds Bayou Bienvenue. But this is more than just a fast ride through the swamp. Guests will learn about the history, ecology, and ongoing changes shaping this important coastal ecosystem, including the area's wetlands, wildlife, waterways, and the challenges facing coastal Louisiana. With room for up to four guests, the small-group format provides a more personal experience and plenty of opportunities to take in the scenery, spot wildlife, and ask questions along the way. It's an adventure with plenty of excitement, but with a healthy dose of Louisiana education thrown in, because apparently even the swamp has a curriculum.
a Little Further Out
Beyond the Gulf Coast
$500 Half-Day (4 hrs)/$1,000 Full Day (8 hrs)
Private Charter to barrier islands
Accommodates up to 6 guests
Escape to some of the most beautiful and remote destinations on the Gulf Coast with a Barrier Islands Adventure aboard our 24-foot charter vessel. This 4-5 hour excursion takes guests beyond the mainland to explore the pristine shores of Mississippi's famous barrier islands, including Cat Island, Horn Island, Ship Island, and Petit Bois Island. Each trip is customized to your group's interests, with visits to two or three islands of your choice, allowing plenty of time to explore, relax, and experience these unique coastal treasures. Known for their crystal-clear waters, white sand beaches, abundant wildlife, and untouched natural beauty, the barrier islands offer a side of the Gulf Coast that few visitors ever get to see. Spend your day beachcombing for shells, spotting dolphins and coastal birds, swimming in secluded waters, or simply enjoying the peaceful surroundings far from the crowds. Whether you're seeking adventure, photography opportunities, or a relaxing day on the water with family and friends, this island-hopping experience provides an unforgettable look at one of the Gulf Coast's best-kept secrets.
$400 - 3-hour Beach Bonfire Party
(includes bonfire set-up, chairs, lights,
cooler & clean-up)
Accommodates up to 20 guests
Gather your friends and head for the sand on the ultimate Gulf Coast Bonfire Party experience. This six-hour adventure combines a scenic boat ride with a fully prepared private beach gathering on one of the beautiful barrier islands or remote stretches of coastline. When you arrive, everything is already waiting for you. We handle the permits, setup, chairs, lighting, coolers, trash receptacles, and the bonfire itself, so all you have to do is step ashore, relax, and enjoy the evening. With a maximum of six guests aboard our comfortable 24-foot charter vessel, the experience feels private, personal, and completely stress-free. As the sun sets over the Gulf, the fire comes to life and the party begins. Spend the evening listening to music, sharing stories around the flames, enjoying your favorite food and beverages, and taking in the sights and sounds of the coast under the stars. Whether you're celebrating a birthday, bachelor or bachelorette party, anniversary, family gathering, or simply looking for a unique night with friends, our Bonfire Party Charter delivers an unforgettable experience. We take care of the logistics, the equipment, and the cleanup, leaving you free to enjoy one of the most memorable nights the Mississippi Gulf Coast has to offer.
$500 - private charter
4 hour dolphin & wildlife spotting tour
Accommodates up to 6 guests
Set out across the beautiful waters of the Mississippi Gulf Coast on a Dolphin Spotting Tour aboard our comfortable 24-foot charter vessel. Departing from the waters between Bay St. Louis and Gulfport, this intimate 2-3 hour excursion takes you through coastal marshes, open bays, and toward the scenic barrier islands where bottlenose dolphins are frequently seen feeding, playing, and swimming alongside the boat. With a maximum capacity of just six guests, you'll enjoy a personalized experience with plenty of room to relax and take in the views. Along the way, keep an eye out for coastal wildlife, seabirds, and stunning Gulf Coast scenery as your captain shares local knowledge about the area's unique ecosystem and maritime history. Whether you're a family looking for a memorable adventure, a photographer seeking the perfect wildlife shot, or simply someone who loves being on the water, this tour offers a chance to experience the natural beauty of Coastal Mississippi from a whole new perspective. The combination of dolphins, barrier islands, and open-water cruising makes this one of the most unforgettable experiences on the Gulf Coast.
$300 - 2-hour Sunset Cruise
(perfect setting for engagements)
Accommodates up to 6 guests
Best way to end the day is with an unforgettable Gulf Coast Sunset Cruise and experience the beauty of the Mississippi Sound as the sky glows with brilliant shades of gold, orange, and pink. Relax on the water, enjoy the coastal breeze, and watch for dolphins, pelicans, and other local wildlife. Perfect for couples, families, engagments and more this scenic cruise is a peaceful way to take in the Gulf Coast's natural beauty while creating memories that will last long after the sun sets.
$400 Half-Day (4 hrs)/$800 Full Day (8 hrs)
Accommodates up to 6 guests
Experience the Mississippi Gulf Coast like a local on our Coastal Pub Crawl by Boat, a fun-filled 3-4 hour adventure that combines waterfront cruising with some of the area's most popular beach bars and restaurants. Aboard our comfortable 24-foot charter vessel, your group of up to six guests will travel the scenic coastline while your licensed captain shares stories, local history, and insider knowledge about the communities, waterways, and landmarks that make this region unique. Along the way, we'll stop at two or three waterfront favorites, including popular destinations such as Shaggy's Gulfport Beach, where guests can enjoy specialty cocktails, local flavors, and laid-back Gulf Coast hospitality. Your charter includes a stocked ice chest filled with complimentary non-alcoholic beverages, ensuring everyone stays refreshed between stops. Whether you're celebrating a special occasion, enjoying a day with friends, or simply looking for a unique way to explore the coast, this floating pub crawl offers the perfect blend of sightseeing, socializing, and waterfront fun. Leave the navigating to your captain and enjoy a carefree afternoon hopping between some of the best bars on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, all while taking in the beautiful views from the water.
food & drinks
Our Favorites in New Orleans
Lucille's Landing
Opening Fall 2026, this one of a kind restaurant offers prime steaks, burgers and the freshest seafood in New Orleans.
A legendary New Orleans landmark that uniquely combines an 18-lane bowling alley, a vibrant live music venue, and a full kitchen and bar into one high-energy experience. Located in the Carrollton area right next to Ye Olde College Inn, it is famous for showcasing top-tier local Louisiana music acts across genres like Zydeco, blues, Cajun, and variety dance bands.
dakar
If you haven't heard of this one yet, your friends sure have. Dakar has quickly become one of the city's must-go-to's in the last couple of years. Nestled on a picturesque block of Magazine St. Chef Sarigne Mbaye has built something quite special with his fusion of West African and southern Creole influences that elevates the city's international offerings while still being a true New Orleanian masterpiece.
A historic neighborhood restaurant serving Creole-Southern comfort food since 1933, it is famous for its award-winning po'boys, classic NOLA atmosphere, and farm-to-table ingredients.
Stein's Deli
A Jewish & Italian deli located in the Lower Garden District of New Orleans. Stein’s Deli offers traditional and specialty sandwiches using top-quality meats and cheeses, in addition to serving the best breakfast sandwiches outside NYC.
unique experiences
in New Orleans
The Blue Crawfish offers a stunning and versatile Boutique Hotel with event space perfect for any occasion. Located in the historic Treme' neighborhood, just minutes from the French Quarter, Superdome, and Downtown New Orleans, the Blue Crawfish Hotel & Lounge is a boutique hotel, bar, restaurant, and live entertainment venue designed for travelers who want an authentic New Orleans Experience.
A social, cultural and learning resource for children and families. Indoors and out, there are tons of hands-on ways to learn literacy, health and wellness, arts and culture, environmental education, and STEM.
If you've ever wondered why Louisiana is so fascinated with alligators, a visit to the Great American Alligator Museum is the perfect place to find out. Located on historic Magazine Street in New Orleans, this one-of-a-kind attraction celebrates the alligator's unique place in American culture through an eclectic collection of exhibits, artifacts, fossils, folk art, memorabilia, and even live alligators. From prehistoric history to pop culture, you'll discover just how deeply these legendary reptiles have influenced life throughout the South and beyond. Part museum, part curiosity cabinet, and entirely unforgettable, the Great American Alligator Museum offers a fun and surprisingly fascinating experience for visitors of all ages. Explore rooms filled with vintage collectibles, unusual artwork, educational displays, and quirky alligator-themed treasures that you won't find anywhere else. Whether you're a wildlife enthusiast, a history buff, or simply looking for something off the beaten path, this uniquely New Orleans attraction is a memorable stop that's guaranteed to leave you saying, "See you later, alligator."
Just Uptown from the French Quarter, Audubon Park offers one of the most beautiful and relaxing green spaces in New Orleans. Shaded by century-old live oaks and lined with smooth walking and biking paths, the park is perfect for a peaceful morning stroll, a lazy afternoon picnic, or a scenic jog around its tranquil lagoon. As you explore, you’ll spot turtles sunning on logs, egrets and herons hunting along the water, and locals unwinding beneath the sprawling oak canopies that make this park so iconic. More than just a pretty place, Audubon Park is woven into the everyday life of New Orleans. It sits beside the historic campuses of Tulane and Loyola, connects to the Audubon Zoo, and offers golf, playgrounds, and quiet birdwatching pockets throughout. Whether you’re looking to slow down between busy sightseeing days or want a glimpse into how locals enjoy the outdoors, Audubon Park is an easy, refreshing escape—and one of the city’s most timeless treasures.
ABOUT US
A passionate collective of local residents and businesses, we’re dedicated to sharing the rich culture, history, and natural beauty of this incredibly diverse city with visitors who are ready to explore beyond the expected. New Orleans is more than the French Quarter—it’s a living, breathing place full of stories, traditions, and hidden corners waiting to be experienced. We’re proudly owned and operated by true New Orleanians, born and raised here, with a deep love for everything this city has to offer.
There’s a spirit to Louisiana that’s hard to explain until you experience it for yourself. It’s in the food, the music, the waterways, and most of all, the people. Spend a little time with locals, and that unmistakable flavor starts to come through—warm, welcoming, and full of character. With years of experience in tourism and on the water, we’re committed to creating experiences that feel authentic, personal, and memorable.
Our goal is simple: to help visitors connect more deeply with this place we call home. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, we want you to leave with a richer understanding of Louisiana’s culture, its landscapes, and its resilience—and maybe even a few stories you didn’t expect to take with you.
Our partners
contact US
Beyond the French Quarter Tours
6301 Paris Rd.
Chalmette, La 70043
info@beyondthefrenchquarter.com
Tel: (504) 249-8961
