Historical Tours
2–3 hours
Free cancellation
Not sure? You can cancel this reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
from
$42
per adult
Creole Queen Mississippi River Cruises
Creole Queen Mississippi River Cruises
Creole Queen Mississippi River Cruises
4
9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Monday
9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Tuesday
9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Wednesday
9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Thursday
9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Friday
9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Saturday
9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Sunday
9:00 AM - 9:00 PM
Full view
About
The Creole Queen is an authentic paddlewheeler that takes guests on day and night cruises for a totally different view of the Crescent City from the Mississippi River.
New Orleans, Louisiana
Awards
Travelers' Choice
2023
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Improve this listingTours and Tickets by Creole Queen Mississippi River Cruises
Art Tours
2–3 hours
Free cancellation
Not sure? You can cancel this reservation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.
from
$55
per adult
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Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as wait time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Popular mentions
4.0
3,051 reviews
Excellent
1,715
Very good
744
Average
319
Poor
125
Terrible
148
Lan
Wembley, UK43 contributions
Jan 2020
Very nice cruise with a knowledgeable tour guide (Chris). The cruise clearly wants you to spend money buy not allowing outside drinks and selling food but it didn’t look very nice so we didn’t purchase. The boat crew looked like they didn’t want to be there especially the man who checked our tickets on the dock and tied the steps back down on our return.
Written January 25, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Pete
Harpenden, UK119 contributions
Feb 2020 • Couples
We went on the afternoon historical cruise on the 29th February.
Charles the guide was excellent. He was funny, really knowledgable and narrated the tour so well.
As we remembered Katrina from seeing it on the news in the UK the full catalogue of events and devastating impact was not really apparent but Charles bought it to life. He spoke passionately and with great feeling.
On top of that we got some real sense of New Orleans history. Thanks Charles and we forgive you for all the British comments!
The crew, organisation and ticket booth were also great.
Top tip for anyone booking tickets and receiving an e ticket. I put mine in my Apple wallet but did check if it worked to get on the boat, it doesn’t! Just pop to the ticket booth near where the boat departs and they give you a paper version. All works seamlessly.
Charles the guide was excellent. He was funny, really knowledgable and narrated the tour so well.
As we remembered Katrina from seeing it on the news in the UK the full catalogue of events and devastating impact was not really apparent but Charles bought it to life. He spoke passionately and with great feeling.
On top of that we got some real sense of New Orleans history. Thanks Charles and we forgive you for all the British comments!
The crew, organisation and ticket booth were also great.
Top tip for anyone booking tickets and receiving an e ticket. I put mine in my Apple wallet but did check if it worked to get on the boat, it doesn’t! Just pop to the ticket booth near where the boat departs and they give you a paper version. All works seamlessly.
Written March 3, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
eashanks
Reading, UK12 contributions
Jan 2020
Fabulous trip down the Mississippi - it is always interesting to see a city from the water as it gives a different viewpoint. Overview of the battle @ Charlette gave a historic context to the city which linked well with content in Louisiana State Museum on Jackson Square. Charles (the narrator/guide on the Creole Queen) was fabulous - lots of detail on the city itself both before and after hurricane Katrina.
Written January 25, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
annievh112
Holland, MI33 contributions
Feb 2020 • Couples
We had booked tickets for February 18, the final day of our trip. After realizing that the battlefield visitor center was closed Monday the 17th because of the Presidents Day federal holiday, we were confident in our choice. (The website for purchasing tickets does not mentioned federal holidays or that the tour experience may be different on these days!)
When we arrived for our AM cruise, the staff member overseeing boarding did not know if we could use the digital tickets that had been texted to me at time of purchase. While we worked on figuring out if we had to go to the ticket booth to print tickets or if we could board with digital tickets, the announcement was made that the cruise was canceled for “mechanical” reasons.
I immediately got in the (long) ticket line and asked the agent if the afternoon cruise was going out. She assured me that it “definitely” was going out and exchanged our tickets and rearranged our day to this. While she was exchanging, she didn’t even have records if we had purchased a meal or not.
When we returned to the dock 4 hours later for the afternoon cruise, rumors were spreading that this cruise was canceled as well— but no one seemed to know since there were no staff circulating in the area with updates. The line was very long — having people to help communicate to people at the back of the line or who were confused would have been nice. It should not be the responsibility of other guests to communicate with fellow passengers about what they think is happening— this is how rumors start. Since the mechanical issue was known about for several hours at that point, it feels inexplicable and inexcusable that only two ticket agents were on duty to help the dozens and dozens of people in line. Why wasn’t management on site? How come more ticket agents weren’t brought in to help? This company had my cellphone number and email address— how come they did not communicate in the hours leading up to the afternoon cruise about the cancellation? A supervisor or manager was not on site to process returns - the staff refunding tickets did not know when refunds would be processed. (Thankfully my refund was processed the same day, not the 5-6 days suggested by staff.) it seemed like people with groupons were getting conflicting refund information from the two ticket agents based on what I could overhear. Honestly, the whole thing could have gone better with more honest and upfront communication and a tour company that seemed even a little bit sorry about the circumstances. Overwhelmed ticket agents without good information shouldn’t be the frontline in a situation like this. Mechanical issues are often unavoidable, but a tour company that neglects to offer true hospitality in the face of a these circumstances comes off looking cheap and uncaring.
When we arrived for our AM cruise, the staff member overseeing boarding did not know if we could use the digital tickets that had been texted to me at time of purchase. While we worked on figuring out if we had to go to the ticket booth to print tickets or if we could board with digital tickets, the announcement was made that the cruise was canceled for “mechanical” reasons.
I immediately got in the (long) ticket line and asked the agent if the afternoon cruise was going out. She assured me that it “definitely” was going out and exchanged our tickets and rearranged our day to this. While she was exchanging, she didn’t even have records if we had purchased a meal or not.
When we returned to the dock 4 hours later for the afternoon cruise, rumors were spreading that this cruise was canceled as well— but no one seemed to know since there were no staff circulating in the area with updates. The line was very long — having people to help communicate to people at the back of the line or who were confused would have been nice. It should not be the responsibility of other guests to communicate with fellow passengers about what they think is happening— this is how rumors start. Since the mechanical issue was known about for several hours at that point, it feels inexplicable and inexcusable that only two ticket agents were on duty to help the dozens and dozens of people in line. Why wasn’t management on site? How come more ticket agents weren’t brought in to help? This company had my cellphone number and email address— how come they did not communicate in the hours leading up to the afternoon cruise about the cancellation? A supervisor or manager was not on site to process returns - the staff refunding tickets did not know when refunds would be processed. (Thankfully my refund was processed the same day, not the 5-6 days suggested by staff.) it seemed like people with groupons were getting conflicting refund information from the two ticket agents based on what I could overhear. Honestly, the whole thing could have gone better with more honest and upfront communication and a tour company that seemed even a little bit sorry about the circumstances. Overwhelmed ticket agents without good information shouldn’t be the frontline in a situation like this. Mechanical issues are often unavoidable, but a tour company that neglects to offer true hospitality in the face of a these circumstances comes off looking cheap and uncaring.
Written February 19, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
MelissaSA30
Houston, TX6 contributions
Mar 2020
My husband and I took the 2pm historical boat tour. We had a lovely time sitting on the upper deck with beautiful weather. The food was also decent and plentiful. What made the trip exceptional though was the historical narrator Charles who was absolutely phenomenal. He was funny, interesting and well spoken. He spoke at the end regarding a detailed history of the events that surrounded Catrina with such passion and intensity that all the patrons were absolutely silent and riveted. It was incredibly moving. Highly recommended especially if Charles is narrating the tour.
Written February 29, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Barbara R
Peoria, United States31 contributions
Oct 2022
We took this tour because it also stopped at the battleground of the 1812 war. The Tour Guide, Charles (both on boat and park) did a wonderful job sharing the history of the area. On the way back from the battleground he gave a day by day accounting of Katrina. He limited it to the outside, so if you didn't want to hear you could simply sit inside. He pointed out Ward 9 as we passed it, and talked about why it was so damaged. Highly recommend this tour - it is day time only. People started to line up about 35 minutes before boarding, and it holds over a lot of people, so get there a little early. The only criticism is that we didn't know we had to be outside to hear the narration until we were seated inside. So we ended up standing along the outside rail so we could hear. Not everyone gets off at the battlefield (not required - but the story is worth the walk), so when you return grab any outside seat if you want to hear about Katrina. Also if the sun is on the port side to go to the battlefield, it will be the other side on the return trip (Just in case you get a the side of the boat.
Written October 29, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Pirate Gal
Lexington, SC140 contributions
Jan 2020
Food was just average, and we had been told at the welcome center that the food was amazing. We were disappointed. We were told we were going on a "jazz" cruise, and there was a "jazz" band, but their selection of "jazz" music was lacking, and only a few of the songs they played could actually truly be called jazz. Very disappointed.
Written January 20, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
BrandonM
351 contributions
Mar 2021 • Family
Shout out to the narrator Charles. He is the best speaker and narrator I’ve ever heard. He is worth the price of the cruise with lunch by himself. Thank you so much for making our trip to New Orleans. F@?”;ng unbelievable. With that being said, food was pretty good and the trip and stop at the battle field for the battle of New Orleans(1812) was super cool.
Written March 26, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Chris_626
West Palm Beach, FL160 contributions
Mar 2020 • Family
This historic paddle boat was simplicity charming. I had one member of my party in a wheelchair and the staff was excellent in accommodating us. The entire boat ride was narrated by an amazing guide, which you could hear over the sound system from anywhere on the boat. The guide spoke about the history and current state as the boat sailed down the Mississippi. The bar is available for those that didnt pay for meal (like us). The boat then docks at the historic battlefield where Andrew Jackson once stood, and passengers can exit, enjoy the park, and what was impressive to me was the themed Park Ranger that captivated the crowd with the story of the times. Tip: There is a sidewalk for anyone with a stroller and wheelchair to enjoy the park. Tip 2: Set a timer! You have to use your time wisely, before the paddle boat sails back away. As a history lover, I enjoyed it a lot, and found it as a great way to kick off my trip (learning about the history).
Written March 15, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
Ulyana
Almaty, Kazakhstan965 contributions
Dec 2020 • Couples
It’s a good idea to spend time here. 2,5 hours riverwalk opens to you some historical facts about New Orleans. A big part is about Katrina hurricane. I advise you to choose your tour with included food - you can try true Louisiana cuisine cheaper than you’ll decide to buy it on the boat directly. Cocktails are also in menu - approximately for $7/each.
Written January 3, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews as part of our industry-leading trust & safety standards. Read our transparency report to learn more.
What is the dress attire like on the New Year's Eve Cruise?
Gigi W
2 contributions
Casual attire.
Where does the Creole Queen dock?
Vanessa
1 contribution
365 canal st New Orleans, I went through the mall then out to the back!! Hope you go and enjoy xo.
Acacia Martin
Kokomo, IN1 contribution
What food was availble with the buffet? I'm a vegetarian so I was just wondering if it would be worth it for me to pay the extra cost.
Nadira880
Portland, TN22 contributions
Hi, there was a salad I believe, red beans and rice, cornbread muffins and bread pudding that would be suitable for a vegetarian. Not sure if those dishes are vegan safe, though. There was also gumbo, jambalaya and seafood pasta.
sc_cfl
Central Florida, FL4 contributions
If I purchase the lunch buffet on this historical cruise, are water, iced tea, or soft drinks included? Or will I need to pay for these separately? Also are we still able to visit the buffet after the battlefield or can we only eat on the way there?
Louise O
Northamptonshire, UK16 contributions
Lunch was served after we returned to the boat after the battlefield visit. I can’t quite remember but I think soft drinks were included - but definitely water was available
world trav3l3r
Tamarac, FL111 contributions
Is there a dress code for the night cruise?
Jennahlee87
Belleville, MI851 contributions
No, they don’t have a dress code. We felt over dressed (black sequin dress, heels, dress pants & dress shirt). Most people were in casual clothes. Some even had t-shirts, hoodies and jeans.
kduvall2017
Morrisburg, Canada
Can we park close by that is secure and can leave a car for most of the day,and how are the prices say to park for 12 hrs.?
Kate H
26 contributions
There's parking by the Hilton hotel and mall that is right there. New Orleans is terrible when it comes to driving in the city. So much traffic, construction and small lanes.
sebjab28
Oil City, PA5 contributions
Hi, sebjab28. What would you like to know about this attraction? Did you have to turn in your groupon voucher and get a ticket to get inline to get on the boat?
stonellas
London, UK903 contributions
There is a small ticket office next to where the cruise departs but as the ticket booth is quite small the queues can get very long. So you properly need to get there a bit earlier (at least 30 min before) . You need to have an official ticket before you can get on board
Selma G
Sao Paulo, SP
Esta atracao e somente so domingos out ten em outros dias da
semana??
Lucia C
Keilor, Australia79 contributions
Jazz dinner cruise or Historical tour in January?
LazuliBunting
Williamsburg, VA5 contributions
We thought the historical cruise was excellent and highly recommend it. They have a lunch buffet with jazz music on the return trip from the battlefield so you can have a little bit of the "jazz cruise" ambience AND enjoy the history tour.