New Orleans: Black History Walking Tour & Congo Square Stories

Summary

Walk Treme’s streets, hear Congo Square rhythms, feel the city’s soul

You’ll walk Treme’s historic streets with a local guide, stand where jazz began at Congo Square, see murals tucked into daily life, and witness the lasting impact of Hurricane Katrina in the Lower 9th Ward. Expect honest stories, sensory moments (like tasting beignets or hearing live rhythms), and a deeper sense of what New Orleans means beyond postcards.

What’s the experience like?

Ever wondered what it’s like to stand in a place where music changed the world? That’s how I felt stepping onto the cracked sidewalks of Treme, our guide waving us over with this easy grin. She started talking about jazz legends who’d played just around the corner — honestly, I could almost hear a trumpet somewhere in the distance (or maybe that was just someone practicing nearby). The morning was sticky, but there was this breeze carrying something spicy from a neighbor’s kitchen. We passed painted shotgun houses and she pointed out murals I’d never noticed before — one had a kid’s handprint right in the corner. “That’s her nephew,” she laughed.

Congo Square hit different. It wasn’t just another stop; you could feel something humming under your feet. Our guide told us about enslaved people gathering here on Sundays, drumming and dancing when they could — I tried to picture it, all that rhythm echoing off the trees. There was a group playing music nearby, and for a second it felt like time folded up and let us peek through. Someone handed me a beignet from a street vendor (powdered sugar everywhere) and I swear that bite tasted like history mixed with sweetness.

The Lower 9th Ward felt quieter, heavier somehow. We drove past empty lots and houses still marked by Katrina’s high water lines — our driver didn’t sugarcoat anything. He talked about resilience but also about what still hurts here. There were moments when nobody said much; sometimes silence says more than words can. I left thinking about Ruby Bridges and Leona Tate — their names came up as we passed an old school building — how young they were to carry so much hope on their shoulders.

I’m not sure what I expected from this day trip through New Orleans’ Black history, but it stuck with me way longer than any souvenir ever could. Some stories just settle in your bones.

Step-by-step itinerary

Day 1 — Explore New Orleans Black history and culture

• Visit Treme historic neighborhood
• Learn Treme's civil rights role
• Stroll past live music venues
• Discover African and Creole influences
• Hear stories of enslaved gatherings
• Explore Congo Square cultural site
• Observe New Orleans murals

Top questions

How long is the New Orleans Black history tour?

The tour is designed as a day trip exploring several neighborhoods including Treme, Congo Square, and the Lower 9th Ward.

Is pickup included for this New Orleans walking tour?

Your experience includes an air-conditioned vehicle for transportation between sites; pickup details are provided upon booking.

Are infants or small children allowed on this tour?

Yes, infants and small children can join; prams or strollers are welcome and infants may sit on an adult's lap.

Which neighborhoods does the tour visit?

The tour visits Treme (America's oldest Black community), Congo Square, Jackson Square area, and the Lower 9th Ward.

Does this tour include stories about Hurricane Katrina?

Yes, you’ll hear firsthand accounts of Hurricane Katrina’s impact while visiting affected areas like the Lower 9th Ward.

Will there be opportunities to see local art or murals?

You’ll pass by some of New Orleans’ most beautiful murals during your walk through historic neighborhoods.

What’s included

Your day includes all entry fees and taxes, air-conditioned vehicle transfers between neighborhoods like Treme and the Lower 9th Ward, plus time spent with knowledgeable local guides who share personal stories along each stop.