- We are Cashless!
- Save when Booking In Advance!
5 Hidden Gems You Can Only Reach (Easily) by Hop-On Hop-Off
Explore the Authentic Side of the Big Easy at Your Own Pace
New Orleans is famous for its bright lights and busy streets, but for those who want to experience the city like a local, the true magic lies just a few blocks away from the main attractions. At City Sightseeing, we take pride in being NOLA Experts who help you find the hidden gems New Orleans visitors often miss. Our NOLA hop-on hop-off experience isn’t just a trip to the most-visited landmarks; it is your passport to authentic New Orleans neighborhoods and the secret spots that define our culture.
1. Discover the Hidden Gems Near Magazine Street
Hop off at Stop #12 (Garden District on Magazine Street) and you’ll quickly discover why locals consider this stretch one of the best eating and shopping streets in the city. From hole-in-the-wall lunch spots to beloved neighborhood bakeries, Magazine Street is packed with the kind of genuine, unhurried dining experiences that never make it onto the tourist circuit. If you really want to eat your way through the neighborhood like a true New Orleanian, our Magazine Street Foodie Tour takes you inside five local restaurants for a curated taste of classic NOLA cuisine, no guesswork required.
2. The Melodies of the Marigny
While many visitors never leave the French Quarter, our route takes you right to Stop #3 (Marigny Bywater). Hop off to discover the pocket parks and colorful street corners of this vibrant neighborhood, then make your way to Frenchmen Street, where local brass bands spill out of clubs and onto the sidewalks at virtually any hour. It’s one of the best local spots near bus stops for travelers who want to hear the city’s authentic heartbeat without the Bourbon Street crowds.
While many visitors never leave the French Quarter, our route takes you right to Stop #3 (Marigny Bywater). Hop off to discover the pocket parks and colorful street corners where local brass bands often practice in the shade. It’s one of the best local spots near bus stops for travelers who want to hear the city’s authentic heartbeat without the Bourbon Street crowds.
3. Artisan Treasures at the French Market
Most people only see the front of the market, but the real finds are at the very end near Stop #2 (French Market). Use your New Orleans city tour to reach the far artisan stalls where local craftsmen sell hand-poured candles and original jazz-inspired art. It’s the perfect way to find off the beaten path New Orleans souvenirs while supporting our local NOLA businesses.
4. A "Backstage" View of St. Charles Avenue
Everyone knows the streetcars, but seeing the sprawling mansions from our top-deck at Stop #14 (St. Charles Avenue) gives you a unique perspective on the city’s history. Our guides share the “backstage” legends of the families who built these architectural wonders, offering a level of detail and a panoramic view you won’t get from the ground.
5. A Moment of History at Stop #5
While many visit the cemeteries, few take the time to explore the quiet, sun-drenched plazas near the Basin St. Station Visitor Information Center. This stop offers a moment of peace and a chance to admire some of the city’s oldest monuments away from the rush of traffic. It’s also the meeting point for our Cemetery Walking Tours of St. Louis Cemetery No. 1: one of the most popular add-ons for visitors who want to go deeper into the city’s history.
Sightseeing Made Stress-Free
The best part of exploring with us is the stress-free sightseeing. You don’t have to worry about parking or navigating; you simply enjoy the freedom to discover these gems at your own pace. Whether you’re a first-timer or a frequent visitor, we help you see more in less time.
Ready to find your own hidden gem? Grab your 1, 2, or 3-day pass and let our local experts lead the way!