Creole Queen Paddlewheeler
Experience New Orleans' soul with live jazz, history, and stunning views on the Mississippi aboard the Creole Queen Paddlewheeler.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Live jazz and dinner vibes
Creole Queen Paddlewheeler
Best Time
Live jazz and dinner vibes

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Experience New Orleans' soul with live jazz, history, and stunning views on the Mississippi aboard the Creole Queen Paddlewheeler.
"A must-do for music and water lovers, offering a memorable blend of sights and sounds."
🎯 Book Your Tickets Online
Secure your spot on the Creole Queen by booking tickets in advance online.
🎶 Don't Miss the Jazz
The live jazz band is a highlight! Enjoy their tunes while taking in the river views.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Live Jazz on the Mississippi
Onboard the Paddlewheeler
Immerse yourself in the soulful sounds of live jazz music while cruising the iconic Mississippi River.

Chalmette Battlefield Stop
Chalmette Battlefield
Step back in time with a fascinating stop at the historic Chalmette Battlefield, site of the 1815 Battle of New Orleans.

Scenic River Views
Mississippi River
Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the New Orleans skyline and surrounding landscapes from the deck of the paddlewheeler.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Popular Cruises
Consider the Historic Cruise
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Your Tickets Online
Secure your spot on the Creole Queen by booking tickets in advance online.
🎶 Don't Miss the Jazz
The live jazz band is a highlight! Enjoy their tunes while taking in the river views.
📜 Opt for the Historic Cruise
Learn about Louisiana's rich history with a stop at Chalmette Battlefield.
📸 Capture Memorable Photos
The paddlewheeler and river offer fantastic photo opportunities.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Your Tickets Online
Secure your spot on the Creole Queen by booking tickets in advance online.
🎶 Don't Miss the Jazz
The live jazz band is a highlight! Enjoy their tunes while taking in the river views.
📜 Opt for the Historic Cruise
Learn about Louisiana's rich history with a stop at Chalmette Battlefield.
📸 Capture Memorable Photos
The paddlewheeler and river offer fantastic photo opportunities.
🍽️ Dinner Buffet Option
Consider the dinner buffet for a taste of Louisiana cuisine during your cruise.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Creole Queen Paddlewheeler for its lively jazz music, comfortable ride, and scenic Mississippi River views. The historic cruise with its stop at Chalmette Battlefield is a standout educational experience. While most reviews are glowing, some mention that the food options could be more varied or that the photo packages are a bit pricey.
"Must do this tour if you love the feeling of music and water all around you. The boat was extremely comfortable . The Jazz band was super. Great band players and they had excellent play list. The Jazz Cruise was memorable with beautiful sights all around. Great one to have with ur family and friends"
Shalini Sankar
"I took the historic tour with Creole Queen. I had an excellent time. Dr. Tarantino gave a knowledgeable yet entertaining intro to the history of Louisiana. We stopped at the grounds of the last battle for Lousiana between America and the UK. The National Park guides gave an excellent recount of the events. Then, I had a nice meal, great Lousiana cuisine taste (nonstop buffet while the ride lasts). Lovely bartender Chappi put together the right mix of drinks to make everything more enjoyable. Th weather was excellent to enjoy amazing cruise views. Highly recommend without hesitation."
Ricardo MD
"Activity 2: Paddlewheeler Creole Queen – Mississippi River Cruise 🚢
📍1 Poydras St, New Orleans, LA
It was a 2-hour Mississippi River cruise with Creole Queen, included in our Go City Pass (worth $47).
You’ll need to reserve ahead, then exchange your pass for a paper ticket at the booth before boarding. Bags get checked, and hang on to your ticket. (it’s needed again after the stop.)
We boarded at 2PM (without the meal plan) and cruised past landmarks like the Crescent City Connection bridge, St. Louis Cathedral, Domino Sugar Factory, and more. The highlight? A 50-minute stop at Chalmette Battlefield, site of the 1815 Battle of New Orleans, where General Andrew Jackson led U.S. forces to victory. Even though the visitor center was closed, a park ranger was on site to give us a quick history rundown.
We didn’t have time to walk to the National Cemetery, which holds over 15,000 graves from various U.S. wars. It had just been beautifully decorated with flags for Memorial Day that something our guide said took 200 volunteers four hours to complete!
💡 A ship photographer offers printed photos at the end (He took the photos before on board.) — kinda pricey at $25 for two, but we couldn’t resist grabbing one as a keepsake.
Bonus: Right next to the dock is Riverwalk Outlets where is perfect for a little shopping before or after the cruise!
This river tour was a great mix of views and history. If you’re into both, definitely add it to your New Orleans itinerary!
Our next stop: just a 3-minute walk to Vue New Orleans. Activity 3 coming up!"
Jenny L.
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Creole Queen Paddlewheeler is located at 1 Poydras St, New Orleans, LA. Many visitors find it convenient to use ride-sharing services or taxis. If you're exploring the city, riding the streetcar is also a scenic and affordable option to get close to the French Quarter area, from where you can walk to the dock.
While specific parking details can vary, there are often parking garages and lots available near the riverfront and French Quarter. It's advisable to check local parking options or consider public transport to avoid any hassle.
Yes, the Creole Queen dock is within walking distance of the French Quarter, making it easily accessible for many tourists exploring the historic district.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
You can purchase tickets directly from the Creole Queen website or through authorized ticket vendors. Booking in advance is highly recommended, especially for popular evening jazz or dinner cruises.
Keep an eye out for potential discounts or coupons, especially during off-peak seasons or through travel pass programs. Checking their official website or deal sites might yield savings.
Cruise durations vary. The jazz cruises are typically around 2 hours, while the historic cruise with a battlefield stop also lasts approximately 2 hours. Dinner cruises may extend longer.
Yes, reservations are generally required, especially if you are using a city pass or booking a specific cruise. It's best to book your desired date and time in advance to guarantee your spot.
Ticket inclusions depend on the cruise type. Standard cruises often include the river tour and live music. Dinner cruises will include a buffet meal, and some packages might offer drink specials.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The atmosphere is generally festive and relaxed, with a strong emphasis on live jazz music and enjoying the scenic river views. It's a great experience for families, couples, and friends.
Absolutely! Families often enjoy the music, the novelty of a paddlewheeler, and the educational aspect of the historic cruise. It's a memorable outing for all ages.
The Creole Queen is renowned for its live jazz performances. Expect to hear classic New Orleans jazz tunes that create a vibrant and authentic atmosphere.
Yes, the paddlewheeler and the Mississippi River offer numerous picturesque opportunities for photos. Don't forget your camera to capture the beautiful scenery and lively music.
Casual and comfortable attire is recommended. Depending on the weather, you might want layers. For evening cruises, smart casual is appropriate, especially if you plan to dine.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, the Creole Queen offers dining options. Many cruises include a buffet featuring Louisiana cuisine, and some may offer à la carte ordering or bar service.
The dinner buffet typically features a selection of classic Louisiana dishes, offering a taste of local flavors.
Beverages are usually available for purchase on board, including cocktails, beer, wine, and non-alcoholic options.
Many reviewers find the dinner buffet to be a good value, especially considering the all-you-can-eat aspect and the unique dining experience on the river.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture stunning shots of the paddlewheeler itself, the Mississippi River, the New Orleans skyline, and the Chalmette Battlefield. The live jazz band also makes for dynamic photos.
Yes, a ship photographer is often available to take professional photos of your group, which you can purchase as a keepsake.
Sunset cruises offer beautiful golden hour lighting, while daytime cruises provide clear views of the city and landmarks. Evening cruises can capture the city lights.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider booking a daytime cruise to avoid late nights, and pack snacks and drinks if your little ones have specific preferences, though food and beverages are available for purchase. The open decks provide space for kids to move around a bit, and the overall experience is generally relaxed and enjoyable for all ages.
🎶 Music Lovers
Beyond the jazz, the paddlewheeler creole queen itself offers a unique setting for enjoying music. The gentle hum of the paddlewheel and the vast river provide a serene backdrop to the energetic tunes. Whether you're a seasoned jazz enthusiast or new to the genre, the performances on the Creole Queen are sure to impress and provide a memorable soundtrack to your New Orleans visit.
🏛️ History Buffs
Beyond the battlefield, the cruise itself offers glimpses of historic riverfront landmarks and provides context for the city's development. The knowledgeable narration during the cruise further enhances the historical understanding, making it an enriching experience for anyone interested in the heritage of New Orleans and the Mississippi River.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Creole Queen Experience: Music, History, and River Views
Beyond the entertainment, the historic cruise option provides an educational journey. A key highlight is the stop at Chalmette Battlefield, the site of the decisive Battle of New Orleans. Here, visitors can learn about pivotal moments in American history from knowledgeable park rangers, adding a significant cultural dimension to the excursion. This combination of lively entertainment and historical exploration makes the Creole Queen a standout attraction for those seeking a well-rounded New Orleans adventure.
Whether you opt for a dinner cruise, a jazz cruise, or the historic tour, the paddlewheeler creole queen promises a relaxing yet engaging journey. The comfortable boat, combined with the captivating sounds of jazz and the ever-changing river scenery, ensures a delightful experience for all passengers. It's a chance to soak in the unique spirit of New Orleans from its most famous waterway.
Navigating Your Creole Queen Cruise: From Booking to Boarding
Boarding typically occurs at the dock located at 1 Poydras St, New Orleans. For those exploring the city, the French Quarter is within walking distance, and the historic streetcars offer an affordable and scenic route to get nearby. Bags are usually checked upon arrival, so keep your ticket handy as it may be needed again after any stops. The creole queen riverboat experience is designed to be smooth and enjoyable, with staff ready to assist passengers.
When planning your visit, consider the different cruise options. The creole queen historic cruise offers a deep dive into local history, while the creole queen jazz cruise focuses on entertainment. For a complete experience, the creole queen dinner jazz cruise combines dining with live music and river views. Checking the schedule and booking the cruise that best suits your interests will ensure a memorable outing on the Mississippi.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit