Carriage ride prices

Question

We would like to take a carriage ride tour. If we take it in the day how much is it per person for a shared ride? We have seen ghost carriage rides at $60 per person but is it more expensive for the nature of the ride? And how much approximately do we need to tip the person riding the carriage? It seems as though the best place to get one is Jackson Square. Is that correct?

Answer

Taking a carriage ride in New Orleans is a classic and memorable way to see the city! Here’s an overview of what you can expect in terms of prices, tips, and where to catch the carriage ride:

Daytime Carriage Ride Prices:
For a standard shared carriage ride during the day, prices usually range from $25 to $40 per person, depending on the length of the tour and the specific company you choose. The standard daytime tours typically last around 30 minutes to an hour and cover key areas in the French Quarter, such as Jackson Square, St. Louis Cathedral, and the surrounding historic streets. Some tours might be a little more expensive depending on the guide or special route taken.

Ghost Tours and Specialty Carriage Rides:
As you've noted, the ghost carriage rides tend to be a bit more expensive, often priced at around $60 to $70 per person. This is due to the specialized nature of the tour, which includes a more in-depth narrative about New Orleans' haunted history and ghost stories, usually conducted in the evening. The additional cost reflects the extended storytelling and the more niche focus of the tour.

Where to Catch a Carriage Ride:
The best place to catch a carriage ride is indeed Jackson Square, located in the heart of the French Quarter. There are several carriage companies lined up near the square, and this is where most of the rides begin. Jackson Square is a central, popular spot for both daytime and ghost tours. You can simply walk up and choose from the available companies, or you might want to make a reservation, especially during peak tourist seasons. The carriage drivers are usually friendly and will be happy to help you with options and pricing.

Tipping Your Carriage Driver:
Tipping the carriage driver is customary and appreciated, though not mandatory. A good guideline is to tip around $5 to $10 per person for a 30-minute ride, depending on the quality of the tour. If you have a longer or more specialized tour (such as a ghost tour), you might consider tipping a bit more—around $10 to $20 total for the group, depending on how satisfied you are with the experience.

Standard daytime carriage rides: $25 to $40 per person
Ghost and specialty tours: $60 to $70 per person
Recommended tip: $5 to $10 per person for a standard ride

Overall, Jackson Square is the perfect spot to begin your New Orleans carriage ride adventure. Enjoy your ride, and make sure to ask your driver about any special highlights or historical tidbits—they often have fun facts to share!

Carriage ride prices

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