THE ADVENTURE COLLECTIVE® · Independent discovery and booking for outdoor travel
Experience the rich culture and stunning views of New Orleans on a 2-hour evening jazz cruise aboard the historic Riverboat CITY OF NEW ORLEANS, featuring a live Dixieland jazz trio and a fresh buffet dinner. Glide along the Mississippi River while soaking in the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
Experience the rich culture and stunning views of New Orleans on a 2-hour evening jazz cruise aboard the historic Riverboat CITY OF NEW ORLEANS, featuring a live Dixieland jazz trio and a fresh buffet dinner. Glide along the Mississippi River while soaking in the city’s vibrant atmosphere.
Book with New Orleans Steamboat Company
Verified experiences and guided adventures in the surrounding area.
Operated by New Orleans Steamboat Company · New Orleans, Louisiana
Step aboard the historic Riverboat CITY OF NEW ORLEANS for an unforgettable evening cruise along the iconic Mississippi River in vibrant New Orleans, Louisiana. Known for its deep musical roots and rich history, New Orleans offers a one-of-a-kind river adventure where culture, cuisine, and scenery blend seamlessly. This evening jazz cruise, departing right from the French Quarter at 400 Toulouse Street, invites travelers to experience the city's soulful atmosphere from the unique perspective of a last authentic steam-powered sternwheeler. As the boat gently cuts through the mighty Mississippi's waters, guests enjoy a sumptuous buffet dinner crafted fresh onboard, making this a multi-sensory journey that engages both palate and spirit.
The soundtrack of the night is provided by the Grammy-nominated Dukes of Dixieland, a renowned jazz trio whose smooth, swinging melodies echo decades of New Orleans' lively musical heritage. Their performance takes center stage during the approximately two-hour voyage, perfectly paired with the panoramic views of the city’s glittering skyline and riverbank landmarks. Whether settling indoors in the air-conditioned dining room or enjoying the open-air decks, passengers are surrounded by the unique charm of the Big Easy.
This cruise stands out not only for its live entertainment and fine dining but also for the detailed narration that enriches the experience—a thoughtful introduction to New Orleans’ storied past, from its French Quarter roots to its pivotal role in river commerce. The Riverboat CITY OF NEW ORLEANS itself is a local treasure, one of the last steam-powered sternwheelers still operating, preserving a key piece of Mississippi River history.
Ideal for travelers seeking an immersive, leisurely evening in New Orleans, this cruise provides a relaxing yet vivid exploration of the city’s culture. The accessible vessel allows passengers of various abilities to join, with some limitations for upper deck access for those with mobility concerns. With options to upgrade to a party package that includes reserved seating, drinks, and a dessert treat, guests can tailor their night out to their tastes.
Nearby, the heart of New Orleans awaits exploration before or after the cruise, with famed jazz clubs, French Quarter streets, and local eateries just steps away. Whether you’re a jazz aficionado, a history buff, or simply in search of a memorable dinner with a view, this cruise promises a distinctive slice of New Orleans magic along the Mississippi.
Yes, the ticket includes a buffet dinner freshly prepared onboard during the cruise’s first dinner seating from 6:00pm to 7:15pm.
Yes, cocktails, beer, and wine may be purchased separately onboard, but they are not included in the ticket price.
The vessel is handicap accessible; however, access to the top deck requires use of stairs, so contact the operator for any specific accessibility questions.
Children under 6 cruise free with a paid adult, but food and beverage costs apply for them.
Dress is casual, but guests are welcome to dress up if they prefer.
Vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes can be recommended, but no separate meal preparation is offered for dietary restrictions like gluten-free needs.
New Orleans Steamboat Company operates historic riverboat cruises and guided excursions based in New Orleans, Louisiana. The company offers a range of Mississippi River sightseeing and jazz cruises aboard the Riverboat CITY of NEW ORLEANS and seasonal sailings on the Steamboat NATCHEZ, plus swamp, plantation, walking, and specialty small-group tours. Cruise experiences include daytime and evening sightseeing jazz cruises with live music performed by the Dukes of Dixieland, multiple dinner seating options with Creole buffets or plated lunches, brunch sailings, seasonal party packages, and holiday-themed departures such as Christmas Eve and New Year’s Eve events. Land-based offerings include swamp and airboat adventures, guided tours to Oak Alley and Whitney plantations, craft cocktail and cooking walking tours, cemetery and Garden District strolls, and interactive ghost and spirits walks in the French Quarter. Each trip description lists duration, meal options when applicable, live music or narration, and onboard amenities such as full-service bars and multiple observation decks. Local guides provide historical context about New Orleans, the Mississippi River, Jean Lafitte, and regional wetlands and wildlife on swamp and plantation tours. Many cruises feature live jazz and family-friendly programming; several airboat and swamp tours emphasize wildlife viewing opportunities. Bookings are arranged per listed trip schedules and seating times. As a long-established New Orleans operator featured by tour aggregators and known for narrated riverboat cruises, the company combines maritime tradition with local culture to deliver interpretive sightseeing and entertainment on and off the water. Public and private group bookings are available for many departures.
Book with New Orleans Steamboat Company