1 hour (Approx.)
Mobile ticket
Offered in: English and 7 more
Overview
Peek behind the curtain at the marvel of Mardi Gras with this tour of Mardi Gras World in New Orleans. See the behind-the-scenes work and incredible artistry that goes into preparing for the annual celebration. With a guide, learn the history of the event, and see fantastic floats and props. Get a picture in front of your favorite float, dress up in costumes, and sample some classic King Cake.
- Tour of Mardi Gras World in New Orleans
- See where New Orleans’ amazing Mardi Gras floats are made
- Try on Mardi Gras costumes, pose in front of the floats, and savor a slice of traditional King Cake
- Learn about the history of Mardi Gras from your guide
- Pickup from downtown New Orleans provided
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Begin your behind-the-scenes tour of Mardi Gras World by hopping on the shuttle at one of the 20 stops in central New Orleans. Shuttles run every half hour from each location from morning until mid-afternoon, so you can easily fit your 90 minute excursion into a day of sightseeing.
Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by your guide, an expert in all things Mardi Gras. Get inspired by the warehouses and ‘float dens,’ studio spaces where designers create elaborate floats for the festival’s 40-plus parades. Learn the meanings behind the symbols and design details, and check out the incredible planning and labor that goes into constructing each float.
You’ll come away with a greater understanding of Mardi Gras, a beloved and deep‐rooted tradition that is now the largest cultural celebration in the U.S. Before heading back to town on the shuttle, get a photo with your favorite float and try on some fun festival costumes—and don’t forget to grab a delicious slice of King Cake.
Upon arrival, you’ll be greeted by your guide, an expert in all things Mardi Gras. Get inspired by the warehouses and ‘float dens,’ studio spaces where designers create elaborate floats for the festival’s 40-plus parades. Learn the meanings behind the symbols and design details, and check out the incredible planning and labor that goes into constructing each float.
You’ll come away with a greater understanding of Mardi Gras, a beloved and deep‐rooted tradition that is now the largest cultural celebration in the U.S. Before heading back to town on the shuttle, get a photo with your favorite float and try on some fun festival costumes—and don’t forget to grab a delicious slice of King Cake.
Itinerary
Hop on the complimentary shuttle from any of its 20 convenient downtown New Orleans locations. When you arrive at Mardi Gras World, located on the beautiful riverfront, you’ll be greeted by your friendly, knowledgeable guide for a 1-hour behind-the-scenes tour of this famous facility.
Explore the warehouses where artisans create spectacular Mardi Gras floats that are used in more than 40 parades each year. Admire the intricate designs and vibrant colors of these interesting, one-of-a-kind creations as your guide explains their meanings. Wandering through these magical studio spaces, you’ll see firsthand the skillful craftsmanship that goes into every float, giving you unique insight into the hard work, creativity and extensive planning that goes into such a grand celebration.
Your guide will teach you about the history of this unique and festive tradition that goes beyond its modern-day reputation of wild celebration antics.
Snap photos in front of the floats, pose with props, and try on Mardi Gras costumes with your friends and family. Top your experience off with a piece of King Cake, a delicious Mardi Gras tradition!
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ITINERARY
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Free French Quarter Shuttle Stops
1. Cafe Du Monde, 800 Decatur St.
2. Bourbon Orleans Hotel, 717 Orleans St.
3. Dauphine Orleans Hotel, 415 Dauphine St.
4. Hotel Le Marais, 717 Conti St.
5. Hotel Mazarin, 730 Bienville St.
6. Basin St. Station, 501 Basin St.
Free Downtown Shuttle Route
1. Mardi Gras World Shuttle Stop
2. Marriott on Canal St.
3. Astor Crowne Plaza
4. Ritz-Carlton Maison Orleans
5. Roosevelt New Orleans
6. Le Pavillon Hotel
7. Drury Inn & Suites
8. Whitney Wyndham
9. Staybridge Suites
10. Loews New Orleans
11. Harrah's Hotel
12. Hilton New Orleans Riverside
13. Omni Riverfront Hotel
14. Marriott Convention Center
15. Hampton Inn & Suites
16. Hyatt Place
17. Mardi Gras World
Duration: 1 hour
Admission Ticket Included
Traveler Photos
Traveler Tips
- "The floats are amazing, it's a great tour for young and old alike." See review
- "fun tour,,, does not take too long ,, informative and colorful for sure" See review
- "There's no climate control in some portions of the warehouse and I wasn't dressed warmly enough, particularly with the wind coming off the river." See review
Reviews
Questions?
Product code: 6158ALLMGW
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