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Is a New Orleans Bike Tour Right for You? A Local Guide for Every Traveler Type

  • Writer: Jeff Shyman
    Jeff Shyman
  • Jul 6
  • 4 min read

We love when we get questions asking, “Here is who I am—is a bike tour with you guys gonna be good for me?”

For almost everyone, the answer is going to be “Sure is!” And this is not just for our company; bike tours in New Orleans will have the same answers for whomever you choose to roll with. The flat streets and slow pace are universal within the neighborhoods we all cover in our own unique ways.

Are New Orleans Bike Tours Good for Solo Riders?

That’s an easy yes. Solo vacationers tend to be adventurous and friendly. I’ve been to Asia, South America, and Europe on my own, so this one I can answer from real experience.

These are group tours, and bike tours in New Orleans attract folks who love the city and want a closer view. They love to share what they know and ask questions about why New Orleans is the way it is. People who visit New Orleans are always in a good mood, and what I hear most from our customers is how they find everyone in New Orleans so open and welcoming—so guides will, of course, be no different. We see our customers who came separately leaving together to the music, weekend festivals, and lunch spots we recommend after the tour. Solo riders can book with confidence.

Are Bike Tours Good for Casual Riders and Folks Who Haven’t Been on a Bike in Years?

The expression “It’s like riding a bike” is popular for a reason. You don’t forget how to stir a roux or ride a bike no matter how long it’s been—those are two things I am sure of.

The flat streets, the quiet roads, the relaxed speed… all of these only challenge those used to bike racing in the mountains, the Tour de France types. It won’t challenge you.

Are Bike Tours Good for Kids?

My child actually still hasn’t ridden a bike on her own—she has no interest! She loved her bike seat when she was an infant, she loved her tag-along as a toddler, and she loves the back of the tandem now. She’s a New Orleanian; she’d rather just take it all in. But she has 3rd-grade friends that bike to school on their own.

There are always small, safe streets parallel to the busy ones. And, to be honest, kids love it. If a child can bike at home, they can bike here. We are able to make kids (and teens) feel included because we love having kids and teens along. We also have a variety of bike sizes so everyone in the family can be fit safely and comfortably.

Are Bike Tours Good for Older Folks and Seniors?

My mom is 84 and in better shape than me. She moved to Arizona and lives in mountains so big my child couldn’t believe it, and she bikes all the time—20-mile rides are nothing to her. The hardest thing she has to adjust to coming back to New Orleans is how slowly we bike.

We have had several riders over 80. To be honest, in the modern world, I’d be apt to say that retirees are in better shape than the average New Orleanian, but that is neither here nor there. With the flat roads, casual pace, and plenty of stops along the way, if you have ever been on a bike, you can bike here on our New Orleans bike tours.

Is There Anyone Who Should Not Take a Bike Tour in New Orleans?

Yes. The name of the game is confidence. Because the biking is so easy, if you feel you can do it, you can. Conversely, if you are truly fearful, it will translate to the ride. We always allow folks to come early and try the bikes out safely in Washington Square Park if building confidence beforehand is helpful.

Also, a few other reasons that may matter:

  • Time: If you don't have a relaxed 3 hours to spend. In 60 to 90 minutes you can get a great walking tour in the French Quarter; what we do simply takes a little longer to cover more ground.

  • Weather sensitivity: If the heat of mid-summer or the (relative) chill of winter is not for you, an enclosed tour bus may be the better choice.

Don’t worry, our feelings won’t be hurt—we only want folks who are going to truly enjoy their time with us!

Ready to Roll with A Street Tour Named Desire?

We are a local, independent bike tour outfit dedicated to showing you the real, authentic New Orleans at a relaxed cruiser pace. When you're ready to see the neighborhoods beyond the standard tourist tracks, pick the ride that matches your vibe: Explore the Creole Culture Tour — Dive deep into Tremé, Marigny, architecture, and the vibrant heritage of the city.

 
 
 

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