Gilded Grit: Women of the Vieux Carré Walking Tour

The French Quarter has always belonged to its women—painted or pious, dangerous or divine, sometimes all at once. We reveal the fiercely complex women who shaped the heart of New Orleans. Their names

The French Quarter has always belonged to its women—painted or pious, dangerous or divine, sometimes all at once. We reveal the fiercely complex women who shaped the heart of New Orleans. Their names echo like hymns and hexes: Baroness Pontalba, Elizabeth Werlein, Madame LaLaurie, Marie Laveau, Saint Frances Cabrini, & Rose Nicaud. The Baroness de Pontalba, who stamped her initials—and her vision—into the architecture of Jackson Square. Her story is one of defiance and civic rebirth. The preservationist fire of Elizabeth Werlein - this woman's fire saved rather than destroyed. Madame LaLaurie's horrors told not through haunted legend, but the cruelty of racial violence cloaked in wealth and elegance laid bare. Marie Laveau—Voodoo Queen, healer, mystic, and more. Rose Nicaud, once-enslaved, she carved out a life selling coffee —one of the city’s first Black, female entrepreneurs. Women who didn’t just live in New Orleans. They built her, saw her broken, and resurrected her.

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Location: New Orleans

What's Included

Community Discussion

Q&A

Q: What should I wear for the Gilded Grit walking tour? Is it mostly shaded or do I need sun protection?

A: Definitely wear comfortable shoes since you’ll be walking quite a bit! The French Quarter can get hot, so lightweight clothing is best. Bring a hat and sunscreen, especially if you’re going during midday. Some parts of the tour are shaded, but you’ll definitely want to be prepared for the sun too!

Q: Are there age restrictions for the Gilded Grit walking tour? Can I bring my kids?

A: There are no specific age restrictions, but it’s best suited for older kids and adults due to the historical content and some mature themes. If your kids are interested in history or spooky stories, they might enjoy it! Just be aware that some parts discuss darker aspects of New Orleans history.

Q: How does the cancellation policy work for the Gilded Grit tour? What if the weather is bad?

A: You can usually reschedule if you give at least 24 hours notice. If the weather is really bad, they’re pretty good about notifying you and offering to reschedule or refund. Just keep an eye on the forecast! They want everyone to have a good time.

Discussions

Just went on the Gilded Grit tour—totally worth it!

Hey everyone! I just got back from the Gilded Grit: Women of the Vieux Carré Walking Tour in New Orleans and wow, it was amazing. Our guide was super knowledgeable and shared lots of stories about incredible women like Marie Laveau and the Baroness Pontalba. It was eye-opening to hear how these women shaped the city. If you’re considering it as a gift, I think it’s a great idea for history buffs or anyone who loves New Orleans culture!

Thinking about gifting the Gilded Grit tour—any advice?

I'm planning to get this Gilded Grit tour for my mom’s birthday! She loves history and New Orleans. Just wanted to see if anyone has gone recently and what their thoughts were? How was the balance between walking and storytelling? Will I need to book early? Thanks!